Marine Sanctuaries & Mangroves
Protected marine areas, mangrove eco parks, and dive spots around Bantayan Island.
Marine Sanctuaries
Hilantagaan Island Marine Preserve
VerifiedBantayan
Larger islet northwest of Bantayan Island (~30 min by bangka). More pristine site with sea turtles, diverse reef fish, and better-preserved coral compared to near-shore sites.
Access: Boat charter from Bantayan town (~30 min). Guide recommended. Responsible snorkeling etiquette is essential.
Sta. Fe Marine Sanctuary
VerifiedSta. Fe
Community marine protected area close to the resort strip. Coral formations, reef fish, and juvenile fish nursery habitat. Short swim or boat ride from the beach.
Access: From the beach in front of the resort strip — short swim or boat ride. Conservation fee may apply. No fishing within boundaries. Do not touch coral.
Virgin Island Marine Sanctuary
VerifiedSta. Fe
Protected reef area with fish feeding zone at Virgin Island. Two distinct zones: a swimming/sandbar area and the sanctuary/snorkel area. Schooling reef fish and coral.
Access: Part of island-hopping tour from Sta. Fe. Entrance fee applies. Guide recommended for the sanctuary zone.
Mangrove Areas
Madridejos Mangrove Area
Madridejos
Coastal mangrove stands along several Madridejos barangays. Not developed for tourism but serves important ecological functions — fish nursery, coastal protection, carbon sequestration.
Access: Ask locals for access points. Not a developed tourist site — visit for authentic nature experience.
Obo-ob Mangrove Eco Park
VerifiedBantayan
The most developed eco-tourism site in Bantayan's mangrove areas. Features bamboo walkway through the canopy, kayak rental, guided boat tours, and educational displays about mangrove ecology.
Access: Entrance ~₱50/person. Open daily. Located in Barangay Obo-ob, Bantayan municipality. Habal-habal from Sta. Fe (~15-20 min) or Bantayan town (~5-10 min).
Dive & Snorkel Spots
Malbago Beach Reef
Madridejos
Near-shore reef accessible from Malbago Beach in Madridejos. Good for casual snorkeling with reef fish and recovering coral formations.
Access: Walk into the water from Malbago Beach. Use reef-safe sunscreen. Don't stand on coral.
Conservation Practices for Visitors
Do not touch coral — even "dead" coral provides structure
Do not collect shells, coral, or marine life
Use reef-safe sunscreen (mineral zinc/titanium)
Do not feed fish except in designated areas
Take all trash with you
Report illegal fishing to local BFAR or coast guard
Heading underwater? Ask Batad
Where should I snorkel?
Asa ang nindot nga korales?
Get details on marine sanctuaries, best snorkeling conditions, or boat charter options.
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