If you want to experience the ultimate beachfront seclusion, you’ll need to spend some time travelling there first. Rising up from the sea between Leyte and Cebu, in the Visayas Archipelago of the Philippines is a sandbar island known as Kalanggaman Island. This stunning white sand stretch is surrounded by “crystal clear” waters – but it can only be reached via boat.
The island measures just 753m and though it is a popular day trip spot, it is uninhabited.
Kalanggaman Island was named as the world’s “most secluded beach” by experts at Sunsail. The team analysed factors including accessibility, online searches, connectivity, noise and amenities to determine which beaches were the most secluded.
“Each beach has been ranked against these factors and given a score out of 17,” said the report. “The lower the score, the more secluded and remote the beach is.”
Given that it takes between one and two hours by boat to reach Kalanggaman Island, it’s no surprise this sandy destination topped the list.
As part of their report, Sunsail said: “It comes as no surprise that the quiet, stunning Kalanggaman Island Beach is the best beach in the world for switching off, scoring five out of 17.
“With no electricity on the island and very little amenities around the beach, Kalanggaman Island Beach is the perfect place to switch off from the world and recharge.”
One of the easiest ways to get to the island is from Palompon Leyte, which is located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. From here, visitors can take roughly an hour’s boat ride from the Palompon Tourism Office to the island.
While you can spend a day at the beach, some people also enjoy overnight tours which means camping on the island.
Based on previous tourist visits, on Tripadvisor the island has been rated a 4.5 out of a possible five stars and has been described as the number one thing to do in the region.
“The island is so awesome,” wrote one Tripadvisor reviewer. “It is where the sun meets the sand and seas. Crystal clear water and a very long white sand bars. It really is a big check in my bucket list.” [SIC]