In search of a place that is quite different from other attractions, I found a slice of paradise in Quezon Province where there are no busy bars and restaurants and high-end resorts that are usually found in popular beaches. Despite that, it still attracts visitors throughout the province. I am talking about the Cagbalete Island and perhaps the main reason is the beauty of the island itself.
Located east of Quezon Province, Cagbalete Island is one of the tourist destinations that are just waiting to be discovered. The island is privately-owned and the southwestern part is populated by a number of Visayan fisher folks.
Do you want a different commune with nature that will guarantee you a very solemn and quiet stay? The island of Cagbalete is a 1,640-hectare property ideal for those who want a chance to get away from the exhausting city life and just relax. As I’ve said, this island is different from others because it is not the typical island where there are busy bars, restaurants and resorts. In short, there are no crowded beaches and no commercial zones.
But how did it become a rare of jewel to every visitor who visits it? It is simply because Cagbalete Island possesses an effortless charm that is ideal for a perfect getaway. The wonderful scenery of the island is good enough to satisfy its visitors. The perfect combination of pristine cove with a wide expanse of white-sand beach lined with coconut palm trees is a heavenly place that every traveler is dreaming of. If you want to capture one of the most breathtaking views of the sunset, you will find it here in Cagbalete where the sun covers the sky with glittering shades of gold, ochre and scarlet – a truly wonderfully-made creation of God.
Another good thing is that the island is also home to a diverse flora and fauna. Kingfishers, parrots, eagles, and other uncommon birds can usually be seen flying over the island. It is also the habitat of the coconut crab or “kuray” (the Cagbalete favorite), starfishes, “alimasag”, “umang”, etc., and a long time ago, the “pawikan” (giant sea turtle). Divers and snorkelers will never be disappointed because the water of the island is great for beginner’s drive. It has a rich and wealthy marine ecosystem that is filled with colorful and abundant sea life.
Cagbalete has a wide range of accommodations that will suite your requirements. Whether you come here with family or friends, Cagbalete will give you the best service to make your stay blissful, memorable and worthy to brag about.
Cagbalete Island
How to get there
For commuters, the Jac Liner/JAM Liner/Lucena Lines Station in Kamias - Edsa/Cubao or in Buendia-Taft (LRT) has hourly trips to Lucena. At the Lucena City Grand Terminal there are mini buses (non-aircon) bound for Mauban leave on an hourly interval. There are also air-conditioned vans stationed in Lucena SM Mall going to Mauban. There is now a direct trip going to Mauban thru Jac Liner at Kamias Edsa station. The schedule of the trip is at 5:00 am and 1 pm only.
Passenger boats to Cagbalete Island (trips at 10:00 am and 4:00 pm daily only) are available for P40 per head. The drop-off point will be the "Sabang" and from Sabang, visitors can take a hike of about 1.5 km. going to Villa Cleofas, "Paet", Cagbalete Island (the location of Cagbalete Island Camping Resort). You won’t get lost because there are children in Sabang who will guide you going to Villa Cleofas. There are also small bancas that can be rented going to Villa Cleofas at a cost of around P400.00.