Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Cuatro Islas, a haven where azure waters gently kiss powdery white shores. Immerse yourself in the serenity of lush greenery and be captivated by vibrant coral gardens beneath the crystalline waves. Whether you seek tranquil relaxtion or exhilarating adventures, Cuatro Isla invites you to experience the harmonious blend of nature's wonders and endless possibilities for unforgettable moments. Unwind in paradise; Cuatro Islas is where dreams come to life. Cuatro Islas, meaning "Four Islands"in spanish, is indeed divided into four distinct islands: Digyo, Mahaba, Apid and Himokilan. Each island possesses its own own charm, from serene beaches to lush landscapes. Whether you seek relaxation, exploration, or a bit of both, Cuatro Islas offers a diverse experience across its four enchanting islands, making its a destinaton with something special for traveler.
Digyo
Digyo Island, though the smallest among the four islands, offers a captivating and picturesque experience, particularly during the summer months. The island is easily traversable on foot along the shoreline, and for those opting for an overnight stay without a tent, rentals are available at a reasonable cost of 250 pesos. It's worth noting that electricity is not available throughout the day, so visitors are encouraged to bring essentials such as power banks, solar lights, and rechargeable fans. Electricity is provided only at night, with a modest fee of 50 pesos for device charging. A small store on the island caters to basic needs, and for those in need of fresh water for bathing, it can be obtained for a fee of 50 pesos per container. Despite these considerations, the overall experience on Digyo Island is delightful and definitely worth the visit.
>he entrance fee is 30 pesos for Filipinos and 100 pesos for foreigners, with additional fees for maintenance, protection, and environmental concerns. Various rental fees for cottages, camping tents, tables, and chairs are also specified, and boat rates for island hopping are outlined. Motorboats operate from 7 am to 5 pm, and there is no corkage fee. For inquiries and reservations, contact the Tourism Officer Glenna Bazar Nuñuez at 09390933800, Glen Kudera at 09354418657, or Lemen Polo at 09268031131/09103649464. Additional information can be found on the official website inopacan.gov.ph and the Facebook Page https://web.facebook.com/CuatroIslasOfficial/.
Mahaba
Mahaba Island is part of the Cuatro Islas in Leyte, Philippines, within the municipalities of Inopacan and Hindang. The island, along with its neighbors Apid, Digyo, and Himokilan, is a featured stop on island hopping tours organized by the town of Inopacan. Mahaba Island showcases pristine surroundings with clear waters, white sandy beaches, and a rich marine ecosystem. While partially inhabited, with a small village on the northwest side, the majority of the island is covered in lush greenery. Its underdeveloped state contributes to a peaceful ambiance, offering a serene escape from more commercialized mainland beaches.
Visitors can enjoy scenic rock formations on the eastern coast and a lengthy sandbar parallel to the beach. Various fees apply, including an Environmental Fee of P10, Camping Fee ranging from P50 for tent pitching to P200 for tent rental, and Cottage Rental Fee from P300 to P500. Island hopping boat rates range from P2500 to P5000, with additional charges for overnight boat rental. Other charges include maintenance fees from the barangay and LGU, as well as a cooking fee of P50.
Himokilan
Himokilan Island is a lush and thriving island, adorned with greenery, a prominent hill visible from a distance, and enticing white beaches surrounded by mesmerizing blue waters. A secluded cove with pristine white sand adds to its charm, creating a perfect spot for leisure with friends. Beyond its immaculate beaches, Himokilan is renowned for its distinctive boot-shaped appearance when viewed from above and is home to a small village akin to that on neighboring Apid Island.
A short walk from the beach leads to dense forests bordered by palm trees, and a modest cove on the island's side displays remarkable karst formations and powdery white sand. The cove also serves as the local marine sanctuary, inviting exploration of its waters.
In addition to beachside activities, adventurous travelers can embark on treks, taking advantage of the island's hilly terrain, offering panoramic views of the ocean and the Cuatro Islas from the top of the trekking trail.
Himokilan Island stands out as an ideal beach destination, characterized by its white sand and turquoise waters. Spend an hour beach bumming and swimming, capturing the picturesque background through numerous photos. For camping enthusiasts, Digyo Island provides facilities, and adequate cash withdrawal from Tacloban is advised. Bringing personal food and drinks is recommended, along with a trash bag for responsible waste disposal. Keep belongings dry using Ziplocs or a dry bag, and ensure gadgets remain charged with a power bank and extra batteries.
Explore neighboring islands like Apid, Digyo, and Mahaba after visiting Himokilan, and consider an excursion to Kalanggaman Island for its pristine beaches and waters. For those seeking a break from the beach, historical attractions in Tacloban or nearby cities offer alternative experiences.
Island hopping boat rates vary based on passenger numbers: P2500 (maximum of 10 pax), P3000 (11-20 pax), P4000 (21-30 pax), with an additional charge of P500 for overnight boat rental. There's a separate fee of P500 for Himokilan due to its location in Hindang. Environmental and entrance fees are P50 each. While camping is not common on Himokilan due to its population, a maintenance fee of P50 is applicable, as charged by the LGU.
Apid
Apid Island is home to a small fishing village and is situated further west of the other islands in the Cuatro Islas group. Typically overlooked by tourists due to its residential nature, Apid Island provides a beautiful view of the waters, with its white beaches often occupied by the local fishing boats. Despite being a home to people, visitors are encouraged to explore and interact with the locals, appreciating the island's charm. Part of the Cuatro Islas island hopping activity in Leyte, Apid Island features white sands and turquoise waters, inviting visitors for a refreshing swim in its glass-like, crystal-clear waters.
For those planning to include Apid Island in their itinerary, various fees apply, including an Environmental Fee of P10, Camping Fee ranging from P50 for tent pitching to P200 for tent rental, and Cottage Rental Fee from P300 to P500 for open/closed cottages during day trips. An additional charge of P50 is incurred for overnight cottage use. Island Hopping Boat Rates vary based on the number of passengers, ranging from P2500 for a maximum of 10 pax to P4000 for 21-30 pax, with an extra charge for overnight boat rental. Additional fees include P10 for a maintenance fee charged by the barangay, P50 for a maintenance fee charged by the LGU, and P50 for cooking.
Despite being a residential area, Apid Island serves as a serene retreat, offering visitors an opportunity to unwind and escape the hectic pace of city life. Whether lounging on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, or engaging in conversations with locals to understand village life, Apid Island promises a tranquil getaway. Visitors are encouraged to capture the beauty of the beachscape through photographs, leaving behind only footprints and cherished memories.
