The Great Sta Cruz Island in Zamboanga City is quickly gaining recognition among travelers here and abroad because of its pristine and pink sand beach. It was featured in numerous travel magazines and websites and cited as one of the best beaches in the world by the National Geographic.
The color of the sand came from the red organ pipe corals crushed by waves over the years and mixed with the white sand of the beach. The Great Sta Cruz Island together with the Little Sta Cruz Island are protected areas of the Philippines. The latter is off limits to tourists but there is a nice sand bar where you can have your picture taken with the island at the background.
There are no hotels or inns nor restaurants and shops at the Great Sta Cruz Island. But there are locals selling fresh seafood which you can buy and have it grilled otherwise you have to bring your own food and water.
How to get to The Great Sta Cruz Island
The starting point to reach the island is from Paseo del Mar. Drop by first at the Department of Tourism office in the area and a tourism officer will brief you on the important things about your trip and the island. The first trip starts at 7:00 AM. The round trip boat rental fee is Php 1000.00 for ten people. There is also an entrance fee of Php 20.00 and terminal fee of Php 5.00 per guest. The boat ride is approximately 15 minutes and military escorts will accompany you on your trip to and from the island. There are cottages on the island which you can rent for Php 100.00 to Php 500.00. Bringing of liquor is strictly prohibited and smoking is also not allowed.
Overnight is not allowed on the island. You can stay up to 2:00 PM only and must head back to Paseo del Mar while the ocean is still calm. Everyone are reminded to be a responsible eco-tourist, that is clean as you go and bring your trash back to the mainland.
Until my next trip, see you onTara... Let's Go!
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