Imagine beautiful turquoise water where you can see coral reefs very clearly, soft white sand beaches like powdered sugar under your feet, and a peaceful atmosphere. That’s what Marabon Island is all about, a hidden treasure located in El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. I spent several days there recently, and I can’t wait to tell you about my adventure! This wasn’t just a trip; it felt like a getaway, a time to recharge, and a fun experience all at once. Get ready to be truly inspired!
How to Get There
The journey to Marabon Island is just as exciting as the destination! First, you need to travel to El Nido town. You can catch a direct flight to El Nido Airport (ENI) from Manila or other major Philippine cities. Airlines like AirSwift provide this service. While this is the quickest and easiest route, it also tends to be on the pricier side. If you’re looking to save money, consider flying into Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS) instead. From there, you can hop on a van or bus to El Nido. This choice is cheaper, but remember to enjoy the scenery along the way since the ride can take about 5-6 hours. Vans usually charge around PHP 500-700 (about USD 9-13) per person, while buses are even more affordable, ranging from PHP 400-600 (about USD 7-11).
Once you arrive in El Nido, you need to go to Corong-Corong beach or the main El Nido port. From there, you can hire a private boat to take you to Marabon Island. It’s the typical way to reach the island since there are no scheduled ferries. Don’t forget to negotiate the price! Usually, a private boat will cost around PHP 2,500-4,000 (USD 45-72), but how much you pay can depend on your haggling skills and the size of the boat. Always make sure to discuss what’s included in the price, such as snorkeling gear or entrance fees to any places you want to explore.
Where to Stay: Finding Your Paradise
Marabon Island is small, which means there aren’t many places to stay. This is part of its charm! Instead of big resorts, you’ll find cozy guesthouses and cottages. I personally enjoyed my time at Marabon Island Beach Resort, which I would recommend without hesitation. It’s a rustic yet comfortable spot right on the beach. I paid around PHP 2,000 (USD 36) per night for a private cottage. The family that runs the resort is super friendly, and the meals they serve are amazing! Most of the food is freshly caught seafood and traditional Filipino fare. There are also a few smaller guesthouses and homestays around the island. If you visit during peak season (November to May), be sure to book your accommodation in advance to secure a spot.
If you prefer a more upscale experience while still wanting to visit Marabon Island, you can find some resorts a boat ride away in El Nido town itself. During the day, you can book an island hopping tour that will include a stop at Marabon Island.
Things to Do: More Than Just Beaches
Let’s get to the exciting activities! Marabon Island is all about enjoying nature and relaxing. Here are some things you absolutely must do:
Swimming and Sunbathing: The Obvious But Essential
The beaches around Marabon Island are simply stunning. The water is so clear; it’s perfect for swimming and lounging. Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, grab a good book, and prepare for some serious relaxation! The sand tends to stay relatively cool, so you can walk barefoot without any discomfort even under the scorching sun.
Snorkeling and Diving: Under the Sea Adventures
Marabon Island is surrounded by rich coral reefs and marine life. Even if you just snorkel close to the shores, you’ll be amazed by the colorful fish and beautiful coral formations you see. If you’re a certified diver, you can take advantage of local diving operators and explore deeper dive sites. Look for operators like El Dive in the main town for various dive package deals. Renting snorkeling gear from your guesthouse on Marabon Island is easy and costs around PHP 150 (USD 3) per day.
Island Hopping: Exploring Nearby Gems
Marabon Island serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby islands and lagoons in El Nido. You can arrange a boat to take you on a private island hopping adventure to visit stunning spots like Secret Lagoon, Hidden Beach, and Helicopter Island, among others. Standard island hopping tours (Tour A, B, C, and D) from El Nido usually cost around PHP 1,200-1,400 (USD 22-25) per person, which includes lunch on shared boats. Companies like El Nido Paradise Tours can help set up island hopping tours for you. While shared tours are more budget-friendly (generally 10-15 people per boat), their itineraries are fixed. Private tours give you the flexibility to pick your destinations, but keep in mind that they cost a bit more.
Kayaking: Paddle Your Own Way
Rent a kayak and explore the coastline at whatever pace you like. You can paddle to nearby coves and beaches, discovering hidden gems that you can only access by kayak. Kayak rentals usually cost around PHP 500 (about USD 9) per day.
Sunset Watching: A Daily Ritual
The sunsets you’ll witness on Marabon Island are nothing short of enchanting. Grab a drink, settle into a comfy spot on the beach, and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of wonderful colors. It’s the absolute best way to end a perfect day in this beautiful paradise.
Stargazing: Away From City Lights
Thanks to minimal artificial light, Marabon Island is fantastic for stargazing. At night, lie back on the beach and gaze up at the sparkling sky. You might even see a shooting star or two!
Food and Drink: Palawan Flavors
The food on Marabon Island is simple but incredibly tasty. You can expect dishes featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional Filipino recipes. Most guesthouses have their own dining areas, plus a few small eateries are available on the island. Some must-try dishes include grilled squid, kinilaw (a Filipino version of ceviche), and adobo (a popular dish made from pork or chicken stewed in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns). Meals typically cost between PHP 200-500 (USD 4-9) per dish. While soft drinks and beers are easy to find, don’t expect a wide selection of alcoholic beverages. Be sure to drink plenty of water, as it is both cheap and readily available!
What to Pack: Essentials for Your Trip
Packing for a trip to Marabon Island is quite straightforward. Here’s what you should definitely consider bringing:
Sunscreen (lots of it!), swimsuit, light and quick-drying clothes, flip-flops or sandals, a hat or cap, sunglasses, insect repellent, toiletries, cash (credit cards won’t work most of the time), a power bank (since electricity can be unpredictable), snorkel gear (if you prefer to bring your own), a first-aid kit, a waterproof bag, and a camera to snap those perfect moments!
Important Tips and Things to Know
- Cash is king: All establishments on Marabon Island predominantly operate in cash. Make sure you withdraw enough money before heading to the island.
- Electricity: Be prepared for possible power outages, especially during the day. A power bank is a must for keeping your devices charged.
- Water: Bottled water is available, but you might want to bring a reusable water bottle to help reduce waste.
- Respect the environment: Always keep in mind your impact on nature. Dispose of trash properly, try to minimize single-use plastics, and show respect for the coral reefs.
- Learn a few basic Tagalog phrases: Knowing a few simple phrases in Tagalog, like “Magandang araw” (Good day), “Salamat” (Thank you), and “Magkano?” (How much?), can brighten your experience with locals.
- Stay connected: Ensure your Smart or Globe SIM card (Philippine telecom companies) has credit, so you can access the internet.
FAQ
- Is Marabon Island safe?
- Yes, Marabon Island is usually very safe. The locals are friendly and welcoming, but as with any travel location, it’s good to be aware and take basic precautions. Keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone at night in areas that aren’t well-lit.
- What is the best time to visit Marabon Island?
- The ideal time to go to Marabon Island is during the dry season, which usually lasts from November to May. During this period, expect sunny days, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures. The rainy season (June to October) can introduce heavy rains and strong winds, leading to disruptions in travel and activities.
- Are there ATMs on Marabon Island?
- No, Marabon Island does not have any ATMs. Be sure to withdraw enough cash while in El Nido before heading to the island, as most places don’t accept credit cards.
- Is there internet access on Marabon Island?
- Internet access on Marabon Island can be spotty. Some guesthouses may offer Wi-Fi, but it often tends to be slow and not very reliable. If staying connected is important to you, think about purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan.
- Can I arrange island hopping tours directly from Marabon Island?
- Yes, your guesthouse on Marabon Island can help you organize island hopping tours. Although private boat rentals are usually more expensive than group tours from El Nido, they allow you to customize your travel plans.
- Is there a local clinic available?
- There are no medical clinics on Marabon Island. In case of a health emergency, you’ll need to take a boat to El Nido, and for serious cases, Puerto Princesa will be the nearest location where you can get treatment.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape filled with natural beauty, I highly recommend visiting Marabon Island. With captivating beaches, friendly locals, and delicious food, it’s a place that truly feels like paradise. Don’t miss out on this amazing destination in the Philippines!
