Cagbalete

Cagbalete is an Island off the coast of Mauban, Quezon, and a great destination, especially, for those who do not want to be with a big crowd at the beach. It is not as impressive as the beach in Calaguas or El Nido (not as white or as fine), and the water disappears during low tide. But what I like about the place is the peace and quiet. I also hear that sunrise is beautiful here, but sad that we missed it.

Accommodation could still be improved in Cagbalete, but that's nothing if all you want is respite from stress. There are lot of resorts to choose from, where camping is also allowed. We stayed at Villa Noe, where we paid Php 1000 for the cottage and Php 200/tent for the pitching fee (They also rent out tents). It was a good deal for the price. The cottage has a dirty kitchen where you could cook your meals. Just don't forget to bring your cook set and stove.


How to get there:

Bus Terminal: Jac/Jam liner (or any bus passing by Lucena) 
Fare: Php 220
Travel time to Lucena: 3 hours (but on long weekends, that could go up to as long as 6 hours)

- From Lucena, take a mini bus to Mauban (1.5 hours; Php 50~). You may also take the van, which is slightly more expensive, but also 30 minutes faster.

- From Mauban, walk or take a tricycle to the port.
- You can either look for private boats (we got ours at Php 3500) that will bring you to Cagbalete and back or take the public one (Php 40~). First trip to the island is at 10 am, and the next one's at 4pm.

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