San Jose | Grace Island, the Maldives of the South
Are you short on budget but in need of a stress-relieving getaway? Look no further than Grace Island Resort, fondly referred to as "the Maldives of the South" by locals. Nestled on Buri Island in Barangay Ambulong, San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, this exclusive resort offers a captivating experience with its floating cottages and naturally inspired architecture, providing breathtaking views from above.
San Jose serves as the bustling business center of Occidental Mindoro, boasting the largest ports and airport in the province. With numerous banking institutions, commercial centers, hotels, clubs, and dining establishments, tourists can indulge in both the natural beauty of the beaches and the vibrant urban life downtown. The town enjoys a tropical monsoon climate with an average temperature of 27.5°C and is among the most densely populated areas in the province, home to a diverse population speaking Tagalog, Visayan, Kapangpangan, and Ilocano languages.
Grace Island Resort stands as a premier destination in San Jose, surrounded by lush forests that provide an idyllic setting for retreats, group activities, and gatherings. Don't miss the chance to marvel at the unique architectural marvel known as "the Limbo Rock," symbolizing the island's life and beauty.
Visitors can explore the entire island on foot or by bicycle, soaking in stunning sunrise and sunset views from the hilltop meditation area. The resort offers affordable group packages for day trips and overnight stays, catering to various group sizes:
DAY-TOUR GROUP PACKAGE
- 10 to 15 persons: PHP 7,000 ($134)
- 16 to 20 persons: PHP 8,000 ($153)
- 21 to 25 persons: PHP 9,000 ($173)
- 26 to 30 persons: PHP 10,000 ($192)
Inclusions: floating open cottage, round-trip boat transfers, entrance fees, welcome drinks, free use of kayaks, small boats, and corkage fees for all items except drinks and liquors.
OVERNIGHT STAY PACKAGE
- 1 night for two people: PHP 6,000 (additional night at PHP 1,500 per person)
- 1 night for four people: PHP 10,000 (additional night at PHP 1,500 per person)
Inclusions: one floating cottage room with a veranda, fan room, portable toilet, round-trip boat transfers, kayaks, small boats, and bicycles.
Amenities such as kayaks, bikes, and small boats are complimentary during day tours and overnight stays. Additional amenities like jet skis, banana boats, snorkel sets, and thrilling rides are available for a fee.
To reach San Jose, visitors can take a short flight from NAIA Terminal 3 or Clark Airport to San Jose Airport (SJI), followed by a tricycle ride to Aroma Beach, where the booking office is located. Alternatively, land and sea travel options via RORO buses are available from terminals in Cubao, Sampaloc, Alabang, and Pasay City, with fares ranging from PHP 1,100 to PHP 1,300 ($21 to $25), including ferry rides. Travel time is approximately 12 hours.
For travelers coming from Batangas City, ferry routes to Abra de Ilog (3 hours) or Calapan (with fast craft options) provide access to San Jose, followed by a bus or van ride and a tricycle to Aroma Beach/Caminawit Port. Motorboat services to the island typically depart at 9:00 in the morning, with travel time under two hours.
For more information, you may reach the following contact numbers:
- Smart : +63 908 8795783
- Globe : +63 917 8939674
- Facebook : Grace Island Resort
- Website : www.graceislandresort.com
