Together with my friend Bendel, we packed for an early ferry ride at CCP complex enroute to Bataan. Unfortunately we missed the 8 am ride and had to wait for 10 am trip.

After a couple of hours, we arrived at the port of Orion and rode an hour more to Mariveles proper. We were fetched by Elmer, son of the owner of the resort for another tricycle ride going Sitio Porto where a motorized banca was waiting for us.

Elmer told us that for a group outing, it's better to hire a van from Port Orion to Sitio Porto. Ferry is much faster and convenient than the 4-hour bus ride from Manila if you're on limited time.

After a while, we were greeted by the shining white sand; unspoiled and very tranquil. A visit here would remind one of Boracay's powder-like sand. Actually, the island is privately-owned by several residents of the Sitio, but they eventually opened it up to the public. Its development is on a per stage basis since funds are not sufficient for the full development of the resort. That's why Elmer told us that they are open for possible investors .

Way back in 1998, I visited the island with friends and we only camped on the island. Today, they have 3 open type "kubos" for rent at very affordable prices. The place have already small kitchen and comfort rooms. Though they are not as comfy as we expected in a resort, the place is suited for campers and barkada outing because of the island's reclusion.

We hiked the cliff to have a good view of the island. There I named the place "Half Moon Island" because of its half-moon shape. Old folks called the place "Lusong" but I renamed it to make it more applealing to the visiting public. There are still places worth visiting there like the mini-falls which is a 45-minute hike. However, the time was not sufficient for us to catch the ferry back to Manila. I promise to be back in this place with in the summer of 2006 with some friends and probably with models for a bikini fashion shoot:)

GENERAL INFO

Half-Moon Island is an exclusive island destination situated along the southeast China Sea in the town of Mariviles, Bataan. Its sparkling crystal-clear turquiose waters and powdery-fine white sand defines this island; reason why some tourists call it "Little Boracay". The island is best for snorkeling and relaxation for those who love tropical privacy. The green lush and cascading falls on the island can be reached in minutes through hiking. The serenity of the island is appropriate for nature lovers and honeymooners.

HOW TO GET THERE:

By Land

From Manila- It is a 4-hour travel via air conditioned bus to Mariviles . From there, one can hire a tricycle to Sitio Porto. From this point, the island can be reached within 15 minutes thru motored bangkas for hire.

By Sea

From Manila- Mt. Samat ferry is the sole transportation that has a regular route to Orion, Mariveles. There is no direct route to Mariveles that's why from Orion you need to take a bus ride or hire a van going to downtown Mariveles. Once there, a hired tricycle can take you to Sitio Porto. Then motorized bangkas await for a 15-minute ride to the island.

ACCOMODATION

The island is not yet fully-developed and guests will be thrilled to experience an open-air nipa hut accommodation where guests can relax with the breeze of the open sea. Guests can cook their own food and little "tindahans" are available for immediate needs. Some guests prefer to bring tents to camp and revel at the sight of fine white sands— truly best for adventure seekers. Guests are required to bring their own sleeping bags if they want a comfortable resting place. The island is at its best from April to May due to unstable wave conditions especially during rainy seasons.

Travel Tips

Travel light

The Half-Moon island has no dress code. Mostly you will walk and stand on sand. Slippers and casual, comfortable summer shoes are advisable. And your most worn outfit, at least at day time, will be shorts and T-shirts.