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.
🌴 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 Restaurants
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
Mauro's Café – One of the Best Coffee Stops in Santa Fe
If you’re staying in Santa Fe and looking for a peaceful place to enjoy a real cappuccino, fresh pastries and a relaxing breakfast, Mauro’s Café & Restaurant is one of my personal recommendations.
Located just a few minutes from the center of Santa Fe, Mauro’s combines a quiet garden atmosphere with quality coffee, homemade pastries and an excellent breakfast menu. Many visitors stop here after arriving on the island or before spending the day exploring the beaches.
I especially recommend it if you’re looking for:
- Italian-style cappuccino
- fresh croissants
- homemade donuts
- breakfast sets
- burgers and brunch
- peaceful garden seating
- a good place to work for an hour with a coffee
Unlike many beachfront cafés, Mauro’s feels more relaxed and surrounded by greenery, making it a nice escape from the busier tourist areas. Reviews often praise the croissants, pastries, coffee and friendly atmosphere.
Hero House Tip
If you’re renting one of our scooters, Mauro’s is an easy morning ride and a perfect first stop before heading to Paradise Beach or Obo-ob Mangrove Garden.
🍰 Kermit's Café & Pastry – Bantayan Town
The Island’s Most Famous Cake Shop
If you love desserts, don’t leave Bantayan Island without visiting Kermit’s Café & Pastry in Bantayan Town.
Although it’s located about 20–25 minutes from Santa Fe by scooter, many visitors make the trip specifically for its cakes, pastries and coffee.
The café has become something of a local institution and is especially known for:
- Blueberry Cheesecake
- Ube Cake
- Brazo de Mercedes
- Halo-Halo
- Cappuccino
- Frappes
- Homemade cakes
- Pizza and Western meals
Many locals and tourists consider it one of the best places on the island for an afternoon coffee break after visiting Bantayan Town, St. Peter and Paul Church or the public market. Reviews consistently highlight the cakes, desserts and friendly service.
Hero House Tip
I often stop at Kermit’s myself whenever I’m in Bantayan Town. If you enjoy good coffee and homemade cakes, it’s definitely worth the ride.
⭐ My Personal Recommendation
Both cafés are worth visiting, but for different reasons:
| Café | Best For |
|---|---|
| Mauro’s Café | Breakfast, cappuccino, croissants, quiet garden atmosphere |
| Kermit’s Café | Cakes, desserts, afternoon coffee, pastries, cheesecakes |
Personally, I usually recommend Mauro’s for breakfast and Kermit’s after a day exploring Bantayan Town.
Island Hopping & Activities
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 – A Hidden Stop on the Island Hopping Tour
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.
🎥 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 30 September 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.
The Big Cross in the Quarry (Bantayan Island)
If you are planning a Bantayan Island land tour and want to discover a scenic spot off the beaten tourist path, the Big Cross is an absolute must-visit.Located inside a unique, inactive stone quarry, this towering white cross overlooks the rugged landscape and is surrounded by the 14 Stations of the Cross. It is a place of deep spirituality and peaceful silence, highly revered by locals—especially during the famous Semana Santa (Holy Week)—but beautiful and atmospheric to visit all year round.
📍 How to Get There & Travel Tips:
-
Where it is: The Big Cross is located in the island’s interior, just a short scooter or tricycle ride from both Santa Fe and Bantayan Town.
-
What to do: Take in the panoramic views, snap unique photos contrasting the white cross against the quarry’s limestone rocks, or quietly walk the pathway along the religious stations.
-
Local Tip: It is the perfect cultural stop to combine with your visit to the nearby Obo-ob Mangrove Garden or The Ruins during your daily island exploration.
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.
🤿 Snorkeling & Underwater Life Around Bantayan Island
Bantayan Island is not only about white-sand beaches. The waters around Santa Fe also offer opportunities for snorkeling and discovering coral reefs and tropical marine life.
Some interesting reef areas can be found close to the coastline, including the waters in front of Alice Beach in Okoy and the area in front of Sugar Beach. These locations offer another way to experience Bantayan Island beyond its famous beaches.
Underwater Photography Around Bantayan Island
An ongoing 2026 underwater photography project by Leonardo Casali documents the marine life found around Bantayan Island and nearby islands. The photographs reveal the incredible variety of underwater life in this part of the Philippines, including colorful corals, lionfish, batfish, sea krait, jellyfish and other marine species.
The project is still a work in progress and includes underwater locations around Sandira Beach (Paradise Beach), Hilantagaan Island, Placid Beach, Sugar Beach and other areas around Bantayan Island.
The photographs show details that are easy to miss when simply swimming at the surface, from coral formations to small reef creatures and the colors of the underwater environment.
View the independent underwater photography project →
Leonardo Casali – PHILIP LOOK UNDER
Two Reef Areas to Explore Near Santa Fe
For visitors interested in snorkeling in Bantayan Island, I have identified two interesting reef areas on Google Maps. The photographs below show the exact areas and indicate where the reef can be found in relation to the shoreline.
🐠 Reef Area in Front of Alice Beach, Okoy
In the waters directly in front of Alice Beach in Okoy, just outside Santa Fe, there is a coastal reef area that can be interesting for snorkeling and observing marine life. The location is close to the shoreline, making it an easy area to identify on the map for visitors exploring the coast around Okoy.
The combination of shallow tropical water and reef formations makes this area worth exploring when sea conditions and visibility are good. It offers another perspective on the underwater life of Bantayan Island, away from simply visiting the island’s most famous beaches.
🐠 Reef Area in Front of Sugar Beach
Another interesting reef area is located in the water directly in front of Sugar Beach. Sugar Beach is already known for its beautiful coastline, but the underwater environment provides another reason to explore the area with a mask and snorkel.
Visitors interested in snorkeling near Sugar Beach Bantayan Island can use the marked location on the map to understand where the reef area is positioned in relation to the beach. Conditions can vary considerably with tides, weather and water visibility, so the area should always be assessed locally before entering the water.
Important:
These three areas — the reef near Alice Beach in Okoy, the reef in front of Sugar Beach, and the waters around Guiwanon Ocean Park — show that Bantayan Island snorkeling is not limited to organized island-hopping tours. Some interesting marine environments can also be found close to the main towns and beaches, making them worth exploring responsibly.
Guiwanon Ocean Park – Exploring Another Lagoon Near Bantayan Town
Our exploration of the underwater areas around Bantayan Island continues near Guiwanon Ocean Park, on the coast close to Bantayan Town. Recent observations in this area have revealed another interesting shallow-water environment worth exploring for visitors interested in snorkeling, marine life and the lesser-known coastal areas of Bantayan Island.
The waters around Guiwanon are different from the famous white-sand beaches of Santa Fe. Here, the landscape is shaped by shallow coastal water, seagrass and reef areas, creating a completely different experience from simply visiting a beach. The area is particularly interesting for travelers who want to swim and snorkel in Bantayan Island while discovering places beyond the usual tourist itinerary.
This location is currently being explored and documented, so we are still learning more about the underwater life and reef conditions in this part of the island. As new observations become available, we will update this guide with more information about the best places for snorkeling, marine life and underwater exploration around Bantayan Island.
Why is Guiwanon interesting for snorkeling? Unlike the famous beaches that attract visitors mainly for their white sand and turquoise water, Guiwanon offers the opportunity to look at another side of the island’s coastal ecosystem. For anyone searching for Bantayan Island snorkeling spots or wondering where to swim and snorkel in Bantayan Island, this is an area worth keeping on the radar.
📍 Location: Guiwanon Ocean Park, near Bantayan Town, Bantayan Island, Cebu.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hero House and Bantayan Island
1. What is Bantayan Island known for?
Bantayan Island is known for its white-sand beaches, clear tropical waters, relaxed atmosphere and authentic island life. Santa Fe is the main tourist area and a convenient base for exploring beaches, restaurants, island-hopping destinations and other attractions around Bantayan Island.
2. What are the best beaches in Bantayan Island?
Some of the best-known beaches include Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach), Kota Beach and Sugar Beach. Each beach has a different atmosphere, and exploring several beaches is one of the best ways to experience Bantayan Island.
3. Is Bantayan Island good for swimming and snorkeling?
Yes. Bantayan Island and the nearby islands offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, island hopping and discovering marine life. Virgin Island and Hilantagaan are popular destinations for boat trips, while different coastal areas around Bantayan offer opportunities to explore the water.
4. What can you do in Bantayan Island besides visiting the beaches?
Visitors can explore Santa Fe and other parts of the island by scooter, visit local restaurants and markets, take island-hopping trips, go snorkeling, discover mangrove areas, visit Paradise Beach and other beaches, and experience the quieter side of Bantayan Island away from the main tourist areas.
5. Where is the best area to stay in Bantayan Island?
Santa Fe is one of the most convenient areas for visitors because it has many restaurants, cafés, beaches, shops and access to island-hopping trips. Staying in Santa Fe also makes it easy to explore other parts of Bantayan Island by scooter.
6. Is Bantayan Island suitable for digital nomads?
Yes. Bantayan Island can be suitable for remote workers who want a quieter island environment while still having access to restaurants, cafés and everyday services. Hero House offers fast fiber Wi-Fi, private apartments, private kitchens and solar power backup, making it particularly suitable for guests who need reliable connectivity while travelling.
7. How do you get to Bantayan Island from Cebu?
The usual route is from Cebu City or Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Hagnaya Port in northern Cebu, followed by a ferry to Santa Fe Port on Bantayan Island. Travel times and ferry schedules can change, so guests should check the current information before travelling.
For detailed directions: How to Get to Bantayan Island
8. Is it better to stay at a beachfront resort or somewhere convenient for exploring Bantayan Island?
A beachfront resort can be an excellent choice for guests who mainly want to stay at the property and enjoy the beachfront setting. However, visitors who want to explore Bantayan Island often spend much of their day outside the accommodation, visiting different beaches, restaurants, villages, attractions and island-hopping destinations.
Some beachfront areas can also be more exposed to wind and changing weather conditions. Hero House offers a quieter residential location in Santa Fe, about three minutes by scooter from the town center, while keeping many of the island’s beaches and attractions within easy reach. It is a different type of stay, focused on privacy, comfort, quality and exploring 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.