Cuatro Islas is a group of islands located off the coast of the municipalities of Inopacan and Hindang in the province of Leyte, Philippines. Composed of four islands, Apid, Digyo, Mahaba, and Himokilan, this place offers a pristine and picturesque escape to those who seek to unwind, relax and connect with nature.
If you're planning to visit this paradise, here's a beginner's guide on what to expect.
Getting There
To reach Cuatro Islas, the best way is to take a flight to Tacloban City in Leyte. From there, you can ride a bus or a van going to Inopacan or Hindang. Once you reach any of these municipalities, you can hire a boat that will take you to the islands. The boat ride is around 15 to 20 minutes, with a fee of Php 2,500 for a round trip good for a group of up to 5.
Island Hopping
Once you've reached Cuatro Islas, the best thing to do is to go island hopping. You can start with the most popular island, Digyo. It's a small island surrounded by crystal clear waters, palm trees, and white sands. You can have a picnic, swim, snorkel or simply relax on its pristine beach.
From Digyo, you can move on to another island called Apid. Unlike Digyo, Apid is rocky with fewer palm trees. But what it lacks in vegetation, it makes up for in marine ecosystems. The island is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, where you can explore its rich coral reefs.
Mahaba and Himokilan are the two other islands part of Cuatro Islas. Mahaba boasts of a long stretch of white sand beach, while Himokilan is known for its rugged terrain. Because it's less popular, you can have the whole beach to yourself in Mahaba or explore the hinterlands in Himokilan.
Things to Bring
Before going to Cuatro Islas, make sure to bring your essentials. Some things that you should bring are:
1. Sunblock - to protect your skin from the sun.
2. Sunglasses and a hat - to protect your eyes and head from the sun rays.
3. A towel - to wipe off the saltwater or to sunbathe.
4. Swimwear - don't forget to bring your swimsuit or trunks.
5. Snorkeling gear - if you want to explore its diverse marine life.
Where to Stay
If you're planning to stay overnight, you can look for accommodations in Inopacan or Hindang. A popular place for tourists near Cuatro Islas is the Cocogrove Resort in Hindang. They offer basic rooms with airconditioning and hot and cold showers. They also have a restaurant where you can enjoy your meals while looking at the view of Cuatro Islas.
Another option is to camp on any of the four islands. You can bring your camping gear or rent from the locals. Just make sure to ask permission from the barangay or island caretakers before camping.
Respect the Environment
Lastly, always remember to respect the environment. Cuatro Islas is a protected area, and its beauty relies heavily on the preservation of its natural resources. Avoid littering and picking up anything that can harm the environment. You can also ask for eco-tips from the locals, who are mostly fishermen, to learn more about the marine conservation efforts in the area.
In conclusion, Cuatro Islas is an excellent destination to escape the city's hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature. Its pristine beaches, rich marine life, and laidback ambiance make it a picture-perfect getaway for everyone. Go ahead, book your trip to this paradise, and enjoy your island adventure!
