Kalanggaman Island is a small but breathtakingly beautiful destination located off the coast of Palompon, Leyte, in the Philippines. It is famous for its pristine white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters, making it a favorite destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other aquatic adventures. The island’s long, picturesque sandbar is one of its standout features, which really stands out during low tide. Kalanggaman Island is a protected marine sanctuary with vibrant marine life, which makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts and underwater explorers.
Where is Kalanggaman Island?
Kalanggaman Island is found in Palompon, Leyte, Philippines. It is located inside the Camotes Sea, close to an hour’s boat ride from the land of Palompon. Located almost in the middle section between the two larger islands of Leyte and Cebu, one can access it easily from these regions.
How to Get There
To reach Kalanggaman Island in Leyte, you must first book a flight to Tacloban City, which is the nearest major city with an airport. Then from Tacloban, ride a van or bus to Palompon, Leyte, about 3-4 hours away. Then when you arrive in Palompon, you’ll head straight to the Palompon Eco-Tourism Office for registration and payment of the necessary fees for visiting Kalanggaman Island. From there, you can hire a boat for the 45-minute to 1-hour ride to the island. It’s advisable to arrange boat trips in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kalanggaman Island is during the dry season, which typically falls between November and May. In this period, the weather is sunny and pleasant, thus ideal for swimming and any other water activities. The island is also less crowded, where you can enjoy the stunning beaches and clear waters in a very peaceful setting. The peak tourist season is between March and May, and it is best to visit the place during the shoulder months of November to February.
Activities to Enjoy
- Island Hopping: Virgin Island is just a short drive away, offering a peaceful and picturesque retreat with clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Snorkeling and - Swimming: Discover the underwater beauty and coral reefs surrounding the island.
- Rent a bike or motorbike and cycle around the island, discovering small towns, local markets, and hidden beaches at your own pace.
Tips for a Great Experience
- Book in Advance: The boat trips and permits may fill out very fast, especially on peak season. Advise the Palompon Eco-Tourism Office well ahead.
- Pack Essentials: Lots of water, snacks, sunscreens, hats, swim suits, and so forth; there are no stores around. Come prepared.
- Bring Cash: For entrance fees, rental boats, and other things on the island, payment has to be in cash.
- Travel Light: Since the boats have a lot of weight limits, take only what you need.
- Daylight Travel Plan: The boat trips are usually planned for daylight hours for safety reasons.
Visitor Reminders
- Leave No Trace: Carry all your trash back to preserve the natural beauty of the island.
- Respect Rules: Follow the guidelines set by the eco-tourism office, including designated swimming and camping areas.
- Avoid Picking Shells or Corals: The island is a protected area; do not disturb its ecosystem.
- Check the weather: Trips can be cancelled due to rough seas, so always confirm with boat operators and the tourism office.
- Be safe: Life jackets are usually provided; make sure to use them during boat rides.
More Details
Day Tour Rates
Local Tourists: ₱150
Foreign Tourists: ₱500
Overnight Rates
Local Tourists: ₱225
Foreign Tourists: ₱750
Fees for boat rentals
₱3,000 – ₱4,000 per group of 10-15 people
Discounted Rates
A valid ID can help discount student, senior and PWD rates.
