The Island
Discover the secrets of Malapascua.
Discover the magic and mysteries of this island in the novel Malapascua, Cursed Island.
How to Get to Malapascua
Malapascua is a small island north of Cebu, so the trip is done in several stages:
Getting to Cebu
Most travelers fly into Cebu International Airport (CEB), also known as Mactan-Cebu Airport.
From Cebu to Maya (North of Cebu)
- Bus: From the Cebu North Bus Terminal, you can take a direct bus to Maya Port (the boarding point for Malapascua). The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 5 hours.
- Estimated price: 200 to 320 PHP (Philippine Pesos), depending on whether it's air-conditioned.
- Van: They are a bit faster (about 4 hours) and also depart from the North Terminal.
- Estimated price: around 350 PHP.
Tip: It's best to leave early in the morning from Cebu to ensure you arrive in time for the last boat to Malapascua.
From Maya to Malapascua
At Maya port, you need to take a Bangga (traditional Filipino boat). The trip is short, about 30 minutes.
- Estimated price: 200 PHP for the ticket, plus a 120 PHP environmental fee.
Note: Boats usually run until 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM. If the tide is low upon arrival in Malapascua, you may need to pay a small extra fee (about 20 PHP) to be taken to the shore in a smaller boat.
📜 History
The island's name has a curious Spanish origin: "Mala Pascua" literally means "Bad Easter" in Spanish (and in Cebuano).
It is said that a group of Spanish sailors were stranded on the island due to a storm on December 25, 1520. Having spent the holiday in such adverse circumstances, they named the island with that name.
This unique and legendary atmosphere is what surrounds the plot of Malapascua, Cursed Island, a story where the island's secrets come to life.
Today, it is a quiet, rural municipality, part of the Visayan culture, known for its traditional fishing and warm hospitality.
💰 Interesting Facts (Currency and Climate)
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Currency | Philippine Peso (PHP). In Malapascua, it's better to bring cash, although some resorts and dive centers accept cards. ATMs can be limited or unreliable. |
| Language | The official language is Tagalog, but the second language is English, widely spoken in tourist areas. The local dialect is Cebuano. |
| Electricity | 210 volts. Plugs are generally Type A (two flat prongs), although Types B and C can also be found. It is advisable to bring a universal adapter. |
| Climate | Tropical with warm temperatures all year round. |
| Temperature | The air ranges from 24°C to 32°C, with high humidity. The water temperature is between 26°C and 30°C. |
| Documentation | Passport with a minimum validity of 6 months. No visa is required for stays of less than 22 days for many countries. |
| Internal transport | The island is small and can be explored on foot. There are also motorcycle taxis that will take you anywhere for a very low price (about 30-40 PHP per trip). There are no cars on the island. |
🗓️ Best Time of Year to Go
The climate of Malapascua is divided into two main seasons, but the island is not as affected by rains as other areas:
- Dry Season (High): From November to June.
- December to February: Considered the coolest and most pleasant months.
- March to May: Very hot and dry.
- Wet Season (Low): From July to October.
- There is more rain and risk of tropical storms or typhoons, especially between August and September. However, the rains are usually intermittent and do not ruin the trip.
Tip for divers: Visibility is generally good all year round, but the High Season (December to May) is considered the best for spotting the famous Thresher Shark.
🏖️ Beaches and Things to Do
🐠 Things to Do (Must-sees)
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Diving with Thresher Sharks | The main reason to visit Malapascua. It is one of the few places in the world where you can regularly see the majestic thresher shark, usually at the Monad Shoal dive site at dawn (very early dive). |
| Excursion to Kalanggaman Island | A must-see. This small uninhabited island, about 1.5 hours by boat, is famous for its spectacular long white sandbar that extends into the turquoise sea. |
| Snorkeling | Excellent option if you don't dive. You can see coral reefs, clownfish, starfish and other marine life near the coast. |
| Explore the Island | Tour the island on foot or by motorcycle taxi to experience its relaxed and authentic atmosphere. Visit the much quieter northern villages. |
| Climb the Lighthouse | It offers beautiful views, especially of the northern part of the island, and is a good place to watch the sunset. |
| Sunsets | Enjoy a San Miguel beer and watch the spectacular sunsets on beaches like Tepanee Beach. |
| Visit to Gato Island | A popular nearby diving and snorkeling site, known for its caves and the possibility of seeing blacktip sharks. |
⛱️ Featured Beaches
- Bounty Beach: The main and liveliest beach in Malapascua. Most resorts, restaurants and dive centers are concentrated here. It is ideal for strolling and enjoying the atmosphere.
- Langob Beach: Often considered the most beautiful beach on the island. It is quieter, with fine white sand and a wilder environment in the northern part.
- Tepanee Beach: A small and quiet beach, ideal for watching the sunset. It belongs to a resort, but is generally accessible.
- Cemetery Beach: Despite its name (there is a cemetery nearby), it is a pleasant beach and a good place to snorkel.
- Gugma Beach and Bantigue Cove Beach: More "secret" and isolated beaches in the north, perfect for seeking tranquility.