Borawan Island and Dampalitan Island Padre Burgos
Undeveloped islands offering rustic camping, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful escape with basic backpacker facilities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Borawan Island and Dampalitan Island Padre Burgos
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Undeveloped islands offering rustic camping, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful escape with basic backpacker facilities.
"Nice place to camp out with friends. Peaceful and relaxing place. Maganda mag bonfire dto."
Pitch Your Tent!
Affordable tent pitching fees make overnight stays a must. Bring your own or rent on-site. :camping:
Bring Cash
Most transactions are cash-based. ATMs are not readily available. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Borawan Island's Sandy Beaches
Borawan Island
Discover pristine sandy stretches perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun. A true island paradise.
Dampalitan Island's Serene Waters
Dampalitan Island
Experience tranquil, clear waters ideal for swimming and unwinding. A peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Sunset Bonfire Magic
Both Islands
Gather around a bonfire as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors. Unforgettable evenings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Plan for Overnight Stays
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pitch Your Tent!
Affordable tent pitching fees make overnight stays a must. Bring your own or rent on-site. :camping:
Bring Cash
Most transactions are cash-based. ATMs are not readily available. :moneybag:
Pack Light, Pack Smart
Basic facilities mean you'll need essentials like toiletries, food, and water. :backpack:
Embrace the 'Coral Graveyard'
The beach has a unique texture. Enjoy the natural beauty and unique landscape. :shell:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pitch Your Tent!
Affordable tent pitching fees make overnight stays a must. Bring your own or rent on-site. :camping:
Bring Cash
Most transactions are cash-based. ATMs are not readily available. :moneybag:
Pack Light, Pack Smart
Basic facilities mean you'll need essentials like toiletries, food, and water. :backpack:
Embrace the 'Coral Graveyard'
The beach has a unique texture. Enjoy the natural beauty and unique landscape. :shell:
Sunset Views
Don't miss the spectacular sunsets; they are a major highlight. :city_sunset:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Borawan and Dampalitan Islands for their raw, natural beauty and affordability, making them perfect for camping and group getaways. The stunning sunsets and peaceful atmosphere are major highlights. However, some note the beach's 'coral graveyard' texture and the very basic facilities, emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency.
"Nice place to camp out with friends."
ervin cruz
"Nice place for the group and stay overnight"
Bert 2169
"One of the best places to camp and watch the sunset but the beach is like a huge (coral) graveyard."
Janu-Rey Sebastian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Manila, take a bus bound for Lucena Grand Terminal. From there, take another bus or van to Padre Burgos, Quezon. Upon arrival in Padre Burgos town proper, you can hire a boat to take you to Borawan Island and Dampalitan Island. The boat ride typically takes about 15-30 minutes.
While the islands are best accessed by boat, some resorts like Isla Chica Eco Resort in Brgy. Lipata, Padre Burgos, are accessible by land, offering a different island experience.
The bus journey from Manila to Padre Burgos, Quezon typically takes around 5-7 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Public transportation will get you to Padre Burgos town. From there, you'll need to arrange for a boat transfer to the islands.
You can drive to Padre Burgos town, but you'll need to park your car and hire a boat to reach the islands. Some land-accessible resorts might offer parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are generally minimal. For camping, expect around ₱80 per head. Tent pitching fees are around ₱200, and tent rentals can be around ₱500.
For day trips, advance booking isn't usually necessary. However, if you plan to camp overnight, especially on weekends or holidays, it's advisable to contact the local tourism office or resort to confirm availability and make arrangements.
The islands are generally accessible during daylight hours for day trips. For overnight stays, you can camp on the islands. There are no strict closing times, but it's best to coordinate with boatmen for your arrival and departure.
While not always explicitly stated as 'environmental fees,' the camping and pitching charges contribute to the upkeep of the natural environment. It's always good practice to leave no trace.
It is highly recommended to bring cash as most transactions on the islands, including fees and rentals, are cash-based. Credit card facilities are generally unavailable.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Facilities are basic and rustic, focusing on the natural experience. Expect designated camping areas, some small nipa huts for rent, and basic comfort rooms. There are no luxury amenities.
Yes, the waters are generally suitable for swimming. However, be mindful of the seabed, which some describe as a 'coral graveyard,' so wearing aqua shoes might be a good idea.
Activities include camping, swimming, enjoying the sunset, having bonfires, and simply relaxing in nature. Some visitors enjoy freediving in nearby areas.
Camping is a popular activity and generally considered safe, especially if you are in a group. It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings.
Pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, toiletries, a first-aid kit, food and drinks, a flashlight, and appropriate clothing for beach and camping. Don't forget your camera to capture the beauty!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options are very limited. It's best to bring your own food and drinks, especially if you plan to camp overnight. Some small vendors might offer basic snacks or drinks, but don't rely on them.
Yes, cooking is allowed, and many visitors enjoy having bonfires and grilling their food. Ensure you have the necessary cooking equipment and follow any fire safety guidelines.
It's advisable to purchase all your food and beverages in Padre Burgos town proper or in Lucena before heading to the islands. Stock up on groceries and drinks to ensure you have enough for your stay.
Potable water is not readily available. It's crucial to bring sufficient drinking water for your entire stay.
Food delivery services are unlikely to operate on these undeveloped islands. Planning and bringing your own food is the most practical approach.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire coastline offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The unique 'coral graveyard' beach also provides interesting textures for photography. Capture the rustic huts and the vast ocean.
The golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for your photos. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear shots of the water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the resort management before flying a drone to ensure compliance and avoid any issues.
Expect beautiful beach landscapes, serene ocean views, vibrant sunsets, and candid shots of island life and camping setups. The undeveloped nature offers a raw, authentic feel.
A standard camera or smartphone is perfectly adequate. However, a wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. Waterproof cases are recommended if you plan on water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be well-prepared. Bring plenty of food, drinks, and entertainment for the kids, as amenities are very basic. Ensure you have a comfortable and safe camping setup, and supervise children closely, especially near the water and during bonfire activities. The 'coral graveyard' aspect of the beach might require water shoes for little feet.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's the perfect destination for backpackers and those seeking an authentic, no-frills island experience without breaking the bank. The journey via public bus to Padre Burgos also keeps transportation costs down.
👫 Couples
Pack a picnic basket with your favorite treats and enjoy a quiet evening under the stars. The simplicity of the surroundings allows for genuine connection and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Camping Experience
While the islands offer a raw, undeveloped charm, it's important to be prepared. Facilities are basic, so bring all your essentials, including food, water, toiletries, and a first-aid kit. The 'coral graveyard' description of the beach refers to the natural seabed, which is a unique characteristic of the area. It's advisable to wear aqua shoes for comfort and safety when swimming or walking along the shore. The lack of commercialization is precisely what draws many visitors seeking an authentic island escape.
For those looking for a slightly more structured experience, Isla Chica Eco Resort in Brgy. Lipata, Padre Burgos, offers land-accessible accommodation and is often mentioned in conjunction with these islands. This can be a good option if you prefer not to camp directly on the islands but still want to explore their beauty. Regardless of your choice, the focus remains on enjoying the natural beauty and the simple pleasures of island life.
Getting to Borawan and Dampalitan Islands
Upon arrival in Padre Burgos town proper, the final step is to hire a boat service to transport you to either Borawan Island or Dampalitan Island. The boat ride is relatively short, usually taking around 15 to 30 minutes. It's advisable to coordinate with local boatmen in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons or have specific timing requirements. Ensure you agree on the fare and duration of your island stay beforehand.
While the islands themselves are boat-access only, it's worth noting that some establishments, like Isla Chica Eco Resort, are land-accessible within Padre Burgos. This might be an alternative for those who prefer not to camp directly on the islands but still wish to explore the area. Remember to bring cash for all transactions, as card facilities are generally unavailable on the islands and in smaller towns.
Photography Opportunities
The unique characteristic of the beach, often described as a 'coral graveyard,' presents an interesting textural element for photography. This natural feature adds a distinct character to the landscape, offering opportunities for close-up shots of the seabed or wider compositions that include the unique shoreline. The rustic island vibe, with its simple nipa huts and camping setups, also provides ample material for candid and lifestyle photography.
For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hours – the period shortly after sunrise and just before sunset. The soft, warm light during these times enhances the colors and creates a magical atmosphere. While smartphones are capable of capturing stunning images, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for encompassing the vastness of the beaches and the ocean. If you plan on getting close to the water, a waterproof case for your camera or phone is a wise precaution.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit