Limasawa Island is a small yet historically significant island located at the mouth of Sogod Bay in Southern Leyte, Eastern Visayas. Just about an hour’s boat ride from the mainland, the island is known as the site of the first Easter Mass in the Philippines in 1521. Beyond its historical charm, it offers pristine beaches, rich marine life, and a laid-back community vibe that’s perfect for a weekend escape.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal travel window is between February and May, when seas are calm and skies are clear. Expect intermittent power in some parts of the island, but LTE signal from major networks is available. Since there are no ATMs, it’s best to bring enough cash for your entire stay, lodging, meals, and tours.
Where to Stay
Accommodations in Limasawa are simple but cozy. Near the pier, Trimulco Travelers Lodge offers air-conditioned rooms for only ₱400 per night. For a beachside stay, Evashore Resort has beachfront rooms starting at ₱1,500. Meanwhile, Island Lagoon Resort is ideal for budget travelers or campers, rooms start at ₱1,000, and tent pitching is allowed.
Touring the Island
Transportation is limited, so best to arrange a local tour guide or tricycle. You can contact Kuya Joel (0935 620 3348), a friendly local who offers island tours for around ₱500. Tourist spots include the First Mass Shrine, Dakdak Beach, Magellan’s Cross, Limasawa Lagoon, Parola (Lighthouse), and the Island Marker.
What Makes It Special
Limasawa’s charm lies in its simplicity and untouched beauty. Beneath its calm blue waters lies a stunning coral reef system, perfect for snorkeling and free diving. Above all, it’s a place that feels like stepping back in time, where locals greet you with warmth and the sea is never too far away.
Travel Tip
Keep your trip light, bring cash, sunscreen, and waterproof bags, and always check ferry schedules ahead. For the best experience, plan a 2–3 day stay to enjoy both its beaches and its historical sites, because in Limasawa, time slows down, and nature takes the lead.
How to Get There from Manila?
Fly from Manila to Tacloban Airport, then ride a van to Maasin City (around ₱400–₱500, 4–5 hours). From there, take a multicab or tricycle to Padre Burgos pier, where boats to Limasawa depart daily at 9 AM and 3 PM. The boat fare ranges from ₱70–₱120 and travel time is about an hour. If you miss the trip, locals can help arrange a smaller private boat.
How to Get There from Cebu?
From Cebu City, take an overnight ferry to Maasin via Lite Shipping or Cokaliong. Once in Maasin, ride a multicab or van to Padre Burgos pier (₱50–₱100, 30 minutes). From there, hop on a pump boat to Limasawa Island, the same 9 AM and 3 PM schedule applies.
How to Get There from Mindanao?
Travelers from Surigao City can board ferries at Lipata Port going to Liloan Port, Southern Leyte. Shipping lines like Montenegro, Santa Clara, and Starlite operate daily with fares ranging from ₱350–₱450. Upon arrival at Liloan, ride a tricycle to the bus terminal, take a van to Sogod Bay, then continue to Padre Burgos before catching the ferry to Limasawa.
