Out of more than 7,000 islands in the Philippines, a lifetime, I guess, wouldn't be enough to visit all of them. And having an eight-hour office job with a tight budget could really be a hindrance. But who needs a fat sum of money to have a taste of Philippine beaches?
Boasting to be one of Quezon Province's pride, Cagbalete Island is located on the outskirts of Mauban, Quezon. No need to hop on a plane, just a 5-hour journey away from Manila and you'll have a crowd less beach, wide range of white sand, crystal clear waters perfect to take your city stress away.
Going straight to the trip right after work was exhausting. Not to mention, enduring the 5-hour trip from Manila with no sleep at all. But when we were nearing the location and having a glance of the island, all my energy were refilled. I saw the long stretch of white sand and tranquil waters. Then I said to myself, we are definitely in for a treat. Yay!
We chose to stay at Villa Noe Beach, where we pitched our tents under the coconut tree shade. There are also cottages and kubo that you can rent for 800php per night. But camping is more fun, right?!
Cagbalete Island's ambience could really spell of full relaxation. This could be the perfect place too if you need some digital detox or if you just simply want to get away from social media as electricity is only available from 6:00PM - 6:00AM.
Even though there were resorts, they only offer accommodation for the guests. There's no proper restaurant that serves food (as far as I know) so it is really a must to prepare everything you need before heading to the island. Good thing there are locals roaming around the island that helps the guests buy their needs. We met this little guy name "Joffer", he was our runner. Lol
He's the one who went to the talipapa whenever we need something such as ice, coffee, rice, etc. And in return, we give him money. He even escorted us to the Mangrove area located on the further side of the island. During our walk, I asked him what he does with the money. He said he gives it to his Mom while he saves a part of it so that he could buy himself a cellphone. He doesn't even have Facebook, he said. Province life it is.
There's really nothing much to do on the island except to relax and enjoy your friends' company. Plus the intense heat of the sun will really wake that lazy bones in you.
My friends even played frisbee in the shallow, clear waters of the island.
On our second day, we went and explore the further side of the island. This is where the saltwater and freshwater meets. From Villa Noe Beach, it was a more than 30-minute leisurely walk. We pass through the undeveloped part of the island.
The long walk under the excruciating heat of the sun was all worth it when we saw the view. There were mangrove trees around the area and the water was surprisingly cold and refreshing.
What is camping without bonfire evenings? Through the help of our little guy Joffer, we enjoyed our night at the island with some bonfire and s'mores under the starry night sky.
I must tell you, head here before it gets too crowded. A perfect island getaway with unspoiled beach, vivid waters and amazing solitude. Hopefully, the local government would be able to maintain its serenity and cleanliness.
Check out our itinerary, expenses and some travel guide here!
