A visit to Balidbid Lagoon was the highlight of my trip during my adventures around Bantayan Island in Cebu.
This unique saltwater lagoon is a must-see destination and I highly recommend adding it to your Bantayan itinerary.
Here is a complete guide to visiting Balidbid Lagoon including where to find it, how much it costs, and what to expect when you arrive.
WHERE IS THE BANTAYAN LAGOON?
Balidbid Lagoon can be found on the eastern coastline of Bantayan Island.
From the main hub of Sante Fe, it’s approximately a 15-minute drive or a 1-hour walk to the lagoon.
Click here to see the location on Google maps.
HOW TO GET HERE
There are a couple of options on how to get around Bantayan Island and they are by scooter, habal habal, tricycle, or jeepney.
You can rent a scooter in Bantayan for as little as 250 pesos per day and make your own way around the island at your own pace. The best place to rent a scooter is via your accommodation.
If you are not confident driving a scooter, the other option is to hail a tricycle or habal habal (motorbike taxi) along the main road in Santa Fe and get a ride to the lagoon.
For a 15-minute drive, you can expect to pay around 50-100 pesos.
See More → 15 Things To Do In Bantayan
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BALIDBID LAGOON ENTRANCE FEE
When you arrive at the lagoon, one of the local landowners will make themselves known to you and you will have to pay them a small entrance fee of 20 pesos before continuing down to the lagoon.
BANTAYAN ISLAND HOPPING TOUR
If you wish to do a Bantayan Island Hopping tour, you can do a day trip over to Virgin Island and which also includes a visit to the lagoon on the tour.
You can read my other blog post on Bantayan Island Hopping HERE which includes everything you need to know about where to book and what’s included.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT BALIDBID LAGOON BANTAYAN
Balidbid features a saltwater lagoon with an ocean inlet that is surrounded by lush greenery and boasts glistening white sandbanks along the edges.
This insane location blew me away when I sent my drone up to capture some aerial shots of the lagoon and it reminded me of the Whitsundays in Australia!
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There was a slight current in the lagoon when we visited, so we walked upstream, jumped in the water, and floated down toward the end of the inlet.
We did this several times as it was lots of fun and also very relaxing!
Do note that the current can get quite strong so know your limits and listen to the locals if they advise against swimming in the lagoon.
We spent around 1 hour at Balidbid Lagoon enjoying the cool waters and it was a perfect way to end the Bantayan Island Hopping tour.
Must Read → 3 Weeks Philippines Itinerary
WHERE TO STAY ON BANTAYAN ISLAND
Bantayan has dozens of accommodation options to choose from when planning your trip.
I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.
LUXURY: AMIHAN BEACH CABANAS
Amihan Beach Cabanas is the most luxurious resort on Bantayan Island, featuring a restaurant, bar, outdoor terrace, and a private beach area, and breakfast is included for all guests.
Choose from either a sea view room, a villa, or a family room. Each room has air conditioning, views from the balcony, a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi.
It’s the perfect place to stay for couples, a group of friends, or families on a luxury budget.
MID RANGE: SF CANTINA
Sf Cantina is a small and cozy guesthouse located right on the beach in Sante Fe, featuring a beach bar and restaurant, free Wi-Fi, lounge chairs, and oceanfront rooms.
The rooms have air conditioning and are fitted with a flat-screen TV, large comfortable beds, a wardrobe, and a private bathroom.
Sf Cantina is an affordable place to stay for couples, friends, or families.
BUDGET: EDSAN APARTMENT
Edsan Apartment is the best budget accommodation on the island. Centrally located in Santa Fe and features a garden, BBQ facilities, a shared kitchen area, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi.
Enjoy your privacy in these budget apartments which can sleep 2 people and up to 6 people and are fitted with air-conditioning/fan-cooled, large beds, a private bathroom, and a patio.
It’s the perfect place to stay for solo travelers, couples, friends, or families on a budget.
For All Other Places To Stay, Search On Booking.com
BEST TOURS IN CEBU
WHAT TO PACK FOR THE PHILIPPINES
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More Philippines Travel Guides
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FINAL THOUGHTS – BANTAYAN LAGOON
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions at all about Virgin Island Bantayan, please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
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THANKS FOR READING
Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!
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Many thanks!
Thanks for sharing…🙂🙂🙂
Most welcome 🙂