Vanishing Island at the Island Garden City of Samal
One luxury we have here in Davao is our proximity to the ocean and the beach. The Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) is around 10 minutes to 1 hour away depending on which part of the island you’re going to and from which wharf you’re coming from. One islet that belongs to IGACOS is the Vanishing Island.
Remember when former Binibining Pilipinas Universe Charlene Gonzales was asked how many island there are in the Philippine archipelago? And she answered with “Low tide or high tide?” I’m not too sure if she was talking about the IGACOS Vanishing Island but it is one of those islands that vanish during high tide. When we went there for the Davao Food Appreciation Tour, it was before lunch time and the tide was still low. Lookie…
Vanishing Island during Low Tide
Image by Renz Bulseco of The Traveling Nomad.
When it’s low tide you can wade through the waters and to the sand bar where you can have a picnic, do a bit of snorkeling, and do a whole lot of camwhoring.
Camwhoring at the Vanishing Island
Image by Renz Bulseco of The Traveling Nomad.
There are some sea urchins and starfish, among other sea creatures, on the sea floor so be careful when wading through it. Don’t worry though, the sea is crystal clear you won’t have a problem navigating your way through the critters.
And during high tide, the sand bar is nowhere to be found but the water is still perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and doing some aqua sports. Some guests brought a jet ski when I was there during the afternoon high tide. You can also paddle with a small banca or kayak.
Paddling at the Vanishing Island
There’s a lot you can do at the Vanishing Island, whether it’s high tide or low tide. The water is crystal clear, there are beautiful coral reefs around for snorkeling, and of course, there’s a lot of picturesque angles to be photographed. 😉
You may reach the Vanishing Island via the Sta Ana Wharf, the Sasa Wharf or the small jetty ports dotting the Davao City coastline. I suggest you take an Islands Banca Cruise for a comfortable navigation to Vanishing Island and IGACOS’s various beach, snorkeling, and aqua sports spots.
For more information about Islands Banca Cruises in Davao, like their page at this link or you may contact them at +6382-2842066, +63906-3757933, and at +63932-1299009.
This is a great place to go. Im staying now in Davao for 3 months and Im planning to visit this place. Samal island is really a must to see place if you are in Davao.