Pandanon Island, located about an hour by boat from Mactan Island in Cebu, is one of the most popular island hopping destinations. Pandanon Island, with its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, represents a unique and relatively undiscovered gem in the Philippines, offering visitors a serene escape while presenting opportunities and challenges for sustainable development.
Activities on Pandanon Island, such as beach volleyball, swimming, and barbecues, tend to be more of a soothing experience than a “marine sports” activity. However, when I say “soothing,” I don’t mean your average level of “soothing.” It’s a spot that is “the island closest to heaven” and “most people who go there want to go back right away.”
This time, we will introduce Pandanon Island, where you can enjoy shallow waters and a relaxing time. We will also introduce a tour company that is affordable, convenient, and safe, so please check it out.
What is Pandanon Island, the place everyone says they want to go back to?
Pandanon Island, often referred to as a “paradise” by those who visit, has earned a reputation as a pristine and idyllic destination in the Philippines. This small island, part of the Camotes group within Cebu Province, is celebrated for its natural beauty and tranquil environment, making it a place many visitors express a strong desire to return to. Here’s why Pandanon Island is so memorable and why people yearn to go back:
Key Features of Pandanon Island
- Stunning Beaches: Pandanon Island is renowned for its powdery white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach environment is often described as serene and picture-perfect, offering a perfect escape from urban life.
- Clear Waters and Marine Life: The island’s clear waters and healthy coral reefs make it an excellent destination for snorkeling and diving. The vibrant marine life, including colorful fish and coral formations, adds to the island’s allure.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike some more developed tourist spots, Pandanon Island provides a tranquil and less commercialized experience. Visitors appreciate the laid-back atmosphere, which allows for relaxation and unwinding away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Natural Beauty: The island features lush greenery and unspoiled landscapes. Its natural beauty is complemented by stunning sunsets and a generally picturesque environment.
- Local Hospitality: The island’s residents are known for their warmth and friendliness. The local community’s hospitality enhances the overall experience, making visitors feel welcome and at home.
- Minimal Development: The relatively undeveloped nature of Pandanon Island is part of its charm. It lacks the extensive commercial development seen in more popular destinations, which helps preserve its natural state and contributes to its appeal as a peaceful retreat.
Also, we will introduce you to Pandanon Island, which is nicknamed “The Island Closest To Heaven” and where tourists who have visited once unanimously say they want to go again.
Access to Pandanon Island
It takes about an hour by boat from Mactan Island to Pandanon Island. Many people visit Pandanon Island while island hopping, including the neighboring islands.
*Island hopping is when you access remote islands by boat or other means and enjoy snorkeling, diving, barbecues, etc.
Cebu Island, which is made up of many small islands, is an ideal spot for island hopping, but there are also many other spots to enjoy near Pandanon Island, making it an ideal area for island hopping.
Why Pandanon Island is called “The Island Closest To Heaven”
The reason why Pandanon Island is said to be the closest to heaven is because of its spectacular emerald green beaches. On Pandanon Island, the remotest island from Cebu, you can enjoy an “unusual” space away from human habitation. Furthermore, on the beaches of Pandanon Island, you can spend more time relaxing on the beach than doing marine activities such as snorkeling or diving, so you can spend a luxurious time as if you were in heaven.
Many tourists become captivated by Pandanon Island because they can fully experience this “extraordinary space and time.”
What are the three attractions of Pandanon Island?
We will introduce the charm of Pandanon Island, which is said to be “The Closest Place To Heaven”.
Attraction 1: The beauty of the nearly untouched sandy beaches and ocean
Pandanon Island is a small island with beautiful white sandy beaches. There are few man-made things on the island, and much of it is left in its natural state (except for toilets and cottages). The beautiful emerald green ocean that surrounds it stands out against the white sandy beaches.
This beautiful seascape is truly like a “tropical island” and is a view that can only be seen on Pandanon Island. The greatest attraction of Pandanon Island is being able to experience nature as it is.
Pandanon Island’s allure lies in its pristine natural environment, peaceful atmosphere, and the authentic experiences it offers. These qualities make it a special place that many people cherish and want to revisit, often sharing their positive experiences and recommending it as a must-visit destination.
Attraction 2: Shallow and calm sea
The sea around Pandanon Island is very shallow and calm (the water is only about waist-high for adults even offshore).
The water is extremely clear and there are many different kinds of marine life, including small tropical fish, so you can easily dive into the ocean and see a variety of creatures. (If you want to snorkel, the water is shallow in Pandanon Island, so you can also enjoy other snorkeling spots in Cebu, such as Nalusuan Island.
Pandanon Island has shallow, calm waters that stretch far out, making it more suitable for swimming than snorkeling. While the sea in Cebu is known for its activities, Pandanon Island allows you to enjoy the calm side of the beach.
Also, because the beach is shallow, you can see sandbars (shallow water created by low tide) at low tide.
Attraction 3: Enjoy BBQ, beach volleyball, and more
On Pandanon Island, you can enjoy activities such as barbecues and beach volleyball.
Enjoying barbecues and beach volleyball amid the spectacular scenery of the “island closest to heaven” is a special experience. There is a beach volleyball court available, although this will cost extra.
Tours are recommended for accessing Pandanon Island
Pandanon Island is one of the most popular spots for island hopping.
Because it is the farthest out of the remote islands that can be accessed from Cebu, most tourists enjoy stopping off at other islands along the way, or returning from Pandanon by stopping off at a few remote islands at a time. In fact, there are many island hopping trips planned by tour companies in Cebu.
The advantage of taking a tour is that you can enjoy the attractions of two or three remote islands at once. There is a way to charter a boat locally, but it is not realistic because the local person in charge may not be able to speak Japanese and it takes a lot of time and effort.
Tours can be booked by phone or internet from within Japan. In particular, if you are visiting Cebu for the first time or are not familiar with overseas travel, you should make thorough preparations in advance to ensure you can enjoy your trip to Cebu. Many tours include activity sets and lunch arrangements, which can reduce the worry of running into trouble on the day.
If you want to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle of the otherworldly Pandanon Island, be sure to join a tour that brings together a variety of different experiences.
Places to visit with Pandanon Island
When island hopping on Pandanon Island, there are two other islands you should definitely stop by. Both are famous as snorkeling spots, and offer different ways to enjoy them than Pandanon Island. We will introduce the features of each island.
Hilutungan Island
Hilutungan Island is a beautiful and ecologically significant destination known for its clear waters, vibrant marine life, and status as part of a protected marine sanctuary. Its history reflects broader regional trends, while its present and future focus on conservation and sustainable tourism are key to maintaining its appeal and ecological health.
Hilutungan Island is part of a marine sanctuary, which is a major draw for tourists, especially those interested in marine life and underwater activities. The sanctuary status helps maintain the health of the coral reefs and marine ecosystems, which are crucial for the island’s tourism. It has also popular activities on and around Hilutungan Island include snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming. The island’s coral reefs are known for their vibrant marine life, making it a prime location for underwater exploration and Tourism is a significant part of the local economy, with many visitors coming to experience the island’s natural beauty. The surrounding waters are rich in marine biodiversity, which supports various local businesses related to tourism and marine conservation.
Nalusuan Island
Nalusuan Island stands out for its breathtaking natural beauty, tranquil environment, and its role as a favored destination for relaxation and marine activities. Its history reflects broader regional developments, while its present focus is on providing a memorable and sustainable tourism experience.
The island is home to the Nalusuan Island Resort, which plays a central role in its tourism. The resort offers a range of facilities, including beachfront cottages, dining options, and various recreational activities. It is a popular choice for both local and international tourists seeking a tropical getaway. It also have popular activities on the island include snorkeling, diving, and swimming. The surrounding waters are rich in marine life, with coral reefs providing excellent snorkeling opportunities. The calm and clear waters are ideal for relaxation and exploration and as with many popular tourist destinations, there is an emphasis on maintaining the island’s natural beauty and marine environment. Conservation efforts are important to ensure sustainable tourism and protect the island’s ecological balance.
The cheapest private tour for one group “Cebupre” Pandanon Island plan
We would like to introduce our website, Cebupre, a tour plan that will allow you to fully enjoy Pandanon Island.
The feature of our website “Cebu Pre” is that one Japanese-speaking local female staff member is assigned to each group to support sightseeing. In addition, we also provide a chartered vehicle (with driver) to transport you from your hotel to sightseeing spots.
When island hopping, you move from island to island on a boat, so if you are on a group tour, you will inevitably be concerned about time. Also, there may be times when you need to be considerate of other tour guests or adjust your schedule. With a private tour, you won’t have such inconveniences or stress.
Just like a private trip, you can enjoy island hopping to your heart’s content, according to your own schedule.
And what’s great about “CebuPre” is that even though it’s an all-inclusive tour plan, it’s cheaper than group tours. If you sign up for a “CebuPre” plan, you can enjoy plenty of island hopping, including Pandanon Island.
Cebupre’s Pandanon Island Tour Plan
- “Island hopping 3 islands Pandanon Island + Nalusuan Island + Hilutungan Island” (from 7,980 yen)
Travel to tropical islands on a private large boat! This tour allows you to enjoy the most popular resort islands.
First of all, Pandanon Island, which is said to be “the closest place to heaven,” is popular for its untouched nature. It is a beautiful tropical remote island that is picturesque no matter where you look. In particular, the Pandanon Temple surrounded by white pillars and the blue sky are sure to make a great photo.
Next is Nalusuan Island, a photo spot with a long pier. The shallow sea of Nalusuan Island stretches for about 300 meters, so it is safe to visit even with children. Lunch is also very popular at the restaurants on the island surrounded by palm trees.
Finally, snorkel at Hilutungan Island! It is a marine protected area, so you can enjoy the picturesque and colorful underwater world.
Other Companies’ Pandanon Island tour plans
- Island hopping tour of 3 islands (Pandanon Island, Nalusuan Island, Hilutungan Island) (from 12,000 yen)
Like the “Cebu Premium” plan, this is a tour that visits the three most popular islands, including Pandanon Island. Although meals are included in the price, you can see that “Cebu Premium” is cheaper even if you simply compare the prices.
Furthermore, this tour plan is a group tour, not a private tour.
*Tour includes: entrance fee, Japanese guide, life jacket, mask, snorkel, fins, lunch
Additional fee: transportation from hotel to port
Summary
Pandanon Island, the “The Closest Island To Heaven” ,offers a relaxing and extraordinary experience. Many people who have been to Pandanon Island say they want to go back again, and the appeal is the luxurious, relaxed atmosphere.
Pandanon Island, the farthest island from Cebu City, has white sandy beaches and blue waters that are almost untouched by human hands, making it a great place to spend some relaxing time.
If you would like to travel from your hotel in Cebu City or Mactan Island to an island where you can enjoy the tropical atmosphere even more, please contact Cebupre. We offer private tours with a local guide who speaks Japanese at the lowest price in the industry. If you are interested in Nalusuan Island or Hilutungan, please join us and enjoy Pandanon Island on our tour.