The Davao Coast is dotted with only a few islands with Samal being the most famous. To the East, a handful of unknown islands await discovery and one of them is San Victor Island. This island is located in the coastal town of Baganga, specifically in Brgy. San Victor. Naturally well-known to the locals, San Victor Island has stayed unnoticed by the outside world which makes it the perfect island for those looking for some place isolated and uncrowded. In my quest to unravel the gems of my home and its neighbors, my journey took me here. Allow me to share how this jewel just made another day a notch wonderful.
MY SAN VICTOR ISLAND STORY
One bright and sunny day, my cousin and I drove our borrowed motorbike from Brgy. San Antonio to Aliwagwag Falls. The motorbike we were on was a bit slow since it was an old Honda that our cousin patiently restored. We doubted its ability to overcome the steep uphills going to and from Aliwagwag Falls but we put our faith onto it as we didn’t have other choices. The most ideal way to go to the falls is to take our own vehicle otherwise we will be spending P500 or more to rent a habal-habal.
We stayed in Aliwagwag Falls until 12NN. We had lunch in the eateries near the falls and feasted over a fish stew, rice and eggs. At 1PM, we started driving our way to San Victor Island. Our motorbike struggled with the uphills as expected that what could have been an hour drive took two hours. We arrived in San Victor’s docking area at 3PM. Another thing we struggled with was deciding whether to stay for the night or just for a day which will only be up until 5PM. I worried about my uncles not knowing my whereabouts that they might call for the entire village to look for me again just like what happened some 10 years ago so I chose the latter.
We boarded the boat that we shared with three young lads who seemed, to me, were trying to make a vlog. They amused me with their antics. The boat ride lasted less than 10 minutes. Upon disembarking, we were greeted by the island’s caretaker who collected the fees. We wasted no time and started exploring the island. My cousin left me shortly to my musings as he went for his much-needed smoke. I didn’t mind since the island is pretty small. It kinda reminded me of Potipot Island in Zambales which I have circled in less than an hour.
San Victor Island has fine creamy white sands. One of the finest I have ever sunk my feet into but only on some parts and not its entirety. Some areas have rough sugary sands mixed with coral stones. It was clean with only a few debris and leaves dotting the shoreline. The island also has several native huts to accommodate those who prefer to stay overnight. Well, it was once a retreat island after all. As I walked further into the woods, a disappointing sight took me aback.
I was dumbfounded to see small mountains of trash in the area past the native huts. Countless bottles of liquors and plastic water bottles in different sizes piled up all over the place. There were also plastic bags of chips and other plastics of various kinds. I got really disappointed to learn about the ugly side of the island that I took a moment to consider what I should do. I figured I didn’t have the power over the people governing the island as I was merely a tourist they allowed a visit so I decided to use my platform, this blog, instead to spread awareness. There may be one disappointing detail about San Victor Island but it did satisfy my eyes. I just wish they could find a way to make the island perfectly gorgeous without hiding dirty secrets in the woods.
HOW TO GO TO SAN VICTOR ISLAND
From Manila – Fly to Davao City. From the airport, ride a cab going to Ecoland Terminal. Ride a bus going to Cateel and alight in San Victor Island Receiving area (5Hrs | P500/way). Ride a boat to San Victor Island (10Min | P50/2way)
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USEFUL TRAVEL TIPS
- Visitors can stay on a day tour and overnight. Day tours are from 8AM to 5PM.
- Staying overnight is recommended. There is really nothing much to do in the island but if you love to just lounge and listen to the waves while having a great time with friends over good music, this is where you should be.
- Bring your own food and water since these are not available on the island.
- After coming from the island and if you need to freshen up, there are showers available near the docks for a fee.
- There is available parking space in the receiving area which charges from P10-P20.
- Reservation is not necessary but make sure to call or text especially during peak season.
- The best time to go here is from June to October. Other months are filled with drizzles here and there.
- Please practice “Leave No Trace.” Don’t leave your trash on the island. Help them in maintaining the island’s cleanliness and beauty.
WHERE TO STAY BEFORE & AFTER GOING TO SAN AGUSTIN
Obrero Suites – Palma Gil Street, Obrero, Poblacion, Davao City
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Jotel Inn – 434 E. Quirino Avenue, Poblacion, Davao City
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Eden Nature Park and Resort – Bo. Eden, Toril, Davao City
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BUDGET & OTHER ESSENTIALS
| WHAT ARE THE FEES | Entrance Fee - P50 Day Tour | P100 Overnight 2-way Boat - P50/Head Environmental Fee - P50/Group |
| CONTACT | For Info & Reservation Globe - 09156252482 Smart - 09503543417 |
There you have it lovelies! San Victor Island is definitely a must-see when you’re in the area. Don’t forget to share this post with your friends and plan that beach trip ahead. Until next time. Ciao!
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4 Comments
May number ka po para macontact for room reservation?
Hi. Try the numbers on the blog.
Anong resort name po ma’am?
Wala pong name ang resort. It’s an island po.