Antique: Malalison Travel Notes

Malalison Island, popularized as Mararison Island to the locals, is the newest attraction in Culasi, Antique.  Just around 15-minute boat ride from the mainland of Antique, one can enjoy serenity and beauty of the island.  Having around 55-hectare land area, the hook-shaped island is known for its powdery white sand, magnificent rolling hills (like that of Batanes), carnivorous pitcher plants, diverse sea creatures and long white sandbar.  

How did We Get There

• Travelled all the way from Naga City to Manila then flew to Kalibo, Aklan. 
• Stayed overnight at Esperanza hotel 
•  Left Esperanza Hotel, Kalibo, Aklan the next morning and rode a tricycle (Php10/person) going to Ceres Bus Terminal
• Boarded a bus bound to San Jose / Culasi with a fare of Php110/person, travel time is 2 hours
• Ask the driver / conductor to drop you off at the Culasi boulevard then walk straight at the right side passing the Municipal Hall and the plaza; at the end you'll see the port and on your left, you'll spot the Tourism Office

• You may pay the environmental fee and terminal fee of Php40 either at the Tourism Office  in Culasi or at the Tourism booth when you set foot in the island
• The outrigger boat can be rented at the Tourism Office also for Php750 (I think this is good for 5 persons) which is inclusive of the island tour, snorkeling and the ride to and fro the island
• The journey to the island is roughly 15-20 mins 

Where We Stayed

• We stayed at Allan Macuja's homestay, Php500/2 pax fan room with private restroom
• You can reach him at +63 939 266 8849
• There are no restaurants in the island, so you can either cook your own food or have the caretaker prepare them for you for Php100/menu

Things We Did

• Strolled around the island on foot and talked to locals

• Snorkeled

• Trekked up the hill 

                 Notes: One may avail the assistance of a tour guide at the tourism booth near the entrance of the island which costs around Php 200 / pax.  

• Got up close with hundreds of pitcher plants

• Took tons of photos with amazing backdrops

having Mt. Madja-as my backdrop

• Stayed at the shore and enjoyed that priceless moment

Our stay at the island was quite brief but was rewarding enough despite the weather condition.  We may have failed to lay our eyes and feet on the sandbar, the Nablag Islet and the mini-cave, however, there will always be next time, right?  

Our Expenses 

Breakdown	Cost	Total
Hotel Esperanza (dorm-like)	P200/pax	P400
Tricycle to Cere Bus	P 10 / pax	P20
Ceres Bus (Kalibo to Culasi)	P 110 / pax	P220
Environmental / Terminal Fee @ Culasi Port	P30 / pax	P60
Boat	P 750 /5 pax	P750
Brunch c/o caretaker	P315	P315
Hike	P200/5 pax	P200
Dinner	P63	P63
Homestay	P250/pax	P500
Total		Php 2528

*You may check my previous posts for more information and photos
* Got inquiries?  Comment or send me a message :)