On the second leg of Biliran Island adventure, we explored the hidden beauty of Higatangan Island. Higatangan is a 45-minute pumpboat ride from mainland Naval. It is famous for it's long sandbar and pristine waters but, it's not the only attraction to look forward to in this hidden paradise.

Amongst all our getaways, the Higatangan Island trip proved to be the most stressful, tiring, but rewarding one. You ask why? Here's why. The only trip (scheduled trip) to Higatangan Island departs at 11:30am; fare is at Php 50/head. We had to leave Palo as early as 6:00am since we still have to buy supplies and food. The trip was spontaneuous and unplanned; it was only the day before that we decided to push through.

We were not able to prepare for this trip; thus, no googling and researching happened. We took the pumpboat, asked people aboard the boat, and took note of their suggestions. We alighted at the sandbar in Brgy. Mabini, only to find out that we have to walk about a kilometer to reach Higatangan Island Beach Resort. It was very strenuous--walking with all our heavy bags. It took us about 30-45 minutes to reach the resort. And when we arrived? Voila! Fully-booked!

You can however pitch your tent ast Php 180/tent. On other days, they have private rooms and dorm rooms available. Open cottages are also available at Php 1,000 each. We were not inspired to stay in this resort. There was no scenic view. It was not well-maintained. We were immediately disappointed. Thank God for internet, I was able to come across Hagdan Beach Resort. We immediately called their line and arranged for a transfer.

We traveled from Higatangan Island Beach Resort to Hagdan Beach resort by two's. We rode a single motorcycle and paid Php 50 each. It was a short 20-minute ride.



The next obstacle we had to face was the scary stairs leading to the resort. It was steep and the steps were small. We had to crawl--literally crawl--our way down to the beach side.

But all those hardships were instantly forgotten once we stepped in the resort. The view was so magestic, so lovely. We settled in our open cottage, and since it was way past noon, we prepared for our lunch. Note that there is no signal for Globe users in this part of the island.

Feel like soaking in sweat and sun? Play some volleyball.

Hagdan Beach Resort was quite complete in amenities. They have aircon rooms (good for 2) for Php 1,800.00/night. If you come with a bigger group, you can get the fan room (good for 6) for only Php 1,200.00/night. Open cottages are aslo availanble for Php 500.00 for overnight stay. If you prefer camping out, pitching of tents is at Php 100.00/tent. Shower rooms (with sea water only), comfort rooms, volleyball area, kayaking, and other.

private rooms for 2 or for 6 are also available

open cottages available for only PHP500.00/night

So here's what I can say about the resort.

The staff was very warm, friendly, and accommodating.They were also very helpful and always checks on us.They also had the best views in all of the island--beautiful rock formations, pristine beach, and scenic sunrise and sunset. While the sandbar area was dirty with all those dried fish and other garbage, Hagdan Beach Resort was very clean. How can it not be when they regularly clean the cottage areas as well as the beach side. I would recommend coming to this resort.

charter a pumpboat or take MB Rizflor and it will take you directly to Hagdan Beach Resort

Just to help you on your upcoming visit, take note that you can take MB Rizflor. It will take you directly to Hagdan Beach Resort. No need to go through the hassle of riding a single motorcycle and crawling down the steep stairs. You can also arrange for a private pumpboat to take you to and from Naval. It wil cost you around Php1,000-Php2,000 depending on the size of the group.

the gang

the obligatory jumpshot