Hilantagaan Island
A small island off southeastern Bantayan with a sandbar, snorkeling reef, and a fishing village, usually visited on island-hopping tours.
The overview
About Hilantagaan Island
Hilantagaan Island sits just off the southeastern section of Bantayan Island and is one of the standard stops on Santa Fe's island-hopping circuit, usually paired with Virgin Island and Balidbid Lagoon. It has two adjacent white sand beaches on its southern tip and a small sandbar that narrows or widens depending on the tide. Most island-hopping boats stop offshore at a popular snorkeling spot rather than landing on the island itself, since the surrounding reef holds a good variety of marine life for a short snorkel session. The island also has a modest fishing village, giving visitors a glimpse of local life for those who do go ashore. A full island-hopping tour covering Hilantagaan alongside Virgin Island and Balidbid Lagoon typically runs four to five hours out of Santa Fe, making it an easy half-day addition to a Bantayan itinerary.
What makes it worth it
Highlights
- White sand beaches on the southern tip
- Sandbar that shifts with the tide
- Popular offshore snorkeling spot
- Small fishing village
- Standard stop on Santa Fe island-hopping tours
- Combinable with Virgin Island and Balidbid Lagoon
- 1 Book through a Santa Fe island-hopping operator rather than arranging a boat independently, since most tours already include this stop. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and your own snorkel gear if you have it. Check the tide schedule if you want to see the sandbar at its widest. Location approximate — confirm on arrival.
Wayfinder route
How to get there
From Cebu City North Bus Terminal, take a bus to Hagnaya Port in San Remigio (~3 hours), then a ferry to Santa Fe Port (~1 hour). Book an island-hopping tour from Santa Fe town, which departs by boat from the town's public beach area.
Nearby on the chart
Where to stay & eat nearby
Kota Beach Resort
₱₱Santa Fe
Premier beachfront resort with stunning sandbar views and well-appointed cottages.
View & BookAmihan Beach Cabanas
₱₱Santa Fe
Sustainable bamboo cabanas on private beach with pool and eco-friendly design.
View & BookAnika Island Resort
₱Santa Fe
Popular resort offering comfortable, simple accommodations near the beach.
View & BookOgtong Cave Resort
₱₱Santa Fe
Unique resort featuring a natural cave with freshwater swimming pool.
View & BookKeep exploring
You might also like
Badian Island
Badian
A private island paradise with white sand beaches, a marine sanctuary for snorkeling, and a wellness resort famous for its holistic spa treatments.
Botigues Island
Bantayan
A small, undeveloped fishing island in Bantayan's southwest islet chain, reached by boat for swimming and island-hopping.
Capitancillo Island
Bogo City
A pristine uninhabited island with a white sandbar, excellent marine sanctuary, and crystal-clear snorkeling waters off Bogo City's coast.
Malapascua Island
Daanbantayan
A world-famous diving paradise known for thresher shark encounters, featuring beautiful white sand beaches and laid-back island vibes.
Entrance Fee
Included in island-hopping tour package (typically PHP 800-1,200 per person)
Opening Hours
Daylight hours
Duration
1-2 hours (as part of a half-day tour)
Difficulty
Easy
Best Time to Visit
Morning departures; dry season from December to May.
Share this destination
Planning your Cebu trip?
Our free guides cover what to do, how to get there, and where to stay across Cebu.
Explore travel guides →