About Sombrero Island
Sombrero Island is a small uninhabited islet off the coast of San Pascual municipality on Burias Island in Masbate Province, Philippines. Named for its sombrero-like shape when viewed from a distance, it is known for its white sand beach, clear turquoise waters and surrounding coral reefs. The island is a popular day-trip destination for island-hopping tours from Burias, offering swimming, snorkeling and photography in a remote, undeveloped setting.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a small, undeveloped islet with a white sand beach, clear shallow waters and coral areas suitable for snorkeling. The island has no permanent structures or shops and is surrounded by open sea with views of Burias Island. Access is by chartered outrigger boat with wading ashore. Visitors typically walk along the beach, swim, snorkel and take photos. There is little natural shade and no fresh water, so the experience is rustic and dependent on weather and sea conditions.
Key highlights
- 01
Distinctive sombrero-shaped profile when viewed from the sea
- 02
White sand beach with clear turquoise water
- 03
Surrounding coral reefs for snorkeling
- 04
Uninhabited and undeveloped natural setting
- 05
Popular stop on Burias Islands island-hopping tours
Route
| By air | Fly to Masbate Airport (MBT) in Masbate City or to Legazpi Airport (LGP) / Naga Airport, then take ferry or RORO to Burias Island (San Pascual/Claveria) and charter a boat to the island |
|---|---|
| By road | No road to the island; reach San Pascual or Claveria on Burias Island by road from San Pascual port area, then take a motorized outrigger boat to Sombrero Island (15-30 minutes depending on departure point and sea conditions) |