My trip to Baganga will never be complete without visiting one of its famous islands, the San Victor island. This island facing the Pacific Ocean is owned by the Diocese of Mati and managed by the Catholic Parish of Baganga. A 3-hectare island that’s very accessible from the highway, about 20 minutes drive from Baganga’s town proper and 5 minutes boat ride from the mainland.
This jewel was recognized as one of the top must-visit tourist spots of Davao Oriental and the Davao region as well. The powdery white sand, clear turquoise waters, and its marine life are just a few of the many reasons why people love to visit the place. And because I love beaches and exploring islands, its definitely was on my bucket list. I’m so excited to say that I can finally check it on my list.
How to Get There:
From Davao City, you can either travel by your private car or commute through public utility buses or L300 vans to reach the Municipality of Baganga, Davao Oriental. For those who are interested in buses, you can go to Ecoland at Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT). There’s always a bus going to Baganga every day. For those who prefer L300 vans, you can go to Gaisano Mall of Davao in Bajada. Same with buses, they’re servicing Davao-Baganga every day. Then once you arrive at Baganga’s Poblacion, take a motorcycle or “habal-habal” going to Barangay San Victor. Then, you can rent a boat to take you to the island. The island is very close so it will just take you 5-10 minutes.
“The gladdest moment in human life, me thinks, is a departure into unknown lands.” – Sir Richard Burton
Wandering San Victor Island
So after our quick tour at Baganga’s Sunrise Boulevard, we went to Barangay San Victor. From there, you can already see the island. Noontime means low tide so it really felt like you can just swim to the island…that is if you’re brave enough. I wonder if someone dared to swim from mainland to the island. Hehe
Rented a boat to get to the island. Since we went there noontime, it was so HOT. haha! Well, obviously most Filipino’s doesn’t like the heat and I’m one of them. Haha But the island was so beautiful that I ended up not caring at all. I’m tan and get even tanner, that’s fine as long as I get to enjoy this gorgeous island.
Here are a few of the things you can see on the beautiful San Victor island:
1. A Chapel in the middle of the island.
The Diocese of Mati built the Divine Mercy Chapel in the middle of the island. It sounds like a private island but it is actually open to visitors and tourists who want to experience an extraordinary encounter with nature.
2. Trees and Tropical Plants
Island lovers you will love everything about the island. Covered with tall old coconut trees, Talisay trees, and other tropical plants, definitely a great experience of the tropical island life
3. Cottages for Rent
The island is not commercially developed. But, they do have simple cottages you can rent whether you plan to stay for a day tour or for overnight. And for those who prefer camping, you can always bring your tents with you and they have space for you.
4. Rich in Marine Life
It was low tide when we went to the island. As we reach the island, you can obviously see that this island is swarming with rich marine life just by looking at those beautiful corals and shells.
Surrounded by clear blue sea and the beautiful white sand that you will surely love. The relaxing mood and chill ambiance make the island worth the visit. A perfect weekend getaway with friends or family.
