FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Get the facts about visiting Balicasag Island, from securing dive permits to paying environmental fees.
How do I get to Balicasag Island?
You get there by boat from Alona Beach in Panglao. The ride takes 30 to 45 minutes. You can join a group island-hopping tour or hire a private bangka.
How much is the entrance fee for Balicasag Island?
Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills. This fee usually covers the mandatory local paddleboat guide. Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills.
Can I swim with turtles in Balicasag Island?
Yes. Green and hawksbill sea turtles are common at Turtle Point. However, touching, chasing, riding, or feeding them is strictly prohibited.
What is the best time to go to Balicasag Island?
The best time is during the dry season from December to May. The months of February to May offer the calmest seas and best underwater visibility.
Do I need to book a tour for Balicasag Island?
Yes. Accessing the island requires a boat. Booking a tour or hiring a private boat from Panglao is the standard way to visit.
How long is the boat ride from Panglao to Balicasag?
Travel time ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. Departures are typically from Alona Beach.
Are there accommodations on Balicasag Island?
The data provided does not list specific hotels. The island is primarily visited as a day trip from Panglao. There is a small local community of roughly 100 families.
Can beginners dive in Balicasag Island?
Diving is heavily regulated. The sites are generally reserved for certified scuba divers, and a maximum of two dives per certified diver per day is allowed. Check with dive shops in Panglao for specific beginner programs.
Is snorkeling safe for non-swimmers at Balicasag?
Yes. Snorkelers are required to have a mandatory local guide using a small paddleboat. They provide assistance and ensure you stay in designated shallow zones.
What is the Balicasag Island environmental fee?
Expect a per-person environmental and snorkeling fee paid in cash on arrival; amounts change, so carry small peso bills. This is required by the local government to protect the marine sanctuary.
How do I book diving permits for Balicasag?
Strict regulations limit diving to 150 divers per day. You must secure permits through accredited dive centers in Panglao in advance. Read more in Dive Permit Guide.
Is Balicasag Island open year-round?
Yes, the island is open year-round. However, sea conditions can affect boat travel outside the dry season.