San Pablo Island is one of the many beautiful islands that the Philippines has to offer. Located in Hinunangan, Southern Leyte, it belongs to the Twin Islands along with its sister island, San Pedro. San Pablo Island is known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, making this paradise a top destination for swimming and SCUBA diving.
Are you planning to go to San Pablo Island but don’t know where to start? Here’s a beginner’s guide to help you enjoy your trip to this beautiful place:
Getting to San Pablo Island
San Pablo Island is accessible by a passenger boat from the town of Hinunangan in Southern Leyte. The boat ride will take around 1-2 hours, depending on sea conditions. Hinunangan is accessible by bus from the cities of Tacloban and Ormoc in Leyte. From Tacloban, the bus ride will take around 4-5 hours while from Ormoc, it will take around 3-4 hours.
When to Visit San Pablo Island
The best time to visit San Pablo Island is during the summer season, which starts from March to May. The weather during these months is dry and sunny, perfect for swimming and island hopping. The rainy season in the Philippines starts from June to November, and it’s best to avoid this season as sea conditions can be rough.
Things to Do in San Pablo Island
San Pablo Island offers a variety of activities that will surely make your stay enjoyable. Here are some of the things to do while you’re on the island:
1. Swim in the crystal clear waters
The island boasts crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming. You can also rent a kayak to explore the island’s coastline.
2. SCUBA Diving
If you want to explore the island's underwater world, then you should try SCUBA diving. The island’s coral reefs offer a unique experience for divers, from colorful fishes to other sea creatures.
3. Island Hopping
San Pablo Island is just one of the beautiful islands in Hinunangan, Southern Leyte. You can arrange an island hopping tour and explore the other islands in the area like San Pedro Island and Tulang Island, which also offer stunning white pebble beaches.
4. Snorkeling
If you don't want to try SCUBA diving, you can still explore the island's coral reefs through snorkeling. You can rent snorkeling gear and enjoy the beautiful underwater world.
Where to Stay in San Pablo Island
There are no hotels or resorts on San Pablo Island, but there are several homestays available. The most popular homestays are located in the Barangays of Cagutsan and Binongto-an. Homestays usually offer basic amenities like a bedroom and a shared bathroom. Booking in advance is highly recommended as there are only limited accommodations available on the island.
Where to Eat in San Pablo Island
There are no restaurants or fast food chains in San Pablo Island. However, your homestay or tour operator can arrange meals for you. They usually offer a menu consisting of local dishes like grilled fish and adobo.
Tips for Travelers
1. Bring enough cash
There are no ATMs on San Pablo Island, so it’s essential to bring enough cash for your stay. You can withdraw cash in Hinunangan town before heading to the island.
2. Bring a waterproof bag
To protect your valuables like cameras and phones, it's best to bring a waterproof bag. This is also useful when you’re going on island hopping tours.
3. Respect the island’s rules.
When visiting the island, it's important to follow the island’s rules and regulations. Don’t throw your trash on the beaches or the sea, and don’t disturb the island's natural wildlife.
With its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, San Pablo Island is indeed a piece of paradise that you wouldn't want to miss. So book your trip now and experience the beauty of Southern Leyte!
