The SPOT.ph Guide to Island-Hopping in Masbate

(SPOT.ph) Masbate is often overlooked by many travelers because the Bicol Region, where it is located, already offers an abundance of amazing destinations. However, it would be unwise not to give this underrated province its well-deserved attention. It is high time for those of us who have been bitten by wanderlust to start exploring this island province. Within its borders hide several stunning islets and beaches that could easily be considered among the best in the country, if not the entire world.

It should be noted that the province of Masbate is divided into three main islands: Masbate mainland, Ticao Island, and Burias Island.

Places to see in and around Burias Island, Masbate:

Animasola Island

Animasola Island, situated off the coast of San Pascual on Burias Island, is a hidden gem renowned for its extraordinary natural beauty. It may have a somewhat haunting name as "Anima Sola" (Lonely Soul), in the Roman Catholic tradition, depicts the image of a soul trapped in purgatory; but the island remains a pristine and enticing location. This destination captivates visitors with its rugged cliffs, soft white sand, and stunning blue waters, creating a tropical paradise. Except for a small nipa shed, the island is devoid of any structures, which is always a wonderful thing when it comes to ensuring the preservation of such a natural gem. Because of this, make sure to bring a hat and apply reef-friendly sunblock to your skin.

Tinalisayan Island

The shape of Tinalisayan Island's sandbar varies throughout the day, depending on the tide level. During our mid-afternoon trip, the drone camera captured a beautiful form resembling a half-note musical symbol. Similar to Animasola, the island is an excellent choice for camping trips due to its lack of structures. With its powdery white sand and small mainland adorned with trees, this location is the ideal place to escape for a few days, immersing oneself in beach activities and embracing the beauty of nature.

Sombrero Island

Sombrero Island gets its name from the unique shape of its islet tip, which resembles a sombrero or hat. The island is known for its beautiful sandbar that encircles the main island, which is covered in lush greenery and houses a few small resorts. At the tip, there is a remarkable rock formation that resembles a hat.

How to get to Burias Island:

You can reach Burias Island via plane from Manila to Masbate City. The ferry ride from the port of Masbate City to San Pascual on Burias Island takes eight hours.

Another option is via Pasacao Port in Naga City, where you can take a passenger boat to San Pascual in just two and a half hours. Another choice is via San Andres, Quezon, from the same jump-off port to Alibijaban Island. The journey from San Andres to San Pascual takes around twp hours.

Places to see in and around Ticao Island, Masbate:

Ticao Island is the second main island of Masbate. It is famous among scuba divers for its Manta Bowl, a dive site located in Ticao Pass, where numerous manta rays can be seen underwater.

Snake Island

Coming from Masbate mainland to Ticao Island, you have the choice of stopping on this small island that is not shaped like a snake but is actually populated by snakes, including poisonous ones. It's probably best to skip this area unless you're with expert guides. However, there's a little cave and pool within that opens up to the sea. Snakes are also a common sight in the cave's swimming hole.

Catandayagan Falls

A waterfall that meets the sea. How rare is that? Only about 40 waterfalls worldwide really open straight into the sea. Catandayagan Falls, which has a drop of more than 100 hundred feet, is one of them. This unique natural attraction definitely sets Ticao Island apart from the many islands in the Philippines. Just seeing this up close and swimming beneath its falls is worth the trip to Ticao Island all by itself.

Borobangcaso Islet

The rocky island is encircled by a beautiful expanse of white coralline sand and adorned with stacked rock formations that you can climb for a breathtaking panoramic view.

Halea Nature Park

Halea Nature Park on Ticao Island is a stunning destination for nature enthusiasts, with its exquisite natural carvings, frequent visits from baby sharks, and the lush greenery and vibrant coral reef that surround it. This park is a true gem, particularly for scuba divers and free divers. It is situated on San Miguel Island, one of two islands located on the northern tip of Ticao. The other island in this area is Bagababoy Island.

Halea consists of multiple coves that are perfect for relaxing on the beach and engaging in various water activities. We docked on the eastern part of the island, where we enjoyed our boodle feast. Later, we went snorkeling in the next cove and were fortunate enough to spot a few baby sharks.

Bongsanglay Natural Park

Also found on Ticao Island is the 244.72-hectare Bongsanglay Natural Park, which is home to mangrove forests and marshes. The rare three Sonneratia mangrove tree species are found in its mangroves, giving the forest a unique status.

How to get to Ticao Island:

Passenger boats depart Masbate Port for Ticao Island three or four times daily; from Pilar, Sorsogon, you can board a boat to Monreal on Ticao Island; the trip takes about two hours.

Places to see in and around Masbate mainland:

The third main island is Masbate mainland. It is also here where the province’s capital city of Masbate is located.

Buntod Reef Marine Sanctuary

This marine sanctuary, located just off the coast of Masbate City, is marked by a long sandbar shaped like a question mark. What sets this protected area apart is its unique management approach by an organization primarily composed of former blast fishermen who have turned into reef rangers. Now operating under the name SAMAPUSI (Samahan ng Mangingisda ng Puro-Sinalikway), the group is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the island and managing the upkeep of its reef.

Matayum Lagoon

Every June, this man-made lagoon transforms into a vibrant setting for the Bagat-Dagat Festival. The festival spans two days and offers a variety of exciting activities. Attendees can enjoy thrilling jet-skiing, kayaking, and swimming races, as well as competitive running races. For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, there is beach volleyball, line fishing, and kite flying to take part in. Additionally, there is traditionally a captivating fire dancing contest accompanied by live band entertainment during the festival.

Jintotolo Island

This quaint island that is home to a tight-knit community is where you can visit one of the Philippines’ remaining 23 Spanish-era lighthouses, the Jintotolo Lighthouse. First built in the 1890s, it stands around 50 feet high atop a hill. The lighthouse directs ships through a channel teeming with marine life and is also where the wreck of two Japanese World War II ships, the cruiser Kinu and destroyer Uranami, rests on the bottom.

Tinigban Beach

The beautiful beach in Aroroy, Masbate, offers a serene and relaxing atmosphere reminiscent of Station 2 in Boracay but without the large crowds. The long stretch of pristine white sand is truly a haven for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Since the start of the pandemic, a few coastal resorts have emerged that adhere to strict building codes, such as Tinigban Beach Club Resort. These resorts offer a tranquil setting for individuals seeking a beach experience reminiscent of Boracay but with a more serene ambiance.

Guinlobngan Island

This crescent-shaped island features a delightful combination of fine powdery sands and crushed corals, making it perfect for leisurely walks on its long sandbar and enjoying a calming day at the beach. Trying to hide from the sun? Don't worry, the island's main body is adorned with a dense cluster of towering coconut trees that provide a tranquil shade for relaxation.

Balangingi Island

Balangingi Island is another pristine island in Masbate with minimal man-made structures. It spans 4.9 hectares and is renowned for being a well-preserved marine sanctuary. Just a 15-minute boat ride away from Pio V. Corpuz, on the southeastern tip of Masbate Island, this island instantly lures you to swim in its crystal-clear waters, or walk over its powdery white sand, all while surrounded by a serene and picturesque environment.

How to get to Masbate:

Direct flights from Manila to Masbate City are available via Cebu Pacific. The duration of the travel is approximately one hour and 15 minutes.

Currently, there are multiple ports available for traveling to Masbate from various locations such as Capiz, Sorsogon, and even Cebu. Our group embarked on a 3-hour passenger boat journey from Culasi Port in Roxas City to Balud, Masbate. More routes are planned to open in the coming months. Check out the Facebook page of Kho Shipping Lines for schedules of ferry travel to and from Masbate to different regions.

Also read:
The SPOT.ph Guide to Island-Hopping in Cebu
10 Amazing Island-Hopping Destinations in the Philippines