With its deep repertoire of marine life and vast natural attractions, Ticao Island – one of Masbate's three major islands – has caught the attention of tourism since it was used as a setting for various movies and travel shows.
Surrounded by coconut trees, Ticao Island is a peaceful haven for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
It is popular mainly with scuba divers because it is near other tourist islands, and the area's top diving locations are just 5 to 45 minutes away.
Diving sanctuary
Because of its location, Ticao Island is surrounded by bodies of water that are home to friendly marine beings like whale sharks and manta rays.
The famed Manta Bowl is between Sorsogon and the Ticao Islands in Masbate. Manta Bowl is where divers interact with manta rays, whale sharks, and other sea animals.
Tourists exhaust their oxygen tanks, utilize their diving boots, and dust off their underwater cameras to capture the beauty of the Manta Bowl area.
Scattered gems
Habal-habal or single motorcycles are everywhere on the island, as going around the island often requires visitors to rent one. This is a popular mode of transportation in Ticao, as it allows tourists to explore the island faster.
Matang-Tubig Spring, a natural spring where the local people usually do their laundry and even drink water, is just about a half-hour motorcycle ride. This location is a tourist favorite due to its clear, cold, and pristine water.
Up north of Ticao is the Halea Natural Park on San Miguel Island. In Halea, a winding coastline is separated by several beach coves, making this a great backdrop in every tourist's pictures.
There are also unique falls nestled in Ticao, such as the meter-high Dalakit Waterfalls and the Catandayagan Falls, where the water falls straight down to the sea.
The selection of lodging options is limited because Ticao Island is still a lesser-known tourist destination. But options are expected to emerge as it becomes increasingly popular with tourists.
Nevertheless, Ticao offers a unique experience for travelers. From land to the sea, Ticao provides an escape from the daily grind of the city life.
