Discovering Malapascua: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Malapascua Island is a small, idyllic island situated off the northern coast of Cebu. Famous for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, the island is a haven for divers and beach lovers alike.
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Malapascua Island, situated in the Visayan Sea, is a world-renowned diving destination located just 6.8 kilometers (4.2 miles) across a shallow strait from the northernmost tip of Cebu Island.
This idyllic island should be at the top of any diver’s bucket list, as it’s the only place in the world where divers can reliably sight thresher sharks on a regular basis.
When to go to Malapascua:
The best time to visit the area largely depends on the purpose of your trip. High season is typically from December to May, with Christmas, New Year, and Easter being the busiest times of the year. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, it’s best to plan your visit during the low season, which runs from June to November.
For diving enthusiasts, Malapascua Island is a year-round destination for spotting thresher sharks and manta rays. However, the best seasons for manta ray sightings are during winter and spring. If you’re hoping to see hammerhead sharks, the optimal time to visit is from December to April.
Getting to Malapascua:
From Cebu city
To get to Malapascua Island from Cebu City, you will need to take a combination of land and sea transportation.
First, take a taxi or a private car from Cebu City to the Maya port in Daanbantayan, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. From Maya port, take a boat to Malapascua Island, which usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour depending on weather conditions.
Exploring Malapascua Island's Best Dive Sites
Malapascua Island offers a diverse range of diving experiences for all divers, from thresher sharks to healthy coral reefs, wrecks, and macro life.
The island’s top dive sites include Bantayan Island, known for its white sand beaches and clear blue waters, Monad Shoal for thresher shark sightings, Gato Island with its variety of marine life, Butong Bato featuring resident batfish and colorful corals, Lapus Lapus with its stunning corals and macro critters, and Chocolate Island, a must-visit for macro photographers.
Activities for Non-Divers in Malapascua Island
Beyond scuba diving, Malapascua Island offers a range of activities for non-divers.
The island boasts pristine white sand beaches with crystal-clear waters, bordered by coconut trees. Among the best beaches are Langub, Logon, and the popular Bounty Beach.
Exploring the island by foot is a great way to discover its beaches. Malapascua can be circumnavigated within a day. Alternatively, you can rent a bike to experience the Filipino life in the villages.
For a breathtaking view of the sunset, climb to the top of Malapascua Lighthouse. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy cliff jumping.
Island hopping is also a popular activity. You can hire a boat and visit nearby islands with secluded beaches and good spots for snorkeling.
Where to stay:
Tapanee Beach Resort is often considered the best resort on the island. It’s a small, intimate resort that offers a relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. T
Aside from Tapanee Beach Resort, there are several other mid-range and native-style accommodations on the island. These range from small, family-run guesthouses to larger resorts with swimming pools and other amenities.
For budget-conscious travelers, there are also several hostels and homestays available on the island. These can be a great option for backpackers or those who want to experience local life and culture. Some of these accommodations offer basic amenities, while others have more comfortable facilities such as air conditioning and hot showers.
It’s important to note that during peak season (December to May), it’s recommended to book accommodation in advance as many of the popular resorts and guesthouses tend to get fully booked.
If you’re looking for a memorable and comfortable stay in Malapascua, Tapanee Beach Resort is the perfect choice. This charming beachfront resort offers cozy and well-appointed rooms and cottages with stunning ocean views, as well as excellent diving packages.