Bantayan Island Guide by Manilo – discover the best beaches, local restaurants, hidden gems, and travel tips for an unforgettable stay in Santa Fe.
With open arms, I embrace the Philippines—its breathtaking landscapes, warm people, and vibrant culture. This gesture inspired the mural at Hero House and symbolizes my love for Bantayan Island and the unforgettable experiences I hope every guest will discover here.
Meet Manilo
Airbnb Superhost for 12 years • Hero House Founder • Local Island Guide
Originally from Italy and now based in Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, I created Hero House to offer travelers a comfortable and authentic island experience. I enjoy helping guests discover the best beaches, local restaurants, hidden gems, and everything that makes Bantayan Island a unique destination.
My goal is simple: to help every guest feel at home while experiencing the beauty and relaxed lifestyle of the island.
Why I Created Hero House
After years of traveling and living in different places, I wanted to create a space that combines comfort, privacy, and authentic island living. Hero House was designed for travelers who appreciate peaceful surroundings, quality accommodation, and local experiences beyond the typical tourist path.
Every detail of the apartments, from the outdoor spaces to the reliable Wi-Fi and fully equipped kitchens, was chosen to help guests feel at home while discovering the beauty of Bantayan Island.
Destination Time Sugar Beach 5 min Santa Fe Port 6 min MJ Square 6 min Kota Beach 7 min Paradise Beach 8 min
Bantayan Island Guide: My Favorite Places
Best Beaches
Sandira Beach
Also known by many visitors as Paradise Beach, Sandira Beach is considered one of the hidden gems of Bantayan Island. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and tropical vegetation, it offers powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds.
The beach is especially beautiful during high or mid tide, when the water reaches the shoreline and creates perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling. Adventurous visitors can also explore small hidden caves and scenic viewpoints nearby, making Sandira Beach one of the most memorable coastal destinations on the island.
Why Paradise Beach Is Worth Visiting
Paradise Beach, also known as Sandira Beach, is one of Bantayan Island’s true hidden gems. Unlike many crowded tropical beaches, Sandira offers a peaceful atmosphere where visitors can relax, swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Philippines.
The beach is famous for its powder-white sand, turquoise sea and breathtaking scenery, making it a favorite destination for photographers, drone enthusiasts and travelers looking for a quieter side of Bantayan Island.
Watch the short drone video below and discover why so many visitors describe Paradise Beach as one of the most unforgettable places in Santa Fe.
Discover more hidden places in our complete Bantayan Island Guide or Book Your Stay at Hero House to experience them yourself.
Watch the Road to Paradise
Sometimes the best part of the journey is the road itself.
This short video begins near Ogtong Cave and follows one of the most scenic drives on Bantayan Island, leading to the breathtaking Sandira Beach. Quiet island roads, tropical landscapes, crystal-clear waters and the peaceful feeling of escaping everyday life.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Cebu, a solo adventure, or a romantic holiday, this is exactly what Bantayan Island is all about.
Watch the video below and discover why so many travelers fall in love with this hidden paradise.
Planning your weekend in Bantayan?
✔ Perfect for a 2 Days / 1 Night escape from Cebu.
✔ Ideal for couples, digital nomads and solo travelers.
✔ Stay at Hero House, just minutes from Sandira Beach, Kota Beach and Sugar Beach.
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🌴 Escape to Paradise
The Ruins – Bantayan Island's Hidden Coastal Gem
Hidden along the beautiful coastline of Bantayan Island, The Ruins is one of the island’s most photogenic locations. Massive limestone formations rise above crystal-clear turquoise waters, creating a spectacular landscape that remains surprisingly uncrowded.
Unlike the island’s popular beaches, The Ruins offers visitors a peaceful atmosphere where they can admire dramatic cliffs, tropical vegetation and breathtaking ocean views. It has become a favourite destination for drone photography, sunset lovers and travellers searching for unique places beyond the usual tourist routes.
Whether you arrive by scooter or include it in a full-day island tour, The Ruins is a must-visit stop for anyone wanting to experience another side of Bantayan Island.
After exploring The Ruins, return to Hero House for a peaceful evening and discover our Private Dining Experience.
This Bantayan Island Guide has been created to help visitors discover the very best attractions, beaches and hidden gems around the island.
Kota Beach – The Most Iconic White Sand Beach in Santa Fe
Kota Beach is one of the most famous and photographed beaches on Bantayan Island, located just a few minutes from Hero House in Santa Fe. Known for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking natural sandbar, it offers one of the most relaxing tropical experiences in the Philippines.
One of Kota Beach’s most unique features is its ever-changing sandbar. During low tide, visitors can walk hundreds of meters into the sea surrounded by shallow, transparent water. As the tide rises, the sandbar slowly disappears, creating a calm tropical lagoon that is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Unlike many crowded tourist destinations, Kota Beach still preserves its authentic island charm. Tall coconut palms provide natural shade, gentle sea breezes keep the temperature pleasant, and the calm waters make it ideal for families, couples, solo travelers, and digital nomads looking for a quiet place to relax after work.
The beach is also one of the best locations on Bantayan Island for sunrise photography, drone footage, and long walks along the shoreline. Many visitors spend hours simply enjoying a fresh coconut, reading a book under the palm trees, or watching local fishing boats slowly cross the horizon.
Because Hero House is located only a short ride from Kota Beach, guests can easily visit several times during their stay—whether for an early morning swim, a peaceful afternoon break, or a spectacular tropical sunset. It perfectly represents the relaxed island lifestyle that makes Santa Fe one of the Philippines’ most loved beach destinations.
Hidden Cliff Beach – Bantayan Island's Secret Paradise
Hidden Cliff Beach is one of Bantayan Island’s best-kept secrets. Tucked away along a dramatic limestone coastline near Santa Fe, this peaceful spot offers crystal-clear turquoise water, breathtaking cliff views, and a quiet atmosphere far from the crowds.
Unlike the island’s more popular beaches, Hidden Cliff Beach remains relatively unknown, making it the perfect destination for travelers looking to discover authentic and less-visited places. It is ideal for swimming, relaxing, taking photographs, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of Bantayan Island.
Watch the short video below to see why this hidden beach is becoming one of the island’s most spectacular locations. If you’re planning your trip, don’t miss the other beaches featured in our guide, including Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach), Kota Beach, and Virgin Island.
Best Restaurant
Thai Phoon Restaurant
The restaurant is one of the most popular among the island’s residents, but also with tourists. It is often and always full, so it’s recommended to book.
MJ Square
an amazing narrow street full of all kinds of activities, from restaurants, clothing shops, ice cream parlors, and small markets with cafés
Island Hopping & Activities
Traditional Filipino Paraw Sailing
One of the most iconic symbols of Bantayan Island is the traditional Filipino Paraw. These elegant sailing boats have been used by local fishermen for generations and are still part of everyday island life, more info in my Bantayan island guide
Watching a Paraw glide silently across the turquoise sea at sunrise or sunset is one of the most authentic experiences visitors can enjoy in Santa Fe. Unlike modern boats, the Paraw moves only with the power of the wind, creating a peaceful scene that perfectly reflects the slow rhythm of island life.
Guests staying at Hero House, one of the best-rated apartments in Bantayan Island, often have the opportunity to admire these beautiful traditional sailing boats while exploring Santa Fe.
If you would like to experience the authentic side of Bantayan Island, explore our complete Bantayan Island Guide, discover the Best Apartments in Bantayan Island or Book Your Stay at Hero House and enjoy the island like a local.
Virgin Island
an incredible and fantastic island near Bantayan with its enchanting beaches, its diving areas on the back of the island, and a new restaurant that makes it a perfect island-hopping destination you should never miss.
Why Visit Virgin Island?
In complete Bantayan Island Guide you can find Virgin Island is one of the most breathtaking destinations near Bantayan Island. Just a short boat ride from Santa Fe, this small tropical island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand and colorful marine life.
Whether you want to swim, snorkel or simply relax under the palm trees, Virgin Island offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Many guests staying at Hero House , Best Apartments in Bantayan Island and choose to include Virgin Island in their island-hopping adventure because it combines natural beauty with a peaceful atmosphere that is difficult to find elsewhere.
Watch our short drone video below and discover why Virgin Island is considered one of the must-visit attractions in Bantayan Island, Book Your Stay at Hero House
Balidbid Lagoon
Balidbid Lagoon is one of the most peaceful places on Bantayan Island and remains a hidden gem for many visitors.
Located just a short boat ride from Santa Fe, the lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear shallow waters, wooden sunbeds, tropical palm trees and relaxing atmosphere. It is one of the highlights of the popular Bantayan Island Hopping Tour, usually combined with Virgin Island.
Unlike the more crowded beaches, Balidbid Lagoon offers a quiet place to swim, relax, enjoy a drink at the beachfront bar or simply admire the beautiful scenery.
The lagoon also features a restaurant, swimming pool, massage area and comfortable accommodations, making it an excellent stop for travelers looking to spend a few relaxing hours surrounded by nature.
The best months to visit are from September to December, when the water is exceptionally clear and seaweed is minimal.
If you’re looking for one of the most relaxing places in Bantayan Island, Balidbid Lagoon deserves a place on your itinerary.
🌴 Balidbid Lagoon – A Hidden Stop on the Island Hopping Tour
Balidbid Lagoon is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Bantayan Island and a favourite stop during the famous island hopping tour from Santa Fe.
With crystal-clear water, tropical palm trees, wooden sunbeds and a relaxing atmosphere, it is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the Philippines. Whether you want to swim, take photos or simply listen to the sound of the sea, Balidbid Lagoon offers an unforgettable tropical experience.
🎥 Watch our short video below and discover why this hidden paradise deserves a place on your Bantayan Island itinerary.
Planning your Bantayan Island holiday?
Balidbid Lagoon is one of the best places to include in your island hopping adventure together with Virgin Island. After your tour, relax at Hero House in Santa Fe, just minutes from the island’s most beautiful beaches, including Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach), Kota Beach and Sugar Beach.
Best Sunset Spots
Madridejos, Kota Park
The sun sets over the sea only in Madridejos, only here can you see the best sunset on the whole island. On the pier at Kota Park, it will be a fantastic photo. Madridejos is a small student town located on the opposite side of the island. It offers this long colorful beach pier, an interesting opportunity to spend a few hours exploring the island.
Things to Do in Bantayan Island
St. Peter the Apostle Parish – Bantayan
Recently, a video of the bell tower of this church falling during the terrible November 2025 earthquake and its aftershocks has gone viral worldwide. In front of it is the square, always full of young people, often playing basketball. On the opposite side of the square, a huge market begins, divided into several pavilions, where you can find everything from fresh fish of all sizes to dried fish, and all kinds of various fruits.
Big Cross
Many people don’t know that there is this huge cross in the middle of the island, hard to find, but when you get there you’ll be amazed
Omagieca Obo-ob Mangrove Garden
A mangrove forest that grows right into the sea water, a walk on these boardwalks will help you get to know nature better. Make sure to go only when the tide is high.
Colina Isla
In the center of the island, there’s a hill, the highest on the island, where this 360-degree visual show of the whole island was created. An event not to be missed.
What our Airbnb guests say
Claire
Even before we arrived, Manilo went above and beyond by sharing helpful tips on getting around the island, recommending affordable restaurants with great food, and even sending us a video guide so we wouldn’t get lost on the way to the property. On our first day, he also took the time to help us familiarize ourselves with the area, which we truly appreciated.
The place itself was excellent! Modern, spotless, cozy, aesthetically pleasing, fresh-smelling, with great lighting, reliable internet, and a very comfortable bed. I was curious about previous reviews saying the air conditioner was incredibly quiet, and they were absolutely right. It was the quietest AC we’ve ever experienced!
The neighborhood was also safe and peaceful, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. A wonderful host and a wonderful stay. We would definitely book here again.
Roger
10/10. Would stay again without hesitation.
Julienne Rose
I also asked if an iron was available, and although he initially mentioned he didn’t have one, he surprised us later that afternoon by providing it. That level of effort really stood out.
He was incredibly friendly and thoughtful throughout our stay, even sharing recommendations for some of the best spots to visit in Bantayan. His hospitality made our trip even more enjoyable.
Highly recommended!
Costel
The house is really modern and has everything you need if u wish to cook.
Bed really comfortable, and the ac in the bedroom one of the most silent ac I ever come across on all my travels to southeast Asia.
Beach and MJ Square where all restaurants are is about 12 mins walking distance or 5 min by tricycle .
Manilo is been very helpful and accommodating host by helping me with recommendations where to eat and places to visit.
I will highly recommend this place and I will definitely stay here again when I will travel back to Bantayan Island.
Paul
Jannik
He picked me up from the port and drove me to the port for my journey back.
Highly recommendation!!
what they say about us on booking.com
Stati Uniti-
Appartamento – Piano Terra
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3 notti · aprile 2025
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Viaggiatore singolo
Fantastic experience in every way. Highly recommend.
Italia-
Appartamento – Piano Terra
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4 notti · gennaio 2026
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Coppia
We truly fell in love with this place
Italia-
Appartamento – Piano Terra
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1 notte · marzo 2026
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Coppia
Eccezionale
Asked Questions About Hero House and Bantayan Island
How far is Hero House from the beach?
Hero House is conveniently located just a few minutes from Santa Fe’s most popular beaches, including Sugar Beach and Kota Beach.
Does Hero House offer Wi-Fi?
Absolutely yes, we do, we usually exceed 200Mbps in download and we pride ourselves on having a connection better than Starlink
Is Hero House suitable for long stays?
We carefully evaluate all the requests we get for long stays and we ask for references from prospective renters
What are the best beaches near Hero House?
Some of the most popular beaches include Sugar Beach, Kota Beach, Sandira Beach, Paradise Beach, and Virgin Island.
What can I do in Bantayan Island?
Visitors can enjoy island hopping, snorkeling, beach activities, mangrove tours, cave exploration, local restaurants, and some of the island’s most beautiful sunset spots.
Why stay at Hero House instead of a hotel?
Hero House offers the comfort and privacy of a fully equipped apartment combined with the local knowledge and hospitality of an experienced Airbnb Superhost.
Who is Manilo?
Manilo is the founder of Hero House, an Airbnb Superhost with more than 12 years of hosting experience who helps guests discover the authentic side of Bantayan Island.
Hosted by Manilo • Airbnb Superhost • 12+ Years Hosting Experience • Guest Rating 4.93/5
I personally help every guest discover the best of Bantayan Island, from hidden beaches and local restaurants to unforgettable island experiences.