Santa Fe is the port of entry to Bantayan Island, a real gem located off the northern tip of Cebu Island. The town has an undeniable charm, with plenty of accommodation, cafés and some of the finest beaches in the country.
Situated on the southeast coast of Bantayan Island, Santa Fe has the timeless pace of a typical fishing village. There are a handful of small karaoke bars to pass the evenings, some decent restaurants centered on fresh seafood and a nice range of accommodation.
Spanish colonial architecture can be found scattered among the new buildings of this tiny town, but the real highlights lie along the town’s coastline. Beaches like Kota and Sugar Beach have sand that is so white and soft you’ll think you’re walking on air. The seas off Santa Fe are just as nice, though more of a blue color than dazzling white.
There are some excellent beach resorts along these sandy spots that can provide the gear for water sports, snorkeling and even scuba diving. Island hopping to hideaways like Virgin Islet are fun ways to spend a day, and don’t miss the amazing fresh water Ogtong Cave, where you can swim in the underground pools to cool off.
Travel to Santa Fe - Getting there
When flights are operating, visitors can fly from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to Bantayan Island in under 30 minutes. The only other choice is a 3-hour ride on a local bus or private minivan to the wharf at Hagnaya. Here, ferries make the 1-hour crossing to Bantayan Island, landing right at Santa Fe.
Santa Fe attractions
Ogtong Cave: this marvelous fresh water cave has cool swimming pools and a remarkable beachside setting.
Sugar Beach: named after its sand, which is impossibly powdery, this beach epitomizes tropical splendor.
In brief
What to do: bask in the glory of beaches like Kota and Sugar, island hop around the area, swim in the cool underground pools in Ogtong Cave, soak in the relaxed vibe of town.
Best time to go: December to February is the prime time for perfect weather.
How long? Santa Fe can be seen in a day, but the beaches warrant a week or more.