Lakawon

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Lakawon Island (Llacaon Island) is a 13-hectare, banana-shaped island off the coast of Cadiz City in the northern part of Negros Occidental, a province in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. Renowned for its pristine white sands, clear blue waters and spectacular sunset views, the island is popular resort spot among families and a growing number of tourists.

The white sand island resort is family-run; accessible from the coast of Barangay Cadiz Viejo though a 20-minute pump boat (localized motor boat) ride, 48 kilometers from Bacolod City (capital of Negros Occidental). The resort's amenities include fully-equipped cottages that can accommodate couples, families and different-sized groups. There is a restaurant offering all kinds of fresh seafood, often including the day's catch by local fishermen, as well as native Filipino and international cuisine. The bar offers ice-cold drinks, souvenir items and swimming gears. For the more active and adventurous, a variety of sea crafts and water sport activities are also available.

Lakawon's gorgeous white beach sand is said to rival that of Boracay, a very popular island resort off the coast of Aklan in Panay. But, in stark contrast to its more famous counterpart, Lakawon is not a mass tourist destination nor as developed. The resort is more suited for family excursions and quiet time and relaxation. The resort management intends to keep it that way.

Contributing to the popularity of the resort is its close proximity to the capital city of Bacolod, a mere 45 minutes drive away. There are also almost no white sand beaches along the main central coastline. The other popular white sand beaches are farther down south of the province in Hinobaan and Sipalay, some 3 hours drive from the capital.

The island itself is more like a sandbar - the pristine white beaches are largely on the part of the island facing the main island of Negros. The opposite part (facing the open sea) is more rugged and has more seaweeds which does not make it ideal for swimming. There is a small fishing village on one side of the island. The inhabitants there earn their living through the sea and from working in the resort.

[edit] Getting There

The easiest way to get to Cadiz Viejo, which is the nearest embarkation point to the island, is by private car. From Bacolod City, or any point of Negros for that matter, there are also numerous jeepneys (public utility vehicles) available for hire, driver included. The price will differ on how far the distance and for how long you would need the vehicle. From the highway in Cadiz Viejo, there is a turn to a dirt road which leads to the shore (about 15 minutes). The island itself is visible from the shore and there are parking places available. The ride to the island by motorized motor boat takes about 25 minutes. It is always best to arrive in the morning during high tide - the waters will be calmer and there will be less wading in the water to get to the boat.

[edit] Background

The term Lakawon is derived from a Cebuano word meaning "to walk". That the island came to get this name is due to the fact that during low tide one has to literally walk/wade a long distance to -depending on whether you are coming or going - either get to your boat or to reach the island proper.

[edit] References

Cadiz City, Places to Visit
Boracay Meets Lakawon, TravelSmart.neta