While Palawan, Boracay, and Siargao often dominate global travel lists, Leyte’s very own Kalanggaman Island is quietly carving its name as one of the Philippines’ most breathtaking yet sustainable beach destinations.
Located off the coast of Palompon, Leyte, this slice of paradise in the middle of the Philippine Sea boasts crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and its signature bird-shaped sandbar that stretches like nature’s runway into the ocean. But beyond its postcard-perfect scenery, Kalanggaman is making waves with its bold environmental policies and commitment to eco-tourism.
During a recent media familiarization tour organized by AirAsia Philippines and the Provincial Government of Leyte, local officials highlighted the island’s conservation-driven tourism. Palompon Vice Mayor Javes Keith dela Calzada confirmed that visitor numbers are strictly capped at 500 per day to protect the island’s pristine conditions.
“We aim to give an experience that no other island offers,” said Vice Mayor dela Calzada. “We show tourists how much we value the environment by letting them experience its natural, untouched beauty. You can relax, you can enjoy, and you can find yourself in Kalanggaman.”
The island offers limited cell service and no permanent power supply, which surprisingly enhances the feeling of isolation and serenity. “There are only generators to power basic lights. It’s really meant to be peaceful and disconnected,” added the Vice Mayor.
In a further show of its commitment to sustainability, Kalanggaman Island undergoes a month-long closure every July to allow the ecosystem to rest. During this time, volunteers from various barangays participate in cleanup and maintenance drives.
“Every year, we close the island for one month,” said dela Calzada. “We let it breathe. Volunteers help clean and fix anything that needs repairing so we can preserve the island’s beauty.”
For those planning a visit, Kalanggaman offers both day and overnight tour options. While the sandbar is the island’s most iconic feature, visitors are encouraged to check tide schedules to ensure they witness it in its full glory—many say the trip feels incomplete without it.
Visitors have shared that the water near the sandbar is clean, vibrant, and inviting, but caution is advised due to strong currents in certain areas. The other side of the island, less traveled by many, features plentiful marine life like fish, crabs, and even sea urchins.
While there are no restaurants on the island, tourists can bring their own food—with the reminder to observe the “Leave No Trace” principle.
Here are the current entrance rates:
Day Tour:
- Palomponganon – ₱100
- Non-Palomponganon – ₱300
- International tourist – ₱1,000
Overnight Tour:
- Palomponganon – ₱150
- Non-Palomponganon – ₱450
- International tourist – ₱1,500
Boat Transfers (round trip):
- 1–20 passengers – ₱4,500
- 21–25 passengers – ₱5,000
- 26–30 passengers – ₱5,500
- 31–35 passengers – ₱6,000
Discounts apply for students and senior citizens, and bookings can be made via palompondestinations.com.
Thanks to AirAsia Philippines’ ongoing efforts to boost regional tourism, getting to Leyte has never been more affordable or convenient. The airline currently operates 28 weekly flights to Tacloban, the main gateway to Kalanggaman.
In celebration of being named World’s Best Low-Cost Airline for the 16th consecutive year by Skytrax, AirAsia is offering special fares starting at ₱516 one-way to/from Tacloban—as part of its 11th major seat sale for early 2025. Booking is available until July 3, 2025, for travel from July 2, 2025 to March 31, 2026. (aerial photos courtesy by WazzupPH)
