As you might've already guessed my favorite part of my 2-day Basilan trip was sleeping in the Governor's Office 馃槀馃ぃ Last time, we explored Isabela's City Center, Bulingan Falls, and Lamitan City Hall. Today we'll explore another of Basilan's must-visit destination and if you're a beach bum, this next destination will pique your interest.
We were running out of time so after our trip to Bulingan Falls, we rode a bus back to Isabela City right away; our next destination was offshore: Malamaui Island. The island is just across mainland Isabela but because there isn't a bridge that connects the two islands, we had to ride a boat for a minimal fee. To give you an idea of how near Malamaui Island is to mainland Isabela, the boat ride didn't last 5 minutes. We just literally hopped into the boat, sat down, and the next thing we knew, we were already in Malamaui Island. I hope they get the funds they need to build the bridge.
Right after getting off the boat, a bunch of motorcycle drivers surrounded us; each driver was trying to convince us to choose him for the ride from the small port to Malamawi Beach. I gave Ate Virgie full authority to choose which driver she thought looked most credible. You won't have problems reaching Malamawi Beach as it's a famous destination in Isabela City and even locals go here to get their dose of Vitamin Sea. 馃槈
It was already lunchtime when we arrived at the resort; we ordered food, had lunch, and explored Malamawi. I'd seen photos of Malamawi Beach before this trip but when I saw it with my own naked eyes, I was astonished, even left in disbelief that this beach rests in a Province that most Filipinos probably won't dream of visiting in their lifetime. I instantly fell in love with the vibe I was getting from Malamawi Beach; it's unapologetically serene.
Its long stretch of powdery white-sand shore could be likened to Boracay's. The water was glimmering like diamonds in the sunny weather that day; it was oozing with energy that called every tourist there to jump in its turquoise water. I was hypnotized and even Ate Virgie, who came unprepared for swimming, went swimming with me.
The resort that manages the beach has cottages made from light materials facing the beach and they have rooms if you opt to stay overnight; they can cook basic food for you, too. I could imagine walking up to the calm sea breeze and waves crashing on the shore of Malamawi but unfortunately, my boat back to Zamboanga leaves in the afternoon; maybe next time, I'll bring friends and family here. It's important to mention that Malamawi is facing the Zamboanga Peninsula; it's easy to spot the massive Zamboanga island from the beach which for me added to the spectacular view you could expect to see when you visit this almost unknown paradise in Basilan.