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

Did you know that Pandan Island in the Philippines is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with endangered green sea turtles in their natural habitat? This small 28-hectare coral island off the coast of Occidental Mindoro remains one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets, offering pristine beaches and vibrant marine life without the crowds of more popular destinations.

About Pandan Island

Pandan Island is a small coral island located in Occidental Mindoro, just a short boat ride from the town of Sablayan. With its almost round shape and relatively flat terrain, this 28-hectare paradise features rocky shores with sharp coral rocks alternating with a lovely white sand beach several hundred meters long.

What makes Pandan Island special is its status as a sea turtle sanctuary. The island’s waters are home to green sea turtles that can often be spotted swimming near the shore. The island is also a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous species including the rare Tabon Scrubfowl (Philippine Megapode) making their home here.

Most of the island is covered in forest with surprisingly large trees, creating a lush green interior that contrasts beautifully with the white sand and turquoise waters. The island offers a perfect escape for those looking to experience pristine nature without the crowds of more popular Philippine destinations.

How to Get to Pandan Island

Reaching this hidden gem requires some planning, but the journey is part of the adventure. Here are your options for getting to Pandan Island:

Option 1: Via Air

The fastest route is to fly from Manila to San Jose Airport (SJI) in Occidental Mindoro. Upon arrival, take a tricycle to the bus station (₱20) and then catch a bus bound for Sablayan (₱200-250). The bus journey takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Option 2: Via Land & Ferry

Step 1: From Manila, take a bus from Cubao to Batangas Port. JAM Liner offers daily schedules with fares around ₱200-300. The journey takes 2-3 hours.

Step 2: From Batangas Port, board a ferry to Abra de Ilog. Ferries depart hourly with the first trip at 2am and the last at 11pm. The fare is approximately ₱572 and the crossing takes about 1 hour.

Step 3: From Abra de Ilog, take a bus to Sablayan. The fare is around ₱270 per person with a travel time of 2-3 hours.

Step 4: Upon arriving in Sablayan, you have two options to reach Pandan Island:

• Take the zipline (considered the longest island-to-island zipline in Asia)
• Rent a boat from the Fish Landing Center (₱350 per person with an additional ₱50 for each extra passenger)

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pandan Island is during the dry season from November to May. During these months, you can expect calm seas and clear skies, perfect for snorkeling and other water activities.

March to May offers the warmest temperatures but can be quite hot, while December to February provides slightly cooler weather that many find more comfortable. The waters around the island are generally calmest from April to June, making these months ideal for snorkeling and diving.

Try to avoid the rainy season (June to October), especially July to September when typhoons are most likely. Bad weather can not only ruin your experience but also make boat transfers to the island difficult or impossible.

Where to Stay

Pandan Island has two main accommodation options, both offering a true island getaway experience:

Pandan Island Resort

The original resort on the island is owned by French nationals and offers:

• Spacious, comfortable cottages (no air conditioning)
• Rooms for rent at lower rates than cottages
• Solar-powered electricity (charging only available at the bar and dive shop)
• Restaurant serving meals (guests must book at least 2 meals per day)
• Reasonable WiFi connection
• Organized trips to Apo Reef

Note that the resort doesn’t accept credit cards, so bring sufficient cash. They’re committed to protecting the island’s marine life and maintain the pristine environment.

Alternative Resort

A newer, less-known resort offers:

• Air-conditioned rooms as well as fan-only options
• No meal requirements – you can bring and prepare your own food
• More budget-friendly overall experience

This resort is not located directly on the beach and has a very shallow coral flat in front, which may limit swimming options.

Top Things to Do in Pandan Island

1. Swim and Snorkel with Sea Turtles

One of the most magical experiences on Pandan Island is swimming alongside green sea turtles in their natural habitat. The island is known for its turtle population, and while sightings aren’t guaranteed (as these creatures roam freely), your chances of encountering them are high.

The best spot to find sea turtles is in the seagrass beds near the eastern tip of the island, in front of the diving center. Visitors have reported swimming with turtles as large as 4 feet! Remember to maintain a respectful distance of at least 3 meters and never touch these protected animals.

2. Experience the Longest Island-to-Island Zipline

For thrill-seekers, the zipline from Sablayan to Pandan Island is a must-try experience. At 1.7km long, it’s considered the longest island-to-island zipline in Asia and offers an exhilarating 3-minute ride with breathtaking views of the ocean below.

This unique transportation method features a motorized pulley system that works in both directions. Many visitors choose to zipline to the island and then return by boat for two different experiences. To book, visit or call the Sablayan Tourism Office at 09171706723 or 099885465917.

3. Explore Vibrant Coral Reefs

Pandan Island boasts some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the Philippines. The most vibrant corals can be found along the southern beach in an area about 200 meters long. The reef is home to an impressive diversity of marine life, including:

• Maori wrasse and various parrotfish species
• Triggerfish, butterflyfish, and regal angelfish
• Several species of sweetlips hiding under overhangs
• Occasional sightings of barracuda and trevally
• Colorful blackspotted puffers

The water is generally calm with a light current that tends to drift you back toward the eastern tip of the island, making for an easy and relaxing snorkeling experience.

4. Try the Glass Bottom Boat

For those who prefer to stay dry while still experiencing the underwater wonders, a glass bottom boat tour is the perfect option. This unique experience allows you to observe marine life through glass panels in the boat’s floor, similar to visiting an aquarium but with the creatures in their natural habitat.

Glass boat rental costs approximately ₱2,200 for the entire boat, making it a good option to share with a group. It’s also an excellent choice for families with young children or those who aren’t comfortable swimming.

5. Enjoy Non-Motorized Water Activities

To protect the sea turtle population, motorized water activities like jet skis and banana boats are prohibited around Pandan Island. Instead, visitors can enjoy eco-friendly options such as:

• Kayaking (₱250 per hour)
• Paddle boarding (₱200 per hour)
• Freediving for more experienced water enthusiasts

These activities allow you to explore the island’s coastline at your own pace while minimizing disturbance to the marine ecosystem.

6. Visit Apo Reef on a Day Trip

Pandan Island serves as an excellent gateway to Apo Reef, the second-largest contiguous coral reef system in the world and a premier diving destination. The Pandan Island Resort organizes day trips to this underwater paradise, where you can experience:

• World-class diving and snorkeling
• Encounters with larger marine species like sharks and manta rays
• Bird watching on Apo Island
• Spectacular biodiversity with hundreds of coral and fish species

Even if you’re just snorkeling, Apo Reef offers an unforgettable experience with its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Birdwatching on Pandan Island

Surprisingly, this small island is a birdwatcher’s paradise with an impressive variety of species. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best birdwatching opportunities, with many rare and beautiful birds to discover:

• Tabon Scrubfowl (Philippine Megapode) – these large birds with their distinctive loud calls are abundant on the island
• Hooded Pitta – colorful and often visible, unlike their typically shy behavior elsewhere
• Green Imperial Pigeon – large, beautiful birds often spotted in the island’s forest
• Mangrove Blue Flycatcher – numerous on the island with their beautiful songs
• Mindoro Bulbul – an endemic species found in abundance
• Red-bellied Pitta – a rare and colorful treat for birdwatchers

The island’s small size makes it perfect for birdwatching, with easy trails and a high density of birds. Morning sessions from 5:30-9:30 AM and afternoon sessions from 4:30-6:30 PM are ideal for spotting the most species.

Practical Tips for Visiting

What to Bring

• Reef-safe sunscreen – essential for protecting both your skin and the coral reef
• Cash – credit cards are not accepted on the island
• Snorkeling gear – though rentals are available, bringing your own ensures comfort
• Insect repellent – especially important for evening activities
• Power bank – charging facilities are limited to common areas
• Light, breathable clothing – the island can get very hot
• Basic first aid supplies – medical facilities are limited

Environmental Considerations

Pandan Island is a protected area with fragile ecosystems both on land and underwater. To help preserve this paradise:

• Use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral
• Maintain a distance of at least 3 meters from sea turtles
• Never touch or stand on coral
• Take all trash with you or dispose of it properly
• Respect wildlife by observing from a distance
• Follow all guidelines provided by resort staff

Connectivity

Both Globe and Smart mobile networks have signals on the island, though coverage may be spotty. The Pandan Island Resort offers WiFi, but connection speeds can be slow. Consider this an opportunity to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the island experience.

Costs and Rates

Accommodation rates vary depending on the type of room or cottage and the season. Cottages at Pandan Island Resort are more expensive than standard rooms but offer more space and privacy. Remember that guests at this resort are required to book at least two meals per day.

Why You Should Visit Pandan Island

Pandan Island offers a rare combination of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and peaceful seclusion that’s increasingly hard to find in today’s world of overtourism. From swimming with sea turtles in crystal-clear waters to birdwatching in lush forests, the island provides authentic experiences that connect you with nature.

Unlike more developed destinations, Pandan Island maintains its pristine character while still offering comfortable accommodations and activities. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the natural one.

Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone seeking tranquility on a beautiful beach, Pandan Island delivers an unforgettable Philippine experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for years to come.