The Philippines is a tropical archipelago composed of more than 7000 islands. Every island that scattered in the vastness of the oceans offers stunning beauty, fascinating marine life and endless tropical and exotic vibe. The Philippines is a mecca for adventurers, thrill seekers and travel junkies. You can always discover an enchanting and pristine beach in every province that will surely awaken your soul. So what are you waiting for? Pack up your bags and let’s start exploring!! [Read: Tiamban Beach and BonBon Beach in Romblon]
Cresta de Gallo Island
Cresta de Gallo Island is my dream paradise Island. It is located in Sibuyan Island in the Province of Romblon. The island is so pristine and gorgeous that it will leave you speechless. It is undeniably beautiful and it is one of the best islands in the Philippines. The calmness and peacefulness of the island is hard to resist. It is a wonderful reward from days of traveling and exploring around Romblon. [Read: Romblon’s Carabao Island]
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| Cresta de Gallo’s shore is an idyllic spot to unwind. |
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| The paradise island of Cresta de Gallo. |
Cresta de Gallo is a 4.5 hectares island situated in the Sibuyan Sea. The island is accessible through a motor boat from the quaint town of San Fernando. It will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach the island depending on winds and waves. The waves can be pretty wild but once you reach the island, all your worries and fears will fade away by the splendidness of the place. We were in awe when we reached the island. Our emotions run wild with wonder and ultimate bliss. We cannot believe that such a beautiful island like this truly exist. I am running out of adjectives to describe the place, just look at my photos.
The island is surrounded with turquoise blue water, pure sugary white sand and mesmerizing shoreline that creates a perfect island getaway with much less tourist and endless sun-filled memories. There are no source of electricity and fresh water. Also, comfort rooms are not available in the island but the lack of these amenities adds charm and excitement to this astonishing creation. It is the best example of a total island living. You are totally isolated from the rest of the world. Overnight camping is allowed in the island just make sure that you have enough supplies for your stay. A Php 20 entrance fee is required but you can camp anywhere in the island for free.
The island is surrounded with turquoise blue water, pure sugary white sand and mesmerizing shoreline that creates a perfect island getaway with much less tourist and endless sun-filled memories. There are no source of electricity and fresh water. Also, comfort rooms are not available in the island but the lack of these amenities adds charm and excitement to this astonishing creation. It is the best example of a total island living. You are totally isolated from the rest of the world. Overnight camping is allowed in the island just make sure that you have enough supplies for your stay. A Php 20 entrance fee is required but you can camp anywhere in the island for free.
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| The sugary fine white sand of the island is just enchanting. |
Cresta de Gallo Island is not for everyone. The island was created for those who are willing to take the risk. You must be willing to travel 15 hours from Batangas port to Magdiwang port in Sibuyan, you must be willing to overcome rough roads and rocky paths, you must be willing to spend most of your time under the scorching heat of the sun and you must be willing to go out of your comfort zone. If you think that you can conquer everything then you should start planning now. All the hard work and all your doubts will pay off when you set foot in this magnificent island. You will be rewarded with serenity and sheer beauty. The island offers an astonishing charm, it’s like a fantasy.
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| The azure water that surrounds the whole island. |
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| The crystal clear tropical water of Cresta de Gallo. |
How to get to Cresta de Gallo Island from Manila?
- Take the bus from Buendia to Batangas port. Fare Php 177. Travel time is around 2 hours. First trip is around 1 am.
- From Batangas Port take the ferry bound for Magdiwang Port in Sibuyan Island. Navios Navigation Shipping lines and Montenegro shipping lines offer direct route to Sibuyan Island. Fare is Php 1,100. Terminal Fee is Php 30. It will take 14 to 15 hours from Batangas Port to Magdiwang port in Sibuyan Island. Make sure to book your tickets early to avoid hassles and delays.
- From Magdiwang Port there are Jeepneys waiting at the port going to the town of San Fernando. Travel time is 2 hours. Fare is Php 200. You can also hire a tricycle for Php 1,000 – 1,200 with stopover in LAMBINGAN FALLS and CANTINGAS RIVER.
- From the town of San Fernando rent a boat going to Cresta de Gallo Island. The island is 1 hour and 30 minutes boat ride from the mainland.
GOING BACK: (From Cresta de Gallo to Manila)
- From the town of San Fernando catch the first trip of jeepneys at around 3:00 am bound to Magdiwang Port.
- From Magdiwang Port book a ticket bound for Batangas Port.Travel time is 15 hours. fare is Php 1,100. Terminal fee is Php 15. Travel time is around 14 to 15 hours. the ferry leaves at 10 am.
- From Batangas port take the Bus going to Buendia ,Alabang or Cubao. fare is Php 177. Travel time 2 to 3 hours.
CONTACT PERSON for boat rentals, accommodations and island tours:
Kagawad Boy “Pasik” Suicon.
Contact details: 0926 456 0588
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pacifico.suicon?ref=br_rs
- I highly recommend kagawad Pasik. He is one of the most accommodating and friendly person that we met in Sibuyan. He is more than willing to guide you in different tourist attractions in his beautiful town. His family is super nice and very hospitable.
- Boat rentals ranges from Php 2,500 to Php 3,500.
- For day tour it’s around Php 2,500 (back and forth) good for 3 to 4 persons and Php 3,500 (back and forth) good for 4 to 6 persons.
- For overnight stay Php 3,500 (back and forth) good for 3 to 4 persons and Php 3,500 (back and forth) good for 4 to 6 persons.
WHERE TO STAY IN CRESTA DE GALLO?
- During our stay in San Fernando we decided to camp in the beach in the town of San Fernando together with Kagawad Pasik. Beach camping is free. There are numerous transient houses and hotels around San Fernando.
- Overnight camping is allowed in Cresta de Gallo Island and its free. Make sure to bring your power banks, flash lights and other useful camping tools.
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| Perfect island getaway. |
About the Author:
Edss Tolentino is an aspiring travel writer, adventure junkie and a seeker of the unknown. His goal is to explore and discover the 7,641 islands of the Philippines and share its beauty to the world.