Cebu Area GuidePandanon Island, Cebu, Philippines
Pandanon Island, Cebu
Pristine sandbar island between Cebu and Bohol
Pandanon Island is a small, privately managed island located in the Bohol Strait between Cebu and Bohol, typically visited as a day trip from either Mactan Island or Bohol. It is renowned for its long white sandbar that emerges at low tide, crystal-clear turquoise shallows, and healthy coral gardens ideal for snorkelling. The island has basic day facilities — a covered pavilion, picnic tables, and a small restaurant — but no overnight accommodation. It is commonly included in Mactan Island hopping tours as one of the signature stops, alongside Hilutungan and Nalusuan.
- Dramatic white sandbar emerging at low tide with turquoise water on both sides
- Excellent snorkelling directly off the beach with live coral and reef fish
- Popular island hopping stop from Mactan — typically paired with Nalusuan or Hilutungan
explore by category
Top Listings in Pandanon Island
explore cebu
Other Areas of Cebu
questions & answers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I visit Pandanon Island?
Pandanon Island is most easily visited as part of an island hopping tour booked through Mactan Island resorts or boat operators at Buyong Beach and Marigondon. A standard Mactan island hopping tour covers 2–3 islands (commonly Hilutungan, Nalusuan, and Pandanon) and takes a full day. Alternatively, you can charter a private boat from Mactan. Note that Pandanon has an island entrance fee (approximately ₱100–₱150 per person) charged by the local barangay.
Is Pandanon Island good for snorkelling?
Yes — Pandanon has one of the better snorkelling reefs in the Mactan island hopping circuit. The coral gardens on the island's eastern side have a good variety of hard and soft corals and reef fish, and visibility is typically clear. Snorkelling equipment can be rented from island hopping boat operators. The shallow sandbar area itself has minimal marine life but the drop-off beyond is more rewarding.