Bantayan Island Travel Guide: How to Get There and What to Do
Travel and Community
Bantayan Island, off the northern tip of Cebu, is known for its white-sand beaches and relaxed island life. Here is a practical guide.
Looking for a beach getaway within Cebu Province? Bantayan Island lies off the northern tip of mainland Cebu and is a popular weekend escape, especially during the summer months and Holy Week.
This guide covers the basics of getting there and enjoying the island.
How to Get to Bantayan Island
- Take a bus from the Cebu North Bus Terminal in Cebu City to Hagnaya Port in San Remigio, in northern Cebu.
- Board a ferry from Hagnaya to Santa Fe, Bantayan Island. The crossing takes about an hour or so, depending on the vessel and sea conditions.
- From the port, use a tricycle or motorbike taxi to reach your beach or lodging.
Note: Ferry schedules, fares and rules change, and trips may be delayed by weather. Please confirm with the operators before traveling.
What to Do
- Swim and relax at Santa Fe's beaches, such as Sugar Beach and Paradise Beach.
- Visit Kota Beach and the island's other coastal spots.
- Explore Bantayan town, including its old church and local markets.
- Try local seafood and dried fish, which the island is known for.
- Go island hopping, with a boat arranged through a local operator.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Reserve your stay early for weekends, holidays and Holy Week.
- Check weather and sea conditions before traveling.
- Bring cash, as ATMs and card payments may be limited on the island.
- Rent a tricycle or motorbike carefully, and follow traffic rules.
- Respect the beach: do not litter, and bring a reusable bottle.
Have a safe trip, and enjoy the island pace!
Reference:
Sources
- Department of Tourism and Cebu Provincial Government tourism information
- Local news coverage of Bantayan Island travel (SunStar Cebu, Cebu Daily News)
Checked: 9 November 2026, Asia/Manila (PHT). Ferry schedules and fares change; please confirm with the operators.