I was invited by my sister to try out a 2D1N weekend beach getaway since the pressure in school and balancing other aspects of college life is already overwhelming; without further ado, I said yes.
Burias Island is one of the three major islands of Masbate province in the Philippines. It boasts the islands of Animasola, Tinalisayan, Sombrero, and Snake Island which exude the raw beauty of nature. This group of islands is surrounded by bodies of water, such as Sibuyan Sea, Ragay Gulf, and Burias Pass.
- By plane: Fly from Manila to Naga, the plane ride is 1 hour. Then take a jeepney to the Pasacao terminal, and hail a tricycle going to Pasacao Port. Lastly, take a boat to San Pascual, Burias Island.
- By Bus: Ride a bus going to San Andres, Quezon Province, DLTB, Raymond Bus, Isarog Bus, Phitranco, and Amihan Bus have daily bus trips from Manila to Naga. Travel time is 10 hours. Then ride a van/ jeep to Pasacao Terminal then get a trike to Pasacao Port. Take a boat to San Pascual Port.
You will be waiting for your turn to take photos under the scorching heat of the sun, so bring an umbrella and use slippers at all times.
Sombrero Island
The Sombrero island, called as such because of its peculiar, hat-shaped rock formation is another remote place in Masbate.
It is where we stayed for the night. You have the option to pitch your tent, or avail of their cottages with their own CR.
It is also a great place to swim and watch the sunset and sunrise too. After dinner, we had the chance to get to know other joiners during the socials night.
Tinalisayan Island
Tinalisayan Island is perfect for beach bumming with refreshing waters. Fortunately, during our visit, it was low tide, so the sandbar was walk-able.
The surroundings are so relaxing, there are rows of palm trees, very fine sand and white sand, and crystal clear waters. You can also have snorkeling here.
Snake Island/ Dapa Island
This is another place where fishermen believe that is surrounded by sea snakes. You can also try cliff jumping here.
Alibijaban Island is not a part of the Burias group of islands but it was just a 20-minute boat ride from San Andres Port, it is a promising white sand beach island located in San Andres Quezon. The island is known for its abundant mangroves and sandbars. It has a turquoise clear water.
Budget and Other Expenses:
- Environmental Fee: 15 PHP (to be settled at the port)
- Entrance Fees:
- Sombrero Island – 20 PHP
- Tinalisayen Island – 50 PHP
- Alibijaban Island – 100 PHP
- Island Hopping Rate: PHP 3000/6 pax or PHP 500/head
- Accommodation:
- Tent – 200 PHP (2pax), 400 PHP (5-6pax)
- Fan Rooms – 1,000 PHP (2-3pax)
You can avail of a joiners package tour from MAP Travel and Tours with 2,899/pax 2D1N ALL IN!
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- Inclusions are the following:
- Round trip AC van transfer (MNL-Masbate-MNL)
- Round-trip Boat transfer
- Tollgate, Driver’s fee
- Tent
- Tent space
- Food (3 full board meals)
- All beach entrances
- Terminal fee
- Environmental fee
- Tour coordinator
- Travel Insurance
- Inclusions are the following:
Travel Tips/ Notes:
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- There is a weak cell phone signal reception in the islands.
- The best time to go is summer.
- All boats provide life vests.
- Fresh water is scarce in the area, you need to pay 50 PHP per gallon for bathing, toothbrushes, and others.
- No ATMs around, so bring enough cash.
- Bring enough food supplies when you are having a Do-It-Yourself tour.
- You enjoy the sunset/ sunrise and even stargazing on Sombrero Island.
More Photos:
The unspoiled beauty of Masbate is not the usual tourist destination, but it will make you stress-free and revitalized. Okay, break time is over, let’s get back to the grind.