About Cuatro Islas
Cuatro Islas is a group of four islands — Apid, Digyo, Mahaba and Himokilan — off the coast of Inopacan and Hindang in Leyte, Eastern Visayas, Philippines. Designated as the Cuatro Islas Protected Landscape and Seascape, it is known for white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, coral reefs and fishing villages. Accessible only by boat from Inopacan, it offers island-hopping, swimming and snorkeling in a protected marine environment.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a boat-based island-hopping tour from Inopacan port to four small islands with white sand beaches, shallow clear waters, coral areas and coconut-lined interiors. Digyo features a sandbar and turquoise lagoon, Mahaba is known for white sand, Apid is inhabited by a fishing community, and Himokilan is the largest and most inhabited. Facilities are basic with open cottages and limited shade. Activities center on swimming, snorkeling, photography and beach walks.
Key highlights
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Group of four distinct islands: Apid, Digyo, Mahaba and Himokilan
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Designated Cuatro Islas Protected Landscape and Seascape
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White sand beaches and clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming
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Snorkeling over coral reefs and shallow lagoons, especially at Digyo
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Sandbar and lagoon at Digyo Island
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Fishing villages and local community life on Apid and Himokilan
History of Cuatro Islas
Cuatro Islas was declared a Protected Landscape and Seascape by Proclamation No. 270 on April 23, 2000, covering the four islands and surrounding marine waters to conserve biodiversity, coral reefs and mangroves while supporting sustainable tourism and fisheries.
Culture & Context
The islands support small fishing communities, particularly on Apid and Himokilan, where traditional fishing and village life continue. The islands are valued locally for livelihood, community identity and as a natural heritage area managed for conservation and eco-tourism.
Route
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