Torn Between Bantayan and Camotes Islands in North Cebu? Read This First.

Both Bantayan and Camotes promise white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and quiet island life. But the experience can be totally different. Bantayan feels more laidback and tourist-ready, while Camotes has a calmer, off-the-grid vibe.

If you’re trying to decide which one fits your travel style, this guide will help. We’ll break down what to expect - from beaches and costs to transport and things to do - so you can make the most of your trip.

And when it’s time to go, Cebu Tourist Transfers can take you straight to the right port, whether it’s Hagnaya Port for Bantayan or Danao Port for Camotes.

Which Island Should You Choose If You Only Have a Few Days?

If you're tight on time, choosing the right island matters. While both are in North Cebu, getting to Bantayan or Camotes involves different travel routes, schedules, and vibes.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet: 

What Are the Beaches Like in Bantayan vs Camotes?

If you're dreaming of white sand between your toes, both Bantayan and Camotes deliver but in very different ways.

Bantayan Island is what many picture when they think of a beach vacation. Wide, powdery stretches like Sugar Beach and Kota Beach offer postcard-perfect views and calm, swimmable waters. The sand is soft, the vibe is chill, and the sunsets are some of the best in Cebu. If your main goal is to relax on the shore and maybe sip a cold drink under a palm tree, Bantayan is hard to beat.

Camotes, on the other hand, is more rugged and varied. You’ll still find some great beaches like Santiago Bay and Mangodlong Paradise, but they tend to be smaller and less developed. Some beaches have rocky entries or are framed by cliffs. Certainly beautiful, but not as ideal for long beach walks or wading with small kids. What Camotes may lack in beach sprawl, it makes up for in hidden charm.

Still torn? If smooth white sand and long lazy swims sound like your kind of day, Bantayan wins the beach battle. If you’re into exploring hidden coves and don’t mind some rough edges, Camotes might surprise you.

Want to explore more beach options across mainland Cebu? You might like our post on Best Day Trips from Cebu: Where To Go & How To Get There.

Bantayan vs Camotes: What Can You Do, Eat, and Expect on the Island?

Let’s talk experiences… not just what you can do, but also what you’ll eat and deal with once you arrive.

Bantayan Island is the definition of laid-back. 

• Your days might look like this: bike rides through palm-lined roads, lazy beach walks in Santa Fe, island hopping and snorkeling near Virgin Island, and grabbing a seafood lunch at a beachfront grill. 
• Want to visit a cave? Ogtong Cave is small but fun. 
• Want to explore history? Check out the old church in Bantayan town. 
• The food scene is better here too. There are more restaurants, more variety, and generally easier to find both Filipino dishes and foreigner-friendly options (pasta, pizza, decent coffee, etc.). 
• Basic facilities like ATMs, small groceries, and tricycle transport are widely available.

Camotes Islands lean more toward outdoor adventure and exploring nature. 

• If you're the active type, you'll love cliff diving at Buho Rock, kayaking at Lake Danao, swimming inside Timubo Cave, or chasing waterfalls inland. 
• Just be prepared to travel between attractions as they're spread out. 
• The food scene in Camotes is also simpler compared to Bantayan. You’ll find carinderias and a few casual cafes, but fewer mid-range or high-end restaurants. 
• Facilities are improving, but it’s still more low-key compared to Bantayan.

Quick reality check:

• Bantayan is better for easy access to food and creature comforts. 
• Camotes wins for off-the-beaten-path charm and natural adventures. Either way, both are solid choices depending on your vibe.

And don’t forget: Cebu Tourist Transfers can take you straight to Hagnaya (for Bantayan) or Danao (for Camotes) without the stress of juggling buses and tricycles. You just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

Where Should You Stay in Bantayan or Camotes?

Both islands offer a good mix of beach resorts, budget inns, and homestays.  

In Bantayan, most tourists stay in the Santa Fe area. This is where you’ll find the best white sand beaches, the highest concentration of resorts, and plenty of places to eat and drink. 

From beachfront bungalows to mid-range resorts with pools, options are wider here. Plus, booking in advance is easier since many properties are listed on major hotel sites.

In Camotes, accommodations are more spread out. Most tourists stay near Santiago Bay or Lake Danao, depending on what they want to do. 

The choices are more limited and rustic, which is great for disconnecting, but maybe not ideal if you’re picky about air conditioning or fast wifi. Some hidden gems do exist, but it takes a bit more research and planning.

Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and comfort? Bantayan wins this round. 

Quiet, nature-immersed stays? Camotes takes the lead.

Not sure which island fits your style or travel crew? Check out our comparison of Malapascua Island vs Bantayan Island or North vs South Cebu for more ideas.

Which Island Is Easier to Get To: Bantayan or Camotes?

Bantayan Island is accessed via a ferry from Hagnaya Port in San Remigio, North Cebu. The drive from Cebu City to Hagnaya takes around 3.5 to 4 hours. Once at the port, you’ll hop on a ferry that takes about 1.5 hours to reach Santa Fe. The route is straightforward, and the ferry schedule is more frequent, especially during peak seasons.

Camotes Islands, on the other hand, are reachable via Danao Port. The drive to Danao is shorter (around 1.5 to 2 hours from Cebu City). Ferry trips also run frequently throughout the day. Some travelers opt to depart from Mactan’s Ouano Wharf, but schedules there can change quickly, so it's not always the most reliable option.

Bottom line: Both Bantayan and Camotes are relatively easy to get to. However, if you want the shortest overall travel time, Camotes wins as it’s much closer to Cebu City.  

Not sure what to pack when visiting Bantayan or Camotes? Check out this blog post: What To Pack for a Cebu Vacation (Real Tips from Locals + Tourists)

Final Verdict: Should You Choose Bantayan or Camotes?

If you want long white beaches, livelier nightlife, and more accommodation choices, Bantayan Island is the better fit. It’s great for first-time visitors, couples, or families who want that island vibe without sacrificing convenience.

On the other hand, if you’re drawn to quiet escapes, freshwater caves, scenic motorbike rides, and a more off-the-grid feel, Camotes Island might surprise you. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and simpler lifestyles.

Got more time? Do both! A growing number of tourists now explore Bantayan and Camotes in a single trip, especially with private land transfers making the port connections much more manageable. 

Still exploring your options? You might also enjoy these comparison blogs:

Malapascua vs Bantayan: Which North Cebu Island Is Right For You?

Malapascua vs Moalboal: Sharks, Sardines, or Both?

Moalboal vs Oslob: Sardine Run or Whale Shark?

Malapascua vs Oslob: Thresher Sharks or Whale Sharks?