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Fortune Island is one of the most recognizable destinations in Batangas, famously known for the Acropolis of Athens-inspired ruins that sit atop its limestone cliffs. Once an exclusive luxury resort in the 1990s, the island was eventually abandoned due to the lack of a fresh water source and the high cost of maintenance. Today, it stands as a hauntingly beautiful "ruin" that offers a raw, off-the-grid experience for travelers who don't mind a bit of grit.



Where is Fortune Island Located?

Fortune Island is located about 14 kilometers off the coast of Nasugbu, Batangas. It is situated along the Verde Island Passage, which is known for its deep blue waters and strong currents.


When to Visit


Best Time: December to May (Dry Season). This is the window when the waves are most manageable.

Warning: Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (July to September). The boat ride can be notoriously rough and "splashy," often leading to cancellations for safety.

Pro-Tip: Aim for a weekday trip. On weekends, the iconic pillars can get crowded with people waiting in line for photos.

RELATED GUIDE: 12 Best Places to Visit in Batangas (Tourist Spots and Activities)


Things to Do (Activity Rates)

The island is rugged and has no electricity or running water, so activities are focused on nature and photography.

  • The Acropolis Photo Op - Included in Entry
    The iconic Grecian pillars. Best at sunrise or sunset.

  • Cliff Diving - FREE
    Located at the back of the island; heights vary from 5ft to 30ft.

  • Snorkeling - FREE
    Bring your own gear. The area near the shipwreck is great for fish.

  • Shipwreck Diving - Varies
    For licensed divers, there is a Dutch freighter wreck nearby.

  • Hiking to the Lighthouse - FREE
    A short, overgrown trek to the island’s highest point.

  • Tent Pitching Fee - ₱100 – ₱200
    Only applicable if you bring your own tent for day/overnight use.


OTHER MUST-SEE ISLANDS IN THE PHILIPPINES

If you love to travel to the Philippines, here are the beautiful islands to visit on your next trip:




Rates & Fees (2026 Updates)

Since there are no hotels on the island, you must register at a mainland resort (usually Fortune Island Resort in Brgy. Wawa) before heading out.

Entrance Fee (Day Trip): ₱350 per person

Entrance Fee (Overnight): ₱500 per person

Boat Rental (Day Trip): ₱4,000 – ₱4,500 (Good for 5–10 pax)

Boat Rental (Overnight): ₱4,500 – ₱6,000 (Good for 5–10 pax)

Tent Rental: ₱500 per tent (if you don't have your own)


How to Get There


Step 1: Manila to Nasugbu
Take a bus (DLTB or BSC) from Buendia, Pasay, or Cubao bound for Nasugbu.

Fare: ₱230 – ₱280

Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours.

Drop-off: Nasugbu Town Proper (near Jollibee/Public Market).


Step 2: Town Proper to Brgy. Wawa
Hire a tricycle to take you to Fortune Island Resort or your chosen boat coordinator in Brgy. Wawa.

Fare: ₱50 – ₱100 per trike.


Step 3: Mainland to Fortune Island
Board your chartered boat. The ride takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours depending on sea conditions.

Note: Prepare to get wet! The waves in this area are known to be choppy, so place all electronics in dry bags.



Essential Survival Tips


Bring ALL your water: There is no fresh water on the island for drinking or even for rinsing off after a swim.

Food & Trash: There are no food stalls. Bring your own meals and, most importantly, pack your trash back to the mainland.

Sun Protection: The island has very little shade. The heat reflecting off the white ruins can be intense, so bring a hat and reef-safe sunblock.

Bathroom Situation: Facilities on the island are very basic (pit latrines or "saltwater flush" toilets). Manage your expectations!


WHAT TO BRING FOR BATANGAS

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

ALSO IN BATANGAS



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

FORTUNE ISLAND: A Piece of Greece in Nasugbu, Batangas


Fortune Island is one of the most recognizable destinations in Batangas, famously known for the Acropolis of Athens-inspired ruins that sit atop its limestone cliffs. Once an exclusive luxury resort in the 1990s, the island was eventually abandoned due to the lack of a fresh water source and the high cost of maintenance. Today, it stands as a hauntingly beautiful "ruin" that offers a raw, off-the-grid experience for travelers who don't mind a bit of grit.



Where is Fortune Island Located?

Fortune Island is located about 14 kilometers off the coast of Nasugbu, Batangas. It is situated along the Verde Island Passage, which is known for its deep blue waters and strong currents.


When to Visit


Best Time: December to May (Dry Season). This is the window when the waves are most manageable.

Warning: Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (July to September). The boat ride can be notoriously rough and "splashy," often leading to cancellations for safety.

Pro-Tip: Aim for a weekday trip. On weekends, the iconic pillars can get crowded with people waiting in line for photos.

RELATED GUIDE: 12 Best Places to Visit in Batangas (Tourist Spots and Activities)


Things to Do (Activity Rates)

The island is rugged and has no electricity or running water, so activities are focused on nature and photography.

  • The Acropolis Photo Op - Included in Entry
    The iconic Grecian pillars. Best at sunrise or sunset.

  • Cliff Diving - FREE
    Located at the back of the island; heights vary from 5ft to 30ft.

  • Snorkeling - FREE
    Bring your own gear. The area near the shipwreck is great for fish.

  • Shipwreck Diving - Varies
    For licensed divers, there is a Dutch freighter wreck nearby.

  • Hiking to the Lighthouse - FREE
    A short, overgrown trek to the island’s highest point.

  • Tent Pitching Fee - ₱100 – ₱200
    Only applicable if you bring your own tent for day/overnight use.


OTHER MUST-SEE ISLANDS IN THE PHILIPPINES

If you love to travel to the Philippines, here are the beautiful islands to visit on your next trip:




Rates & Fees (2026 Updates)

Since there are no hotels on the island, you must register at a mainland resort (usually Fortune Island Resort in Brgy. Wawa) before heading out.

Entrance Fee (Day Trip): ₱350 per person

Entrance Fee (Overnight): ₱500 per person

Boat Rental (Day Trip): ₱4,000 – ₱4,500 (Good for 5–10 pax)

Boat Rental (Overnight): ₱4,500 – ₱6,000 (Good for 5–10 pax)

Tent Rental: ₱500 per tent (if you don't have your own)


How to Get There


Step 1: Manila to Nasugbu
Take a bus (DLTB or BSC) from Buendia, Pasay, or Cubao bound for Nasugbu.

Fare: ₱230 – ₱280

Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours.

Drop-off: Nasugbu Town Proper (near Jollibee/Public Market).


Step 2: Town Proper to Brgy. Wawa
Hire a tricycle to take you to Fortune Island Resort or your chosen boat coordinator in Brgy. Wawa.

Fare: ₱50 – ₱100 per trike.


Step 3: Mainland to Fortune Island
Board your chartered boat. The ride takes about 1 hour to 1.5 hours depending on sea conditions.

Note: Prepare to get wet! The waves in this area are known to be choppy, so place all electronics in dry bags.



Essential Survival Tips


Bring ALL your water: There is no fresh water on the island for drinking or even for rinsing off after a swim.

Food & Trash: There are no food stalls. Bring your own meals and, most importantly, pack your trash back to the mainland.

Sun Protection: The island has very little shade. The heat reflecting off the white ruins can be intense, so bring a hat and reef-safe sunblock.

Bathroom Situation: Facilities on the island are very basic (pit latrines or "saltwater flush" toilets). Manage your expectations!


WHAT TO BRING FOR BATANGAS

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

ALSO IN BATANGAS



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

Batangas Island Island Hopping Luzon Nasugbu Southern Luzon

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