Malapascua Island - Cebu

The beautiful island of Malapascua is situated in the Visayan Sea, near the northernmost tip of Cebu Island. Malapascua Island is located in the Asian kingdom, Philippines. The island is so small that you can traverse the entire island in merely 2 hours. It has a population of just around 4000 and the locals usually earn a living by fishing. There is a fascinating history behind the Malapascua Island. The name Malapascua literally means ‘Bad Christmas’ in Cebuano language. According to legends, it was named as such because when the Spanish first landed here in the 1500s, it was Christmas Day and a storm was raging here.

The Malapascua is a peaceful island and still untouched by tourism. It is known for its white sand beach, the Bounty Beach. The island is also popular for its eye-catching coral gardens, local diving sports and also nearby sites that includes Gato Island, Monad Shoal and Kemod Shoal. The Malapascua Island is surrounded by sparkling blue water and lush green tress. If you have come to the island to rejuvenate and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, then you could not have come to a better place. The island is free of cars and high rise buildings. The locals walk around the island and the buildings that are present are barely one floor high. You will be delighted to meet the locals who are friendly and co-operative and you may be surprised to be invited to their homes for lunch or dinner. The locals will entertain you with songs and the strumming of guitars along with offering you delectable food items and rum.
Special Attractions

• The fiestas of Malapascua Island are very famous. These fiestas are replete with beauty pageants, discos, booths for food and drinks etc. The food here is very unique and scrumptious.
  
• Another major attraction is the Cockfighting sport. You can see numerous cocks on the island along with their proud owners, encouraging their birds. These fights are usually held on Sundays and you might be lured into placing a bet!


• The coconut oil massages here are very popular. Be sure to get one when you visit as it will leave you refreshed and soothed.


• Sightseeing around the island is a pleasurable experience, with little local children clambering up to you to click their photos.


• The lighthouse and the cemetery are also open to the public.


• There are a multitude of bars and world-class restaurants here offering international cuisines.

When To Visit
The best time for diving here is September. There is a good amount of sunshine but the weather is pleasant on the whole. December to April is the peak season, when the island is thronging with tourists. The best time to visit also depends on the kind of holiday you want.

How To Reach
Malapascua Island is just a 2.5 hour drive away from the Cebu City airport. You can easily reach there by taxi or private boats that will cost you around 3000 to 5000 Peso.

Local Currency
The local currency here at Malapascua Island is Philippines Peso.