“Clear water and fine white sand Excellent snorkeling and diving with colorful coral reefs Ideal for relaxation and photography Small enough to walk around the island in a few hours”
Canigao Island is a small, tidal island located off the coast of Matalom, Southern Leyte Province. It is famous for its clear waters and fine white sandy beaches. The island is maintained primarily as a marine sanctuary หรือพื้นที่คุ้มครองโดยรัฐบาลท้องถิ่น ซึ่งมีส่วนทำให้สภาพธรรมชาติของเกาะยังคงความบริสุทธิ์และแนวปะการังอุดมสมบูรณ์
Visitors can relax on the beach, swim in the clean, gentle waters, or simply sunbathe while enjoying the sea breeze. The island also has wide stretches of sand, and depending on the tide, a beautiful sandbar often extends into the sea, which is suitable for walking or jogging.
The island features excellent snorkeling and diving spots where tourists can see colorful coral reefs, including abundant giant clams and soft corals, and a variety of tropical fish, making it a popular destination for both beginner and professional divers. Some coral areas are also ideal for underwater photography.
Surrounding the island are small forests and rocky areas that can be explored on foot, offering stunning views of the sea and beach. Tourists often photograph the sunrise and sunset on the beach to capture the picturesque scenery. Access to the island requires a short (15-20 minute) boat ride via a local outrigger boat (banca) from the Matalom port.
Canigao Island is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, as it is peaceful and surrounded by pristine nature. There are minimal permanent structures or luxury resorts; visitors usually stay in rentable open-air cottages or pitch a tent for a natural, overnight camping experience.
Nearby, there are small restaurants and platforms for renting diving equipment, as well as boats for island tours. This makes visiting the island convenient and full of activities, including swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, or walking around the island to explore its raw beauty.
How to Get There
- From Matalom, Leyte Province, it takes approximately 30–45 minutes by boat to reach Canigao Island.
Travel Tips
- Bring swimwear, sandals, drinking water, and a waterproof camera. If snorkeling or diving, prepare equipment or rent it on the island.
Admission Fee
- Domestic visitors: Approximately PHP 50 per person
- Foreign visitors: Approximately PHP 150 per person
Opening Hours
- Open daily: 06:00 – 17:00.