There’s something magical about discovering a place that isn’t plastered all over Instagram yet. A place that still feels raw, untouched, and full of stories waiting to be written.
That’s exactly what freediving in Pandilusan Island felt like for me.
Tucked away off the coast of Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay, this little-known gem wasn’t even on my radar until a spontaneous suggestion from my friend Vannessa changed everything. I had never heard of Pandilusan Island, even though I live in the Zamboanga Peninsula. So like any curious diver, I turned to Google.
And the lack of search results? That only made me want to see it for myself.
This post isn’t just a travel guide, it’s a love letter to a place that caught me off guard in the best way. If you’ve ever longed for a slice of paradise where time slows down, the ocean hugs you gently, and nature shows off without trying, this is for you.
How We Found Pandilusan Island
When Vannessa suggested taking our dive group to a place called Pandilusan Island, I hesitated. I wasn’t familiar with it, and that’s saying something, considering I live in the Zamboanga Peninsula. How had I never heard of this island in my own backyard?
I opened my laptop and searched. Not much came up. No flashy articles. No trending TikToks. Just a few scattered mentions and some raw, unfiltered photos. Pandilusan Island in Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay, is one of those places that stays quiet, mentioned only in passing by locals but rarely celebrated for what it truly offers.
Instead of deterring me, it pulled me in deeper. The less I found online, the more I wanted to see it with my own eyes. It felt like I had stumbled onto a secret. So we made the call.
It was a now-or-never kind of morning, clouds looming overhead, the wind a little moody, but we packed our gear, loaded into the van, and left Dipolog City at 6 AM sharp. Destination: Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay. We didn’t have a full itinerary, just a name, a tip from a friend, and a craving for saltwater.
And honestly? That made it even more exciting.
🚐 The Road to Payao: Rain, Laughter, and Hope
The drive from Dipolog to Payao was long but never boring.
With a few pit stops, lots of snacks, and endless jokes from my dive buddies, the hours passed in waves of laughter. Even with the sky threatening rain, there was a lightness to the trip. The kind that only comes from being on the road with people who feel like home.
Somewhere along the highway, the clouds broke. The sun peeked out. And just like that, everything started falling into place.
By the time we reached Zamboanga Sibugay, the sky was clear, the wind was calm, and the road stretched ahead like an open invitation. I remember looking out the window and smiling to myself, thinking this is going to be a good day.
And it really was.
We coordinated with the local tourism office in Payao beforehand, so our boat was ready and waiting. No delays, no stress. Just the sea in front of us, and the quiet thrill of heading somewhere we’d never been.
🌴 The Moment the Island Won Me Over: Arriving at Pandilusan Island
As soon as our boat left the shores of Payao, the horizon began to change. The sea stretched endlessly in every direction, deep blue, quiet, alive.
About halfway through the ride, we passed a massive naked island, just sitting there in the middle of the ocean like a sandbar that decided to stay. It felt like a teaser for what was coming. And after about an hour on the water, Pandilusan Island finally came into view.
And wow. It didn’t just look beautiful—it felt beautiful.
The sand was powder-fine, almost like flour. The water was warm, glassy, and so clear you could already see the corals from the boat. The island had this stillness, like it had been patiently waiting for us to arrive.
Even before my feet touched the shore, I felt it, that sense of peace. Maybe it was the lack of crowds, or the way the autumn-colored Talisay trees framed the beach, or maybe just the quiet joy of being somewhere so raw and real.
And then nature gave us a welcome party: a school of fish started leaping out of the water just 15 minutes before we docked, with seabirds swooping down like it was a feast. It was wild, unscripted, perfect.
At that moment, I couldn’t believe I almost said no to this trip.
🐠 Why Pandilusan Island Stole My Diver Heart
As someone who’s spent a good chunk of her life underwater, it takes a special kind of place to truly surprise me. But Pandilusan Island? It didn’t just surprise me, it completely stole my heart.
This wasn’t just another dive spot. It was a living, breathing underwater sanctuary. Here’s what made it unforgettable:
💧 Crystal Clear Waters That Felt Unreal
I’ve never seen water this clear. It was the kind of blue you only see on postcards except this wasn’t edited or filtered. You could spot corals and fish straight from the surface, no goggles needed. It was like the ocean opened itself up to show us everything at once.
I called it “Gatorade Blue” in my mind and honestly, the name stuck.
🪸 Coral Gardens That Look Like Fantasy
As soon as I dove in, I was surrounded by life. Violets, oranges, browns, soft corals swaying like slow dancers, and little fish weaving in and out like they were playing tag. Some scenes looked like they came straight out of a documentary.
The marine life here isn’t just thriving, it’s celebrating. And you don’t need to go far. Even near the shore, you’ll find schools of fish darting in sync, like living brushstrokes in the water.
🤿 Freediving Conditions Made for Magic
Visibility? 100%.
Currents? Calm.
Vibes? Peaceful beyond words.
I remember diving and being able to enjoy everything without the usual fogginess or distractions. Even the videos I took barely needed editing, just raw beauty captured on camera.
It was the kind of dive that makes you forget time exists.
🌅 What Makes Pandilusan Island Magical Beyond Freediving
There’s something about Pandilusan Island that lingers long after the salt has left your skin. Yes, the freediving was unforgettable, but the magic of this island doesn’t stop when you come up for air.
Here’s what made the experience feel so much more than just a dive trip:
Sunrise and Sunset Wrapped in Gold
The island is small enough that you can catch both sunrise and sunset without ever checking the clock. Just follow the glow and you’ll find the perfect spot—barefoot, towel over your shoulder, salt still in your hair.
I watched the sun melt into the ocean with my feet in the sand and a soft breeze in the air. No music, no distractions, just golden silence. One of those moments you wish you could bottle.
Camping Under the Stars Felt Like a Soul Reset
We pitched a few tents and claimed our little corner of paradise. No cell signal. No electricity. Just the sound of waves, a sky full of stars, and the kind of laughter that only happens when you’re completely unplugged.
It felt like life slowed down, and I was okay with that. Even just sitting around with friends, sharing stories over warm food, became something I’ll never forget.
The Joy of Being with People Who Feel Like Home
Whether you’re diving, chilling, or just lying under the shade of a Talisay tree, Pandilusan has a way of bringing people closer. Maybe it’s the isolation, or the simplicity, or how beautiful everything looks when no one’s trying too hard.
We cracked jokes, took silly group photos, danced barefoot, and made memories I still smile about today.
Even if you’re not a diver, this island gives you space to just be, with your family, with your friends, or even just with yourself.
🌊 Why You Should Visit Pandilusan Island in Payao
I didn’t expect to fall in love with Pandilusan Island, but I did—and deeply.
From the first glimpse of its clear blue waters to the last quiet moment watching the sky turn orange, this island gave me exactly what I needed: stillness, joy, connection, and awe.
It’s wild to think that a place this beautiful isn’t more talked about. Maybe that’s what makes it special. It’s still a secret, waiting to be discovered by people who respect it, who want to feel the ocean, not just post about it.
So if you live near Zamboanga Sibugay or you’re looking for a dive destination that’s raw, real, and wildly rewarding, put Pandilusan on your list. Better yet, go before the rest of the world finds it.
Bring your dive gear. Pack light. Let go of expectations.
And when you get there—just breathe it all in.
Because this isn’t just a trip. It’s a memory waiting to happen.
🧳 Quick Travel Tips to Pandilusan Island
Planning to experience freediving in Pandilusan Island soon? Here are some tips to make your trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable:
How to Get to Pandilusan Island
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Start Point: Dipolog City or any point in Zamboanga Peninsula
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Destination Port: Payao, Zamboanga Sibugay
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Travel Time: 3–5 hours by land (depending on your starting point)
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Boat Ride: Around 1 hour from Payao to the island
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Tip: Coordinate in advance with the Payao Tourism Office to arrange a boat rental and get local guidance
Who to Contact
Payao Municipal Tourism Office
Ask for help with boat scheduling, safety tips, and current travel advisories. They’re friendly and super helpful!
What to Bring
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Freediving gear (mask, snorkel, fins, weight belt)
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Dry bag & waterproof phone case
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Tent or mat if you plan to camp
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Food & drinking water (no stores on the island)
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Eco-friendly toiletries & trash bags
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Power bank & headlamp (no electricity!)
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Sunscreen & reef-safe protection
🌿 Be a Responsible Visitor
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Leave no trace, pack out your trash
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Don’t step on corals or chase marine life
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Support local tourism and spread the word responsibly
Frequently Asked Questions About Pandilusan Island
Is Pandilusan Island open to the public?
Yes! Pandilusan Island is open to the public and welcoming to both tourists and locals. Just make sure to coordinate with the Payao Tourism Office in advance for boat arrangements and local guidelines.
Is there an entrance fee or permit needed in Pandilusan Island?
As of our visit, no official entrance fee was charged, but that could change with tourism growth. There’s a standard environmental fee of ₱50 per visitor, which helps support local conservation efforts.
Can you camp overnight on the island?
Yes, you can! Camping is allowed in Pandilusan Island, Payao. Bring your own tents, mats, and gear. Since the island has no amenities (no electricity, no running water), prepare to go full-on unplugged and pack out everything you bring in.
Is Pandilusan Island beginner-friendly for freediving?
Absolutely. The waters around Pandilusan are calm, shallow in some areas, and have excellent visibility, making it great even for beginners. Still, always dive with a buddy and respect your limits.
Are there stores or food stalls on the island?
None. This is an untouched island, so you’ll need to bring your own food, snacks, and water. Think picnic style or potluck with your group. Don’t forget a reusable container and eco utensils!
Watch My Dive
I shared a short clip of my freediving adventure in Pandilusan Island on Facebook, and the response was overwhelming! No filters, no heavy edits, just raw, beautiful ocean life in its purest form.
👉 Watch the video here and see what made me fall in love with this hidden gem.
Your Turn to Discover Pandilusan Before the World Does
If this post sparked something in you, bookmark it, share it, and start planning. The world doesn’t need more crowded beaches. It needs more quiet places that remind us how wild and wonderful nature can be. So go. Breathe the ocean air. Dive deep.
To the quiet moments and the wild ones, see you soon!
Stories That Travel with The Orange Mermaid ✨
I write for people like you, curious souls, quiet wanderers, and brave first-timers. If you’re craving real stories, personal travel guides, and a glimpse into what it’s like to travel the world as a solo female traveler, you’ll feel right at home at The Orange Mermaid.
With love and a carry-on,
Michelle
