Magalawa Island: A Hidden Gem in Zambales 2023

Magalawa Island is a secluded paradise located in Zambales, Philippines. This pristine island boasts crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and breathtaking views that will surely captivate any traveler's heart. It's an ideal destination for anyone who wants to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a peaceful and relaxing vacation.

Getting to Magalawa Island

By Public Transportation ( Bus) 

The island is accessible by land and sea. From Manila, you can take a Victory Liner bus from Cubao or Pasay bound for Sta. Cruz, Zambales, which takes around 4-5 hours. Tell the driver that you will go to  Magalawa Island and drop you off in Palauig. From there, you can take a tricycle to Luan Port, where you can rent a boat to Magalawa Island. The boat ride takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on the weather conditions.

By Private Car 

1. From Manila, take NLEX and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway. The travel time is around 4 hours.

2. Upon reaching Palauig, turn right at Banlog Triangle and drive to Brgy. Pangolingan.

3. Look for Veritas Road to your left and drive to the Luan port. Parking is available in the port. 

4. Finally, take a boat going to Magalawa Island. 

The boat fare is 150 / pax.  If it's a private boat, the cost will be around P3000- 20,000 depending on the boat size and number of passengers  

Accommodations

Magalawa Island has several resorts and homestays that cater to different budgets. Armada Resort is one of the most popular resorts on the island, which offers air-conditioned cottages with comfortable amenities. It also has fan rooms at a reasonable rate. For budget travelers, some homestays offer affordable accommodations, including meals. You can also bring your own tent. Rooms start from P3000 ( 2-3 pax)  to P7000 per night ( up to 10 pax). 

If you visit Magalawa Island on a side trip, you can stay at Isla Vista Beach Resort. Located in Candeleria, Zamables. It's a beachfront resort with air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, swimming pools and outdoor activities.  For discounted rooms in Candelaria, Zambales, you may check it HERE.

Entrance Fee

Day tour- P200 / pax

Overnight P 500 / pax

Other Separate Fees from the Resort to consider:

Parking fee-100-200 (depending on the type of vehicle daytour /overnight) 

Environmental Fee- 50/head for adults only (from municipal LGU of Palauig Zambales)

To book a room on the island, call Armada Resort at 09612835592 or email them at armada_resort@yahoo.com. You can also visit their Facebook page for details.

Activities

Magalawa Island offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests. You can explore the island's hidden coves, snorkel,  camping or simply relax on the beach. The island also has a rich marine life, making it a popular spot for diving enthusiasts. You can also rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard to explore the island's surrounding waters.

Things to Remember

As with any travel destination, it's important to respect the island's environment and the local community. Be mindful of your trash and dispose of it properly. Also, remember to bring enough cash as there are no ATMs on the island. Lastly, bring enough sunscreen and mosquito repellent, as the island can get quite hot during the day and mosquito bites can be quite common during the evening.

Overall Experience

Magalawa Island is a hidden gem in Zambales that's definitely worth visiting. It offers a peaceful and relaxing getaway for anyone looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this island will surely captivate your heart with its natural beauty and serene ambiance.