Carnaza Island: A Day Trip In Daanbantayan’s Island Paradise
Carnaza Island is a 173.5-hectare (429-acre) turtle-shaped island located north of the mainland Cebu in the Philippines. The island is bordered on all sides by the Visayan Sea.
Carnaza Island was kind of a last minute choice for our family escapade, last Sunday. Although our original plan was to go on a long and relaxing weekend getaway somewhere far, we had to revise our travel blueprint since we all have commitments at work, the following day. And besides, we can’t afford to leave our home for more than 15 hours, with all the canine pets living under our turf (about 14 dogs). So, we scratched Camiguin, Isla Doong and the other destinations on our list.
Kalanggam Island was one of our top options too, but I thought the cost wasn’t right for a few hours enjoying the beach. I reached out to Bunzie’s Cove, but they don’t offer day use on Sundays. I scoured the internet and Instagram feeds, until alas, I finally found the ultimate solution for our family escape – Carnaza Island in Daanbantayan, Cebu.
Truthfully, I was planning on going to Carnaza Island with my sprightly crew – Team Bang in June. But, I ran out of alternatives, and I really wanted my family to have a swell time. I just hope my team understands my sudden of change of heart. Charoot! I’m going back there, anyway, and I’ll try to bring the entire gang, the next time around.
Our Carnaza Island experience
I literally had zero hours of sleep, the night prior to our Carnaza Island trip. While I was excited and pumped up to see the island paradise, it was a looming cough that stopped me from getting some rest. Ever had a dry and sore throat that turned to cough and cold the following day? Yep, I had that drowsy and irritating feeling all night.
Nevertheless, I was optimistic and hoping that dipping into the waters of Carnaza would cure this uncomfortable symptom. As they say, salt water heals everything.
We woke up at around 3:00 AM, and made final preparations for our getaway. We wasted no time, and went with our long road trip to the northernmost tip of Cebu. Along the way, we made a few stops, to gas up as well as buy sun-block and freshly-baked bread.
After our long and winding ride in northern Cebu, we arrived at Tapilon port – the jump off point to Carnaza Island.