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Pandan Island is a private island with a small resort on the West coast of Occidental Mindoro, Central Philippines.Since the island was 'discovered' and the resort established in 1986 by a French adventurer, this tropical island retreat has been voted time and again as one of the top resorts in the Philippines, not in terms of luxury (we do not have air-conditioned rooms, room service or cable television networks on the island) but for it's life close to nature and it's personalized atmosphere. Pandan Island is for people who like to spend time in tropical surroundings where you are woken up by the singing of colorful birds, where there is only a palm tree between you and the sea, where you still know your neighbors.All bungalows are built in native materials, like coconut lumber, bamboo, sawali, cogon grass to let them blend easily into their tropical surroundings. Care has been taken to provide a simple yet comfortable atmosphere with a maximum of privacy for all who need to get away from hectic life. Since all the electricity on the island is provide by a solar system our bungalows do not have air-con or fans.T he bungalows are built directly by the sea separated from the beach only by palm trees and / or bougainvillea bushes with the breeze from the sea providing for ventilation.Each house has its private gecko (lat. gecko gecko) that is believed to bring good luck to the house it inhabits.Besides spending your day in a hammock or exploring the few secluded beaches, we offer a wide range of activities to choose from. Scuba Diving in the coral gardens around Pandan or around the nearby Apo Reef is the most popular and exciting activity to engage in but we also offer you the possibility to explore the jungle rivers of nearby Mindoro by kayak or visit the small coastal town of Sablayan and meet its friendly inhabitants.However you choose to spend your vacation, our staff will do their utmost to make your stay on Pandan Island a relaxing or adventurous experience.
Pandan This place needs to be honest about what it is. It advertises itself as a resort but instead it is a destination for literally hundreds of day trippers who take over the place with their cooking, their loud (generally awful) music, their karaoke and their excited screaming.
Let’s be clear: it is perfectly fine to have a place that is catering for day trippers. But then you simply should NOT advertise the place as a quiet or in any way exclusive resort. And you should not mix the two customer groups as they are looking for totally different experiences.
You pay for your Villa, but you can’t access the best part of the beach as it is full of the day trip hoards. Your food takes an hour to come out of the kitchen because they are prepping food for the day trippers. The restaurant is full of smoke from the many barbecues and camp fires on the beach.
And all that peace and quiet and nature that you were seeking by coming all the way to Pandan is simply impossible to find. It is more like a day trip to an SM mall than to a vacation resort.
The staff are pleasant and friendly but there isn’t really any “service”. No one greets you on arrival and no one was there to see us off when we left.
Biggest plus for Pandan is the dive shop which is well equipped, professionally run (though again you may struggle to rent a mask as those have all gone out to the day trippers). The dive trip out to Apo Reef is worth every penny, though I would suggest packing towels for the divers.
The resort is happily rustic and we were looking for that. No aircon, very little fresh water, the towels are threadbare etc. So this place isn’t for you if you want to be comfortable. We were looking for that “back to basics” feeling so we were happy enough with the accommodation and the food (which was excellent if short on fresh vegetables). Even the rat in the villa didn’t freak us too much!
Sadly our trip was ruined due to the lack of privacy, the noise and the marauding crowds. We were also concerned about security as the rooms don’t have locks despite the many unknown people milling around.
The island itself is a natural beauty (if rather uncared for with the beach not cleaned and the areas behind the villas literally dumping grounds), but there are many others like it in the Philippines that are more accessible, better managed and better value.
Won’t be back and would not recommend to anyone as a vacation spot - unless you are looking to make a day trip with your works outing or extended family reunion, in which case you will be in plenty of good company!
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Date of stay: April 2022Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip:Certainly avoid the budget rooms as they are right next to the day tripper cabanas
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This place is great for a „back to nature“ trip - I love how the resort is kept simple and how well they protect the amazing natural surroundings. The huts feel very cozy, and you can sleep hearing the sounds of the waves and the birds. The resort is quite rustic, but very comfortable in every aspect, especially in comparison to other similar places in the Philippines. I appreciate very much that they use only solar power instead of a noisy generator. You can use electric fans anytime, so it’s even comfy in the heat of the summer. The atmosphere on the island is very good, the staff are happy and laid-back people, and it’s easy to socialize with other guests, who tend to come back there every year. We were able to see turtles every time we went snorkeling. Sadly, the reef has been damaged by several storms, but it is partly growing back and we saw many huge fish, all kinds of colorful angle fish, unicorn fish, snakes, rays, and many more. It feels like being in a different world. Watching the sunrise in the mornings has been amazing too. Dinner buffet was delicious every day. You will not be able to enjoy this place fully though if you are freaking out about animals entering the rooms, no door locks , having no AC etc. This is just nature though! It’s smart to put any snacks in sealed containers during your stay to avoid attracting insects. I love this place so much, if I could I would go there every month!
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Date of stay: March 2023
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Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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A unique place both in its geographical location and in the state of mind that prevails there. Here, no key to his room, no social difference, nature and environment at the center of concerns, beautiful diving sites, easy access snorkeling, no vehicle so no noise except that of the surrounding nature. A haven of peace. We eat wonderfully well with Joel as our chef. A staff ready to help you constantly, a connection with other travelers in the middle of a bar by the sea, in short, a privileged place for those looking for calm, a return to the roots or a break in a busy life. Those looking for 4 or 5 stars, go elsewhere. Comfort is simple but sufficient. A diving center with the boat that goes well to bring you around the island (1 hour by paddle or canoe) for fun dives, or to allow you to discover Apo Reef, magical place of diving or snorkeling of the Philippines. And two brothers at the head of it all, who speak French for those who are interested and who are listening to you. For those who have easy criticism, including a comment on diving, I have always felt safe. No water problems. Spending a day there and making a general opinion is limit. I spent 10 days there, 6 years after going there and I did not encounter any problems at any level. Privilege can be in low season, when it is less crowded (well there are 20 bungalows so we don't walk on each other be quiet). But whatever the season, this place is really unique. Anyway, I'll go back again and again. Thank you 🙏
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Date of stay: November 2024
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Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We used Pandan Island as a jumping off point for diving on Apo Reef and spent one night here before the dives and one night afterwards. The island is a very short (but slow) trip from Sablayan. You'll need to be careful about the tides as we couldn't get back into the port where we had parked the cars because of low tide so went to the other side of the headland. It worked out fine as the boatman had an arrangement with a trike driver who took us to where we had parked the cars.
The accommodation on the island is basic in terms of there being no fresh water on the island but the staff bring fresh water from the mainland. As a consequence you shower in salt water and rinse off with the fresh water. They provide standing fans in the rooms and nets over the bed. They have a number of well set apart rooms and we had a place which was good for 7 of us.
The food they produce is really tasty and produced in a large volume. They have a well-stocked bar which most people congregate around in the evening.
They have a large diving set up. We did a dive off the island the afternoon we arrived which was OK but the main objective was to go to Apo Reef. They provided a large live aboard banca which we slept on for one night. The crew did an outstanding job in the food they produced on board and the diving was excellent. The team was really professional.
The set up on the island is rustic but it's exactly what it should be for an island like this and we all really enjoyed ourselves and will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: February 2025
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Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Pete T, Owner at Pandan Island Resort
Responded 4 weeks ago
Hi Marhills3388 Thank you for your comments. We hope to welcome you again in the future. The Pandan Island Team
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pandan Island resort is a hidden gem of the coast of Mindoro. If you put in the effort of getting there you will be spoiled by the perfect beach, dive and friendly/helpful staff. The lifestyle out there is very relaxed and enables you to unplug and recharge. The food have high standards compared to many other places in the Philippines, and prices are absolutely fair. We didn’t manage to go for a trip to Apo reef because of to much wind during our stay but it is absolutely worth a visit according to the other guest.
Hang out in the cozy bar, watch the sunset on the beach and enjoy life there.
Be aware that it’s very simple huts, and think of bringing earplugs if you are a light sleeper. But it’s worth the Geckos noise and wind during the night!
Pandan has our out most recommendations!
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Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Pete T, Owner at Pandan Island Resort
Responded Feb 2, 2023
Hi Mikkels Thank you so much for your review. We hope to see you again soon and show you the beauty of Apo Reef yours Pandan Island
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While this resort has limited power supply and little fresh water, the "off the grid" experience combined with great service and diving make it worth trying.
If you are looking for 5 star comfort, air conditioning, TV, etc., this is not the place. But if you want a true back to nature experience with true Filipino heart, this resort is highly recommended.
As the Island is close to Sablayan, surprisingly, I got good cell service there, with cell data as well, so I had internet!
If you are doing Apo Reef, this is one of the two options that get you as close as possible, able to go there and back in a day.
The diving around the island itself was fantastic. Led by Sid from the dive shop "Mariposa Divers", who not only was a great dive master, but his keen eyes underwater found stuff that most people would not see.
The boat captain helped this old guy with his gear, and the rest of the dive staff were super friendly.
The owner, Denis, was super accommodating as I wanted to try some other operators in the area so I could reviw more, and he was very gracious - in fact arranging transport for me to his competitors! A class act.
Super friendly, caring, with genuine hospitality, highly recommended for those who can handle and appreciate a nature experience.
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Date of stay: October 2019
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We have been there one week, two families with toddlers. I really can't find anything which wasn't just perfect. Of course, it us Island with no water or electricity. The sockets are only on the bar. In the rooms there are only fans, no A/C. But who cares? It is paradise. Everything works properly, staff does everything to make you happy. Everyone smiles and they mean it. On the other hand you feel here asat home. You can go to bar to charge cell phone, no asking. I really felt as a member of family than guest. Food is incredible and the proces are quiet low.
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Date of stay: March 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Pete T, Owner at Pandan Island Resort
Responded Mar 12, 2024
Hi Petrm Thank you so much for your review. I will pass on your compliments to our staff. We hope to welcome you another time on Pandan Island. Best regards Peter
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The island itself is very beautiful and location excellent. Bungalows were decent and atmospheric and food was very good. However the behavior of the French owner was completely unacceptable and ruined our stay in the island. We stayed in the island for 3 days and the owner was pretty much drunk the hole time letting the Filipino staff take care of the everyday things. I feel that in a family resort like this his drunken very loud behavior is something I don't want my two kids witness. Our limit was reached on the third evening when he took our eight year old daughter into his arms while drunk and without permission and hold her in a away that's not acceptable in any sense and I am even terrified to describe it here. It was utterly revolting and we decided to leave the island immediately. I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone especially with children! !
Katherine
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Date of stay: December 2014
Value
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Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This island is one of the best I've visited. It's like paradise, white sand, clear water, good food and great diving. The resort is very well organized and well maintained. This is not a luxury resort but extremely friendly. As mentioned on their website, the tap water is salted but you get some fresh water to rinse you after your shower. As there is only solar power, there is no fans or aircons. We visited the island in May and it was quite hot but we get used to it.
The standard bungalows are really nice and big enough. Each of them as its private large terrace and they are all facing the sea which is only a few meters away. Budget room are smaller and built in one building. For the price, I would recommend the standard bungalows.
At this period of the year, breakfast was served "à la carte", 120 pesos for a continental and 160 pesos for an american breakfast. Lunch was also "à la carte". 95 pesos for chicken noodles, 110 for a burger, 180 pesos for fried fish with rice. Evening buffet is actually very good. There was always a soup, a choice of salads, fresh fish in general BBQ and meat meal + dessert. The food is really good and every day was different. Note that meals are taken altogether. This was not the most romantic atmosphere but we met several other nice travelers. There is also a nice bar with pool table almost on the beach . Prices are reasonable, approx 50 pesos for 1 beer and bottles of wine are sold from around 590 pesos. Note that during meals, there is always drinkable tap water free of charge.
Staff is extremely helpful and very nice. The owner Dominique was also very friendly.
We tried the massage offered (550pesos for 1.5h). The masseur was very professional and this was a really relaxing moment.
The diving around the island is good as well as the snorkeling. There are several turtles just a few meters from the beach. The beach is great. The diving center "Mariposa Diving" is also very well organized and professional. See related page for review.
I do highly recommend this resort and wish to go back!!
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Date of stay: May 2013
Value
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Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Room Tip:Any standard room facing the sea
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Although the English version of the Lonely Planet says the resort offers free boat transfer to and from the mainland, this is no longer true. As of this writing, local boats charge 200-250 Pesos + 50 per passenger one way. There are no power sockets in the bungalows. As for the bathroom, the tap and shower water is slightly salty but there is a large bucket of fresh water you can use to rinse off. Phones can be charged in the dive shop for free but expect to pay 40 Pesos each time you charge your laptop or tablet. Wifi (for pay) is available only in the diveshop and only until 6 p.m. Also, the doors of the bungalows don't lock. Valuables can be put in a safe at the reception. As for the rest of your possessions, thou shalt trust thy neighbor.
We thought the standard bungalows were a bit overpriced for what they were.
All consumption is charged to your personal sheet. Be careful: we have seen people contesting the bill because they were charged separately for drinks that were part of a set breakfast meal. Also, if any write-up or sign in the resort makes you believe that your kid (younger than 4) will eat for free, know that it applies only to buffet meals. Our friends were unpleasantly surprised.
With these caveats out of the way, everything else is pretty much as advertized.
The food and drinks were reasonably priced despite the resort being the only outfit on the island. Given the 25 pesos charge for a mug of instant coffee, they could splurge on a better brand, though. The buffet is OK but be on time; fruit disappears pretty quickly.
My biggest beef is with the dive shop. Several disconcerting events took place while we were there, including a fatal accident, but I will limit my comments to what I saw with my own eyes. Other divers who were there that week will probably write about their experience. If not, ask away.
Unless you've logged over 100 dives, you are required to complete one local "test" dive before heading out to Apo Reef. No problem there: the conditions in Apo can be rough, and you are almost 3 hours by boat from the nearest hospital. Except: one dive leader was assigned to a group of 7 (!) divers on both our local dives. (at 1,650 pesos a pop, which is a lot, given how unremarkable local dives are there) The dive leader paid almost no attention to the group. He didn't ask anyone about their air consumption. In the end, two of the less-experienced divers, who had been left at the tail of the group, surfaced on their own while the rest of the group continued to dive with the dive leader up front.All dive shops we've dived with so far send at most 4 divers with one dive leader.
Initially, we ended up canceling our daytrip to Apo Reef because we were afraid of being put in a group with someone who may empty his bottle in 30 minutes, effectively forcing us to abort our dives as well, regardless of how much is left in our bottles. Given the five hours on the boat that the day trip would involve, and a bit shy of 10,000 pesos per head it would cost, it wasn't a risk we were willing to take. In the meantime, other divers started voicing their safety concerns over dinners, which only cemented our decision not to go.
If you are, for some reason, coming only for local dives, don't bother. Whatever we saw (turtles, rays, lionfish, etc.) we saw in the first five meters. The most interesting bits of the dives were like snorkeling with scuba gear.
If you want to go to Apo, check out other providers. If you still end up on Pandan Island, insist on smaller groups of similarly-abled divers.
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Date of stay: February 2013Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pandan Island, Philippines6 contributions4 helpful votes
Hi Taoze,
diving at Apo Reef starts at 10meters (30 ft) so also beginners can enjoy it. Important is a good buoancy control since all the dives are along deep dropoffs.
We request for openwater divers with less than 100 logged dives a check-up dive around Pandan Island before we bring them to Apo Reef. Visibility is normally around 25 -30 meters (80 -100 ft). She can of course skip some of the dives if she wishes to. We spend the night on the boat inside the lagoon of Apo Reef.
How old is your daughter btw?
I hope my answer helped to clarify things for you
Peter from PandanIsland
Pandan Island, Philippines6 contributions4 helpful votes
Salut Reynald, entre décembre et mai c'est notre haute saison , donc je te conseille de faire une réservation pour être sûr de trouver une chambre sur Pandan Island
Salutation Peter
There are more places to choose from in the Pandan Island area.
ALSO KNOWN AS
pandan island hotel pandan island
LOCATION
PhilippinesMindoroOccidental Mindoro ProvincePandan Island
NUMBER OF ROOMS
24
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