Malapascua Island, Philippines: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Malapascua Island is one of only a handful of places in the world where you can reliably spot thresher sharks year-round? This tiny paradise in the northern tip of Cebu has transformed from a quiet fishing village to a world-class diving destination, yet still maintains its authentic charm and laid-back island vibe. At just 2.5 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide, this small slice of heaven packs an incredible array of experiences into its powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Getting to Malapascua Island

Reaching this island paradise requires some effort, but the journey is well worth it. Most travelers begin their journey to Malapascua from Cebu City, which is well-connected to international and domestic airports.

From Cebu City to Maya Port

The first leg of your journey takes you from Cebu City to Maya Port in northern Cebu. You have several transportation options:

By Private Car

For maximum comfort and convenience, private car services are available from Cebu City to Maya Port. Prices range from ₱6,300-7,500 ($110-135) for the entire vehicle. This option allows you to set your own schedule and make stops along the way. Many hotels in Malapascua can arrange private transfers for you.

From Maya Port to Malapascua Island

Once you reach Maya Port, you’ll need to take a boat to Malapascua Island:

• Pay the environmental fee of ₱120 ($2.15) per person at the port office
• Purchase your boat ticket for ₱200 ($3.60) per person
• The boat ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes in good weather
• The last scheduled boat typically departs around 4:30 PM
• During low tide, you may need to transfer to a smaller boat to reach the shore (additional ₱20)

If you miss the last scheduled boat, private boats can be chartered for around ₱1,500-2,000 ($27-36), depending on your negotiation skills and the time of day.

Best Time to Visit Malapascua Island

Timing your visit to Malapascua can significantly impact your experience. The island has distinct dry and wet seasons, each offering different advantages for travelers.

Diving Seasons

Malapascua’s main attraction—thresher sharks—can be spotted year-round. However, certain marine life has seasonal patterns:

• Thresher Sharks: Visible year-round at Monad Shoal, with slightly better visibility during dry season
• Manta Rays: Best spotted from December to May
• Hammerhead Sharks: Occasionally seen from December to April
• Mandarin Fish: Observable year-round during dusk dives at Lighthouse Reef

Getting Around Malapascua Island

Malapascua is a small island with no cars or paved roads. The narrow sandy paths that crisscross the island are only suitable for walking or motorcycles. Here’s how to navigate this compact paradise:

On Foot

Walking is the most common way to get around Malapascua. The island is small enough that you can walk from one end to the other in about an hour. Most resorts, restaurants, and dive shops are concentrated around Bounty Beach in the southern part of the island, making it easy to explore this area on foot.

By Motorcycle

If you want to explore the more remote northern beaches or don’t want to walk in the heat, you can hire a motorcycle with a driver (habal-habal). Rates typically range from ₱40-100 ($0.70-1.80) depending on the distance. You can find motorcycle drivers near the market area or ask your accommodation to arrange one for you.

Where to Stay on Malapascua Island

Malapascua offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Most accommodations are concentrated around Bounty Beach on the southern side of the island, while a few more secluded options can be found near the northern beaches.

Budget Options

For travelers watching their budget, Malapascua has several affordable guesthouses and hostels:

• Malapascua Budget Inn: Located near the market and port, offering dormitory and private rooms with basic amenities. The rooftop social area is perfect for meeting other travelers.
• Neverland Hostel: Situated near Langob Beach on the northern side, this eco-friendly hostel offers a more secluded experience with healthy food options and regular beach cleanup activities.
• Tribal Huts Community: Traditional bamboo huts with ensuite bathrooms and ceiling fans. A unique and authentic island experience with free drinking water and strong WiFi.

Mid-Range Accommodations

For those seeking more comfort without breaking the bank:

• Malapascua Garden Resort: Well-located resort with air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and a garden setting.
• Blue Corals Beach Resort: Beachfront resort with air-conditioned rooms and good hospitality, located near the pier.
• Ocean Vida Beach and Dive Resort: Popular with divers, offering comfortable rooms and excellent beachfront dining with bean bags for sunset viewing.

Luxury Resorts

For a more indulgent island experience:

• Tepanee Beach Resort: Private cottages with sea views and excellent service in a more secluded location.
• Buena Vida Resort and Spa: Upscale resort with spa services and well-appointed rooms for a relaxing retreat.
• Angelina Beach Resort: Luxury beachfront resort with spacious rooms, excellent breakfast, and massage services.

Top Attractions and Things to Do on Malapascua Island

Diving with Thresher Sharks

Malapascua’s claim to fame is the opportunity to dive with the elegant thresher sharks at Monad Shoal. These magnificent creatures, known for their long, whip-like tails, visit the underwater cleaning stations daily, offering divers a rare opportunity to observe them up close.

• Early morning dives (around 5:00 AM) offer the best chance to see thresher sharks
• Visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 30 meters
• An Advanced Open Water certification is recommended due to the depth (20-30 meters)
• Dive shops charge approximately ₱1,800-2,500 ($32-45) per dive

Explore Malapascua’s Beautiful Beaches

Malapascua is home to several stunning beaches, each with its own unique character:

Day Trip to Kalanggaman Island

One of the most popular excursions from Malapascua is a day trip to the stunning Kalanggaman Island, famous for its long sandbar stretching into crystal-clear waters. This postcard-perfect island offers:

• A spectacular sandbar with powdery white sand
• Excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities
• Basic facilities including toilets and picnic areas
• Option for overnight camping (bring your own tent or rent one)

Tours to Kalanggaman Island cost approximately ₱900-1,500 ($16-27) per person, plus an entrance fee of ₱500 ($9) payable upon arrival. The boat journey takes about 2 hours each way.

Snorkeling Adventures

You don’t need to be a certified diver to enjoy Malapascua’s underwater wonders. Several excellent snorkeling spots around the island offer glimpses of colorful coral gardens and marine life:

• Coral Gardens: Located on the west side of the island, featuring vibrant coral formations and tropical fish
• Dakit-Dakit Islets: Small rocky outcrops near Bounty Beach with good snorkeling opportunities
• Japanese Shipwreck: A shallow WWII wreck near the lighthouse, accessible to snorkelers

Snorkeling equipment can be rented from dive shops or resorts for approximately ₱150-300 ($2.70-5.40) per day. For the best experience, join a guided snorkeling tour for around ₱500-800 ($9-14) per person.

Visit the Lighthouse

The lighthouse at the northern end of the island offers panoramic views of the surrounding sea. It’s a popular spot for sunset watching and photography. The area around the lighthouse is also home to a small beach and the Japanese shipwreck snorkeling site.

Experience Local Island Life

Beyond the beaches and diving, Malapascua offers opportunities to experience authentic Filipino island culture:

• Visit the local market near Bounty Beach to see fresh seafood and local produce
• Explore the village pathways to observe daily island life
• Chat with friendly locals to learn about island traditions and history
• Experience a traditional Filipino fiesta if your visit coincides with local celebrations

Where to Eat on Malapascua Island

Malapascua offers a variety of dining options, from local eateries serving fresh seafood to international restaurants catering to tourists. Here are some of the best places to eat on the island:

Malapascua Market Eateries

For an authentic and affordable dining experience, head to the market area near Bounty Beach. Here you’ll find several small eateries where you can:

• Select fresh seafood from displays and have it grilled to order
• Try local Filipino dishes like adobo, sisig, and sinigang
• Enjoy a meal for approximately ₱150-250 ($2.70-4.50) per person

These local eateries offer the most authentic and budget-friendly dining options on the island.

Beachfront Restaurants

Several resorts along Bounty Beach have restaurants offering a mix of Filipino and international cuisine:

• Ocean Vida: Popular for sunset cocktails and a varied menu. Their beachfront bean bags are perfect for relaxing with a drink while watching the sunset.
• Angelina Beach Resort & Italian Restaurant: Serves authentic Italian cuisine alongside Filipino favorites.
• Kokay’s Maldito: Offers a range of dishes including fresh seafood and international options.

Vegetarian Options

Vegetarians will find limited but growing options on the island:

• Several resorts offer vegetarian versions of Filipino classics like vegetable curry and mushroom sisig
• Tribal Huts Community has a vegetarian restaurant with delicious plant-based options
• Most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests with advance notice

Practical Tips for Visiting Malapascua Island

Money Matters

Managing your finances on this small island requires some planning:

• ATMs: There are limited ATM facilities on the island, and they may not always be functional. Bring sufficient cash for your entire stay.
• Cash vs. Cards: Most dive shops and larger resorts accept credit cards, but smaller establishments, local eateries, and transportation services operate on cash only.
• Currency: The local currency is the Philippine Peso (₱). While some places may accept US dollars, you’ll get better rates using the local currency.

Connectivity

Staying connected on Malapascua:

• WiFi: Most accommodations offer WiFi, though connection speeds can be variable. The signal is typically stronger in common areas than in rooms.
• Mobile Data: Globe and Smart networks have coverage on the island. Consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival in Cebu City for affordable data.

What to Pack

Essential items for your Malapascua trip:

• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and lightweight clothing with UV protection
• Water Gear: Swimwear, rash guard, water shoes (helpful for rocky areas), and a dry bag for boat trips
• Snorkeling Equipment: While rentals are available, bringing your own mask and snorkel ensures a better fit
• Insect Repellent: Especially important during evening hours
• Medications: Bring any prescription medications plus basic first aid supplies as pharmacy options are limited
• Cash: Sufficient for your entire stay due to limited ATM access

Health and Safety

Staying safe and healthy during your island adventure:

• Drinking Water: Stick to bottled or purified water. Most accommodations provide drinking water refills.
• Sun Safety: The tropical sun is intense, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM. Reapply sunscreen regularly and stay hydrated.
• Water Safety: Be aware of currents, especially at the sandbar on Kalanggaman Island. Always follow guide instructions when swimming in unfamiliar areas.
• Medical Facilities: Medical services on the island are basic. For serious issues, evacuation to Cebu City would be necessary.

Sample Malapascua Island Itinerary

Here’s a suggested 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of your time on Malapascua Island:

Day 1: Arrival and Island Orientation

• Morning: Travel from Cebu City to Maya Port, then take the boat to Malapascua Island
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation, have lunch at a local eatery, and explore Bounty Beach
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant and watch the sunset from Bounty Beach

Day 2: Diving or Snorkeling and Beach Exploration

• Early Morning: For divers, take an early morning dive to see thresher sharks at Monad Shoal
• Late Morning: For non-divers, join a snorkeling tour to Coral Gardens or Dakit-Dakit Islets
• Afternoon: Hire a motorcycle to explore the northern beaches, including Langob Beach and Lapus-Lapus Beach
• Evening: Visit the lighthouse for sunset views, then have dinner at a different restaurant

Day 3: Kalanggaman Island Day Trip

• Morning: Join a day tour to Kalanggaman Island (departs around 8-9 AM)
• Daytime: Enjoy the stunning sandbar, swim, snorkel, and relax on the pristine beaches
• Late Afternoon: Return to Malapascua (around 4-5 PM)
• Evening: Final dinner on the island, perhaps at the market for fresh seafood

Local Etiquette and Cultural Tips

Understanding and respecting local customs will enhance your experience on Malapascua Island:

Language

The main language spoken on Malapascua is Cebuano, though many locals involved in tourism speak English. Learning a few basic Cebuano phrases can go a long way in building rapport with locals:

• Maayong buntag: Good morning
• Maayong hapon: Good afternoon
• Maayong gabii: Good evening
• Salamat: Thank you
• Tagpila ni?: How much is this?

Respectful Behavior

Filipinos are known for their hospitality and friendly nature. To show respect:

• Dress modestly when walking through villages (cover up when not on the beach)
• Ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially children
• Remove shoes when entering someone’s home if you see shoes at the door
• Speak softly and avoid confrontational behavior, as Filipinos value harmony

Environmental Responsibility

Help preserve Malapascua’s natural beauty:

• Avoid touching or standing on coral when swimming or snorkeling
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems
• Dispose of trash properly and consider participating in beach cleanup activities
• Conserve water, as freshwater is a limited resource on the island

Beyond Malapascua: Extending Your Philippines Adventure

Malapascua makes an excellent starting point or addition to a larger Philippines itinerary. Here are some nearby destinations to consider:

Final Thoughts on Malapascua Island

Malapascua Island may be small in size, but it delivers an outsized experience for travelers seeking a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. From the thrill of diving with graceful thresher sharks to the simple pleasure of watching the sunset from a pristine beach, this island paradise offers memories that will last a lifetime.

What makes Malapascua truly special is how it has maintained its authentic charm despite growing tourism. The friendly locals, the absence of large-scale development, and the preserved natural beauty create an atmosphere that captures the essence of a genuine Philippine island experience.

Whether you’re an avid diver, a beach enthusiast, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle of everyday life, Malapascua’s powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters are calling. Pack your swimsuit, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare to fall in love with this small slice of paradise in the Philippines.