There’s something utterly magical about stepping foot on a piece of paradise that feels untouched by time. Kalanggaman Island, a gem nestled off the coast of Palompon, Leyte, is exactly that—a slice of heaven on earth, where the sand is powdery white, the waters are a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, and the world seems to slow down to the rhythm of the gentle waves.
The Journey Begins
My adventure to Kalanggaman Island began early in the morning as I boarded a bus from Tacloban City to Palompon, Leyte. The three-hour journey felt like a breeze as I anticipated the day’s adventures. I arrived in Palompon just as the sun started to bathe the town in its golden light, casting long shadows and igniting the excitement in my heart.
The boat ride from Palompon to Kalanggaman Island is about an hour long. As the boat cut through the glassy waters, I felt a sense of anticipation build with each passing wave. The island soon appeared on the horizon, like a mirage slowly becoming a reality—a thin strip of land with an impossibly white sandbar stretching out into the azure sea.
First Impressions
Stepping onto the island, I was greeted by the warmth of the sand beneath my feet and the gentle caress of the sea breeze. Kalanggaman Island is stunningly beautiful, and what struck me the most was its serenity. With no hotels or large establishments, the island remains refreshingly unspoiled, offering a raw, natural experience.
The famous sandbar was my first stop. This narrow stretch of sand extending into the ocean is nothing short of breathtaking. Walking along it felt surreal, as if I was on a path that led straight into the sea. With the waves gently lapping at both sides, I felt like I was floating between two worlds—one of vibrant blue above and one of calm serenity below.
Activities and Exploration
Kalanggaman Island is small enough to explore in a few hours, but it offers plenty to do if you want to take it slow and soak in the atmosphere. I started with a bit of snorkeling—underwater, the world was alive with vibrant corals and a variety of fish darting between them. The clarity of the water made it easy to lose track of time as I marveled at the underwater life.
After snorkeling, I decided to take a leisurely walk around the island. The southern part of the island is where you’ll find the more shaded areas, perfect for a relaxing picnic or simply lounging in a hammock strung between two coconut trees. The north end is more rugged, with rocky outcrops providing a stark contrast to the soft sand on the other side. Every corner of Kalanggaman seemed to offer a new perspective, each one more beautiful than the last.
For lunch, I joined a group of travelers who were grilling fresh fish on the beach. Sharing stories and food with strangers-turned-friends is one of my favorite parts of travel, and this day was no different. The fresh seafood, paired with the island’s tranquil vibe, made for a memorable meal.
The Magic of Sunset
As the day drew to a close, I found a quiet spot to watch the sunset. The sky was painted in hues of pink, orange, and purple, reflecting on the calm waters and creating a mirror image that was almost too beautiful to believe. Watching the sun dip below the horizon, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of peace. The world was hushed, with only the sound of the waves and the occasional call of a seabird breaking the silence.
Practical Tips
- How to Get There: From Tacloban, take a bus or van to Palompon, Leyte. From Palompon, you can rent a boat for the trip to Kalanggaman Island. It’s advisable to book your boat in advance, especially during peak seasons. For more detailed travel instructions, you can check out this Kalanggaman Island travel guide.
- Fees: The entrance fee for Kalanggaman Island is around PHP 500 for international tourists and PHP 150-250 for locals, depending on whether you’re visiting for the day or staying overnight.
- What to Bring: Essentials include sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks, and your snorkeling gear. Since there are no stores on the island, make sure you have everything you need before heading over.
- Accommodation: There are no hotels on Kalanggaman Island, but you can camp overnight. Bring your own tent or rent one in Palompon. If camping isn’t your style, consider staying in a nearby resort in Palompon and making Kalanggaman a day trip.
Final Thoughts
Kalanggaman Island is a dream come true for anyone seeking a quiet, unspoiled beach experience. It’s a place where nature takes center stage, and the modern world feels a million miles away. My day on Kalanggaman Island was everything I had hoped for and more—a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. As I boarded the boat back to Palompon, the island slowly disappearing behind me, I knew I had found a place that I would return to again and again, a place that would always hold a special spot in my heart.
For more travel guides and tips on exploring the Philippines, be sure to visit Lakbay Pinas—your ultimate resource for discovering the hidden gems of the archipelago.