Lakawon Island Philippines
A serene island paradise in the Philippines, known for its powdery white sands, clear waters, and the iconic TawHai Floating Bar.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Lakawon Island Philippines
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene island paradise in the Philippines, known for its powdery white sands, clear waters, and the iconic TawHai Floating Bar.
"It's good for people who just want to chill, beach bum."
Book in Advance
Consider pre-booking entrance fees and transfers for potential promo rates. :ticket:
Pack Light
Bring essentials, but avoid overpacking as space can be limited. :handbag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Sand Beaches
Powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
TawHai Floating Bar
The iconic floating bar offers a unique spot to enjoy drinks with panoramic ocean views.
Island Signage & Photo Ops
Capture memories at the prominent Lakawon Island sign, a popular photo spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Lakawon Island
Island Activities & Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Lakawon (see you Bacolod!! :P )
Book in Advance
Consider pre-booking entrance fees and transfers for potential promo rates. :ticket:
Pack Light
Bring essentials, but avoid overpacking as space can be limited. :handbag:
COMMUTE GOING TO LAKAWON ISLAND
Lakawon Trip Help
Hydration is Key
Stay hydrated! Bring your own water bottle or purchase drinks on the island. :droplet:
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for a day at the beach. :sunny:
How to DIY to Lakawon?
Tips
from all over the internet
Book in Advance
Consider pre-booking entrance fees and transfers for potential promo rates. :ticket:
Pack Light
Bring essentials, but avoid overpacking as space can be limited. :handbag:
Hydration is Key
Stay hydrated! Bring your own water bottle or purchase drinks on the island. :droplet:
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must for a day at the beach. :sunny:
Check Floating Bar Status
The TawHai Floating Bar may close for maintenance; check its availability beforehand. :bar_chart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lakawon Island is praised for its beautiful white-sand beaches and relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for unwinding. Visitors appreciate the clear waters and the unique TawHai Floating Bar experience. However, some find the island lacks diverse activities and express concerns about the maintenance of common facilities and water quality.
"I diy my trip to Lakawon Island. The weather was great when I went, so I did not really have any issue commuting. The island was pretty, but there was really nothing to do there. I swam for a while, but spent most of my time reading. It was pretty quiet, so I found it enjoyable to read. Food prices were on par to Manila prices, and they were decent."
Georgette Mariz
"Went for a solo weekday trip to the island. Had a smooth transaction in the mainland ticketing office. Paid Php400 (pre-booked promo from their website) for the entrance fee inclusive of cottage and roundtrip boat transfers. Quick boat ride was safe provided with life vest.
Upon arrival to the island, we were assisted and greeted from getting off the boat to the assigned cottage. Enjoyed the island by taking pics/vids, swimming in the beach, roaming around.
The resort has lots of cottages, common bathroom and rooms for overnight or longer stays. It also has beach volleyball area, Lakawon signage, bean bags, swing, 2 restaurants, a souvenir shop. I believe they also offer kayak. But there’s nothing much to do in the island, no spa, entertainment. I think it’s good for people who just want to chill, beach bum.
Beachfront was clean but when you explore the island, you’ll see that the area at the back isn’t, and not well-maintained.
As for the common bathroom, the water smelled rusty and not that safe for sensitive skin like me cause I got itch and there are some parts of my body that is still itching and swelling as of this writing 😢"
Warlita Fuentes
"We had a wonderful time at Lakawon Island! The beach was clean, the water was clear, and the view was absolutely relaxing. The TawHai Floating Bar experience was supposed to be a highlight but it was closed.
The food was decent, though it could be improved a bit for the price. Staff were accommodating and helpful throughout our stay. Overall, it’s a great spot for a quick getaway and to enjoy a peaceful island atmosphere."
Ledin Gatchalian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Bacolod Airport (BCD), take a van to Cadiz Viejo, the jump-off point for Lakawon Island. Some travelers suggest getting dropped off at Silay proper first for easier van access. The boat ride from Cadiz Viejo to Lakawon Island is quick and usually includes life vests.
From Bacolod City, you can take a bus or van heading north towards Cadiz City. Alight at Cadiz Viejo and proceed to the port for boat transfers to Lakawon Island. The journey can take a few hours.
While Grab is available in Bacolod, it might be challenging to find one directly to Cadiz Viejo from the airport, especially for early morning arrivals. Vans are a more reliable option.
The boat ride from Cadiz Viejo to Lakawon Island is typically short, around 15-20 minutes, depending on sea conditions. Life vests are provided for safety.
Some resorts and tour operators offer packages that include transportation from Bacolod or nearby cities to Lakawon Island. Booking in advance can sometimes secure better rates or ensure availability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees can vary, with some pre-booked promos including cottage and boat transfers for around Php 400. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire at the mainland ticketing office for the most current pricing.
Some reviews indicate that an entrance fee might still be charged even for overnight stays, especially during peak seasons or long weekends. Confirm this policy when booking your accommodation.
Typically, the entrance fee covers access to the island's beaches and common areas. Some packages may also include roundtrip boat transfers and cottage use, so clarify what's included in your booking.
While not explicitly stated in all reviews, it's common for island resorts to have different pricing structures for weekdays versus weekends or holidays. Weekdays are generally less crowded and potentially cheaper.
Tickets and boat transfers are usually purchased at the mainland ticketing office in Cadiz Viejo before boarding the boat to Lakawon Island. Online pre-booking options might also be available.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Lakawon Island is best for relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing on its white-sand beaches. While there are kayaks available, other activities like spas or extensive water sports are limited. The TawHai Floating Bar is a unique attraction.
The TawHai Floating Bar can be closed for maintenance, especially during certain periods or long weekends. It's recommended to check its operational status before your visit if it's a key part of your plan.
The island offers various accommodation options, including rooms for overnight stays and numerous cottages available for rent. These cater to different group sizes and preferences.
Some visitors have reported issues with the common bathrooms, including rusty water and potential skin irritation. It's advisable to bring your own toiletries and be mindful of water quality.
Yes, Lakawon Island is often described as quiet and peaceful, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxing escape, reading, or simply unwinding by the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food on Lakawon Island is generally considered decent, with some dishes like nachos and chicken inasal receiving positive mentions. Prices are comparable to Manila prices.
The island has a couple of restaurants serving various dishes and drinks. Welcome drinks are often provided and can be quite good.
Information on bringing outside food and drinks is not widely available in reviews. It's best to inquire about their policy upon arrival or check their official guidelines.
Food prices are noted to be on par with Manila prices, meaning they can be relatively moderate to high. Drinks, including cocktails, are also available and reasonably priced for their quality.
Specific recommendations include nachos and chicken inasal. Some reviewers also enjoyed the garlic mushrooms and hummus, though the latter was made with lentils instead of chickpeas.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic Lakawon Island signage is a must-have photo. The white-sand beaches, clear waters, and the TawHai Floating Bar also offer picturesque backdrops for your photos.
While not explicitly mentioned, drone photography might be possible, but always check local regulations and resort policies regarding drone usage to avoid any issues.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the beaches and the island without harsh shadows. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
The TawHai Floating Bar provides a unique setting for photos, especially with its panoramic views. The island's natural beauty, including the shoreline and palm trees, also offers many charming shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beaches and ocean views. Waterproof phone cases or action cameras are useful for capturing moments in and around the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be aware that organized kids' activities are limited. The focus is more on natural beach enjoyment. Consider bringing along beach toys or games to keep younger ones entertained. Also, be mindful of the common bathroom facilities, as some guests have reported issues with water quality, which might be a concern for families with very young children. Packing extra essentials and being prepared is key.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during weekdays when crowds are thinner, which can sometimes translate to slightly lower prices or better negotiation opportunities. While Lakawon isn't a backpacker's paradise with hostels, opting for basic room accommodations over more luxurious options can also help keep costs down.
💑 Couples
For a more intimate stay, consider booking one of the island's rooms or cottages. While activities are minimal, the focus on relaxation allows couples to reconnect and enjoy each other's company amidst stunning natural beauty. Pack a good book to share or simply stroll along the shore hand-in-hand.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Lakawon Island
For those coming from Bacolod City, buses and vans are available for travel to Cadiz City. From Cadiz City, local transport can take you to the port in Cadiz Viejo. It's wise to factor in travel time, as the journey from Bacolod can take a few hours. While ride-sharing services like Grab operate in Bacolod, relying on them for direct trips to Cadiz Viejo from the airport might be unreliable, making pre-arranged vans a more dependable option for early morning arrivals.
When planning your trip, consider booking transportation and entrance fees in advance, as this can sometimes lead to promotional rates. The Lakawon Island resort Philippines experience begins with a smooth transaction at the mainland ticketing office, ensuring a hassle-free start to your island getaway.
Island Experience: Relaxation and Amenities
While relaxation is the main draw, the island does offer some amenities to enhance the visitor experience. The TawHai Floating Bar is a standout feature, providing a unique spot to enjoy drinks with stunning panoramic views of the ocean. However, it's important to note that this bar can occasionally close for maintenance, so checking its operational status beforehand is advisable. Other facilities include cottages for rent, common bathrooms, and areas for beach volleyball.
Despite its charm, some reviews mention that the island's activity offerings are limited. Beyond swimming and enjoying the beach, there aren't many entertainment options, spas, or extensive water sports. The areas at the back of the island may also not be as well-maintained as the beachfront. For visitors looking for a packed itinerary, Lakawon might feel a bit too quiet, but for those prioritizing a chill, beach-bum experience, it's an ideal choice.
Dining and Practicalities
While the food is generally satisfactory, some reviewers suggest room for improvement, especially considering the prices. It's also worth noting that the quality of ingredients, such as the 'beef' on nachos, has been questioned by experienced diners. For those with sensitive skin, the common bathrooms have been a point of concern, with reports of rusty water potentially causing itching and swelling. Bringing personal toiletries and being mindful of water quality is recommended.
Practical tips for visiting include packing light, as space can be a consideration. Sun protection is essential, so don't forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Staying hydrated is also crucial, so carrying a reusable water bottle is a good idea. While the island is beautiful, managing expectations regarding the range of activities and amenities is key to enjoying a fulfilling trip to Lakawon Island resort Philippines.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit