Bounty Beach is the beating heart of Malapascua Island—an idyllic tropical escape located off the northern coast of Cebu. Famed for its long stretch of powdery white sand, swaying coconut palms, and calm turquoise waters, Bounty Beach offers the quintessential island paradise experience. More than just a beautiful coastline, it’s also the social and tourism hub of Malapascua, where dive shops, cozy resorts, beachside bars, and international travelers all converge. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore marine wonders, or simply unwind with a fresh mango shake in hand, Bounty Beach delivers on every front.
Bounty Beach is the beating heart of Malapascua Island—an idyllic tropical escape located off the northern coast of Cebu. Famed for its long stretch of powdery white sand, swaying coconut palms, and calm turquoise waters, Bounty Beach offers the quintessential island paradise experience. More than just a beautiful coastline, it’s also the social and tourism hub of Malapascua, where dive shops, cozy resorts, beachside bars, and international travelers all converge.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore marine wonders, or simply unwind with a fresh mango shake in hand, Bounty Beach delivers on every front.
Location and Accessibility
Bounty Beach is located on the southern shore of Malapascua Island, part of the municipality of Daanbantayan in Northern Cebu, Philippines. The beach faces south toward Cebu mainland, offering great sunrise views and sheltered swimming conditions.
How to get there:
- From Cebu City, take a bus or private van from the North Bus Terminal to Maya Port in Daanbantayan (around 4–5 hours).
- From Maya Port, ride a public outrigger boat (bangka) or arrange a private boat to Malapascua Island (30–45 minutes).
- Once on the island, Bounty Beach is just a short walk from the arrival point in Logon village.
No motorized vehicles operate on the island, so everything is reachable by foot.
Natural Features
Bounty Beach boasts a wide, palm-lined shoreline with fine white sand and shallow, swimmable waters. The sea here is calm, warm, and mostly free of seaweed or strong currents—ideal for relaxing dips and casual snorkeling.
Its scenic beauty is enhanced by the backdrop of dive boats bobbing gently offshore and the occasional sight of local fishermen at work. The beach also offers some of the island’s best sunset and moonrise views, particularly during clear weather.
The sandbar-like nature of the beach makes it one of the most photographed spots on the island, and it gently slopes into the water, making it child-friendly and easy to wade into.
Activities and Experiences
- Swimming and Sunbathing: Calm waters and soft sand are perfect for lazy beach days.
- Scuba Diving: Launch point for dives to sites like Monad Shoal and Gato Island.
- Snorkeling: Some marine life can be spotted right off the beach.
- Sunset Walks: Ideal for romantic strolls or casual jogging at golden hour.
- Dining by the Sea: Enjoy meals at beachfront restaurants like Oscar’s, The Craic House, and Angelina.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bounty Beach is during the dry season (December to May) when the sea is calm, skies are clear, and sunbathing is ideal. The months of March to May offer the warmest water temperatures and vibrant beach life.
Avoid the peak of the typhoon season (August to October) as boat transfers may be disrupted.
Facilities and Nearby Amenities
- Resorts and Hotels: Tepanee Beach Resort, Ocean Vida, Slam’s Garden, and other accommodations for various budgets.
- Restaurants and Bars: A mix of Western, Filipino, and Italian cuisines plus beach bars and smoothie stands.
- Dive Centers: PADI-certified centers like Sea Explorers, Thresher Shark Divers, and Evolution Diving.
- Convenience Stores: Small local shops offering essentials.
- Wi-Fi Access: Available in most resorts and some restaurants, though variable in speed.
Visitor Tips and Guidelines
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and cash (limited ATM access).
- Respect marine conservation rules—do not step on coral and dispose of trash properly.
- Power outages are possible—carry power banks.
- During peak season, book dives in advance.
- Heed local advice before swimming in rough weather.
Bounty Beach is more than just Malapascua’s most popular beach—it’s a welcoming gateway to the island’s laid-back culture, ocean adventures, and stunning seascapes. Whether you come to dive with thresher sharks, lounge under the sun, or immerse yourself in island life, Bounty Beach is the perfect place to begin your Malapascua journey. Don’t just pass through—slow down, stay awhile, and discover the island magic that keeps travelers coming back.
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