Bantayan Island has always been our happy place, our go-to paradise when we need to unplug and reset. This trip was actually meant to be an annual thing with my close friends, Sinjin of letsgsinjin.com and Ethelbert of nindotkaayo.com, but life got in the way last year. So when the Independence Day long weekend rolled around, we finally made it happen. And yep, it was worth the wait.

Our road trip kicked off with a quick breakfast and coffee fix at a Shell convenience store in Compostela. Simple but enough to fuel the start of a long ride.

We hit the road and drove for about 3 to 4 hours to Hagnaya Port in San Remigio, where we hopped on an Island Shipping ferry. After another 1 hour and 30 minutes cruising through the sea, Bantayan’s familiar charm welcomed us again.

We checked in at Jelly’s Resort, a cozy spot just walking distance from the main Sta. Fe party strip and the beachfront. Perfect location for beach bums and night owls like us.

Since it was already past noon, we headed to Hungry Beach for a very late lunch. The food was alright, and the view even better. We stayed around the area for some chill and a bit of sightseeing before heading back to the resort for a quick rest.

As night fell, we went out for dinner at the once-buzzing MJ Square. Surprisingly, the crowd has thinned (last visit was in 2023). We got the usual seafood platter. It wasn’t groundbreaking, but it did the job. To cap off our first night, we lounged at the resort over pricey cocktails, a classic tourist move.

Woke up to a plated breakfast at the resort. It was just okay, so we gave in to temptation and ordered some boiled shells from a local vendor nearby, which were way more satisfying!

We couldn’t skip Baigad Lagoon Beach, even if it’s become quite pricey. Imagine paying PHP 150 for a round-trip boat ride plus a PHP 250 entrance fee, that’s PHP 400 just for transport and access. Pricey, yes, but once you see the place, you’ll get it. It’s stunning and truly a must-visit on the island now.

We lounged with cocktails and snacks and devoured another seafood platter. This one, though chef’s kiss. It was the best Cajun seafood platter we’ve had on the island. Seriously, don’t miss it.

In the afternoon, we headed back to Sta. Fe and grabbed our rented motorcycle to explore Sandira Beach, untouched, quiet, and not a tourist in sight. It gave pure island vibes and the kind of peace you don’t get from crowded beaches.

Before sundown, we cruised back to the resort, rested a bit, then headed out for a casual local barbecue dinner. And guess what? We partied the night away at Nami Gastropub, the real party heart of Sta. Fe. The energy was wild coz we danced till 3 a.m. No regrets.

Started our third day with another plated breakfast (yes, again), then geared up for what turned into a full-on restaurant-hopping day.

The first stop was Mauro’s Cafe and Restaurant. Small, stylish, and satisfying. Loved their food, the coffee was okay-ish, but it did the trick. After a short breather, we made our way to La Pizzeria Filomina, where they bake their pizza in a wood-fired oven, which is rustic and flavorful.

Next, we circled back to Hungry Beach for some afternoon chill. The area has really grown into a solid destination in Sta. Fe. Beachfront views, cold drinks, and no rush.

Later, we gave The Ruins a shot. Honestly, nothing spectacular except for the cliffside view. The sea and sky merge here in a way that just hits differently. It might not be “wow” for everyone, but there’s something quietly beautiful about the spot.

For dinner, we ditched seafood and dined at Amihan Beach Cabanas. The food was good, flavors hit the mark, but the place was understaffed that night. Service was slow, but hey, still worth recommending.

Wrapped up our day at Hungry Beach again, but this time for a nightcap with music, drinks, and stories shared under the stars.

Our final morning on the island. Had breakfast at the resort one last time, packed up our bags, and slowly made our way to Sta. Fe Port.

As always, Bantayan gave us the escape we needed. Tired legs, full tummies, happy hearts, and recharged minds.

Till next time, Bantayan Island, my love.