Doong Island, situated in the western province of Cebu, is a place known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque sunset views. It may not be as famous as Boracay Island, but it certainly captivates every traveler's heart. The island is small but oozes with natural beauty and filled with exciting adventures. Here's everything you need to know about the enchanting Doong Island.
Introduction
Doong Island is a hidden gem in the heart of Cebu that will surely leave you breathless. The island is small but packs a punch when it comes to natural beauty, thrilling hikes, and picture-perfect beaches. You may not be familiar with Doong Island, but it's impossible not to fall in love with its beauty.
Getting There
To get to Doong Island, one must travel to the island of Bantayan. From Cebu City, you can take a bus that will bring you to the Hagnaya Port. You can take a ferry that goes to Bantayan Island from there. Once in Bantayan Island, you can hire a boat that will bring you to Doong Island, which is about an hour boat ride away.
Accommodations
Upon arriving on Doong Island, the first thing you'll notice is the Baluarte. It's a fortress made of coral stone built by the Spanish during the 18th century. It is now transformed into a tourist center that provides travelers with necessary information before heading out to explore the island. There are also nearby resorts such as Tarong Shoreline Beach Resort and the Cahumacot Beach Resort, that provide cozy accommodations for guests.
The Beaches
One of the main attractions of Doong Island is Silangga Beach. It is a stunning beach that boasts crystal-clear waters that would make you want to jump right in. The sand is also pure white, making it a perfect spot for sunbathing. In addition to Silangga Beach, there's also Cahumacot Beach, which is a secluded beach on the west side of Doong Island. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and is another place perfect for a relaxing day by the beach.
Hiking in Doong Island
For the adventure seekers, Doong Island has a lot to offer. One of the best hikes in the area is to Luyongbaybay. It's a beautiful trail that offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea. The hike up to Luyongbaybay may be steep and challenging, but the view from the top will make it all worth it.
Local Food and Beverage
Doong Island has a lot of local food and drinks to offer. Seafood is the main course of the island, and seafood lovers will surely be in heaven. The most popular seafood dishes are the grilled squid, grilled fish, and fish sinigang. Don't forget to try out the island's homemade coconut wine or tuba, too.
Sunsets in Doong Island
The sunsets in Doong Island are a sight to behold. The island provides a perfect place to witness a beautiful sunset. The picturesque view of the sun setting in the West Philippine Sea is something you wouldn't want to miss.
Island Hopping
Island hopping is a must-try activity when on Doong Island. You can hire local fishermen to take you through nearby islands, such as Carnaza and Kinatarcan Island. These islands are just as beautiful as Doong Island, and you'll surely love exploring them.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Doong Island is also known for its rich marine life. There are a lot of diving spots for those who love scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is home to several sea creatures such as sea turtles, barracudas, and even whale sharks.
Doong Island is a place that will leave you captivated with its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunset views. It offers something for everyone, from relaxing by the beach to adventure hiking or island hopping. Doong Island is indeed a hidden gem that deserves a visit.
