If you want to escape to an island that’s literally isolated and devoid of any inhabitants, then there is a small island located in between Carnaza Island, Daanbantayan, Cebu and Esperanza, Masbate. This island will surely satisfy your itch for a “Castaway”-like experience.
La Manok Island is located between the provinces of Masbate and Cebu. And it’s often disputed that this island belongs to Cebu province, however, it has been settled that La Manok is under the jurisdiction of Masbate province. It’s accessible by a 35-45-minute boat ride from Carnaza Island or a 50-60-minute boat ride from Masbate.
The island is composed of two main land mass that are connected by a “sandbar” that seems to disappear during the high tide. The “sandbar”, contrary to expectations, is not really made up of fine white sand but mostly of seashells. From a distance, the two looks like chickens facing each other, thus, the name La Manok.
There are no structures around the area except for a few cottages that fishermen use for resting while fishing around the island. That’s why La Manok is the perfect definition of a pristine island getaway. The surrounding seawaters are crystal clear, with varying hues of blue and green. However, the current around the island is quite strong so be sure to take precautions.
As mentioned, you cannot stay at the island overnight because it tends to get dangerous especially with the unpredictable weather and the tides. Moreover, there are no inhabitants nor accommodations around.
The best time to visit La Manok Island is on a sunny day and low tides, and as a side-trip if you are visiting the nearby Carnaza Island in Daanbantayan or from Esperanza, Masbate. Since the island is quite small, you can get to fully experience it in just half a day.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
- Entrance fee: None
- Cottage fee: None
Other information:
- If you’re planning to go to La Manok Island as a sidetrip from your Carnaza Island trip, you can inform your tour providers or the staff at the place you are staying so they can assist you. There are lots of local boatmen in Carnaza that will gladly assist you to La Manok.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Esperanza, Masbate
BY BUS: From Cebu City, head on to the Cebu North Terminal and hop on a bus bound for Maya-Kawit. Fare is P200, one-way. We recommend that you take the earliest trip (3AM) so you can still catch the boat that leaves for Carnaza Island. Instruct the driver that you are getting off at Tapilon Port (not at Maya Port). Travel time is around 3.5 to 4 hours. Upon arrival at Tapilon, you can get on a boat for Carnaza Island, with fare of P100. Travel time to Carnaza Island is 2-3 hours depending on the sea conditions. From Carnaza Island, you can charter a boat bound for La Manok and travel time is around 35-40 minutes.
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