Hundred Islands Day tour from Manila (Private Tour)

Traveling from Manila to the Hundred Islands offers a fantastic chance to escape the city bustle and enjoy the natural beauty of the Philippines. This private day tour combines scenic boat rides, island hopping, and outdoor activities, all packed into an approximately 12-hour adventure. While the journey involves a long van ride, the experience at the islands makes it worthwhile for many travelers craving authentic outdoor fun.

We love that this tour provides inclusive fees—covering entrance, environmental permits, and boat rides—so you’re freed from extra costs and surprises. The expert local guides help you navigate the day, tailoring activities to your comfort and interest levels. Plus, the variety of stops—from cliff-jumping to snorkeling—keeps the day lively and engaging. However, the long drive from Manila might be a consideration if travel time is tight for you. This trip is perfect for those eager to explore the Philippines’ famed island landscapes without sacrificing a full day of their schedule.

Key Points

• All-inclusive pricing covers entrance, permits, and boat rides, making planning easier.
• Variety of activities like swimming, kayaking, cliff-jumping, and snorkeling caters to different adventure levels.
• Expert local guides tailor your day for safety and fun, offering insider tips and support.
• Long travel time from Manila is a downside, so be prepared for a full day on the road.
• Authentic outdoor experience in a protected national park setting, away from crowded tourist spots.
• Ideal for adventure lovers seeking a full day of nature and island fun.

The Journey Begins: Meeting and Departure

Your day starts early at Starbucks Mall of Asia at 4:00 am, where a comfortable van awaits to whisk you off toward Pangasinan. The early start means you’ll be on the road before sunrise, giving you a head start on your island adventures. While the long van ride (around 10 hours roundtrip) might seem daunting, it’s a small price to pay for the stunning scenery and active day ahead.

Traveling in a small group—max 15 people—this private tour offers a more personalized experience. The driver and guide are seasoned professionals, and you’ll be accompanied by a licensed tour guide who can answer questions and offer insights about the islands and local culture. The van ride, while lengthy, is broken up by the anticipation of arriving at the Hundred Islands and the promise of a fun-filled day.

The First Stop: Hundred Islands National Park

Arriving at Hundred Islands National Park, you’ll immediately see why this area is a standout. With 124 islands at low tide (and 123 at high tide), this protected area covers about 16.76 square kilometers of Lingayen Gulf. The scenery is compelling—small lush islands dotting clear blue waters, many perfect for a quick swim or photo session.

Entrance and environmental fees are included, which is a relief for travelers wary of hidden costs. The park is a UNESCO-recognized site, emphasizing its ecological importance, but don’t worry; it’s accessible and visitor-friendly. Expect to spend around 45 minutes here, soaking in the views and getting your first taste of island life.

Pilgrimage Island & the Big Statue of Jesus

Next, you’ll visit Pilgrimage Island, also known as Governor’s Island. This stop features a station of the cross and a large statue of Jesus, making it a spiritual and scenic highlight. You’ll also enjoy panoramic views from a 360-degree deck overlooking the islands.

This stop lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving you time to walk around, snap photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The guide often shares interesting stories about the island’s significance, adding depth to your visit.

Marcos Island: Cliff-Jumping and Underwater Caves

The highlight for many here is Marcos Island, home to Imelda Cave. The guide will help you decide if diving into the underwater cave or attempting cliff-jumping suits your comfort level. The guided instructions and safety measures are reassuring, especially for first-timers.

Reviewers mention that this stop is an adrenaline rush, with some noting that cliff-jumping can be a highlight, but only if you’re comfortable with heights. Expect to stay about 30-45 minutes, making it a compact but memorable adventure.

Coral Garden: Snorkeling and Marine Life

At the Coral Garden, you’ll enjoy a relaxing break with snorkeling opportunities (on your own expense), viewing vibrant corals and marine life. The guide emphasizes safety and offers tips for beginners, but since snorkeling isn’t included in the price, you might want to bring your own gear or rent locally.

This stop lasts around 30-45 minutes, providing a peaceful moment amidst the underwater scenery. Even if you don’t snorkel, the clear waters and coral formations are fascinating to observe from the boat.

Quezon Island: Lunch and Leisure

The largest stop is Quezon Island, where you’ll spend about two hours. This is the main hub for lunch, swimming, and optional activities. You can relax on the sandy beaches, explore the small islands, or rent kayaks and paddleboards (pax account). The guide suggests that many visitors enjoy just lounging and soaking up the sun here.

Some reviewers mention that the food options aren’t provided in the tour price, so bringing snacks or planning to buy at the island is a good idea. The area gets busy, but the lively atmosphere makes for a fun experience.

Children’s Island and Final Swim

Later, the tour makes a quick stop at Children’s Island, a designated swimming area offering a calmer, family-friendly environment. It lasts about 30 minutes, perfect for a last dip before heading back.

This final stop gives a chance to swim, relax, or take a few last photos of the islands before the journey back to Manila.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $114 per person covers most essentials: boat rides, entrance fees, environmental permits, life vests, and roundtrip van transfer. This makes it a good value, considering all activities and fees are included.

However, food and drinks are not covered, so bringing snacks or planning to buy on the islands is necessary. Also, accommodation isn’t part of this day trip, so if you plan to stay longer, you’ll need to organize that separately.

The Long Road and Real Traveler Insights

The most common critique is the long van ride—about 10 hours roundtrip—which can be tiring for some. One reviewer described it as a “brutal” journey but still affirmed that the experience at the islands is worth it.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trip smoother despite the lengthy journey. The tour is ideal for adventure seekers who don’t mind a full day on the road for a day packed with outdoor activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and don’t mind a long travel day. Families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a mix of relaxation and adrenaline will find plenty to love. If you’re after a quick, easy escape without the hassle of planning, this all-inclusive tour handles the logistics while letting you focus on having fun.

In The Sum Up

The Hundred Islands Day Tour from Manila offers a well-rounded experience of some of the Philippines’ most beautiful natural spots. It’s a value-packed way to enjoy island-hopping, outdoor activities, and scenic views—all with the guidance of knowledgeable locals.

While the long van ride is a consideration, the variety of stops, inclusive fees, and fun activities make it a solid choice for those eager to explore the country’s famed archipelago in a single day. This trip especially suits adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a taste of authentic island life without the fuss of multi-day arrangements.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, roundtrip van transfer from Manila is included in the tour price.

How long is the van ride? The total van journey is approximately 10 hours, roundtrip, which makes for a full day of travel and activity.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, all entrance fees and environmental permits are covered, so there are no hidden costs at each stop.

What activities are available? You can enjoy swimming, kayaking, cliff-jumping, snorkeling (extra), and exploring various islands and caves.

Is food provided? No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring snacks or plan to purchase on the islands.

How many people are in the group? The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, enhancing personal attention.

What should I bring? Bring sunscreen, swimwear, a hat, water, and possibly your own snorkeling gear if preferred.

What is the best time to go? The tour requires good weather; poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

Can I customize activities? The guide will help you choose suitable activities, but options like snorkeling and kayaking depend on your preferences and safety.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, there’s a swimming area at Children’s Island, making it family-friendly, but parental discretion is advised for cliff-jumping and longer activities.

This detailed look at the Hundred Islands Day Tour from Manila highlights an adventure that balances scenic beauty, outdoor fun, and practical planning. If you’re prepared for a full day on the road, the islands await with their stunning vistas and lively atmosphere.