Wishing Island
One of many islets around Samal Island is the Wishing Island. The little island is a favorite landmark of IGaCoS. Evidently, it has its share of stories to tell.
Wishing Island is revered by island residents as an “enchanted island”. It can only be seen and explored during low tides. It is a favourite picnic venue during weekends. It is littered with mangroves and surrounded by clear blue waters. However, once in the island, one should behave, observe silence, and should we watchful. Visitors are advised to pack and leave immediately especially when high tide commences.
There was one incident when a group of backpackers went partying in the island. Some got drunk and became rowdy. To the backpackers’ surprise, a storm happened in a hot mid day sending them panicking to flee the island. Unfortunately, no one was able to leave the island. All were drowned in its shallow waters. – Samal-Island.com
The Wishing Island islet, along with Big and Small Malipano, and Dela Paz, are part of the Kaputian District.
While working on cruise ship earlier in my life I visited a lot of interesting places like this Wishing Island. If even a couple of my wishes are just going true I will be the happiest person in the world.
Actually I did not visited this one, but it is looking like the next tourist attraction.
Hi Ships – thanks for your comment and visiting my site.
I’ve not visited the Wishing Island yet, either. I would guess that it will always remain more of a landmark than anything else.
Hi Randy!
I’ve been there with my classmates in college, we spent 2 days (overnight stay), and it was awesome. You can really experience freedom and peace. As i can recall, it has a small 2 level cottage made with bamboo and facing the main island, a slide and a cabin on top facing Davao Gulf and a hanging bridge connecting the adjacent rock with a mangrove tree where small vials with wishes are hanged. A statue will welcomes passersby as they approach the island.
I cannot share much info regarding its fees and contact person for our trip was arranged by my classmate… and i think she knows the caretaker of that island.
Hi Wincyl – thanks for sharing your experience and stopping by my site.
I’d like to vist the Wishing Island on my nest trip but don’t think I’d stay there overnight. Too many other places I’d like to stay first.