Adventure, nature, eco-tourism, and centuries of culture. Bantayan offers far more than just its beaches.
Visit Virgin Island, Hilantagaan Island, and the Coral Garden in a half-day or full-day boat tour. Snorkeling gear is usually available from boatmen. Book through your accommodation or directly with boatmen at the port. A half-day trip covers the highlights; a full day lets you linger.
Bantayan is home to Skydive Cebu, one of the few skydiving facilities in the Philippines. Tandem skydiving is available for first-timers — no experience needed. The whole experience takes about 2 hours. Rates start at around ₱18,000. The views of the island from above are unforgettable.
Head to Virgin Island for cliff jumping into turquoise waters from heights of up to 20 meters. Multiple levels available for different comfort levels. The Kota Fort ruins in Madridejos also offer cliff spots with bright, clear water below — a completely different atmosphere.
Rent a motorbike (around ₱350–500/day) and ride the full circuit through all three municipalities. Roads are flat and well-paved. Stop at the Kabangbang Quarries (limestone formations from old mining), local farms, hidden coastal viewpoints, and the white cross landmark along the way.
A 120-hectare community-managed mangrove forest (OMAGIECA) with elevated boardwalks stretching over the ocean. Kayaking, bird watching from bamboo towers, and fish feeding. At high tide, watch fish swimming below; at low tide, spot crabs and shorebirds. Famous as a filming location for the Filipino movie "Camp Sawi."
Teresito Dragon Fruit Farm near Bantayan Town lets you explore the fields, help with harvesting when in season, and try products like dragon fruit jam and ice cream. The family who runs it is welcoming and passionate. A unique local experience you won't find on typical tourist itineraries.
Ogtong Cave is a small natural cave with a pool inside Santa Fe Beach Resort (entry fee includes resort access). For a bigger experience, try Sto. Niño Cave at the 8-hectare Bantayan Island Nature Park — featuring gardens, a small zoo, and a large underground pool with clear brackish water.
The Santa Fe Marine Sanctuary protects the coastal ecosystem — great for snorkeling close to shore without hiring a boat. The Coral Garden near Marikaban offers vibrant underwater scenery best visited on sunny mornings when the light makes the colors pop. Bring your own snorkel gear for the best experience.
One of the oldest churches in the Philippines, originally founded in 1580 by Augustinian friars. Built from coral stone and bricks, it features recently restored vibrant ceiling paintings created by 12 artists on bamboo scaffolding between 2018–2019. Located in Bantayan Town Proper. Not typically on tourist tracks, making visits feel personal and special.
Celebrated annually on June 29 in honor of the patron saints St. Peter and St. Paul. "Palawod" means "to venture out to sea" in Cebuano — a nod to the island's deep fishing roots. Colorful street dancing, vibrant costumes, and a feast of local food. Be prepared for possible rain if visiting in June.
Known as the "Lenten Capital of the Visayas," Bantayan draws up to 20,000 visitors during Holy Week. The celebrations are unique — locals prepare lechon (roasted pig) during Holy Week, a tradition uncommon elsewhere in the Philippines where meat is typically avoided. The church becomes the center of island life.
Spanish-era watchtower ruins in Madridejos perched on coastal cliffs. The bright, shallow waters around the ruins are excellent for swimming. Also known as Kota Park — about 45–60 minutes from Santa Fe by motorbike. The isolated location on the northern tip means dramatic sunset views with very few other visitors.