Malapascua –A little paradise that will never let you go
It's just after sunrise as the boat slowly approaches Malapascua. The water shimmers a deep turquoise, fine sand stretches like a white ribbon around the island, and palm trees sway in the warm breeze. Behind me lies a journey that began in Cebu – ahead of me is a place that will capture my heart.
Arriving in island rhythm
As soon as I dock, I realise that there is no hustle and bustle here. No cars, just narrow paths, sand underfoot and the constant sound of the waves. The air smells of salt and grilled fish. Locals wave, children laugh - this smile is infectious.
In the morning, you don't wake up to a mobile phone alarm, but to the crowing of roosters and the sound of the surf. The days fly by slowly, between walks on the beach, spontaneous conversations and the view of the endless sea.
From Cebu to paradise
My day started at Mactan-Cebu Airport. I can still feel the last breath of air conditioning as I leave the airport. A driver with a hand-painted sign waves to me - the van is waiting. We drive through the streets of Cebu, past colourful jeepneys, fruit stands with bright yellow mangoes and children playing on the sides of the road.
The journey to Maya Ferry Terminal in the north of the island of Cebu takes four hours. If you want to save money, hop on an air-conditioned bus at the Cebu North Bus Terminal - it only costs around 300-350 PHP (€5-6) and takes around 4.5 hours. The van or a taxi is faster and more comfortable, but of course more expensive at PHP 3,000-3,500 (€50-60) per vehicle.
The next stage is already waiting in Maya: an outrigger boat - a bangka - for the last 30 minutes to Malapascua. The crossing costs 100-150 PHP (2-3 €), sometimes you have to take a small feeder boat at low tide (+20 PHP).
Underwater - The magic of the Tresher Sharks
Malapascua is world-famous for its tresher sharks (thresher sharks). They are the stars of Monad Shoal, an underwater plateau just 30 minutes away by boat.
To see them, you have to get out early - 04:30 is very early. We glide through the dark sea before sunrise, with only the rattling of the boat engine and a few shining stars above us. The first light of day slowly breaks through underwater, and out of the depths comes a majestic, elongated tail and calm movements. A moment that gives me goose bumps.
Further diving highlights
- Gato Island - caves, reef sharks, breathtaking coral landscapes
- Lighthouse - night dive with mandarin fish and rare macro sightings
- Kimud Shoal - tiger shark for the lucky ones
- Lapus Lapus - colourful overgrown rock formations, perfect for photographers
Whether big fish or tiny nudibranchs - the underwater world of Malapascua is simply spectacular.
An island that is addictive!
We have already seen many beautiful islands, but Malapascua in the Philippines is the overall package that won us over: super dives, accommodation to suit every budget and the incredible island vibe late into the night. So the planned 4 days turned into 14 days and 28 dives. Fun is a must!
Stay & enjoy
From simple bamboo huts to charming resorts right on the beach, there is something for every budget here. Particularly beautiful: some accommodation such as Hippocampus Resort or Ocean Vida Resort have their restaurants right on the sand - you dine with your feet in the warm sand while small waves roll onto the shore.
The island offers a wide range of culinary delights:
- DevoZen Coffee Shop - best coffee on the island, perfect for a relaxed start to the day
- Angelina 's Italian - homemade pasta & pizza with a view of the sea
- Fresh Filipino dishes with plenty of seafood on almost every corner
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Evenings full of music and the sea
Malapascua pulsates at the weekends: several venues offer live bands that create a tropical party atmosphere with guitar and percussion. Bounty Beach, the island's "night zone", is lined with bars, small dance floors and cosy seating areas right by the water. A cool San Miguel in your hand, feet in the sand, music in the air - the perfect end to a perfect day.
For non-divers
Even those who don't dive can love Malapascua:
- Snorkelling on colourful coral reefs
- Walks to secluded beaches such as Langob Beach
- Boat trips to neighbouring islands
- Massages right by the sea
- And above all: these sunsets, where the sky burns in pink, orange and gold
Transfers made easy
Don't want to organise your own transfers? That's no problem, as most resorts offer a pick-up service from the airport, which is the most convenient solution. Price on request at contact@scubatours.eu
Rental equipment, all prices in USD
| Rental equipment | 1 day | 1 week | 10 days |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC equipment | 9 | 28 | 30 |
| G Fins | 5 | 20 | 23 |
| BCD | 9 | 32 | 38 |
| Neoprene suit 3 mm | 8 | 45 | 53 |
| Neoprene suit 5 mm | 8 | 45 | 53 |
| Neoprene suit 7 mm | 10 | 55 | 60 |
| Diving computer | 12 | 60 | 68 |
| Diving lamp | 8 | 45 | 55 |
| Compass | 6 | 24 | 30 |
| Regulator set | 15 | 80 | 98 |
| Tank 10 litres | 8 | 48 | 56 |
| Tank 12 L | 11 | 64 | 76 |
| Tank 15 L | 14 | 88 | 110 |
| Nitrox 30% | 4 | 24 | 32 |
FAQ about Malapascua
1. how long should you stay?
At least 4-5 days to fully savour the diving spots and island feeling.
2. are there ATMs? No, withdraw cash beforehand in Cebu.
Yes and no, the 4 ATMs are low on cash, always empty at the end of the month and are not replenished daily. So be sure to withdraw cash beforehand.
3. best time to travel?
December to May (dry season).
4. is it possible to see Tresher Sharks without a diving licence?
Unfortunately not - they live at depths of 25-30 metres.
5. is the island also suitable for beginners?
Yes, many diving schools offer beginner courses. So OWD from all the well-known diving organisations such as PADI or SSI
6. is there medical care?
Only a small clinic, for more serious things you have to go to Cebu.