(By using assorted bamboos, the word Lakawon was created as a photo op for tourist. Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. December 2018.)
Unknown to many tourists, this bountiful province is home to some of the most instagram-worthy islands. The imposing, banana-shaped island of Lakawon Island Resort is one of the most popular resort destinations in the Province of Negros Occidental, located off the coast of Cadiz city, just outside of Bacolod city.
(Sun plus sea salt smell skin equals to a craving satisfied summer of 2018. Whatever months of the year. Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. December 2018.)
It is known for its sublime white sands and denim blue water which stretch for 16 hectares and provide the ideal getaway. It's about a two-hour drive from Bacolod City's downtown. It's a small island with cream sand and turquoise water in the distance. Lakawon is now dotted with open cottages, but the Taw Hai Floating Bar, called Asia's largest floating bar, is what brings visitors here.
(Bridge to the resort after the boat arrive makes one of Instagram worthy place for tourist. Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. December 2018.
The Taw Hai Floating Bar is the ideal spot to enjoy a beer or margarita while watching the sunset. For unlimited boat operation, there is a PHP 250 bill. Before entering the floating bar, you must also sign a waiver. Lakawon Island has a resort with modern amenities and the world-famous floating bar. Lakawon is an instant success thanks to its accessibility and affordability, making it ideal for anyone looking for a day or two of fun in the sun, sea, and sun. Lakawon has a beautiful white beach with coarse corals. Coconut trees abound on the lovely sand.
(Bracelet badge is needed to enter and enjoy Tawhai Float. Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. December 2018.)
Aside from swimming, there were many sports to partake in on the island, including boating, snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. There were also several sports facilities. The island resort is ideal for relaxing and unwinding.
(Surrounded with water, Tawhai Float is a bar floating. Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. December 2018.)
To get there, go to Bacolod's Ceres North terminal. Catch a bus that goes to Burgos public market for P250. Transfer to the port on a tricycle for P120; travel time is 15 minutes. For P270, book a boat to the island and pay all fees. This one fascinates me because everything about visiting Lakawon Island is centralized and well-organized. It's important to remember that they're talking about cashless transactions on the island (not credit and debit cards). As a result, you'll need to get the Lakawon Island card from the port you'll be using. Before boarding a boat to the island, you must purchase and reload the card that will be used to pay for all purchases made at the resort. Don't worry if you haven't finished it all; you can request a refund once your trip is over.
The last trip back to the mainland for day use visitors is at 5:00 p.m. The journey takes 30 minutes. Please keep in mind that any food or beverages you carry to the Island, including bottled water, will be subject to a corkage fee. Book an overnight stay (in a bed, hut, cottage, or canopy tent) and jam at the evening party or enjoy a good drink at the floating bar, which is open until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until 8:00 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
I visited the island and took several picture-perfect photographs. From the bridge to the beach to the floating bar, the ambiance and laid-back setting appeal to me. Cleanliness and orderliness are well-maintained, with garbage bins located around the beach and workers patrolling the area on a regular basis. Though the sand isn't as white as it appears in the photo .
Written & Photograph: Anna Marie Villaester
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