CAGBALETE

Cagbalete in Mauban, Quezon is popular for its sandbar and ripples during low tide.

At around afternoon, you can see the island’s famous sandbar. It appears to me as if I’m looking at a long stretch of diamond glitters.

How to Get to Cagbalete from Manila:

1. Take a Jac Liner bus in Buendia, Pasay going to Lucena, Quezon. Bus fare is 225Php. Travel time is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
2. From Lucena bus terminal, transfer to a mini bus that will take you to Mauban port. Bus fare is 40Php and travel time is approximately 2 hours.
3. At Mauban port, pay 50Php environmental fee at the Municipal hall. Find a boat that will take you to Cagbalete Island. Boat fare is 50Php per person and travel time is approximately 1 hour.

The sandbar is something I have never seen before – this is so unique to Cagbalete. Fresh sea breeze, pristine sea water and the pines – they all blend so well. No noise, no distraction, just pure nature.

Cagbalete was dubbed as the “Boracay of the Pacific”- I would say Yes to this but a more peaceful, cleaner version of it.

We stayed at Donia Choleng for a night and paid P2,000 – that didn’t include the meals.

Donia Choleng Room Rates:

Island Hut. Good for 15 persons. 5,000Php per Night
White Sand Hut. Good for 6 persons. 3,000Php per Night
Pacific Hut High-Elevated. Goor for 4 persons. 2,500Php per Night
Bali Hut. Good for 4-6 persons. 2,000Php per Night
Open Bali Hut. Good for 6 persons. 1,000Php per Night

The God of the sea has showered us all the luck when we came – good weather and empty island. There was no one other than our group when we arrived.

Did you know? This mangrove is over 100 years old according to the local that lived in the island.

We are the Cagbalete Team Wagi:

And the gang!

I was so stunned by the island’s vibrance. It is one of the most relaxing place I have been.

Could you see yourself chilling under a pine tree and enjoying this view? All for less than 2,000Php – you could have this to live for a day.

We made a short tour to see the other side of the island.

Looking down, you can see the sand – just pure soft sand. The water is so clear you can see the bottom fish and few little shells.

And at the end of the island tour, we treated ourselves with some seafoods.

And a some volleyball.

Helpful Tips when you Go to Cagbalete:

Avoid weekends and peak season. The island is much nicer when there are less people.
Phone signal is weak so bring your power bank.
Bring enough drinking water and foods as they are expensive in the island.
Watch and sunrise and sunset.
Forget about slippers. Get to feel the sand in your feet.