Pandanon Island Itinerary, Philippines

Cebu-Bohol Island Hopping

I'm blessed with good friends. People whom I can be with me, laugh with my not-so-funny jokes and tries to understand my foolishness. We all have our own lives now after graduating, still, we find ways to see each other. One of my friends was having a company team building and we were invited to come along. Well, of course, I was all smiles and I definitely said yes.

The plan was to meet up early in the morning with her team at Savemore Mepza 1 Pusok. I was with another friend of mine and we didn't notice the time as we were catching up on our day-to-day events and we hadn't seen each other for quite some time. When we arrived at the meeting place we were surprised to see that the whole team was just waiting for us. Oh my, we were so embarrassed, good thing I've packed my all-day-long smiling face with me. The team planned to go to Pandanon Island, a small island in the northern part of Bohol and east of Mactan Island. I've read it was just recently been open to the public. It's amazing to think that I was going to be on an island that's geographically between Cebu and Bohol. Let's go!

"This site contains Affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases of a product/service at no added cost to you." ^_^

Travel Tips

• For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.

• For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.

• Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.

• For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.

How to get there:

Cebu City to Pandanon

From the Mactan-Cebu International Airport:

You can take a cab going to Hilton Port, Punta Engano, Mactan. The estimated fare is 200-300 PHP, depending on traffic. 

Alternatively, if you're familiar with Uber and/or Lyft, then you can download and use the mobile app, Grab, to book your transportation. 

From Hilton Port:

Boat Rental: 2,000 PHP - 10,000 PHP, depending on boat size

Boat Route: Hilton Port to Pandanon Island

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Bohol to Pandanon Island Another option is From Tagbilaran, Bohol: less travel time, cheaper boat rental

Bus Route: Tagbilan Bohol to Jetafe Port

Travel time from Tagbilaran to Jetafe Port: 4-5 hours

Travel time from Jetafe Port, Bohol to Pandanon island: 30 minutes

Pandanon Island Fees:

Entrance Fee: less than 200 PHP

Cottage Rental: 250 PHP - 2,000 PHP

Tips

- Power outlets: Bring a power bank for your smartphones. At the resort, power outlets are commonly typed A, with standard voltage 220 V and frequency 60 Hz.  Be sure to bring a universal plug adapter!

- Money matters:  No ATM in the islands. Bring cash during the island hopping. Do all your transactions in the mainland or in Lapu-Lapu City. We recommend getting your currency exchanged via Western Union (WU) since you'll get a better rate than at the airport.  You can send your travel budget to yourself and pick up the exchanged amount at the local WU.

Survival Terms 

- CR is the term for the toilet

- Salamat means "thank you"

This is just a day trip as there are no resort facilities on the island, you can book a hotel/resort in Mactan Island and then book your trip to the island.

What to do in Pandanon Island

1. Check the Natural Sandbar

They have this amazing sandbar where you can walk on until it disappears - according to my research, Pandanon Island has gained increasing popularity for its natural sandbar that extends shallowly into the sea. Now I know why it's so popular, you just got to see it for yourself. Unfortunately, snorkeling is not advisable around the area. Ask your boat crew for nearby snorkeling places, you can also go to Olango Island and see the marine sanctuary. 

There are a lot more islands to explore around Mactan like Caohagan, Hilutungan, Nalusuan, Sulpa, Olango, and Pandanon Island.

Island Entrance fee: 150 PHP - 200 PHP

2. Take pictures with the Roman columns

The team started their games as soon as we arrived on the island and so my friend and I strolled the island. I had one of my pictures taken here, taking me to a Roman-inspired scenery in the Mediterranean Sea.

3. Camping

There are designated areas to set up your tents. No tent rentals on the island, bring your own camping gear and equipment.

4. Barbeque Party

There are designated barbecue pits available if you'd like to cook some grilled meat and fish. Bring your food supplies, and utensils and don't forget to bring your own supply of charcoal. If you're lucky enough to spot a local vendor roaming around the island you can buy some fresh seafood for your lunch. 

Some operators provide food: 500 PHP - 1,000 PHP per pax

5. Play Beach Games

While we were in the mood to get our skin toasted, we played Volleyball until we had our tongues sticking outside our mouths- that's a good sign to stop playing as the heat of the sun is slowly killing you. Some of the other guys played Frisbee, there's plenty of space to jump around on the island.

However, the day was coming to an end and we had to get back to the boat before sunset. As we don't want to be traveling in dark waters and strong winds rocking our boat.

It was a day of fun and games and walking on the beach barefoot which really made this trip wonderful. I love their cute "nipa"-inspired umbrellas and I had a blast taking photographs. I remember I treasured the moment seated on those "nipa huts" and looking at the sky with the sea mirroring its radiance. It's always been fun for me to explore and see places far away from Cebu.

Have fun and be safe ^__^

Do you want more adventure?

If you still have more days to spare why not take a bus to Oslob and see the famous whale shark also known as "Butanding."

Where am I going next?

My next adventure is out of the country, My first ever overseas trip to the "Lion City" also known as Singapore.

Related articles you may find interesting:

Travels

• Beginner's Guide to Travel
• Travel Abroad Essentials 
• Find Cheap Flights
• Find Cheap Hotel/Hostel 

Hiking and Camping

• 10 Safety Tips For Hikers
• 10 Reliable Hiking Gears
• Ultimate Camping List