Sambawan Island is a remote, unspoiled paradise located in the Biliran province of the Philippines. This tiny island is perfect for those seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush vegetation, Sambawan Island is a nature lover's dream destination. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the pristine waters, explore the island on foot or by boat, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The island is also home to a small fishing community, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
From the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport in Tacloban, take a taxi or private car to Naval port and then take a boat to Sambawan Island. The boat ride takes around 2 hours.
The best time to visit Sambawan Island is from November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny.
Sambawan Island has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. From November to April, expect dry and sunny weather with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. From June to October, the island experiences more rainfall.
Accommodation on Sambawan Island is limited to tents and small cottages, with prices ranging from PHP 350 to PHP 1,000 per night. Visitors can also choose to stay in Naval town, where hotel prices range from PHP 800 to PHP 3,000 per night.
Food on Sambawan Island can be expensive due to its remote location. Expect to pay around PHP 200 to PHP 300 per meal. Visitors can also bring their own food and cooking supplies to prepare meals on the island.
Sambawan Island is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors should take precautions against petty crime and be respectful of local customs and culture. Women and members of the LGBTQ community should also exercise normal safety precautions.
Sambawan Island is a sparsely populated island, with a small fishing community and a handful of visitors staying in tents and small cottages. The local residents are predominantly Catholic and speak Tagalog and Waray-Waray.
Activities on Sambawan Island include swimming, snorkeling, diving, hiking, and boat tours around the island. Visitors can also interact with the local fishing community and learn about their way of life.