Canibad: The Return of the Comeback

Finally I have returned to Canibad after four years. The first time I went here is in September of 2011 and so much have changed since then. Though the road to Canibad was still rough and bumpy but it is a little better this time than the last time. Last time is rockier and bumpier and really butt numbing and at the end of the ride you'll feel extreme muscle pains. This time however it is manageable but the bumps is still there. Think of roller coaster ride.

On the way

Another change is the then undeveloped shores are now commercialized and slowly developing. Different beach resorts have sprouted. And the then isolated feel of the place is no longer there.

Our group is a sucker for isolation and finding an isolated beach resort at Samal Island during the Holy Week is a challenge. Considering the distance, we decided to go on an adventure and face a bumpy, rocky ride to Canibad. So with rigorous research, my friends and I reserved a room at Madyaw Beach Resort.

This resort is located at the very end of the line of beach resorts in the area. The drive going to the resort is extreme challenge because it's a very steep rocky road. When going down to the resort you will need a good working brakes. When going up from the resort to the main road you need to have strong motor power. What really made it very difficult is the sharp coral rocks that you need to avoid. It was like an offroad challenge.

The rocky road to the Canibad and the steep drive to the resort is one of the things I disliked. Another thing that I didn't like is the crowd. It isn't over crowded but it still shocked us that the beach is now flocked with beach goers. It is either because of the long weekend or Canibad has become accessible to the public.

Despite the amount of people who flocked the resorts at Canibad, I still enjoyed it there because the water is clean and the owner and staffs of Madyaw resort are very accommodating and friendly. The amenities are not high class but it is still comfortable. There is no corkage so you can bring as many drinks you can.

They offer open cottages, non-aircon rooms, aircon rooms, and family house. The common bathrooms are clean. They also have kitchen utensils and cookware that is free to use. There is also free wood to use for cooking.

Aircon Room

Open Cottage

Dining Hall

Hallway to our room

Our room

Common Bathrooms

Will I go back? I probably will if the road to Canibad will be cemented or if we ride a four wheel drive car. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the ride, the beach, and the company so going back there is not entirely impossible!

Here are more pics of my Canibad reunion.

Check out Madyaw Beach's facebook page or contact Juvelyn at 0939 243 6432 and she will answer all your queries.

Fare rate is around P100 - P110 per head depends on the driver (fare rates may change without prior notice). Travel time is more or less 1 hour - 1 hour 15 minutes max (depends on your ride)