TRAVEL GUIDE: Visit the Hidden Lagoon on Guintarcan Island
Guintarcan Island is a part of the Bantayan group of islands, in the province of Cebu. The locals call it Kinatarkan.
I was part of an adventure where we went island hopping for four days. It was epic. And since then I’ve tried to join these adventures organized by Outdoorsman’s hub, but it seems the universe is not on my side, or should I say my schedule was a mess. I kept on skipping those activities until the day we went on a 2-Day trip to Guintarcan Island.
Does the island ring a bell? No. I thought so. Because this is not a common destination. In fact, I never heard of it until the Facebook group organized the trip. The unknown island made my heart pump faster. And so the Fickle Feet wanted to be on that island.
How to get to Guintarcan Island?
- From Cebu City – Take a bus to the North bus terminal going to Daan Bantayan.
- From Daan Bantayan – If you are in a group and want to rent a boat. It may cost Php1500-3000. Not sure of the rate since our trip was organized and had a fixed price. But you can also take a boat for Php50 as a regular passenger.
On the way to the Lagoon
Passing by La-aw Cove
As we were heading to the Lagoon, we passed by this Cove. Since our boat cannot go near, we have to swim our way to get to the island.
We passed by a tunnel-like rock. Also, we climbed and conquered those rocky cliffs. And then got lost on our way and went back from the beginning. So if you’re going there. Remember this, after the climb, go RIGHT. Don’t get lost. You might find a dead end like we did.
Take a dip in the La-aw Lagoon
The La-aw Lagoon is a small inlet located inside the island. It is partially blocked by huge rocks that we passed by. The water is greenish since there’s a lot of seaweed under the water. It is quite scary actually. But regardless of that fact, it was a beautiful paradise.
What else?
Cliff Jumping
After passing the tunnel, the climb on the right side is the way to the lagoon, and the climb to the left side is the way to the cliff jump. Be careful on your way because the area is rocky. The cliff jump is almost 15 feet.
Snorkeling at the La-aw Cove
We did some snorkeling in the La-aw cove. There’s not much to see, but it was still fun.
Camping at the beach
I’m suggesting this because this is what we did. But I must tell you that it was quite difficult to find comfort rooms on the island since it is not commercialized yet. However, the locals are nice and you can ask them to help you to do your business.
Final Note:
In other words, if you are seeking some privacy and want to go to a secluded area. Guintarcan Island is for you. The only thing that will cost you is the travel expense. Little cost for a wonderful paradise.
Haven’t been here? Go and experience the island! Share this post with your friends.
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tashasoyster
This lagoon looks so beautiful and untouched. I’d love to visit the Philippines and have added this to my list of places to visit there. Thanks for sharing.
Camilla
This place looks so magical! Definitely have to go there if I ever visit the Philippines (:
Camilla | http://cammi.dk
Ara Lim
hi! where do we get off at Daanbantayan to rent pumpboats to Guintarcan?
Roneth Politud
Hello Ara! You can rent pump boats in Maya Ferry Port. 😀
Arche
Hi. Thanks for this blog. It is helpful for those who want to take a vacation in an unfamiliar place. Can’t wait to be there next next week. 🙂
Roneth Politud
Welcome! Hope you’ll enjoy your trip. ?
jojisilia
I first heard of Gintarcan Ilsand many years ago. It’s a charming piece of land that offers travelers a chance to experience rustic island life in a peaceful and relaxing environment. Exploring this Island will let anyone enjoy the beautiful rocky cliffs and the cloistered white sand beaches.
deercharisma
first glance at your photos and I thought you went to Palawan. This definitely is a destination worthy of pinning. 🙂
Margaux Camaya
Such a beautiful and untouched natural resource. I hope that the local government will be able to take care/control the influx of tourists if ever.
Reck Adventures
Nice dri ky dli kaayo dagku ang bawd. This is perfect for friends adventure.
armiegarde
Wow! What a charming destination, Roneth. I am definitely sharing this to my colleagues! We have been planning to go out of town in the coming holidays.
Marie Angelique Villamor
I have heard about Kinatarcan Island in Bantayan Island but because I didn’t have enough time to travel for long before, I missed the opportunity to be there. I hope (crossing fingers)to be there! I must say that is haven for me…cliff jumping, snorkeling, and swimming and even lazing for the rest of the day…Wow! Can’t wait…
DMJ Vlogs
Wow! This place looks amazing! More places to explore! Thank you for this article about this place 🙂
Jn Kaye
Wooow! This is truly a gem! Never been to Bantayan but we would love to go there pretty soon. God willing.
Jullian Robin Sibi
The photos you have of this island really remind me of Siargao but this seems nearer! Might wanna go there if I can go out with friends again. 🙂
Oceanic
Wow…this is really amazing ?