WANDERLUST
Text and Photos by Henrylito D. Tacio
When it comes to tourist destinations, Mindanao is known for those situated in big cities like Davao, General Santos, Cagayan, Zamboanga, and Cotabato. But there are more places – much more beautiful and enthralling – that can be visited by people who want to see something new and something awe-inspiring.
In Surigao del Sur, which is located at the eastern coast of Mindanao, there is such a place. As the province is facing the Philippine Sea, it has something unique that only those who live in the area know. Britania Islands in the municipality of San Agustin is perhaps the province’s best-kept secret. It’s stunningly beautiful and can take your breath away.
One recent visitor wrote of her experience in Trip Advisor: “I’ve seen loads of beaches and have been island hopping in a couple of places around the Philippines, and this is definitely one of the nicest! These unspoiled beaches are an example of the wonderful white sand beauties that Philippines has to offer, that are off the radar and not yet a top tourist destination.”
Another one scribbled: “In my opinion, the Britania Group of Islands is the next best thing to Boracay in the Philippines in terms of pristine white beaches some people at a time can enjoy. While Boracay has been a popular choice (because of the night life there), this group of islands offer adventurers a real deal and one would give a true appreciation of the spectacular white beaches from the four islands we visited.”
Lianga Bay, which faces the Pacific Ocean, has 24 islands and islets scattered all over its water. The group of islands is like a small version of the 100 islands of Pangasinan. They were originally part of Alepanto. But when Eufemio Darunday became the mayor, he gave it a new name, “Bretania” as it reminded him of the distinct island-beaches found in Great Britain. The name stuck but the spelling was changed later to “Britania.”
I had been to the place four times already. For each time, the islands never fail to amaze me. They always have something new to offer. Most of these islands are uninhabited and they could be reached by arranging an island hopping with some of the guesthouses and hostels located near the coastlines.
Depending on the number of passengers, the size of the boat and the islands to be visited, the cost ranges from P800 to P2,000.
The four major islands, which are often visited, are: Hagonoy, Naked and Hiyor-Hiyoran, and Boslon. Each island is blessed with powdery white sands which can be compared to that of the well-famed Boracay Island. The Geographic Channel featured the islands as among the best spots in Asia.
Let’s take a closer look at each of them:
Hagonoy Island was named after the weed scientifically known as Chromolaena odorata that used to grow in the island. From a distance, you will be mesmerized by its beauty. Scattered throughout the island are few coconuts, which provide some shade to visitors during their brief stay.
Naked Island is actually a white sandbar and it has nothing at all. This reminds you of the Camiguin’s White Island; the only difference is that it is much wider during low tide. Its crystal-clear water is good for swimming.
Hiyor-Hiyoran Island is the best place to spend more time basking under the sun or walking under the coconut trees, which the island has plenty of. This place is perfect for snorkeling. From a distance, you can take very instagrammable photos.
Boslon Island, the largest among the group and named after a priest who was stationed during World War II in San Agustin, is usually the last itinerary for island hopping. This is the reason why it is mostly packed with visitors. Its most distinguishable landmark is the cross and the statue of Virgin Mary. Aside from swimming, you can do other water activities like banana boat, flying fish, and disco ball rides.
According to our guide, from Boslon Island visitors can walk into the nearby two subsidiary islets during low tide: Panlangagan Cave and Panlangagan Forest.
The other islands are Bonbon, Isla Verde, Panas, Minasingan, Litik, Kang Jose, Kanlota, Taguan, Panas and San Pablo.
Don’t worry about where you can sleep. Consider the following: La Entrada Beach Resort, Villa Rosalina Beach Resort, MacArthur’s Place, O’s Landing Beach Resort, Arena Blanca Resort Britania, Oasis Rest House, and Woowcamp Resort.
Britania Islands is a 6-hour ride from Davao City and about 3 hours from Butuan City. You can reach there through private vehicles or by public utility vehicles plying in the area. If you take a bus, alight at the Salvacion junction where there’s a tourist assistance center. Since Britania is still 2.8 kilometers away, you can hire a motorcycle to go to the place. — ###
