Batanes is so much blessed with seemingly endless rolling hills and greens, view of the Pacific Ocean, and kind-hearted and warm people.
There are three usual tours in Batanes:
South Batan Tour
North Batan Tour
Sabtang Tour
However, you can also set a tour on the island of Itbayat, the farthest island in the province of Batanes.
In this blog, we will explore the beauty of South Batan.
San Carlos Borromeo Church
Honesty Coffee Shop
Mahatao Boat Shelter Port
Diura Fishing Village
Racuh a Payaman (Marlboro Country)
Imnajbu Beach
Alapad Pass and Rock Formation
Sitio Songsong Ruins
House of Dakay
Old Spanish Bridge
Homoron Blue Lagoon
White Beach
Chawa View Deck
Tayid Lighthouse
14 Best Spots You will See on your Batanes South Batan Tour
We have already toured Sabtang and North Batan when we discovered the wonders of South Batan.
It is said that South Batan has the m
1. San Carlos Borromeo Church
San Carlos Borromeo Church is situated in Mahatao. Also known as Mahatao Church, this church was declared as one of the Philippine National Cultural Treasures in 2001 because of its beauty and excellent state of preservation.
Historians said that the church was known to be running and active since 1789.
2. Honesty Coffee Shop
Honesty Coffee Shop is situated near the Port of Ivana.
The coffee shop is called such because the owners have a very high trust to the people in Batanes and to the tourists as well leaving it unmanned, with the foundation of trust. Batanes is known to have a zero crime rate and is well known as well to have a very honest community.
Tourists who visit the place are usually amazed with the place. Honesty Coffee Shop offers coffee, snacks, breads, souvenirs, and pasalubong as well.
3. Mahatao Boat Shelter Port
Because Batanes is prone to big waves and typhoons, the Ivatans made the picturesque Mahatao Boat Shelter Port.
Mahatao Boat Shelter Port is one of the most picturesque spots in the South Batan tour. Once in the area, you will be amazed to see different boasts resting in place and the water is so clear that makes you wanna take a dip.
If photos are taken in the right angle, you will see a resemblance in one of the Mediterranean spots.
4 . Diura Fishing Village
This serene spot in Batanes is like your peaceful photo of a village with palm trees, boats and children running near the shore.
Diura Fishing Village is a small community in the South of Batan in Batanes. Coming from the term Yura, one of the four pre-Hispanic tribes that settled east of Mahatao, Diura Fishing Village traces its roots back to 1720 A.D.
The village, which was then inhabited by only 300 people, is currently home to boat-makers and fishermen, now called the Mataw. This is still evident today as you walk through the small coastal village.
Every home is in the style of Chivuvuhung or Jinjin, which uses cogon for its roof and walls. The walls are hung with fish, mostly dorado (yellowfin tuna) and flying fish, cured with salt and put under the sun to dry, preserving them for the rainy season. – Primer
If you have ample time, you may play take a swim/dip near the shore with the Ivatan kids.
5. Racuh-a-Payaman (Marlboro Country)
Racuh a Payaman is a large pasture land in Mahatao, Basco, Batanes. Other name for the place is Marlboro Country which was tagged by an American Tourist because it resembles the Marlboro Country in the commercial of Phillip Morris Cigarette.
From then on, the land was more known as the Marlboro Country of Batanes.
Marlboro Hills is a feast to every tourist visiting in the area. You wouldn’t even think that this place exists in the Philippines while looking at the peaceful rolling hills and vast, wide, ocean.
6. Imnajbu Beach and Hills
Imnajbu is just of the four barangays in the barangay of Uyugan in Batan, Batanes. It is near the Alapad Pass and rock formation.
7. Alapad Pass and Rock Formation
This iconic spot in Batanes is one of the most picturesque view of the south. The undeniable and articulate rock formation is a sight to behold and should never be missed by tourists visiting the area offering them a view of the Pacific Ocean.
This is the only spot where you can take a picture with the ‘Blow your horn’ sign. Alapad Hills or Alapad Pass is also where the 1991 hit movie “Hihitayin kita sa langit” of Richard Gomez and Dawn Zulueta took place.
Tourists usually copy the scene where Dawn was being lifted by Richard.
8. Sitio Songsong Ruins
Songsong Ruins used to be a village before a tidal wave hit the village in 1950’s. This seaside town of Batanes is now considered ghost town not because there are ghosts in the area but all that remains in Songsong are roofless and abandoned stone houses.
9. House of Dakay
Dakay is the nickname of Jose Villamayor Estrella, the owner of the house, which was there for the last 142 years.
Luckily, one of the relatives of Dakay was there when we arrived. She also mentioned that the grandson of Dakay, Lolo Francisco Estrella, is still living at the House of Dakay. The roof is changed every 30 years. We were also introduced to the breadfruit situated just beside their house which is used as a plate before.
We also learned that the kitchen and comfort room is separate from the house itself. So the House of Dakay is just the living room and sleeping area of the entire house. We saw the kitchen and comfort room but these two are damaged already.
Surprisingly, there’s also a basement for their food and stocks since Batanes is known to always have a number of storms.
Another basement is the shelter for their goats and other animals whenever there’s a storm.
10. Ivana Tuhel Bridge (Old Spanish Bridge)
As history says, this old Spanish bridge was built by the engineer-architect is Fr. Nicolas Castano, from October 1802 to March 1810, he was the one who ordered the construction of this bridge and all in Batanes, such as the bridges of San Vicente, Basco and San Felix. – ViganTourism
11. Homoron Blue Lagoon
Homoron Blue Lagoon is located between rock boulders of Brgy. Ivana and Mahatao. Tourists and Ivatans usually go here for a dip.
12. Homoron White Beach
Near the Homoron Blue Lagoon is what they call White Beach of Batanes. This white sand beach is a bit rocky although you can swim in its shallow waters. The white beach can be reached through motorcycle but there are no beach resorts in the area.
13. Chawa View Deck
Chawa View Deck is situated at the mountainside of Batan and Mahatao. This view deck is a surprise to everyone giving them a 270-degree view of the mountains and the Pacific Ocean. What’s more interesting here is that Chawa View Deck has stairs going down the deck. Locals say that you can go fishing here as well.
14. Tayid Lighthouse
Tayid Lighthouse is one of the most serene places in the South of Batan. This spot overlooks endless rolling hills, Mt. Iraya, and if lucky, you will see herds of cows with their cowherd and his dog.
If you still have ample time, we suggest you stay a little longer here and take a rest at the back of the lighthouse. It is truly a once in a lifetime experience.
We highly suggest you book your Sabtang tour with a well-organized, hassle-free tour provider. Tried Batanes DIY before — it was adventures, yes but would like to suggest to have a team who’ll help you maximize your Batanes trip.
Got ours from the Amazing Batanes Tours! From the name itself, this tour provider is actually amazing! They’ve got cool tour guides — whom I think knows everything! All our questions where answered and we were brought to many awesome places. Check them out!
Wondering what are the places that you’ll get to see for your North Batan Tour in Batanes? While we equally love North and South Batan, there are some several spots here in North Batan that we will never forget.
In our last visit to the breathtaking province of Batanes, our first tour was the North Batan as this can be completed half a day only, unlike the Sabtang, which we opted to stay a little longer than usual, and South Batan tour, which requires a day to visit all places.
Although you can finish the tour for just half a day only, we promise that you will not go home wanting for more. And yes, this will be your very first jaw-dropping sunset.
Imagine being on top of a hill with lighthouse waiting for the sunset — while holding your love’s hands whispering sweet-nothings? Charot!
While this second visit of mine is with Ryan already, I experienced waiting for the sunset alone. And it’s magical still. But of course, I prefer my last experience, the one with my baby, of course. Hahahaharot!
Okay, so enough with the kaartehan. Here are the places you can visit on your North Batan Tour in Batanes! Sobrang saya!
Top 11 Places to Visit on your Batanes North Batan tour!
Welcome to Basco Arch
Tukon Church (Mt. Carmel Chapel)
PAGASA Weather Station – Basco
Valugan Boulder Beach
Nakamaya Burial Grounds
Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel
Fundacion Pacita
Vayang Rolling Hills
Chadpidan Boulder Beach
Basco Town Proper
Naidi Hills (Basco Lighthouse)
1. Welcome to Basco Arch
This is the usual first stop on every North Batan Tour. This is situated near Basco along the mountainside. Imagine looking at the vast ocean with your loved ones here?
This one should not be missed when in Batanes! Although… I know you will never miss this because if you do, you will miss half of your Batanes tour! Coz you know, the Batanes Arch. Charot! Seriously though, this is just beside near Basco Town and can be reached when you start to explore Basco with a bicycle.
Hellleeeer! Welcome to Basco, guys!
2. Tukon Church | Mt. Carmel Church
Tukon Church or Mt. Carmel Church is usually the second destination in the North Batan Tour. Medyo pataas ‘to so alalayan mo si Kuya Tricycle Driver lalo na kung medyo heavy tayo.
This church was devastated by a storm before and it has still ongoing repairs. Perched on top of a hill, this church is perfect for weddings — I actually thought for a second, “Magppropose na kaya siya?” Harots! Haha!
3. PAGASA RADAR Station
One of the attractions on top of a hill that can be found near Tukon Church is the PAGASA RADAR Station.
On my first travel here, we were caught by a typhoon like rain here! And guess what, same happened during my second visit. Isn’t it amazing?
4. Valugan Boulder Beach
This unique beach is not filled with sand, but with boulders instead.
We’re so cute here right? We looked photoshopped in pebbles. Haha! It was a good time when we visited here as it was not too hot. Perfect for photoshoots!
While planning for our Batanes tour Ryan is insisting to hire a photographer for our prenup shoot… Even though he hasn’t proposed yet. LOL!
Para kaming dinikit sa picture! Hahaha!
5. Nakamaya Burial Grounds
We didn’t get the chance to take a picture of the burial grounds but according to the locals, there was a belief that early Ivatans believed that when they die, their final rest would be the sea.
This belief is evident in the boat-shaped markers on their grave, which point towards their destination: the sea. – Explorra
6. Dipnaysupuan Japanese Tunnel
This 5-door Japanese tunnel is the shelter and hideout of the Japanese soldiers when they arrived in Batanes in 1914.
From 1941 to 1945, the soldiers ordered the Ivatans to dig the tunnel, creating five exit points, chambers, bunkers, and water reservoir. The bunker served as their lookout spot while in battle with the Americans.
The tunnel, meanwhile, is 250-meter long and has a lower deck chamber. – Primer
I told Ryan that I will just wait for them outside as my first visit here was not that pleasant… Goosebumps till now as I remember it. But, baka art ko lang, I still went inside — of course, brisk walking tayo girl. Haha!
Fundacion Pacita Batanes is one of the grandest hotels in Batanes. If you want a view of the ocean and rolling hills in your room, Fundacion Pacita is for you.
Room rates start with P12,800 but with a room perched on top of a hill, with a scenic oceanview and Mountainview, why not spend if you have the capacity, right?
Don’t forget to visit their arty restaurant and museum too! Yup! Just so we can visit the place, we tried their restaurant with golden rates, but! But never thought that its super duper delicious. I miss this place so much.
8. Vayang Rolling Hills
Vayang Rolling Hills is a sea of rolling hills in the north of Batanes. Definitely our favorite! I don’t know but I can still remember I was so happy because it was so windy and drizzling that time. Imagine being in Tagaytay or Baguio, so cold with all the greens surrounding you. Perfect!
Here you can also get a scenic view of Mt. Iraya, a dormant volcano residing in the island of Batan.
Hi, bebe boy!
Mt. Iraya
My first Batanes experience! Wala pa si Ryan nito. Hehe.
My first sunset! Sana pala nag picture kami ni Ryan ng ganto. Haha!
9. Chadpidan Boulder Beach
If you think there’s only one boulder beach in Batanes, unsurprisingly, it’s not.
The second boulder beach on the island of Batan is the Chadpidan Boulder Beach. Located at the west side of Batan, Chappidan Boulder Beach was formed because of the materials spewed by Mt. Iraya centuries ago.
10. Basco Town Proper
The usual last stop for the North Batan tour is the Basco Town Proper. Tour includes visiting Basco Church and a short trip to town’s park near the municipal hall, and airport road, among others.
This is our favorite past time when we were in Batanes. This spot near Basco park and Basco Municipality Hall is our go-to place as well whenever we feel like going out.
11. Basco Lighthouse at Naidi Hills
Naidi Hills is the most popular spot in Batanes because it is where the iconic Basco Lighthouse resides.
This spot is perfect for people who loves watching the sunset. Better view though is at the top of the lighthouse but be there early as the crowd at the top gets thick in the afternoon.
You will also get to have a nice panoramic view of the Basco town while watching the glorious sunset.
You may also visit the place in the morning if you want a lesser crowd. Many people jog to get here and some hail a tricycle or rent a bike.
North Batan and South Batan for me are equally beautiful. Both tours are rich in scenics views, picturesque mountainsides, rolling hills, and beaches.
We highly suggest you book your North Batan tour with a well-organized, hassle-free tour provider. Tried Batanes DIY before — it was adventures, yes but would like to suggest to have a team who’ll help you maximize your Batanes trip.
Got ours from the Amazing Batanes Tours! From the name itself, this tour provider is actually amazing! They’ve got cool tour guides — whom I think knows everything! All our questions where answered and we were brought to many awesome places. Check them out!
If you are on the lookout on what to do in Batanes for your upcoming vacation, we suggest you add the activities listed below to maximize your vacation.
If you are planning for your Batanes trip, we highly suggest you get a registered tour provider from a company that can really take care of you and please, do not DIY Batanes. I tried it last 2018 and I can fully say that I had so much fun on my second Batanes escapade because everything was organized!
You can find one on the island but better if you contact a tour provider before you go to Batanes. Better be prepared than sorry, dear. Might be fully-booked already when you get there.
We actually searched for the best tour provider. Saw a number but Amazing Batanes Toursstood out.
Let me know if you want me to connect you to them. Hassle-free and the tour guides really knew Batanes well.
Go ahead and explore the island to the fullest! I hope you have a day or two all to yourselves as some of these are not in the usual itinerary. Oh, writing this makes me wanna go back to Batanes again!
1. Eat Ivatan dishes at Hiro’s Joy Canteen
More than the seemingly endless green rolling hills of Batanes, the province has a lot more to offer especially with their dishes.
And trying dishes is actually a great way to learn more about Batanes traditions and culture!
Our team tried a number of restaurants in Batanes but one stood out — theHiro Joy Canteen.
Hiro Joy Canteenor Hiro’s Cafeis located in Abad St. Corner Argonza St. They are offering a number of Ivatan dishes, American, and some traditional Filipino dishes as well. What we love most is that every dish is made with extra love — extra herb, extra sauce, and is carefully cooked with passion and love.
We were talking with our team the other day and if we wanna go back to Batanes, we’ll definitely go back to Hiro Joy Canteen. This was definitely one of the highlights of our trip.
Being surrounded by water, one of the Ivatan’s primary works is fishing. If you don’t have a fishing rod with you, you may ask your tour guide where to find/rent one.
For us, fortunately, there’s a family friend living in Basco and luckily, they have fishing rods!
On our way to Basco port.
We also asked our tour guide, Kuya James, if he has one. Although he was very eager to lend us his fishing rod and accompany us to Basco Port and Chanarian Point, he wasn’t able to because he needed to go diving/fishing as well that afternoon.
We wanna go but his boat is small.
Anyway, I suggest you go fishing in Batanes. What a memorable way to maximize your Batanes vacation!
3. Take a dip in the beaches of Batanes
When I imagined tBatanes beaches before, all I can think of was they’re so rocky that you can’t even swim near the shore.
While this is true for some beaches in Batanes, there are also beaches with fine white sand and less rocky.
There are also rocky beaches like the blue lagoon and some lagoons in Sabtang shore near the port.
So yes, add this in your itinerary — swim in Batanes!
Suggested beaches:
Beach near Basco port
White Beach in Basco
Sabtang beach near Sabtang port
Blue Lagoon in Basco
Sumnanga Fishing Village
Morong Beach in Sabtang, Batanes
Sabtang lagoon near Sabtang Lighthouse
Sumnanga Fishing Village
Swimming near Basco Port. Yes, it’s clean!
4. Biking (Motorcycle and Bicycle)
One activity to never miss while in Batanes is biking!
There are a number of bike rentals in Basco and just a couple in Sabtang. Basco also has motorcycles for rent at a gasoline station near Nanay Cita’s Homestay.
No need to worry if you think you are lost already. Just talk to the Ivatans and they will guide you the way. Don’t forget to use google maps as well!
Suggested biking areas:
Around Basco preferably the one near the school and open grounds
Outside Basco Airport
Way to Boulder Beach
Way to lighthouse
Went to Naidi Lighthouse early in the morning. We had so much fun!
Biking in Sabtang
5. Sunrise at Chamantad-Tinyan Point in Sabtang
This is not in the usual itinerary when in Batanes but we highly suggest you visit Chamantan-Tinyan point and cove before sunrise.
It is a magical experience waiting for the sun to rise while looking at the vast ocean and endless rolling hills.
Additional payment is P1,100.
6. Sunset watching at Natawu Point
Another activity to add to your Batanes bucket list is sunset watching at Natawu Point in Sabtang Island.
Our tour guide said this point is the best spot for sunset viewing in Batanes.
True enough, it is indeed the best one. Here you can see a 360 view of Sabtang, the rolling hills, and the ocean.
Additional payment: P400
7. Roam around Basco and make friends with the locals
Any place can be more experienced in being with the locals. Each time you go out, make sure you engage with the Ivatans.
Talk to your tour guides, make friends with them, ask the history of Batanes, where they live, what they do..
Sometimes it’s not just about the place but the people that you will meet that will make you really love the place.
And I can say that you will leave Batanes with a heavy heart because of the memories and the Ivatans as well.
With Amazing Batanes Tours Tour Guide, Kuya James
Ivatna kids even helped us with our fishing rods!
8. Surprise your loved ones with a dinner date at Naidi Lighthouse
Who would have thought that exclusive dinner dates are possible at Naidi Lighthouse? Naidi Lighthouse is one of the most famous lighthouses in Batanes. But, did you know that you can arrange a dinner date here?
Whether you wanna surprise your loved ones on their birthday, anniversary, or any milestone in life, and you are in Batanes already, I suggest you go and reserve that exclusive date!
We are not sure if there are other operators for activities like this but we reserved our slot with Amazing Batanes Tours.
They will help you arrange everything. From food to balloons, to the set up of the place.. Really glad we booked everything with Amazing Batanes Tours.
Videos soon on our youtube channel!
Still munhcing the lobster here! Haha!
9. Camping in Sabtang
If you will stay more than one night in Sabtang, try camping by the shore! To make this hassle-free for you, book your stay with Pananayan Homestay. They can help you with the tent pitching and can even prepare a bonfire for you!
10. Try Fundacion Pacita’sDishes
If you happen to have spare money, we want to suggest having your merienda or lunch at Fundacion Pacita.
Fundacion Pacita, perched at one of the rolling hills in Basco, is one of the most picturesque places I have been to in my entire life. Suggesting that you add this to your itinerary, separate from your tour, and try different dishes.
The food was great for the price that you would want to order another one. We tried their pizza and it was surprisingly good. While waiting, you may also check their arts area below the restaurant.
Fundacion Pacita also has several rooms for guests which starts at P12,870.
We highly suggest you book your Batanes tours with a well-organized, hassle-free tour provider. Tried Batanes DIY before — it was adventures, yes but would like to suggest to have a team who’ll help you maximize your Batanes trip.
Got ours from the Amazing Batanes Tours! From the name itself, this tour provider is actually amazing! They’ve got cool tour guides — whom I think knows everything! All our questions where answered and we were brought to many awesome places. Check them out!
SabtangIsland is one of the three major islands in the province of Batanes, the northernmost province in the Philippines.
This island is the southernmost part of the Batanes group of islands which has two more inhabited islands— the Ivuhos and Dequey, which are said to be pasture lands of cows and goats.
Sabtang Island is a 30 to 40-minute boat ride from Basco and is not for the faint-hearted for the current might be so big while in the middle of the ride.
Still, give your trust to the Ivatans with their boats called Faluwa — boat that’s made specifically for bigger waves!
If lucky it’s your lucky day as well, you will see dolphins dancing simultaneously with the high waves. Yup, we saw around six dolphins in the middle of our ride! Although our trip was a bit bumpy, we still got lucky!
Sabtang Island’s beauty.
Where to Book your Sabtang Island Tour?
If you are planning for your Sabtang trip, we highly suggest you get a registered tour provider from a company that can really take care of you, your family, and friends. And I hope you do not DIY Batanes.
I tried it last 2018 and although it was a much different experience, I can fully say that I had so much fun on my second Batanes escapade because everything was so organized!
You can also find an operator on the island but better if you contact a tour provider first before you go to Batanes.
Better be prepared than sorry, dear. Might be fully-booked already when you get there.
Anyway, we actually searched for the best tour provider and talked to a number of operators but Amazing Batanes Toursstood out.
Let me know if you want me to connect you to them. Hassle-free and the tour guides really knew Batanes well.
From Basco Island: From Basco, take a boat ride (Faluwa) going to Ivana Port. Fare is P100 per way. From Ivana Port, you’ll be given a lifejacket after you registered and paid the fare. Usual travel time is 20-30 minutes but if the sea is rough, travel time would be 40 to 45 minutes.
Here are some of the photos of our lovely view going to Ivana Port.
Sabtang Island, Batanes | 3D2N Itinerary with Camping Experience
If you are into peaceful view and relaxation, Sabtang Island will definitely be your next favorite destination. It is a mixture of magnificent green mountain ranges, panoramic ocean views, and warm, friendly native Ivatans.
Sharing our 3 days 2 nights itinerary! I suggest you stay more than one night in Sabtang if you have ample time in Batanes for you to really experience the place.
Our Sabtang is our day 4 to 6 in our Batanes escapade.
Ryan playing with the waves while I was shouting at him to get off the big rock already. Big waves, guys. Big waves. Haha!
Day 1 – Sabtang Arrival and Sabtang Tour
Highlight: Our highlights on our day 1 in Sabtang were the: 1) Sabtang Tour and 2) the lookout for something to eat for dinner! There was a barrio fiesta when we arrived in the place and all stores where closed.
So we don’t know how and where to eat. We went around the barrio and looked for open stores.
Good thing we saw one and bought bread and pancit canton, thinking that maybe we can just ask if we can cook at the owner’s house since there’s no common kitchen yet at Pananayan Homestay. They cooked for us instead! Yey!
6:00 AM – Leave Basco for Sabtang
8:00 AM – Arrival at Sabtang port
8:30 AM – Check-in at Pananayam Homestay
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Pindings
12:00 NN – Lunch at Morong Beach
1:00 PM – Start Sabtang tour
4:00 PM – End Sabtang Tour
5:00 PM- Visit Sabtang Lighthouse
6:00 PM – Started to look for food and Fiesta
7:00 PM – Cooked Pancit Canton
Places to Visit & Activities To Do
Little Hongkong / Fishing Village
Savidug Village
Morong Beach
Chavayan Village
Chamantad Tinyan Point
Roam around the village
Day 2 – Sunrise in Chamantad-Tinyan Viewpoint and Sunset in Natawu Point
Highlight: Our glorious sunrise watching in Chamantad-Tinyan Viewpoint! Chamantad-Tinyan has been my favorite ever since I visited the place and waited for the sunrise.
It was an unforgettable experience watching the sun go up with scenic views of the mountains and ocean. Imagine looking at the mountains being kissed by the sun rays? It was undeniably one of the best feelings ever.
5:00 AM – Wake up for Chamantad Tinyan Viewpoint
5:30 AM – Arrival at Chamantad Tinyan Viewpoint
7:15 AM – Go to Pananayan Canteen for breakfast
7:45 AM – Explore Sabtang Shore
8:00 AM – Go back to Pananayan Homestay
2:00 PM – Lunch
4:00 PM – Visit Natawu Point for the best sunset watching
Places to Visit & Activities To Do
Sunrise watching at Chamantad Tinyan Viewpoint
Sunset watching at Natawu Point
Explore Sabtang Shore
Day 3 – Camping at Sabtang Shore
5:00 AM – Wake up for morning camping
5:30 AM – Pitch tent
5:45 AM – Swimming and picture taking
8:00 AM – Back to Pananayam Homestay
9:30 AM – Eat breakfast at Pananayan Canteen
11:00 AM – Pananayam Check Out
11:15 AM – Lunch at Pananayan Canteen
12:00 NN – Departure
Places to Visit & Activities To Do
Camping by the Sabtang shore
Swimming at the lagoon
Picture taking at the Sabtang Port
Sabtang Island | 3D2N Itinerary with Camping Experience
Day 1 – Sabtang Arrival and Sabtang Tour
6:00 AM – Leave Basco for Sabtang
8:00 AM – Arrival at Sabtang port
8:30 AM – Check-in at Pananayam Homestay
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Pindings
12:00 NN – Lunch at Morong Beach
1:00 PM – Start Sabtang tour
4:00 PM – End Sabtang Tour
5:00 PM – Visit Sabtang Lighthouse
6:00 PM – Started to look for food and Fiesta
7:00 PM – Cooked Pancit Canton
It was about 5:00 o’clock in the morning when Kuya James from the Amazing Batanes Tourswoke us up with a text message. ‘We are late na po.’
We hurriedly got up and prayed we wouldn’t be late for the 7:00 AM boat ride to Sabtang Island!
We are actually a day late for our trip to Sabtang because a typhoon hit Batanes two days before our scheduled trip but it’s somewhat okay because we had almost a day to just relax and experience typhoon in Batanes.
True enough, typhoons are experienced best in the province. (Not that I’m saying typhoons are okay, but talking about the experience and feeling here. Hehe.)
So after the 20-minute morning tricycle ride to Ivana port, we waited for a couple of minutes for us to be registered by Kuya James. Shoutout to Amazing Batanes Tours for the hassle-free assistance!
Did I mention that we had a glorious morning ride to Ivana port? All you can see are green mountains, scenic mountainside, and blue wide oceans! It’s something you would pray to experience everyday.
With Kuya James, our Basco Tour Guide from Amazing Batanes ToursThe registration area in Ivana PortWith the traditional tricycle of BatanesUs at the Ivana port
Kuya James also paid for us, P100 pesos each for the ride, and after a couple of minutes, Kuya handed us our life jackets.
Port of Ivana | We’re going to Sabtang!The Faluwa boatKuyas are helping each passengers to get into the boat Port of Ivana — love that their
The Sabtang Boat Ride Experience
I can still remember the boat ride I had during my first trip — wait, there’s a typhoon on my first trip to Sabtang last year as well! Haha! But I guess the waves are much more higher than my previous Sabtang boat experience.
I can literally see waves higher than our boat. It gives me chills and butterflies but I am sure the boat is safe and is made of strong wood.
After about 30 minutes, yes, just this quick, we docked peacefully at the port of Sabtang.
Welcome to Sabtang Island, Batanes
I was actually on high mode when we reached Sabtang for this was the very place that captured my heart so much during my last solo trip.
I was excited to visit the places that I have been to, but this time, together with Ryan. I know it would be a whole new experience.
After a couple of minutes, our Amazing Batanes Tour Guide arrived with a big smile on his face as if saying Welcome to Sabtang!
With all enthusiasm, we shook hands and introduced ourselves.
Since we arrived at around 8 o’clock in the morning and we were not in a hurry because we’re staying for 3 days, opted to go straight to our homestay first to check-in and took a nap.
Check-in at Pananayam Homestay
Pananayam Homestay is one of the best homestays in Sabtang as it is just near the Sabtang lighthouse and most especially, Pananayam Homestay is near Sabtang shore.
The homestay is owned by Family Elesterio. What I love about this homestay is that you can really feel that it is a home away from home and the place is all to ourselves!
After checking in, we went out to look for food since we haven’t eaten anything. Glad Pindings Canteen is open! I remember eating here during my solo trip as well.
We also roamed around the town while looking for food.
The Sabtang Island Tour
After checking in at Pananayan Homestay, we took a rest for a while, refreshed ourselves and off we went to start our Sabtang Island tour!
Places Visited
Little Hongkong / Fishing Village
Savidug Village
Morong Beach
Chavayan Village
Chanarian Beach
Chamantad Tinyan Point
Sabtang Lighthouse
Roam around the village
1. Little Hongkong | Sumnanga Fishing Village
Little Hongkong, most known to be called Fishing Village, is situated in the secluded area of Brgy. Sumnanga. It was so hot when we arrived at the place but the view is still relaxing. We would like to go fishing but this one is a bit far from the town proper so we opted to just take photos of the place.
2. Savidug Village
One of the spots you should never miss is Savidug Village. Savidug Village is one of the oldest villages on the island of Sabtang. You will see traditional stone houses built years and years ago which will really amaze you because they are not using steel.
it was siesta time when we got there so there’s just a number of people outside the house.
We also visited St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel which resides inside the Savidug Village. It is near a basketball court and a stonehouse beside the church.
3. Morong Beach
Morong Beach is one of the most favorite beaches on the island of Sabtang because of many reasons. Aside from Nakabuang Arch resides here, the waves are a bit calm than the other beaches in Sabtang; sand is fairer than the others, and the long stretch of Morong Beach is a beauty to behold.
Never forget to take a picture of the Nakabuang Arch too!
Nakabuang Arch
4. Chavayan Village
Just like Savidug, Chavayan Village is one of the oldest villages in Sabtang. Most of the houses here are made of stones as well.
Chavayan came from the word cha, which means bountiful, and vay, which is the arrowroot plant that was known as the most distinct plant on the island. Vayan, on the other hand, means community. – Primer
5. Chamantad-Tinyan Point/Cove
Chamantad-Tinyan Cove is by far my most favorite spot in Sabtang Island.
It was love at first sight. Imagine looking at the seemingly endless rolling hills coupled with cows and goats in the area with a view of the Pacific Ocean.. Plus the lovely view of the Chamantad Cove with super fine sand inviting you to take a walk in the shore.
I will never get tired of this place.
It was also my second time to go here and witness the sunrise. One of the sweetest spot in Batanes. I can’t express how happy my heart is while waiting for the rising of the sun.
7. Sabtang Lighthouse
Sabtang Lighthouse should be on our itinerary and Kuya and I talked that he will fetch u around 4:30 PM. However, 4:30PM came but Kuya didn’t show up. We called him but I think he’s with family and friends because it was one of the barangay’s fiesta then. So, I said it’s okay and we’ll go to the lighthouse by ourselves
So, Ryan and I went up to where the lighthouse is.
It was just a 10-minute walk from Pananayam Homestay but when we got there, we weren’t able to go up the lighthouse because there’s no one in the area.
There’s also a homestay at the lighthouse but people are saying that it was not taken care of that’s why it was closed.
So we just took photos and went out of the vicinity since it is still private property.
Sabtang’s Lighthouse is perched on top of this small rock hill and it overlooks Sabtang’s ocean and mountains. We would love to go up the lighthouse but brushed the idea instead. Overall, we enjoyed our picture taking and our walkathon to and from the lighthouse.
Ryan, being an Electrical Engineer, saw Sabtang’s Coal Power Generator and wanna have a chitchat with the Engineers there but we can’t find someone in the area. Haha!
Fiesta and the Search for Food
As mentioned above, one of Sabtang’s barangays was celebrating barangay fiesta when we arrived at the place. We initially thought we can join the owner of Pananayam Homestay in the fiesta but we were shy!
We ended up looking for food but since there’s a fiesta in the town and everyone cooked there own food, we had a hard time looking for food.
Fortunately, there was an open store with some goods. We bought bread and pancit canton and off we went home directly.
When we got to Pananayan Homestay, one of the Ate’s volunteered to cook for us. Yey!
Joyce, the daughter of Auntie Fafa who owns the place was so accommodating she actually want to bring us to the town fiesta! But we were just too tired and wanted to sleep already.
It was still a happy day. Glad we ended with Pancit Canton, bread, and coffee!
We slept excited because we scheduled our sunrise watching at the Chamantad Tinyan Viewpoint! Yey!
Day 2 – Sunrise in Chamantad Tinyan Viewpoint and Sunset in Natawu Point
5:00 AM – Wake up for Chamantad Tinyan Viewpoint
5:30 AM – Arrival at Chamantad Tinyan Viewpoint
7:15 AM – Go to Pananayan Canteen for breakfast
7:45 AM – Explore Sabtang Shore
8:00 AM – Go back to Pananayan Homestay
2:00 PM – Lunch
4:00 PM – Visit Natawu Point for the best sunset watching
Ryan and I woke up at 5AM and waited for our Tour Guide from Amazing Batanes Tours. We were so excited. I have seen the sunrise in Chamantad last 2018 but this one’s different. Never thought this will happen together with Ryan.
At around 5:30AM, we arrived in the place.
It was a bit dark but you can already see the beauty of Chamantad. Rolling hills with a shore, I can’t really fully explain its wonders. Words are not enough to describe this beauty. Ever since I stepped into Chamantad, I know this will always have a special place in my heart.
We explored the place, took photos everywhere, got chummy, haha! But we weren’t able to go down the secluded shore. I’d love to but our tour guide said it’s prohibited. But I went down there last time.
Chamanatd-Tinyan Viewpoint, Sabtang, Batanes
Anyway, we still had so much fun! We went back to the town smiling! Definitely one for the books.
At around 7:15AM, we arrived at the town and we went straight to the Pananayan Canteen. We got some fish and hotdogs!
It was also nice that the canteen is near Sabtang shore. After we ate, we went directly to the Sabtang Shore and explored the area. It was a nice morning walk.
We were actually so tired that we ended up sleeping until around 1:30PM! Haha. We got up so hungry and went directly to Pananayan Canteen.
We also arranged an afternoon visit to Natawu Point, which is said to be the best area for sunset viewing.
It was an incredible short hike.
Natawu Point
The view is like a 270 view of the east side of Sabtang. Rolling green hills, blue ocean, and the cold breeze — it was definitely a moment to remember.
We slept with our heart full with awe!
Day 3 – Camping at Sabtang Shore | Went Back to Basco
5:00 AM – Wake up for morning camping
5:30 AM – Pitch tent
5:45 AM – Swimming and picture taking
8:00 AM – Back to Pananayam Homestay
9:30 AM – Eat breakfast at Pananayan Canteen
11:00 AM – Pananayam Check Out
11:15 AM – Lunch at Pananayan Canteen
12:00 NN – Departure
Being a deep sleeper, I really still wanna sleep on our last day. But I love to have our morning camping more!
So we got up at 5:00AM, took our camping gear, and pitched our tent at around 5:30 AM. We also thought there’s another group who’s having a morning camo as well because the ates were pitching a yellow tent!
Turned out it was for us. Hehe. They thought we didn’t bring a tent.
Really nice gesture, Pananayan Homestay! We’d love to go back and have a night camp on the shore!
Then we decided to take a dip, we were so careful that we don’t slip because it was really rocky. The water was so cold, really!
We also explored the shore again and went up to the Sabtang port.
At around 8AM, we went back to Pananayan Homestay, prepared our things, took a batah and off we bid goodbye to the place.
Overall, we had a very chill Sabtang Island experience. One that you will never forget that once in your life, you forgot all problems that you left in the metro.
We highly suggest you book your Sabtang tour with a well-organized, hassle-free tour provider. Tried Batanes DIY before — it was adventures, yes but would like to suggest to have a team who’ll help you maximize your Batanes trip.
Got ours from the Amazing Batanes Tours! From the name itself, this tour provider is actually amazing! They’ve got cool tour guides — whom I think knows everything! All our questions where answered and we were brought to many awesome places. Check them out!
Looking for the best place to stay on the beautiful island of Sabtang in Batanes? We would definitely like to recommend Pananayan Pension House!
Pananayan Pension House is the best homestay in Sabtang island if you want a perfect view of the ocean, the lighthouse, and if you want to try camping by the shore.
The term ‘Pananayan‘ is an Ivatanterm for waiting area. I talked to Ms. Joyce Elesterio, the very welcoming daughter and manager of the homestay and Pananayan canteen, and she mentioned that their business used to be near the port which served to be a waiting area for people going in and out of Sabtang Island.
We actually planned in staying on the island for about three nights but our supposedly first day in Sabtang was canceled because of the typhoon that time. I actually thought we’ll never get to the island because of the storm.
Good thing we just got stranded in Basco for one night! Still a good thing though because we get to experience the Batanes storm together! Haha!
Anyway, I was actually excited to check-in because of happyandbusytravel’sblog about the Pananayan Pension House!
Pananayan Pension House, Sabtang, Batanes
Okay, I want you to be present with me. Imagine staying near Sabtang’s shoreline with the lighthouse near you. At night, you can hear the soothing sound of waves, with the moon above the ocean, and with the stars sparkling so bright at night — together with the love of your life. Isn’t it sweet? Hehe.
It was actually a dream come true.
The Smooth Check-In
It was around 8 o’clock in the morning when we checked in at the Pananayan Pension House in Sabtang Island.
Since there’s no data connection or mobile signal in the area, I was not able to message Pananayan Pension House that we’ll be moving our stay to the next day, if the weather permits.
When we got to the place, they welcomed us with a big smile and helped us through our room on the first floor.
I was actually a bit sad because I talked to them weeks before that we would want the room near the balcony.
But because of the typhoon, they were still cleaning the rooms on the second floor when we arrived.
We stayed on the first floor first and asked again if we can transfer to the second floor after they cleaned the room. So happy they agreed! Our room was near the balcony, overlooking Basco, the ocean lighthouse, and the port of Sabtang.
We were also the only guests at that time. The house was all to ourselves!
I wanna go back. Really.
What’s Inside Pananayan Pension House?
What I love about Pananayan Pension House is that the whole house is generally clean and well-maintained. Really happy we stayed here!
Dining Area – Glad that they have a dining area! They also have a water dispenser, kettle, coffee and sugar, and mugs! Really a plus for a coffeeholic like me! Hehe!
Kitchen – There was no common kitchen in Pananayan Pension House but they were already constructing one when we were there. No worries about the food though because they also own a canteen near the port which is a 5-minute walk from the homestay
Living Room– What I love about Pananayan is that they have a living room at the first and second floors. Since we were the only guests at that time, we had so much fun staying in the living room.
TV –They have a television in the living room however, there was no signal that time because of the typhoon. Would be better if they have cards or anything that guests can use for bonding time.
Rooms – I love their rooms! Pananayan Pension House is somewhat new and I love that the rooms were all fresh and clean. The whole house is well-maintained and you wouldn’t think twice about the cleanliness of the place. Not to mention that comfort rooms are really clean as well!
Pananayan Pension House Sabtang Living Room (1st Floor) Pananayan Pension House Living Room Pananayan Pension House Living Room at the second floor
Pananayan Pension House Balcony overlooking the ocean
The Pananayan Pension House Rooms
Here are some of the rooms at the Pananayan Pension House in Sabtang, Batanes.
Pananayan Pension House Room Rates
We got our room for around P400 per pax but they now have new rates. Please see below rates from their Facebook Page.
The Camping Experience
One of the items in our bucketlist is to try camping near Pananayan Pension House. We opted to pitch our tent early in the morning because it was so dark to pitch at night, we chickened out. Haha!
We just knew after our morning camping that if we opt to camp in the evening, they will assist us with our very own bonfire. Huhu!
oh, hello there, Mr. Sunshine!Lovely morning view from our camping tent.Can’t believe we pitched a tent! haha!Camping area by the lighthouse! Beautiful.
We were surprised that they even pitched a tent for us!
At first, we thought there were other guests who want to camp as well. But turns out they thought we didn’t bring a tent! So, they pitched one for us. So sweet.
Camping before swimming!
Swimming Time and Roam Around the Shore
Of course, we will never leave without experiencing Sabtang’s sea! Hehe We went picture taking first before we submerged ourselves to the cold lagoon near the homestay. It was half amazing, half scary because we’ll never know when will the big waves come and what’s inside these rocks. Haha!
It was a total adventure.
Ryan, being his pa-superman self, went to the upper side of the rocks which got me so disturbed. Haha!
Pia’s Thoughts
Pananayan Pension House is actually the best place to stay during your Sabtang trip. I also urge you to stay two nights to really enjoy Sabtang and have intimate moments with loved ones and self (if you are traveling solo).
I think it would be best if Pananayan Pension House has a common kitchen for guests though. Not sure if the kitchen that they constructing the last time was built now. But still, we are highly recommending this place if you want a home away from home, access to Sabtang’s shore, near the lighthouse and if you want camping by the beach!
We highly suggest you book your Sabtang tour with a well-organized, hassle-free tour provider. Tried Batanes DIY before — it was adventures, yes but would like to suggest to have a team who’ll help you maximize your Batanes trip.
Got ours from the Amazing Batanes Tours! From the name itself, this tour provider is actually amazing! They’ve got cool tour guides — whom I think knows everything! All our questions where answered and we were brought to many awesome places. Check them out!
