Lakawon Island is a hidden gem located in Cadiz, Negros Occidental, Philippines. This stunning island is known for its powdery sand, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views. The island is a perfect destination for those who want to relax and unwind from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Visitors to Lakawon Island can enjoy various activities, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball. One of the island’s main attractions is the Tawhai Floating Bar, a unique experience visitors should not miss. The bar is located near the shore and visitors can enjoy drinks while floating on the water. The entrance fee is P250 per person, which is valid for the whole duration of the stay with unlimited boat service.
Lakawon Island Resort offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cottages to luxurious villas. The resort is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to experience the island’s beauty and tranquility. The resort also has a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cadiz Viejo Port in Negros Occidental, which is the main gateway to the island.
How to Get to Lakawon Island
Lakawon Island is a beautiful tropical paradise located in Negros Occidental, Philippines. Here are the different ways to get to Lakawon Island from different cities:
From Bacolod City
The most convenient way to get to Lakawon Island from Bacolod City is by taking a taxi or private car to Cadiz Viejo, the jumping-off point to Lakawon Island. Travel time is approximately 2 hours and the fare ranges from Php 1,500 to Php 2,000.
If you prefer to take public transportation, you can take a bus from the North Bus Terminal in Bacolod City to Cadiz City. From there, take a tricycle to Cadiz Viejo and then take a boat to Lakawon Island. The bus fare is around Php 120 and the tricycle fare is around Php 50.
From Manila
The easiest way to get to Lakawon Island from Manila is by taking a flight to Bacolod-Silay Airport. From there, follow the instructions on how to get to Lakawon Island from Bacolod City.
From Cebu
To get to Lakawon Island from Cebu, take a ferry from Cebu City to Bacolod City. From Bacolod City, follow the instructions on how to get to Lakawon Island from Bacolod City.
From Iloilo City
From Iloilo City, take a bus to Bacolod City. From Bacolod City, follow the instructions on how to get to Lakawon Island from Bacolod City.
From Dumaguete
From Dumaguete, take a bus to Bacolod City. From Bacolod City, follow the instructions on how to get to Lakawon Island from Bacolod City.
Note that the Cadiz Viejo port has a terminal fee of Php 20 per person. Boat transfers to Lakawon Island are available from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM and cost Php 300 per person for a round-trip ticket. Private boat transfers are also available for Php 4,000 to Php 5,000 per boat, depending on the boat size.
That’s it! With these different transportation options, you can easily get to Lakawon Island and experience its beauty and charm.
Lakawon Island Resort and Spa
Lakawon Island Resort and Spa is a popular accommodation option for visitors to Lakawon Island. The resort is known for its comfortable cottages, delicious food and drinks, and amenities catering to guests’ needs.
Accommodation
The resort offers a variety of cottages that can accommodate different group sizes and budgets. There are air-conditioned cottages with modern amenities for those looking for a more luxurious stay. For budget-conscious travelers, there are non-air-conditioned cottages that are still comfortable and spacious. All cottages come with a private bathroom, comfortable beds, and basic amenities.
Food and Drinks
The resort has a restaurant serving various local and international dishes. Guests can enjoy their meals while taking in the island’s beautiful views. The restaurant also serves a range of drinks, including cocktails, beer, and wine.
Amenities
The resort has a range of amenities catering to guests’ needs. There are huts and cabanas where guests can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The resort also has a swimming pool where guests can cool off and relax. For those looking for adventure, there are water sports and activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
Activities and Attractions
Lakawon Island is a perfect destination for those who love water activities and beaches. The island offers a variety of activities and attractions to make your day trip to this paradise island memorable.
Tawhai Floating Bar
One of the most popular attractions on the island is the Tawhai Floating Bar, which is the biggest floating bar in Asia. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing drink while lounging on the bar and taking in the island’s stunning views.
Beach Volleyball
Beach volleyball is a popular activity on the island, and visitors can enjoy playing on the sandy beaches. The island has several beach volleyball courts available for visitors to use.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a great way to explore the underwater world around the island. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear and explore the coral reefs and marine life around the island. The island’s clear waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a fun way to explore the island’s coastline. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddle around the island, taking in the beautiful views of the island and the surrounding waters.
Boating
Boating is another popular activity on the island. Visitors can take a boat ride around the island, which offers stunning views of the island’s sandbar and the nearby Carbin Reef. Boat tickets are available at the island’s boardwalk.
Travel Tips and Recommendations
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lakawon Island is during the dry season from November to May. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking during this period. It is also less crowded during weekdays, so visitors can enjoy the island’s attractions without the hassle of large crowds.
Budget and Expenses
Lakawon Island offers a variety of accommodations that cater to different budgets. Visitors can choose from non-airconditioned cottages that can fit up to four persons for as low as P2,500 per night or air-conditioned rooms that start at P3,500 per night good for four to P11,580 per night good for six. Visitors should also consider the Lakawon Island entrance fee, which costs P400 per person for a day tour and P1,500 per person for an overnight stay.
What to Bring
Visitors should bring swimwear, coral-friendly lotion, flipflops, bamboo straw, power bank, extra battery, and dry bags to protect their gadgets. The electrical socket on the island is Type A, 220 V, 60 HZ, so visitors should bring the appropriate power adapter. Lakawon Island is cashless, so visitors should bring cash or a credit card to pay for their expenses. Visitors should also bring a camera and tripod to capture the beautiful scenery on the island.
Visitors should also consider the corkage fee for food and drinks. The Sunset Bar on the island offers a variety of food and drinks that visitors can enjoy while watching the sunset. Visitors can also bring their own food and drinks but will be charged a corkage fee. The island has several dining options, including the Canopy Tents and the Sunset Bar.
Experience and Reviews
Lakawon Island is a popular tourist destination near Bacolod in the Philippines. Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences on this small elongated paradise, including beach bumming, swimming, snorkeling, and island hopping. The island is known for its tall coconut trees and powdery white sand, making it a picturesque setting.
Many visitors to Lakawon Island recommend taking a boat ride to the island from Cadiz Viejo Port, which takes around 15 minutes. The boat ride can be a bit scary, especially if it’s high tide, but it’s worth it for the stunning views of the surrounding waters. Once on the island, visitors can go straight to the reception and pay for their accommodations or cottage rental.
One of the most popular attractions on Lakawon Island is the Tawhai Floating Bar, which is a unique experience. The bar is located on a platform in the middle of the water, and visitors can enjoy drinks and snacks while taking in the beautiful views. The entrance fee is P250 per person, which is valid for the whole duration of the stay with unlimited boat service.
Visitors to Lakawon Island also recommend exploring the island’s surroundings. The nearby city of Cadiz is a great place to experience local culture and cuisine. Rizal Street is a popular spot for foodies, with various street food vendors and restaurants serving delicious dishes.
Lakawon Island is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bacolod in the Philippines. With its stunning natural beauty and unique experiences, it’s no wonder why so many visitors rave about this island paradise.
