Verde Island, locally known as Isla Verde, is a picturesque island situated in the Philippines, nestled between Luzon and Mindoro within the Verde Island Passage. Approximately 42 kilometers south of Batangas City, the island is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and vibrant local culture.
Geographical Features
The island spans about seven miles in length and four miles in width, boasting diverse landscapes that include soft sandy beaches, coral formations, and rocky shores. Its highest peaks, Mount Liponpon and Mount Dagit-Dagit, both rise to approximately 360 meters, offering panoramic views of the surrounding seascape.
Historical Background
Historically, Verde Island has been inhabited since pre-colonial times by indigenous tribes. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers discovered the island, integrating it into the Spanish colonial empire. Today, it remains a vibrant fishing community where traditional music, dance, and local markets reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Attractions and Tourist Spots
Mahabang Buhangin: A kilometer-long stretch of pristine white sand beach, ideal for sunbathing and beach activities.
Cueva Sitio: A fascinating cave that leads explorers to the opposite side of the island, offering a sense of adventure and discovery.
Diving and Snorkeling Sites: The island’s surrounding waters are teeming with diverse marine life, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers. The coral reefs are home to various species of fish, sharks, and sea turtles.
mahabang buhangin beach
What to do on Verde Island
Verde Island, often referred to as Isla Verde, is renowned for its exceptional marine biodiversity, earning the title “Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity.” This distinction makes it a sought-after destination for nature enthusiasts, divers, and those seeking tranquil natural beauty.
Activities on Verde Island
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling: The island’s surrounding waters are a paradise for divers and snorkelers, offering vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of marine life. Notable dive sites include:
The Drop Off: Characterized by steep slopes and vertical walls descending to depths of over 70 meters, this site features stunning gorgonian fans, basket sponges, and anemones. Divers can explore numerous nooks housing shrimps, sea snakes, scorpionfish, and moray eels.
Volcanic Activity Sites: Due to underwater springs, the water around Verde Island is 2-3 degrees warmer than elsewhere in the Philippines. Divers can witness the unique spectacle of hundreds of bubbles emerging from the seabed, a result of volcanic activity
Island Hopping: Visitors can embark on boat tours around the island, exploring various coastal sites, including:
San Agapito: A quaint village offering insights into local life.
Cueva: A fascinating cave system leading to the opposite side of the island.
Mahabang Buhangin: A kilometer-long stretch of white sand beach, perfect for relaxation and beach activities.
Trekking: Adventurous travelers can hike up Mount Dagit-Dagit, one of the island’s prominent peaks, to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding seascape and lush landscapes.
Cultural Experiences
Engaging with the local community offers a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and local markets, providing an authentic taste of island life.
Verde Island is celebrated for its unparalleled marine biodiversity and offers a range of activities, from diving and snorkeling to cultural immersion, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Resorts and Accommodations
Verde Island offers several resorts catering to different preferences:
Isla Verde Tropical Friendly Resort: Located amidst the island’s natural beauty, this resort provides guests with an immersive tropical experience.
Surface Interval Resort: A popular choice among divers, offering easy access to prime diving spots around the island.
How to Get There
From Manila to Batangas City: Travelers can take a bus from Manila to Batangas City, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours.
From Batangas City to Verde Island: From the Batangas City Port, visitors can hire a boat or catch a ferry to Verde Island. The boat ride typically takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, while a ferry can reach the island in approximately 25 minutes.
Transportation on the Island
On Verde Island, transportation options are limited due to its size and terrain. Visitors often explore the island on foot, which allows for an intimate experience of its natural beauty and local culture. For longer distances, local boats or “bangkas” can be hired to travel between coastal areas.
Notable Recognition
The waters surrounding Verde Island are part of the Verde Island Passage, recognized as the “Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity” due to its incredibly diverse marine life. This distinction makes the island a significant destination for marine biologists and eco-tourists alike.