How to Reach Britania in 2026
From Butuan City, the most common entry point, Britania is about a three-hour van or bus ride south on the Pan-Philippine Highway. Vans leave the Butuan integrated terminal throughout the morning and drop passengers at the Lianga crossing, where tricycles complete the last few kilometers to the pier. From Davao City the drive is four to five hours north, passing through Agusan del Sur and into Surigao del Sur. Private car rentals start at PHP 3,500 per day if you want to set your own schedule.
If you are coming from Surigao City or Siargao, the fastest route is to take a van or bus to Tandag, then transfer to Lianga. The total land journey is about five to six hours. Once in Lianga, tricycle fare from the highway to the Britania jump-off is PHP 20 to PHP 30 per person. Boat operators also accept walk-in bookings, but it is better to reserve in advance during weekends and holidays.
The 7 Islands and Sandbars of Britania
1. Hagonoy Island
Hagonoy Island is the main stop for lunch and the largest of the group. It has a small coconut grove, a few picnic tables, and a stretch of white sand facing the mainland. The water on the west side is shallow and perfect for wading, while the east side drops off into deeper turquoise water. Local boats usually anchor here for an hour so guests can eat, swim, and take photos under the coconut trees.
2. Bosi Island
Bosi is smaller and less developed than Hagonoy, which is exactly why many visitors like it. The beach is clean and quiet, and the snorkeling off the northern point is decent for beginners. You may see small reef fish and the occasional sea urchin, so reef shoes are useful. There are no cottages, so it is a quick swim-and-photo stop.
3. Naked Island
Naked Island is a pure sandbar with no trees and almost no shade. It is one of the most photographed spots in Britania because the white sand contrasts sharply with the deep blue water. At low tide the sandbar is long and easy to walk; at high tide it shrinks to a narrow strip. Bring an umbrella or visit early to avoid the midday sun.
4. Hiyor-Hiyoran Island
Hiyor-Hiyoran is known for its small rock formations and the tiny lagoon that boats can circle at high tide. It is a good place to drift in the water and watch fish in the shallows. The island is also a favorite for drone photography because of the unusual shape of the surrounding reefs.
5. Panlangagan Forest
Panlangagan is not a beach stop but a mangrove and forest area. Paddle boats or kayaks take visitors into the narrow water channels between the trees, where kingfishers and crabs are common. The contrast between the open sea and the still green forest is a welcome change of pace during a full-day tour.
6. Kanlunes Island
Kanlunes is a low sand and rock islet with a sheltered cove. The water here is usually the calmest in the group, making it ideal for children or anyone who wants to float without fighting a current. The island also has one of the best snorkeling spots for small coral heads and tropical fish.
7. The Britania Sandbar
The Britania Sandbar is a long, curved strip of sand that connects several small islets depending on the tide. It is often the final stop of the tour because it is closest to the mainland. The sandbar is wide enough for a short walk and is a great place to watch the late-afternoon light reflect off the water.
What to Do During the Tour
Island hopping in Britania is relaxed. You can swim, snorkel, take photos, or simply lie on the sand. Some operators offer stand-up paddleboards and kayaks for rent, while others include a seafood barbecue on Hagonoy Island. Typical side activities include beach volleyball, coconut drinking, and short mangrove walks on Panlangagan. The pace is slow, so this is a good trip for families, couples, and groups of friends who want a laid-back day on the water.
Photographers will want a dry bag, a polarizing filter, and a charged phone or camera. The colors are best between nine in the morning and two in the afternoon, when the sun is high and the water looks brightest. If you want fewer people in your shots, book a private boat and leave the pier before eight in the morning.
Best Time to Visit Britania Islands
The dry season from March to June is the best time to visit, with flat seas and bright, even light. July through October is the rainy season, and while you can still island hop on good days, the sandbars may be smaller and the water less clear. November to February is generally dry and comfortable, but the sea can be rougher because of the amihan northeast monsoon. If you want the best sandbar experience, visit at low tide between March and May.
2026 Rates and Fees in Philippine Pesos
A join-in island-hopping tour in Britania costs PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person for a group of six to eight. This usually includes the boat, a guide, a small lunch, and the environmental fee. A private boat for two to four people is around PHP 2,500 to PHP 3,000 for the same route. Larger boats that hold ten to twelve guests can be chartered for PHP 3,500 to PHP 4,500.
The environmental fee is PHP 30 to PHP 50 per person, depending on the current municipal rate. Cottage rental on Hagonoy Island is PHP 200 to PHP 500. Kayak rental is PHP 300 to PHP 500 for an hour. A full lunch upgrade with fresh crab and grilled fish is PHP 500 to PHP 700 per person. Tricycle fare from the highway to the pier is PHP 20 to PHP 30. Butuan to Lianga van fare is PHP 250 to PHP 300.
Where to Stay Near Britania
The closest accommodation is the Britania Beach Resort, which has simple rooms and cottages starting at PHP 1,500 per night. Other options are in Lianga town proper, where budget inns start at PHP 800 per night and offer fans and private bathrooms. Tandag, the provincial capital, has more hotels and is about an hour north of the pier. For a longer trip, many travelers stay in Butuan or Davao and drive to Britania as a day tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many islands are in the standard Britania tour?
The standard tour includes seven stops: Hagonoy, Bosi, Naked, Hiyor-Hiyoran, Panlangagan Forest, Kanlunes, and the Britania Sandbar. Some operators adjust the route based on the tide and wind.
Can I book a join-in tour?
Yes. Join-in tours are available and usually cost PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person, including lunch and the environmental fee. Private boats are better if you want more time at specific stops.
Is Britania Islands good for snorkeling?
Snorkeling is good around Bosi and Kanlunes, where small reefs and tropical fish are common. Bring your own mask and snorkel for the best fit, or rent from the operator for PHP 150 to PHP 200.
Are there restaurants on the islands?
There are no standalone restaurants, but most tours include a packed lunch or a barbecue on Hagonoy Island. You can also order a seafood lunch in advance for PHP 500 to PHP 700.
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts four to six hours, including travel time between stops and the lunch break. Private tours can be shorter or longer depending on your preferences.
Plan Your Britania Trip With Pana
Start your 2026 planning in our destinations section to compare Britania with other Surigao del Sur attractions. Browse tours for island-hopping packages, find the best hotels in Lianga and Tandag, and read more stories on the Pana blog.
Sources
Article 108. Originally published for Pana in 2026. Researched by the Pana Visayas desk and reviewed by Pana editorial. Prices are based on 2026 local rates and may vary by operator and season.
Why Britania Islands Should Be on Your 2026 List
Britania Islands sits off the coast of Lianga in Surigao del Sur, a cluster of small islands and shifting sandbars that feels far more private than the crowded beaches of Palawan or Boracay. The group is usually called the Britania Group, and the standard island-hopping route covers seven named spots: Hagonoy Island, Bosi Island, Naked Island, Hiyor-Hiyoran Island, Panlangagan Forest, Kanlunes Island, and the Britania Sandbar. Each stop has its own character, from shaded coconut groves to empty white bars of sand that disappear at high tide.
At Pana we put this guide together after reviewing 2026 tour prices, speaking with Lianga tourism staff, and comparing Britania with similar island-hopping circuits in Surigao del Sur. The Pana Visayas desk is responsible for the research, and Pana editorial has fact-checked the rates and travel details. The result is a practical, first-hand style article for anyone planning a 2026 trip to Britania.
Where Are the Britania Islands
Britania Islands are in the municipality of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, about two hours south of Tandag and roughly three hours north of Davao City by road. The mainland jump-off is a small pier near the Britania Beach Resort, where boats line up each morning for island-hopping tours. The islands are close to shore, so the boat ride between stops is short and usually calm. The water inside the bay is protected from the open Pacific, which keeps it turquoise and clear for most of the year.
The area is managed through a local tourism cooperative. Visitors pay an environmental fee at the pier, sign the logbook, and are assigned a boat and a guide. The entire tour lasts four to six hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop and whether you add a seafood lunch on one of the islands.
How to Reach Britania in 2026
From Butuan City, the most common entry point, Britania is about a three-hour van or bus ride south on the Pan-Philippine Highway. Vans leave the Butuan integrated terminal throughout the morning and drop passengers at the Lianga crossing, where tricycles complete the last few kilometers to the pier. From Davao City the drive is four to five hours north, passing through Agusan del Sur and into Surigao del Sur. Private car rentals start at PHP 3,500 per day if you want to set your own schedule.
If you are coming from Surigao City or Siargao, the fastest route is to take a van or bus to Tandag, then transfer to Lianga. The total land journey is about five to six hours. Once in Lianga, tricycle fare from the highway to the Britania jump-off is PHP 20 to PHP 30 per person. Boat operators also accept walk-in bookings, but it is better to reserve in advance during weekends and holidays.
The 7 Islands and Sandbars of Britania
1. Hagonoy Island
Hagonoy Island is the main stop for lunch and the largest of the group. It has a small coconut grove, a few picnic tables, and a stretch of white sand facing the mainland. The water on the west side is shallow and perfect for wading, while the east side drops off into deeper turquoise water. Local boats usually anchor here for an hour so guests can eat, swim, and take photos under the coconut trees.
2. Bosi Island
Bosi is smaller and less developed than Hagonoy, which is exactly why many visitors like it. The beach is clean and quiet, and the snorkeling off the northern point is decent for beginners. You may see small reef fish and the occasional sea urchin, so reef shoes are useful. There are no cottages, so it is a quick swim-and-photo stop.
3. Naked Island
Naked Island is a pure sandbar with no trees and almost no shade. It is one of the most photographed spots in Britania because the white sand contrasts sharply with the deep blue water. At low tide the sandbar is long and easy to walk; at high tide it shrinks to a narrow strip. Bring an umbrella or visit early to avoid the midday sun.
4. Hiyor-Hiyoran Island
Hiyor-Hiyoran is known for its small rock formations and the tiny lagoon that boats can circle at high tide. It is a good place to drift in the water and watch fish in the shallows. The island is also a favorite for drone photography because of the unusual shape of the surrounding reefs.
5. Panlangagan Forest
Panlangagan is not a beach stop but a mangrove and forest area. Paddle boats or kayaks take visitors into the narrow water channels between the trees, where kingfishers and crabs are common. The contrast between the open sea and the still green forest is a welcome change of pace during a full-day tour.
6. Kanlunes Island
Kanlunes is a low sand and rock islet with a sheltered cove. The water here is usually the calmest in the group, making it ideal for children or anyone who wants to float without fighting a current. The island also has one of the best snorkeling spots for small coral heads and tropical fish.
7. The Britania Sandbar
The Britania Sandbar is a long, curved strip of sand that connects several small islets depending on the tide. It is often the final stop of the tour because it is closest to the mainland. The sandbar is wide enough for a short walk and is a great place to watch the late-afternoon light reflect off the water.
What to Do During the Tour
Island hopping in Britania is relaxed. You can swim, snorkel, take photos, or simply lie on the sand. Some operators offer stand-up paddleboards and kayaks for rent, while others include a seafood barbecue on Hagonoy Island. Typical side activities include beach volleyball, coconut drinking, and short mangrove walks on Panlangagan. The pace is slow, so this is a good trip for families, couples, and groups of friends who want a laid-back day on the water.
Photographers will want a dry bag, a polarizing filter, and a charged phone or camera. The colors are best between nine in the morning and two in the afternoon, when the sun is high and the water looks brightest. If you want fewer people in your shots, book a private boat and leave the pier before eight in the morning.
Best Time to Visit Britania Islands
The dry season from March to June is the best time to visit, with flat seas and bright, even light. July through October is the rainy season, and while you can still island hop on good days, the sandbars may be smaller and the water less clear. November to February is generally dry and comfortable, but the sea can be rougher because of the amihan northeast monsoon. If you want the best sandbar experience, visit at low tide between March and May.
2026 Rates and Fees in Philippine Pesos
A join-in island-hopping tour in Britania costs PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person for a group of six to eight. This usually includes the boat, a guide, a small lunch, and the environmental fee. A private boat for two to four people is around PHP 2,500 to PHP 3,000 for the same route. Larger boats that hold ten to twelve guests can be chartered for PHP 3,500 to PHP 4,500.
The environmental fee is PHP 30 to PHP 50 per person, depending on the current municipal rate. Cottage rental on Hagonoy Island is PHP 200 to PHP 500. Kayak rental is PHP 300 to PHP 500 for an hour. A full lunch upgrade with fresh crab and grilled fish is PHP 500 to PHP 700 per person. Tricycle fare from the highway to the pier is PHP 20 to PHP 30. Butuan to Lianga van fare is PHP 250 to PHP 300.
Where to Stay Near Britania
The closest accommodation is the Britania Beach Resort, which has simple rooms and cottages starting at PHP 1,500 per night. Other options are in Lianga town proper, where budget inns start at PHP 800 per night and offer fans and private bathrooms. Tandag, the provincial capital, has more hotels and is about an hour north of the pier. For a longer trip, many travelers stay in Butuan or Davao and drive to Britania as a day tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many islands are in the standard Britania tour?
The standard tour includes seven stops: Hagonoy, Bosi, Naked, Hiyor-Hiyoran, Panlangagan Forest, Kanlunes, and the Britania Sandbar. Some operators adjust the route based on the tide and wind.
Can I book a join-in tour?
Yes. Join-in tours are available and usually cost PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person, including lunch and the environmental fee. Private boats are better if you want more time at specific stops.
Is Britania Islands good for snorkeling?
Snorkeling is good around Bosi and Kanlunes, where small reefs and tropical fish are common. Bring your own mask and snorkel for the best fit, or rent from the operator for PHP 150 to PHP 200.
Are there restaurants on the islands?
There are no standalone restaurants, but most tours include a packed lunch or a barbecue on Hagonoy Island. You can also order a seafood lunch in advance for PHP 500 to PHP 700.
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts four to six hours, including travel time between stops and the lunch break. Private tours can be shorter or longer depending on your preferences.
Plan Your Britania Trip With Pana
Start your 2026 planning in our destinations section to compare Britania with other Surigao del Sur attractions. Browse tours for island-hopping packages, find the best hotels in Lianga and Tandag, and read more stories on the Pana blog.
Sources
Article 108. Originally published for Pana in 2026. Researched by the Pana Visayas desk and reviewed by Pana editorial. Prices are based on 2026 local rates and may vary by operator and season.
Why Britania Islands Should Be on Your 2026 List
Britania Islands sits off the coast of Lianga in Surigao del Sur, a cluster of small islands and shifting sandbars that feels far more private than the crowded beaches of Palawan or Boracay. The group is usually called the Britania Group, and the standard island-hopping route covers seven named spots: Hagonoy Island, Bosi Island, Naked Island, Hiyor-Hiyoran Island, Panlangagan Forest, Kanlunes Island, and the Britania Sandbar. Each stop has its own character, from shaded coconut groves to empty white bars of sand that disappear at high tide.
At Pana we put this guide together after reviewing 2026 tour prices, speaking with Lianga tourism staff, and comparing Britania with similar island-hopping circuits in Surigao del Sur. The Pana Visayas desk is responsible for the research, and Pana editorial has fact-checked the rates and travel details. The result is a practical, first-hand style article for anyone planning a 2026 trip to Britania.
Where Are the Britania Islands
Britania Islands are in the municipality of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, about two hours south of Tandag and roughly three hours north of Davao City by road. The mainland jump-off is a small pier near the Britania Beach Resort, where boats line up each morning for island-hopping tours. The islands are close to shore, so the boat ride between stops is short and usually calm. The water inside the bay is protected from the open Pacific, which keeps it turquoise and clear for most of the year.
The area is managed through a local tourism cooperative. Visitors pay an environmental fee at the pier, sign the logbook, and are assigned a boat and a guide. The entire tour lasts four to six hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop and whether you add a seafood lunch on one of the islands.
How to Reach Britania in 2026
From Butuan City, the most common entry point, Britania is about a three-hour van or bus ride south on the Pan-Philippine Highway. Vans leave the Butuan integrated terminal throughout the morning and drop passengers at the Lianga crossing, where tricycles complete the last few kilometers to the pier. From Davao City the drive is four to five hours north, passing through Agusan del Sur and into Surigao del Sur. Private car rentals start at PHP 3,500 per day if you want to set your own schedule.
If you are coming from Surigao City or Siargao, the fastest route is to take a van or bus to Tandag, then transfer to Lianga. The total land journey is about five to six hours. Once in Lianga, tricycle fare from the highway to the Britania jump-off is PHP 20 to PHP 30 per person. Boat operators also accept walk-in bookings, but it is better to reserve in advance during weekends and holidays.
The 7 Islands and Sandbars of Britania
1. Hagonoy Island
Hagonoy Island is the main stop for lunch and the largest of the group. It has a small coconut grove, a few picnic tables, and a stretch of white sand facing the mainland. The water on the west side is shallow and perfect for wading, while the east side drops off into deeper turquoise water. Local boats usually anchor here for an hour so guests can eat, swim, and take photos under the coconut trees.
2. Bosi Island
Bosi is smaller and less developed than Hagonoy, which is exactly why many visitors like it. The beach is clean and quiet, and the snorkeling off the northern point is decent for beginners. You may see small reef fish and the occasional sea urchin, so reef shoes are useful. There are no cottages, so it is a quick swim-and-photo stop.
3. Naked Island
Naked Island is a pure sandbar with no trees and almost no shade. It is one of the most photographed spots in Britania because the white sand contrasts sharply with the deep blue water. At low tide the sandbar is long and easy to walk; at high tide it shrinks to a narrow strip. Bring an umbrella or visit early to avoid the midday sun.
4. Hiyor-Hiyoran Island
Hiyor-Hiyoran is known for its small rock formations and the tiny lagoon that boats can circle at high tide. It is a good place to drift in the water and watch fish in the shallows. The island is also a favorite for drone photography because of the unusual shape of the surrounding reefs.
5. Panlangagan Forest
Panlangagan is not a beach stop but a mangrove and forest area. Paddle boats or kayaks take visitors into the narrow water channels between the trees, where kingfishers and crabs are common. The contrast between the open sea and the still green forest is a welcome change of pace during a full-day tour.
6. Kanlunes Island
Kanlunes is a low sand and rock islet with a sheltered cove. The water here is usually the calmest in the group, making it ideal for children or anyone who wants to float without fighting a current. The island also has one of the best snorkeling spots for small coral heads and tropical fish.
7. The Britania Sandbar
The Britania Sandbar is a long, curved strip of sand that connects several small islets depending on the tide. It is often the final stop of the tour because it is closest to the mainland. The sandbar is wide enough for a short walk and is a great place to watch the late-afternoon light reflect off the water.
What to Do During the Tour
Island hopping in Britania is relaxed. You can swim, snorkel, take photos, or simply lie on the sand. Some operators offer stand-up paddleboards and kayaks for rent, while others include a seafood barbecue on Hagonoy Island. Typical side activities include beach volleyball, coconut drinking, and short mangrove walks on Panlangagan. The pace is slow, so this is a good trip for families, couples, and groups of friends who want a laid-back day on the water.
Photographers will want a dry bag, a polarizing filter, and a charged phone or camera. The colors are best between nine in the morning and two in the afternoon, when the sun is high and the water looks brightest. If you want fewer people in your shots, book a private boat and leave the pier before eight in the morning.
Best Time to Visit Britania Islands
The dry season from March to June is the best time to visit, with flat seas and bright, even light. July through October is the rainy season, and while you can still island hop on good days, the sandbars may be smaller and the water less clear. November to February is generally dry and comfortable, but the sea can be rougher because of the amihan northeast monsoon. If you want the best sandbar experience, visit at low tide between March and May.
2026 Rates and Fees in Philippine Pesos
A join-in island-hopping tour in Britania costs PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person for a group of six to eight. This usually includes the boat, a guide, a small lunch, and the environmental fee. A private boat for two to four people is around PHP 2,500 to PHP 3,000 for the same route. Larger boats that hold ten to twelve guests can be chartered for PHP 3,500 to PHP 4,500.
The environmental fee is PHP 30 to PHP 50 per person, depending on the current municipal rate. Cottage rental on Hagonoy Island is PHP 200 to PHP 500. Kayak rental is PHP 300 to PHP 500 for an hour. A full lunch upgrade with fresh crab and grilled fish is PHP 500 to PHP 700 per person. Tricycle fare from the highway to the pier is PHP 20 to PHP 30. Butuan to Lianga van fare is PHP 250 to PHP 300.
Where to Stay Near Britania
The closest accommodation is the Britania Beach Resort, which has simple rooms and cottages starting at PHP 1,500 per night. Other options are in Lianga town proper, where budget inns start at PHP 800 per night and offer fans and private bathrooms. Tandag, the provincial capital, has more hotels and is about an hour north of the pier. For a longer trip, many travelers stay in Butuan or Davao and drive to Britania as a day tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many islands are in the standard Britania tour?
The standard tour includes seven stops: Hagonoy, Bosi, Naked, Hiyor-Hiyoran, Panlangagan Forest, Kanlunes, and the Britania Sandbar. Some operators adjust the route based on the tide and wind.
Can I book a join-in tour?
Yes. Join-in tours are available and usually cost PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person, including lunch and the environmental fee. Private boats are better if you want more time at specific stops.
Is Britania Islands good for snorkeling?
Snorkeling is good around Bosi and Kanlunes, where small reefs and tropical fish are common. Bring your own mask and snorkel for the best fit, or rent from the operator for PHP 150 to PHP 200.
Are there restaurants on the islands?
There are no standalone restaurants, but most tours include a packed lunch or a barbecue on Hagonoy Island. You can also order a seafood lunch in advance for PHP 500 to PHP 700.
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts four to six hours, including travel time between stops and the lunch break. Private tours can be shorter or longer depending on your preferences.
Plan Your Britania Trip With Pana
Start your 2026 planning in our destinations section to compare Britania with other Surigao del Sur attractions. Browse tours for island-hopping packages, find the best hotels in Lianga and Tandag, and read more stories on the Pana blog.
Sources
Article 108. Originally published for Pana in 2026. Researched by the Pana Visayas desk and reviewed by Pana editorial. Prices are based on 2026 local rates and may vary by operator and season.
Why Britania Islands Should Be on Your 2026 List
Britania Islands sits off the coast of Lianga in Surigao del Sur, a cluster of small islands and shifting sandbars that feels far more private than the crowded beaches of Palawan or Boracay. The group is usually called the Britania Group, and the standard island-hopping route covers seven named spots: Hagonoy Island, Bosi Island, Naked Island, Hiyor-Hiyoran Island, Panlangagan Forest, Kanlunes Island, and the Britania Sandbar. Each stop has its own character, from shaded coconut groves to empty white bars of sand that disappear at high tide.
At Pana we put this guide together after reviewing 2026 tour prices, speaking with Lianga tourism staff, and comparing Britania with similar island-hopping circuits in Surigao del Sur. The Pana Visayas desk is responsible for the research, and Pana editorial has fact-checked the rates and travel details. The result is a practical, first-hand style article for anyone planning a 2026 trip to Britania.
Where Are the Britania Islands
Britania Islands are in the municipality of Lianga, Surigao del Sur, about two hours south of Tandag and roughly three hours north of Davao City by road. The mainland jump-off is a small pier near the Britania Beach Resort, where boats line up each morning for island-hopping tours. The islands are close to shore, so the boat ride between stops is short and usually calm. The water inside the bay is protected from the open Pacific, which keeps it turquoise and clear for most of the year.
The area is managed through a local tourism cooperative. Visitors pay an environmental fee at the pier, sign the logbook, and are assigned a boat and a guide. The entire tour lasts four to six hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop and whether you add a seafood lunch on one of the islands.
How to Reach Britania in 2026
From Butuan City, the most common entry point, Britania is about a three-hour van or bus ride south on the Pan-Philippine Highway. Vans leave the Butuan integrated terminal throughout the morning and drop passengers at the Lianga crossing, where tricycles complete the last few kilometers to the pier. From Davao City the drive is four to five hours north, passing through Agusan del Sur and into Surigao del Sur. Private car rentals start at PHP 3,500 per day if you want to set your own schedule.
If you are coming from Surigao City or Siargao, the fastest route is to take a van or bus to Tandag, then transfer to Lianga. The total land journey is about five to six hours. Once in Lianga, tricycle fare from the highway to the Britania jump-off is PHP 20 to PHP 30 per person. Boat operators also accept walk-in bookings, but it is better to reserve in advance during weekends and holidays.
The 7 Islands and Sandbars of Britania
1. Hagonoy Island
Hagonoy Island is the main stop for lunch and the largest of the group. It has a small coconut grove, a few picnic tables, and a stretch of white sand facing the mainland. The water on the west side is shallow and perfect for wading, while the east side drops off into deeper turquoise water. Local boats usually anchor here for an hour so guests can eat, swim, and take photos under the coconut trees.
2. Bosi Island
Bosi is smaller and less developed than Hagonoy, which is exactly why many visitors like it. The beach is clean and quiet, and the snorkeling off the northern point is decent for beginners. You may see small reef fish and the occasional sea urchin, so reef shoes are useful. There are no cottages, so it is a quick swim-and-photo stop.
3. Naked Island
Naked Island is a pure sandbar with no trees and almost no shade. It is one of the most photographed spots in Britania because the white sand contrasts sharply with the deep blue water. At low tide the sandbar is long and easy to walk; at high tide it shrinks to a narrow strip. Bring an umbrella or visit early to avoid the midday sun.
4. Hiyor-Hiyoran Island
Hiyor-Hiyoran is known for its small rock formations and the tiny lagoon that boats can circle at high tide. It is a good place to drift in the water and watch fish in the shallows. The island is also a favorite for drone photography because of the unusual shape of the surrounding reefs.
5. Panlangagan Forest
Panlangagan is not a beach stop but a mangrove and forest area. Paddle boats or kayaks take visitors into the narrow water channels between the trees, where kingfishers and crabs are common. The contrast between the open sea and the still green forest is a welcome change of pace during a full-day tour.
6. Kanlunes Island
Kanlunes is a low sand and rock islet with a sheltered cove. The water here is usually the calmest in the group, making it ideal for children or anyone who wants to float without fighting a current. The island also has one of the best snorkeling spots for small coral heads and tropical fish.
7. The Britania Sandbar
The Britania Sandbar is a long, curved strip of sand that connects several small islets depending on the tide. It is often the final stop of the tour because it is closest to the mainland. The sandbar is wide enough for a short walk and is a great place to watch the late-afternoon light reflect off the water.
What to Do During the Tour
Island hopping in Britania is relaxed. You can swim, snorkel, take photos, or simply lie on the sand. Some operators offer stand-up paddleboards and kayaks for rent, while others include a seafood barbecue on Hagonoy Island. Typical side activities include beach volleyball, coconut drinking, and short mangrove walks on Panlangagan. The pace is slow, so this is a good trip for families, couples, and groups of friends who want a laid-back day on the water.
Photographers will want a dry bag, a polarizing filter, and a charged phone or camera. The colors are best between nine in the morning and two in the afternoon, when the sun is high and the water looks brightest. If you want fewer people in your shots, book a private boat and leave the pier before eight in the morning.
Best Time to Visit Britania Islands
The dry season from March to June is the best time to visit, with flat seas and bright, even light. July through October is the rainy season, and while you can still island hop on good days, the sandbars may be smaller and the water less clear. November to February is generally dry and comfortable, but the sea can be rougher because of the amihan northeast monsoon. If you want the best sandbar experience, visit at low tide between March and May.
2026 Rates and Fees in Philippine Pesos
A join-in island-hopping tour in Britania costs PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person for a group of six to eight. This usually includes the boat, a guide, a small lunch, and the environmental fee. A private boat for two to four people is around PHP 2,500 to PHP 3,000 for the same route. Larger boats that hold ten to twelve guests can be chartered for PHP 3,500 to PHP 4,500.
The environmental fee is PHP 30 to PHP 50 per person, depending on the current municipal rate. Cottage rental on Hagonoy Island is PHP 200 to PHP 500. Kayak rental is PHP 300 to PHP 500 for an hour. A full lunch upgrade with fresh crab and grilled fish is PHP 500 to PHP 700 per person. Tricycle fare from the highway to the pier is PHP 20 to PHP 30. Butuan to Lianga van fare is PHP 250 to PHP 300.
Where to Stay Near Britania
The closest accommodation is the Britania Beach Resort, which has simple rooms and cottages starting at PHP 1,500 per night. Other options are in Lianga town proper, where budget inns start at PHP 800 per night and offer fans and private bathrooms. Tandag, the provincial capital, has more hotels and is about an hour north of the pier. For a longer trip, many travelers stay in Butuan or Davao and drive to Britania as a day tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many islands are in the standard Britania tour?
The standard tour includes seven stops: Hagonoy, Bosi, Naked, Hiyor-Hiyoran, Panlangagan Forest, Kanlunes, and the Britania Sandbar. Some operators adjust the route based on the tide and wind.
Can I book a join-in tour?
Yes. Join-in tours are available and usually cost PHP 1,200 to PHP 1,500 per person, including lunch and the environmental fee. Private boats are better if you want more time at specific stops.
Is Britania Islands good for snorkeling?
Snorkeling is good around Bosi and Kanlunes, where small reefs and tropical fish are common. Bring your own mask and snorkel for the best fit, or rent from the operator for PHP 150 to PHP 200.
Are there restaurants on the islands?
There are no standalone restaurants, but most tours include a packed lunch or a barbecue on Hagonoy Island. You can also order a seafood lunch in advance for PHP 500 to PHP 700.
How long is the boat tour?
The tour lasts four to six hours, including travel time between stops and the lunch break. Private tours can be shorter or longer depending on your preferences.
Plan Your Britania Trip With Pana
Start your 2026 planning in our destinations section to compare Britania with other Surigao del Sur attractions. Browse tours for island-hopping packages, find the best hotels in Lianga and Tandag, and read more stories on the Pana blog.
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