Things To Do
in Santa Fe
Santa Fe is a small coastal town on Bantayan Island in Cebu, Philippines, known for its powdery white sands and calm turquoise waters. Its laid-back atmosphere, simple beachfront eateries, and friendly locals create an unhurried island vibe perfect for a relaxing escape. The town serves as a gateway to nearby Virgin Island and pristine Bantayan beaches, offering sun, sea, and seafood in equal measure.
Visitors come for scenic sunsets, quiet mornings by the shore, and the chance to sample authentic Cebuano flavors away from the bigger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Santa Fe Church, known for its beautiful architecture and serene ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll through the town square, where you can observe locals going about their daily routines. Enjoy a traditional Filipino breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies like tocino and garlic rice.
After lunch, explore the nearby historical sites, including the remnants of colonial buildings that tell the story of Santa Fe's rich heritage. Visit the local artisan shops showcasing handmade crafts and souvenirs that reflect the culture of the region. Don't miss the chance to engage with the friendly locals who are eager to share their stories and traditions.
As the day winds down, head to the beach to witness a stunning sunset over the water. Enjoy a dinner at a seaside restaurant, where fresh seafood and traditional Filipino dishes await you. The evening can be spent relaxing on the beach, listening to the gentle waves as the stars begin to twinkle in the night sky.
Begin your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Santa Fe beach. Rent snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface, with colorful fish and coral gardens waiting to be discovered. Enjoy a light breakfast at a beachside café, sipping fresh coconut water while soaking in the sun.
Take part in thrilling water sports such as kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, experiencing the beauty of the coastline from the water. Join a guided tour for a chance to see nearby islands, where you can picnic on the beach and explore secluded spots. This is a perfect opportunity to take breathtaking photos and create lasting memories.
After a day filled with adventure, unwind at a beachfront bar with a tropical cocktail in hand. Attend a cultural show featuring local dances and music, immersing yourself in the rich traditions of the area. As night falls, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the sound of the waves lapping against the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-7 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚲Bike or scooter rental per day | $8-15 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or local craft item | $2-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters
- Warm, friendly locals and a relaxed island vibe
- Excellent access to nearby Virgin Island and Bantayan wildlife
- Affordably priced seafood and tropical produce
- Compact town with easy walking access to beaches
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Smaller infrastructure for some services compared to larger cities
- Seasonal weather variability can affect some activities
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Tagpila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Asa ang CR?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Nakasabot ka og English?" - Do you understand English?
Places to Visit in Santa Fe
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft white sand, turquoise water, and silhouettes of fishing boats create a quintessential Bantayan shoreline shot.
A stunning, wide sandbar that appears at low tide, ideal for wide-angle and horizon photography.
Colorful boats, nets, and the everyday life of fishermen provide authentic maritime imagery.
Elevated vantage point with panoramic island and ocean views, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Long stretch of beach with clear water, perfect for long-exposure water and cloud movement shots.
Rugged coastal lines and tree-lined paths offering moody landscapes and golden-hour opportunities.
Food in Santa Fe
Santa Fe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy dried anchovies served with garlic rice and eggs, a Bantayan staple found in many seaside stalls.
Must-Try!
Ceviche-style dish with fresh fish, lime, ginger, chilies, and onions.
Roasted pig with crispy skin, a festive favorite often available at larger gatherings or special dinners.
Grilled pork or skewers, commonly found at beachside grills.
Crispy palmier-like pastry and sweet coconut rice cake for dessert or tea-time treats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, dried fish, tropical fruits, and local snacks; great for sampling everything at reasonable prices.
Grilled seafood skewers, kinilaw, and quick bites along Kota Beach and nearby strips.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in towns and religious sites; remove hats and keep voices gentle inside churches.
Always ask before photographing locals or their homes; respect personal space and local customs, especially during religious observances.
Dispose of trash properly and avoid leaving litter on beaches or trails; participate in responsible tourism practices.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Fe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up the bill or leave small tips (5-10%) at restaurants and for guided services.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is widely used; many beachfront stalls and markets prefer cash. Some larger restaurants and hotels accept cards or mobile wallets like GCash, especially in tourist-friendly areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with sunny skies; calm seas make swimming and snorkeling ideal. Expect larger crowds during holidays and weekends, especially around Kota Beach.
Higher humidity with periodic heavy showers and occasional tropical storms. Sea can be rougher at times, but morning visibility for diving and photography remains good on many days; bring a light rain jacket and plan flexible activities.
Santa Fe at Night
Hiking in Santa Fe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short climb near Sta. Fe offering sweeping views of the Bantayan coastline and the open sea; best at sunrise or sunset.
Low-difficulty coastal paths that pass mangroves, beaches, and viewpoints suitable for easy day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Santa Fe by plane.
The main international gateway to Cebu; from here, travel by road to Hagnaya Port and take a ferry to Bantayan Island. Plan additional travel time for connections.
Manila's hub for international and domestic flights; most travelers connect here to Cebu to reach Santa Fe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Cebuano-speaking Filipino families and communities with fishing and small-scale commerce as major livelihoods.
A growing mix of balikbayans, surfers, divers, and long-term travelers seeking a laid-back island experience.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in schools, towns, and community centers.
Chill pickup games and local leagues in towns and beaches.
Snorkeling, swimming, and occasional kayaking around Bantayan and nearby islets.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Fe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on rice, vegetables, and fruit; ask for dishes with tofu or egg to supplement protein; many seaside stalls can adapt options with vegetables and egg. Tip: request no fish sauce or shrimp paste to keep dishes vegetarian-friendly.