Sta. Cruz Island is home to the famous Pink Sand Beach, a rare and breathtaking destination located off the coast of Zamboanga City. Known for its stunning pink-tinged shoreline, the island attracts visitors looking for a unique tropical escape. The pink hue comes from crushed red organ pipe coral mixed with the fine white sand, creating a mesmerizing effect under the sunlight. With crystal-clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere, it is the perfect place for relaxation and adventure.
Beyond its picturesque beach, Sta. Cruz Island offers opportunities for eco-tourism and cultural immersion. Visitors can explore its lush mangrove forests, take a guided tour to learn about the island’s conservation efforts, and experience the rich heritage of the local Sama-Bangingi community. Kayaking through the mangrove area is a must-try, providing a closer look at the island’s diverse marine ecosystem.
As a protected area, Sta. Cruz Island follows strict regulations to preserve its natural beauty. Day trips are the only option, as overnight stays are not allowed. Limited tourist access ensures that the island remains pristine, making every visit feel exclusive. Whether you are looking to swim, take breathtaking photos, or simply soak in the beauty of this rare pink sand beach, Sta. Cruz Island promises an unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Sta. Cruz Island Pink Sand Beach?
Zamboanga Car Rental – Easiest Way to Get to Sta. Cruz Island Pink Sand Beach
Traveling should be about comfort, convenience, and creating unforgettable memories—not the stress of public transportation. Whether you’re starting your journey anywhere in Zamboanga City, our reliable car rental service ensures a seamless trip to any destination in Zamboanga Peninsula (Region IX), with effortless pick-ups and drop-offs tailored to your schedule.
Choose from our diverse fleet of well-maintained vehicles, ranging from sleek sedans to spacious vans, designed to provide the perfect ride for your travel needs. For an even more relaxing experience, opt for our professional chauffeur service, allowing you to sit back, unwind, and make the most of your time—saving both money and valuable travel hours.
With our affordable rental options, you can Zamboanga, Isabela, Pagadian, Dipolog, and Dapitan, while farther away are General Santos City, Cagayan de Oro, and finally, Davao City—all at your own pace, embracing the freedom of having private transportation. From scenic landscapes to vibrant attractions, let us enhance your journey by making every mile a part of your adventure. Experience comfort, reliability, and convenience—because your trip to Mindanao deserves nothing less.
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Public Transport to Sta. Cruz Island Pink Sand Beach
From Zamboanga City to Sta. Cruz Island
Travel to Paseo del Mar (Boat Terminal):
Ride a tricycle or jeepney to Paseo del Mar.
Travel Time: 10–20 minutes.
Boat Ride to Sta. Cruz Island:
Register at the Zamboanga Tourism Office at Paseo del Mar (advanced booking required).
Take a pump boat to Sta. Cruz Island.
Travel Time: 15–20 minutes.
From General Santos City to Sta. Cruz Island
Bus to Zamboanga City:
Departure Point: Bulaong Bus Terminal, General Santos City.
Ride a Rural Transit or Yellow Bus Line bound for Zamboanga City.
Travel Time: 12–14 hours.
Follow the Zamboanga City to Sta. Cruz Island Route (Above).
From Cagayan de Oro City to Sta. Cruz Island
Bus to Zamboanga City:
Departure Point: Agora Bus Terminal, Cagayan de Oro.
Ride a Rural Transit or Yellow Bus Line bus to Zamboanga City.
Travel Time: 16–18 hours.
Follow the Zamboanga City to Sta. Cruz Island Route (Above).
From Davao City to Sta. Cruz Island
Bus to Zamboanga City:
Departure Point: Ecoland Bus Terminal, Davao City.
Take a Rural Transit or Yellow Bus Line bound for Zamboanga City.
Travel Time: 18–20 hours.
Follow the Zamboanga City to Sta. Cruz Island Route (Above).
Alternative: Flights to Zamboanga City
For faster travel, take a direct flight to Zamboanga City from General Santos, Cagayan de Oro, or Davao (1–1.5 hours), then follow the Zamboanga City to Sta. Cruz Island route.
Must-Do Activities
Marvel at the Stunning Pink Sand Beach
The main highlight of Sta. Cruz Island is its naturally pink sand, which gets its color from crushed red corals blending with white sand. Walk barefoot along the shoreline, feel the soft sand between your toes, and take in the mesmerizing beauty of this one-of-a-kind beach. Don’t forget to capture Instagram-worthy photos of the vibrant landscape!
Swim in the Crystal-Clear Waters
The turquoise waters surrounding Sta. Cruz Island are perfect for swimming. The gentle waves and shallow waters make it a great spot for both adults and kids. Enjoy a refreshing dip while taking in the scenic views of the Sulu Sea. Since the island is a protected area, its waters remain pristine and free from commercial development.
Snorkel and Explore the Rich Marine Life
Put on your snorkeling gear and explore the underwater beauty of Sta. Cruz Island! The surrounding waters are home to a thriving coral reef ecosystem, where you can spot colorful fish, sea urchins, starfish, and even sea turtles if you’re lucky. Snorkeling here is a must-do activity for nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts.
Take a Guided Tour of the Mangrove Lagoon
Beyond the pink sand, Sta. Cruz Island is home to lush mangrove forests, which serve as a habitat for diverse marine and bird species. Take a guided paddleboat tour through the mangrove lagoon, where you’ll see different species of birds, crabs, and even stingless jellyfish. This eco-tour also highlights the importance of mangrove conservation in protecting marine ecosystems.
Experience the Sama-Bangingi Culture
Sta. Cruz Island is home to the Sama-Bangingi, an indigenous Muslim community known for their traditional way of life. Visit the community village, interact with the locals, and learn about their customs, fishing techniques, and daily routines. Supporting their handicrafts, like woven mats and beadwork, is a great way to help preserve their culture and traditions.
Enjoy a Fresh Seafood Feast
A trip to Sta. Cruz Island wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a delicious seafood feast! The local Sama-Bangingi community offers freshly caught fish, crabs, and shellfish, which can be grilled and served picnic-style by the beach. Pair it with fresh coconut juice for a truly tropical dining experience!
Kayak Along the Serene Coastline
For a more relaxing adventure, rent a kayak and paddle along the beautiful coastline of Sta. Cruz Island. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you navigate through shallow waters, rocky outcrops, and mangrove areas. It’s an excellent way to appreciate the island’s unspoiled beauty while getting a great upper-body workout!
Spot Migratory Birds and Wildlife
Sta. Cruz Island is not just about the beach—it is also a wildlife sanctuary! Bring binoculars and observe various migratory birds that stop by the island, especially during migration season. The island’s mangrove areas also serve as a habitat for marine creatures, reptiles, and rare bird species, making it a haven for eco-tourists and wildlife lovers.
Capture Stunning Photos of the Island
Every corner of Pink Sand Beach is picture-perfect! Take stunning sunrise or sunset photos, panoramic shots of the pink-hued shoreline, and underwater pictures while snorkeling. If you have a drone, capturing aerial views of the island is a must. The contrast of pink sand, blue waters, and green mangroves creates a visually striking masterpiece!
Respect and Support the Island’s Conservation Efforts
Since Sta. Cruz Island is a protected eco-tourism site, visitors must follow strict conservation rules to help preserve its beauty and natural resources. Avoid littering, do not take sand or corals as souvenirs, and always listen to the tour guides and local authorities. Supporting local eco-tourism initiatives ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy this natural wonder.
Rates and Fees
Boat Rental – ₱ 1000 for 1-19 people
* Exceeding 11th+ passengers will pay an additional of ₱ 100 per person
Entrance Fee – ₱ 200 per person
Environmental Fee – ₱ 5 per person
Small Cottage – ₱ 100 for 4-6 people
Large Cottage – ₱ 200 for 8-12 people
Pavilion Cottage – ₱ 500 for 20-40 people
Must-Bring Essentials
🔹 Light and breathable clothing for a comfortable island experience
🔹 Sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun
🔹 Waterproof bag to keep valuables safe from water splashes
🔹 Ample drinking water and snacks as there are limited vendors on the island
🔹 A camera or GoPro to capture the rare pink sand and stunning scenery
🔹 Eco-friendly insect repellent for protection while exploring the mangroves
🔹 Cash for entrance fees, boat rentals, and optional guided tours
Must-Know Guidelines
🔹 Visitors must book in advance through the Zamboanga City Tourism Office as access is regulated
🔹 Littering is strictly prohibited to maintain the island’s pristine condition
🔹 Collecting pink sand, corals, or marine life is not allowed
🔹 Swimming is permitted only in designated areas for safety reasons
🔹 There are no overnight accommodations, so plan for a day trip only
🔹 Respect the local community and their traditions while exploring the island
Top Recommendations
🔹 The best time to visit is from December to May when the weather is dry, and the waters are calm.
🔹 Renting a car from Zamboanga City makes traveling to the boat terminal easier and more convenient.
🔹 Book your tour early as visitor slots are limited per day to protect the island.
🔹 Start your trip early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
🔹 Wear water shoes to protect your feet from shells and corals along the shore.
🔹 Hire a local guide to enhance your visit with stories about the island’s history.
Get in Touch with Us
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