Bantayan Island is a haven for sun, sand, and serenity. Beyond the usual tourist spots, the island hides stretches of white sand, calm waters, and quiet corners that feel untouched. Whether you’re chasing a long walk along a sandbar, a hidden paradise, or a cozy cabana by the sea, these beaches promise a slice of tropical bliss.
1. Kota Beach – Walk Along the Shapeshifting Sandbar
Kota Beach is the iconic stretch of white sand in Sta. Fe, known for its long, ever-changing sandbar ideal for morning walks and paddleboarding. The beach is lined with resorts and eateries, making it easy to spend the whole day here.
How To Get There?
Location: Kota Beach, Santa Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu
By Car: From Cebu City, drive north via the Cebu North Road toward Hagnaya Port in San Remigio. Travel time is around 4–5 hours, depending on traffic. At Hagnaya Port, board a RoRo ferry to Santa Fe Port, which takes about 1 hour. Once you arrive at Santa Fe Port, Kota Beach is only 5–10 minutes away by car or tricycle. Some resorts, including Kota Beach Resort, offer free or paid port transfers—it’s best to confirm in advance.
By Commute: From Cebu City North Bus Terminal, take a Ceres bus or van bound for Hagnaya Port. The trip takes approximately 4–5 hours. At Hagnaya, ride a passenger ferry to Santa Fe Port (around 1 hour). From the port, you can take a tricycle to Kota Beach, which is a short ride. Select resorts along the beach may provide scheduled pick-up services from the port during daytime hours.
2. Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach) – Hidden Peace
Paradise Beach, also called Sandira Beach, is a secluded spot perfect for relaxing under coconut palms, swimming in clear waters, or snorkeling. It charges a small entrance fee and is best during the dry season (February to May) for calm seas.
How to Get There?
Location: Paradise Beach (Sandira Beach), Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu
By Car:From Sta. Fe town proper, drive north toward Barangay Okoy. The trip takes about 10–15 minutes. Parking is available near the beach entrance, after which you’ll walk a short footpath to reach the shore. The access road is narrow in some sections, so drive carefully.
By Commute: From Sta. Fe town proper, take a tricycle or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) going to Paradise Beach or Sandira Beach. Travel time is around 10–15 minutes. You’ll be dropped off near the entrance, followed by a short walk along a footpath to the beach. Wearing comfortable footwear is recommended.
3. Amihan Beach – Serene Cabanas by the Sea
Amihan Beach is a boutique escape with bamboo cabanas and a calm, intimate atmosphere. Its simple, Filipino-inspired design blends with the tropical surroundings, offering spectacular sunrises and quiet mornings for swimming or reading by the shore.
How to Get There?
Location: Amihan Beach Resort, Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island, Cebu
By Car: From Sta. Fe town proper, drive toward the beach area near Kota Beach. Amihan Beach Resort is located along the same coastal strip, just a few minutes from the town center. Travel time is about 5–10 minutes. Limited parking is available near the resort, so it’s best to arrive early during peak season.
By Commute:From Sta. Fe town proper or Santa Fe Port, take a tricycle going to Amihan Beach Resort or simply say Kota Beach area, as it is a well-known landmark nearby. The ride takes around 5–10 minutes. From the drop-off point, it’s a short walk to the beachfront.
Bantayan is more than a postcard-perfect island, it’s a place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore beaches that feel like your own secret hideaway. Whether it’s the long sandbar at Kota, the hidden charm of Paradise Beach, or the serene cabanas of Amihan, each destination offers a distinct experience that will stay with you long after the sun sets.
