There are a few ways to roam around the island- motorbike, bike, tour. Motorbike is the most convenient for solo/couple travelers. You can go to places at your own pace; rent starts at Php350/day. The bike is the cheapest way, but you need much effort to visit spots. If you are in a group, you may opt to get tours for hassle-free travel and island hopping.

These are the rates for island hopping; you may use this as a reference for your trip.

The small town of Santa Fe has a party-island vibe. I've been here for few times, and the island is consistently adorable. The beach, nature, and night chill will compel you to come back from time to time.

Located in the northern part of Cebu, Bantayan Island is a known destination for awe-inspiring beaches and island life experiences.  The land travel from Cebu City to Bantayan Island is almost 6hrs, but you will be rewarded with many destinations from beaches to ruins to tropical sceneries. There is an airport on the island, but flights were canceled without further notice due to the pandemic.

You can visit this island without arranging any tours. Just go to the port area and look for boats going to this island. They charge Php1000 per boat, max of 6 pax. Upon arrival on the island, you will pay Php200/pax for entrance. There are cottages, rooms, and a restaurant on the island, but you can look for a shaded area, lay your beach blanket, and enjoy the scenery. The island has restricted areas, but the tourist area is already instagramable. Mind the time because the boat drivers will pick you up after 3-3.5hrs

Sante Fe beach is an open beach stretching from the port area to Sugar Beach. It is a thrilling idea to know that a stunning beach is just a few meters away when you are in Santa Fe town. So literally, you can eat-drink-swim. A good spot is between Kota Beach and Marlin's Beach resort. I like it because there is less crowd and finer sand.

Right after the Santa Beach is the Sugar Beach. You know it's Sugar when you notice that the swimmable area is a broad stretch of knee-deep water before it reaches the deep area. Kids will definitely enjoy this beach, and it's less crowded for adults.

The shoreline along Anika Beach resort was on the right-hand side when you arrived at Sta. Fe port. This beach is attractive during low tide because of the ripple pattern on the sand and the long sandbar. The view here is sunrise, so perfect for breakfast and coffee. Lovely!

Paradise Beach Campsite is another beach on the island but with cliff sceneries. It's near the Mangrove Eco-Park, so visit this place too. 

Image by: @edpineda_

Camp Sawi became known because of the Filipino movie. Initially, it was located at Kota Beach, but they moved this to the Mangrove Eco-Park. What's in here are mangroves, Camp Sawi signage, and the wooden bridge. Entrance fee is ~Php50.

Image by: @windun

As the name says, this is an old structure with graffiti. There is a nostalgic feeling here at the Ruins during sunset or golden hour. No entrance fee, so feel free to witness the sunset. There is an open beach down this area if you want more thrill in your adventure.

Image by: @edpineda_

Ogtong Cave is inside the privately owned resort. If you visit this, you have to pay Php200 for the entrance. The resort has a pool and beach area. The cave, however, is quite interesting. It is not a big one, but just a natural rock pool inside a cave.

Bantayan Church or Sts. Peter and Paul Parish is located at Bantayan town proper- not around Santa Fe. This historic church still has Hispanic-era beauty even after some restorations and renovations. Across the church is the marketplace where you can buy cheap dangit/dried fish.

There are numerous places to eat in the center of Santa Fe town- from grilled to pizza to noodles. When in Bantayan, try the scallops; it is cheap here. Beer and cocktail prices are pretty reasonable.