From Manila: Little Boracay Beach w/ Floating Bamboo Cottage

If you’re looking to escape Manila’s hustle and dive into a day filled with natural beauty, clear waters, and volcanic vistas, this tour promises just that. Based on the many glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, it’s evident this experience offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights — all for a reasonable price of around $160 per person.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the chance to swim in the Starfish Sanctuary and snorkel amid vibrant sea life. Second, the unique experience of dining inside a floating bamboo cottage—a true highlight that combines culinary delight with scenic views. Third, the visit to Taal Volcano, with its impressive eruptions history and stunning landscape, provides a compelling mix of nature and learning.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that weather can impact the day’s activities, especially the boat trips and snorkeling. It’s wise to check the forecast before booking to ensure smooth sailing. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and engaging guides, and who are comfortable with a day-long outing that involves some walking and water activities.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combines beach relaxation, snorkeling, and volcanic sightseeing
• Guides and service are consistently praised for their patience, knowledge, and friendliness
• Value for money shines through with included meals, entrance fees, and activities
• Sea experiences like the Starfish Sanctuary and snorkeling are highlights for marine lovers
• Scenic views of Taal Volcano from Tagaytay provide memorable photo opportunities
• Weather considerations are important as activities depend on good weather

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

One of the first things you’ll appreciate is the hotel pick-up and drop-off service within the Greater Manila Area. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable on what can be a long day. The drive to Batangas is smooth, with friendly guides often sharing local insights en route. Considering the traffic conditions around Manila, having a dedicated driver is a significant plus, ensuring you arrive relaxed and ready to explore.

The Beach Sandbar and Floating Bamboo Cottage

Once at the destination, you’ll head to a beach sandbar, which is relatively quiet and perfect for unwinding or taking picturesque photos. During low tide, island hopping is available, offering a glimpse of the tiny, sandy paradise. Here, the highlight is the floating bamboo cottage—a delightful spot where you can enjoy a sumptuous brunch that includes breakfast staples, fresh fruits, and snacks, all served right in the middle of the sea. According to reviews, the food quality and presentation are well-appreciated, making it a memorable part of the trip.

Snorkeling and Marine Life Encounters

Swimming in the Starfish Sanctuary is often cited as a major highlight. Travelers love the chance to interact with starfish and colorful fishes, with many praising the full dry snorkeling masks provided, offering 180° vision, anti-fog features, and a GoPro attachment. As one reviewer notes, “We did not have to worry about a thing,” thanks to attentive guides and well-maintained equipment.

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Learning About Taal Volcano’s Eruption and Natural Beauty

After water activities, your journey continues with a drive to Taal Volcano Ridge in Tagaytay. Here, you can appreciate the volcano’s dramatic landscape and learn about its 2020 eruption, which was significant enough to send ash clouds over Manila. Guides share insights about the volcano’s activity and history, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

A photo stop overlooking the Active Sulfur Emitting Volcano is a must—many guests describe it as a surreal, almost otherworldly sight. The views of the surrounding lake and hills are equally captivating, providing ample photo opportunities.

Additional Experiences and Flexibility

The tour offers optional lunch choices: a la carte meals overlooking Taal Volcano (pay as you order), or a buffet lunch inside the floating cottage with grilled seafood and other local favorites, available for an extra PHP1,000. Guests should inform their guides about their preferred lunch option in advance.

Authentic and Helpful Guides

Reviewers often mention guides like Flor and Lani, who go above and beyond to make the day smooth and enjoyable. Their patience, attention to detail, and friendly attitude make a difference, especially for first-time visitors or families. Many note how guides “called themselves our parents for the day,” helping with everything from breakfast errands to gear rentals.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Pack swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the moments.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for walking and boat rides.
• Bring extra clothes if you plan to swim or snorkel.
• Check the weather forecast—bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellations.
• Inform your guide about your lunch preferences to ensure a smooth experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

When considering the cost of $160, the value becomes clear. The price covers hotel transfers, all entrance fees, boat rides, snorkeling gear, and meals, which are often extras on similar trips. The inclusion of a floating bamboo cottage and the opportunity to snorkel among starfish makes it stand out as a comprehensive aquatic adventure. Guests consistently rave about the delicious food and friendly service, which elevate the experience from simply scenic to genuinely memorable.

The Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

This trip suits travelers who want a full day of activity without feeling rushed. The mix of swimming, sightseeing, and lounging in the bamboo cottage offers a well-rounded experience that caters to different moods—whether you’re craving adventure or a peaceful escape.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to explore Batangas’ natural beauty. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy water-based activities and want a guided, hassle-free day with authentic local touches. If you’re a food lover, the included brunch and optional lunch will satisfy your palate, while photographers will love the scenic views and marine encounters.

However, it’s less suitable for people with back problems, heart conditions, or pre-existing medical issues, given the physical aspects of swimming and boat rides.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pick-up and drop-off within the Greater Manila Area on a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a camera, and water. Extra clothes for swimming are recommended.

Can I choose my lunch option?
Yes, you can opt for an a la carte lunch overlooking Taal Volcano or a buffet lunch in the floating cottage for an additional PHP1,000, and you should inform your guide beforehand.

What activities are included?
The tour includes snorkeling in the Sea, swimming in the Starfish Sanctuary, island hopping at Little Boracay, and a sidetrip to Tagaytay Ridge.

What about weather conditions?
Activities are weather-dependent; in case of bad weather, the trip may be rescheduled or canceled, so check the forecast before booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most guests find it family-friendly, especially with guides ensuring safety, but children should be comfortable with water activities and walking.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an engaging mix of nature, adventure, and cultural insights that appeal to a broad range of travelers. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge significantly enhance the experience, making it feel personalized and worry-free. The stunning scenery of Taal Volcano, paired with marine encounters and delicious local food, makes the day truly memorable.

For those seeking a value-packed adventure that balances active water fun with scenic sightseeing, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for nature lovers, families, and anyone craving a break from Manila’s urban grind.

While weather can influence the day’s flow, proper planning and flexible expectations will help you enjoy a remarkable trip. Overall, if you’re after authentic experiences, great service, and unforgettable views, this tour is well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: