Dreamy Pinagbuyutan Island’s welcoming beach

The first time I saw the soaring island cliffs of El Nido, I was struck with awe. The moment I saw Pinagbuyutan Island in the same archipelago, reflected in the water, I was spellbound. And when I dipped at its cool clear waters with powdery creamy sand, I was in love with the island.

El Nido is such a special place. Although I haven’t gone to the various beaches and islands and coves around, I was just able to explore Pinagbuyutan Island while enroute back to the mainland from Lagen Island for a resort shoot.

But Pinagbuyutan is different. It’s a solid mass of vertical cliffs for an island with a thin strip of powdery white sand at its base. A carpet of greenery covers its almost entire surface. Coconut palms sway in the early morning breeze while the gentle waves of the sea, on a clear bright sunny day lap at its shores. Well, cliches abound but that’s just how to perfectly describe it.

One really very memorable view that doesn’t escape me is that of the island with its reflection, as in the accompanying photo in this post. It’s so spectacular. The sight of it seems to bring you in a very dreamy place. Then it gets closer and closer as the outrigger boat will dock in a moment and I was still there, struck at its beauty.

GETTING THERE: Pinagbuyutan Island is part of the island tours offered in El Nido, Palawan.