March 19-20, 2016: Potipot Getaway (2D1N)
For those who are planning on a trip to Potipot, here's a guide that can help you regarding the expenses and other infos needed.
We went to Zambales via Victory Liner Bus (Bustillos Terminal). First trip going to Candelaria was 6:00 am. Thats also the bus route to Iba-Sta.Cruz. It took us 7 hours to arrive at our destination. The bus left at around 6:30 am and arrived at 1:30 pm. Upon arriving at the nearest landmark, we rode a tricycle. Just a 1 to 2 minutes away from the resort that we're going to stay. Actually, drop off place is just a walking distance from the resort. Its just that we have lots of stuff to bring.
We stayed at Sunbloom Resort, a beach front resort and is just 3 minutes away from Potipot Island. Air conditioned room is good for 4pax already. At night, they can setup a bonfire by the beach if you would want to. Gate or access to the beach gets closed at 12MN. Resort has a mini store as well but there are also other stores and carinderias near the place just in case you’re still looking for some. People can also play volleyball by the beach. We loved how the staff accommodated us even if its already late. (FYI: No wifi and tv at rooms) Check-in is 1:00 PM and Check-out is 11:00 AM.
Since we have been informed that there are no food and drinks at the island, we've decided to bring our own. But actually there is. Hmm. Though its only good for meriendas and snack. Still, I suggest you to bring your own food specially if you’re planning to stay there ovenight.
The boat going to Potipot Island has been provided by the resort (separate fee) and also, don’t forget to bring money as there is an entrance fee to the island and just in case you’ll buy souvenirs, snacks, etc. We stayed there for 3 hours (3:00 pm-6:00 pm). 6:00 pm is the last trip for those who are not going to stay at the island overnight.
Potipot is a small island. One can explore the entire island within 20 minutes (which we actually did). They do have some basic facilities like restrooms, shower areas, cottages and grilling station. There are no rentals for tent so if you’re planning to spend there for a night, make sure you have your own. There is also no electricity since it is an island (bring powerbank). But the good thing is, there are phone signals. We visited the island twice. In the afternoon during our 1st day, then early in the morning during our 2nd day. The sand is white and fine. For the water, some parts have seaweeds, some part is bluish and clear. You can explore the island to observe and check which part has.
That night, after we’ve been to Potipot Island, we went to Potipot Gateway Resort for the Earth Hour. We found out this event from their facebook page. Though we are not checked in at their hotel, they are open for visitors since there is an event. Surprisingly, there is no reservation fee. Thumbs-up to that! Actually, before I have booked at where we’re staying, I have also inquired at this resort. Aside that their room rate is kind of pricey, it is already fully booked. No wonder ‘cause the resort is big and nice. Most guests are also foreigners. There’s also this one lady (I think she’s one of the owners), she’s very accommodating and is hands on during the event. The event has been held by the beach. We have also tried their food and its tasty. Worth the price.
After experiencing earth hour at Potipot Gateway Resort, we head back to Sunbloom Resort. We still didn’t have our rest, instead, we stayed by the beach with our bonfire setup and got the chance to meet new people.
I will surely recommend all the resorts we’ve been to. ^__^
Sunbloom Beach Resort: 0906 279 3607 (Allan)
Boatman: 0910 265 2053 (Steve)
Potipot Gateway Resort: 0917 554 8554