Kalanggaman Island

Article By: Anna Reed

3 years ago

0 ratings

Accomodation-Campsite Culture-Landmark Exercise-Swimming Nature-Beach Nature-Island Nature-Ocean

The jewel of Leyte, Kalanggaman Island, is a beautiful sandy island situated between Leyte and the northern tip of Cebu. Famous for its pristine, white sand beach Kalanggaman Island is a favourite destination for international cruise ships, local boat operators, and tourists who visit the island to enjoy the gorgeous beach and crystal blue waters. "Langgam" is the Visayan word for bird, and Kalanggaman Island gets its name due to its bird-shaped outline and also because it is a waypoint for migratory birds. Aside from its gorgeous stretch of beach, Kalanggaman is also famous for its colourful soft-coral wall dives and snorkelling just off the beach. Scuba divers love the various fan corals along the wall because they are home to the elusive and much sought after pygmy seahorse. Be sure to pack food and drinks with you when you visit the island. There's a small shop on the island where you can buy snacks and refreshments, but the offerings are very basic, and the selection is small. Depending on the time of year, you can also purchase food directly from vendors strolling the beach selling grilled food, refreshments, and popsicles. There is an entrance fee to visit the island, and it is Php 150.00 for locals and Php 500.00 for foreign tourists. For those wishing to camp or stay overnight on the island, simple open-air huts and tents are available for rent. Expect to pay Php 1,000.00 for a 2-person hut and Php 250.00 for a 2-person tent. (Kalanggaman Drone Photos: Matt Reed, Pygmy Seahorse Photo: David Joyce)