Last Updated on April 8, 2020 by Tina
One of the most recommended spots to visit in Surigao City is a small island very close to the city proper, the Basul Island. The island is characterized by a long stretch of fine white sand with assorted shell fragments and lined with coconut trees. It is about 15 minutes boat ride from the city proper.
It was our first stop in our island hopping activity yesterday. We didn’t stay long on the island because we were told by the caretaker in the local dialect that we can’t stay there if we’re not getting a cottage. My companions who know the dialect said the way the caretaker talked was rude, she could’ve explained to us in a nicer way. We weren’t planning on getting a cottage because an open-air cottage costs Php 500.00. We only stopped there to see the island and eat breakfast.
Upon checking other blogs today, I have read that Basul is a private island. There’s an entrance fee of Php 50.00 per person and a docking fee of Php 100.00 collected by the caretaker. There are no stores on the island so better bring your own food if you plan on going there. You can also stay overnight but you need to bring your own tent. There is no electricity on the island but globe signal is strong.
How to get there:
From Manila to Surigao City: As of the moment, there are no direct flights from Manila to Surigao City. You can take a flight from Manila to Cebu then Cebu to Surigao. Alternatively, you can take a flight from Manila to Butuan and from Butuan, take a bus or van to Surigao City.
From Surigao City to Basul Island: Take a tricycle to Punta Bilang-bilang and from there you can hire a motorized boat that will take you to Basul Island. Or you can contact Kuya Jimmy at 09071178718. You can even arrange an island hopping tour with him.
