Malapascua, Cebu

Kandaya Resort in Daanbantayan

Jun 30 - Jul 2, 2016. It's that time of the year again when I turn a year older and we celebrate by packing our bags and going off to another adventure. This time, we decided to endure an hour's worth of flight and four hours of land travel to visit the much-talked about Malapascua Island in the northern tip of Cebu. 

From Mactan Airport, we took a cab to the North Bus Terminal and rode a V-Hire (it's like the UV Express here in Manila) going to the town of Daanbantayan. It's cheap and faster than taking the bus, but definitely not comfortable. They cram passengers like sardines (especially in the last two rows) it's bordering illegal. I swear people there have to no concept of overloading.

Instead of staying at a resort in Malapascua Island, we decided to stay in Kandaya Resort, located just a few minutes away from Maya Port. Then from Maya Port, we'll just take a 30-minute boat ride to Malapascua.

Lucky for us, Kandaya Resort is absolutely heavenly! Upon arriving, we immediately felt relaxed and we got excited to explore the place. All the stress from the long travel just melted away!

I just love how they designed the place. As you enter the lobby, you'll see in the horizon their gorgeous infinity pool, which meets the tranquil ocean, which then meets the blue sky. Absolutely breathtaking. 

And when you step out of your room, it opens up to a garden and you'll be greeted with colorful Koi fish.

The resort has all sorts of activities and amenities prepared for their guests so there's always something to do. Our first stop of course is the restaurant! First thing we notice is the giant fish traps decorating the place. This, plus the magnificent view of the ocean and the breezy salty air filling the room as we enjoy our lunch. 

Breakfast served at Kusina Restaurant

There are only a limited number of rooms/villas at the resort and the privacy is just divine. The place is absolutely peaceful and I enjoy lounging by the pool without noisy kids running around or rowdy groups chattering. 

Hammocks abound all over the resort

Aside from lounging by the pool or soaking up the sun by the beach, there are plenty of activities offered by the resort. They have a tennis court, a basketball court, an MMA gym -- and the best part is, guests can use them for free. Other activities being offered are  horseback riding, biking, stand-up paddle boating and kayaking (also for free except for horseback riding).

The next day, after a hearty breakfast, we headed to Maya Port. We decided to hire a private boat for the day. They'll take us to Malapascua, then take us snorkeling to three different spots, then take us back to Maya Port at the end of the day.

We have the boat all to ourselves

Malapascua

Crystal clear water

Malapascua is famous for it's resident Thresher sharks, which you can see when you go diving. But since none of us dives, we opted for the more kid-friendly snorkeling tour of the island. First stop is Coral Garden. 

As the name suggests, the area is one huge garden of corals of all variety, shapes and sizes. It was a little disappointing though, because we didn't see a lot of fish.

Next stop is Guimbitayan, where a shipwreck lies beneath. This Japanese vessel was bombed during World War II and what was left of the once massive ship, is now home to some fish and breeding ground for more corals.

Our last stop is Dakit Dakit Island. Our boatmen started jumping in the water too, as they try to catch sea urchins for dinner. More corals can be seen from here, though not as impressive or massive as the ones in Coral Garden.

Our trip, though short, was truly eventful. Nothing beats spending your special day collecting memories with the family.

Kandaya Resort

Agujo, Daanbantayan

Cebu, Philippines

Telephone: +63 32 260 6006

Mobile: +63 999 8886691

Email: reservations@kandayaresort.com

Web: http://www.kandayaresort.com