Cauayan Island Resort
Cauayan Island, Bacuit Bay El Nido, Palawan 5313 Philippines
Imagine a secluded island wrapped in limestone cliffs, hugged by turquoise waters, and crowned with lush tropical foliage. In the heart of Bacuit Bay, off the coast of El Nido, Palawan, lies Cauayan Island Resort —a luxurious sanctuary that perfectly combines elegance with nature. Though intimate in scale, this exclusive escape features a select number of overwater Water Villas, making it one of the rare destinations in the Philippines where you can enjoy a full-fledged water bungalow experience without leaving the country.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a place to unwind in total seclusion, or a base for island-hopping adventures, Cauayan Island Resort and Spa offers an exceptional blend of barefoot luxury, Filipino warmth, and raw natural beauty.
Table of Contents
- Cauayan Island Resort – Overview & Water Bungalows
- Other Luxurious Accommodations
- Culinary Excellence
- The Spa: Rejuvenation in Paradise
- Activities & Island Adventures
- Eco-Conscious Luxury
- Accessibility and Seamless Transfers
- Why Cauayan Stands Out as a Water Bungalow Resort
- Service Philosophy and Guest Experience
- What Travelers Are Saying: Cauayan Island Resort
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Photo Gallery
Cauayan Island Resort – Overview & Water Bungalows
Cauayan Island is a privately owned, 5-star eco-resort that offers guests a rare opportunity to enjoy Palawan’s pristine waters and jungle-covered cliffs without the crowds. The island itself is accessible only by boat—creating a “Robinson Crusoe meets luxury” atmosphere, ideal for those who seek serenity far from urban life. The surrounding seascape features towering limestone karsts, coral gardens, secret lagoons, and dramatic sunsets that turn the sky into a canvas of pastel hues.
As a water bungalow resort, Cauayan distinguishes itself not by quantity but by curated quality, with only a handful of overwater accommodations. These exclusive villas promise tranquility and romance, making the resort a top-tier destination for honeymooners and luxury-seekers alike.
The Signature Water Villas
Cauayan Island Resort and Spa offers 4 overwater Water Villas, each one a haven of sophistication and intimacy. Elevated on stilts directly above the crystal-clear sea, these villas combine modern tropical design with local materials like bamboo, wood, and thatch, creating a seamless blend with the surrounding environment.
Key Features of the Water Villas:
- Size: Each villa spans approximately 60 square meters, with thoughtfully planned interiors and a private outdoor space.
- Bedding: A plush king-sized bed is central to the design, surrounded by minimalist tropical décor and large glass windows for panoramic views.
- Private Terrace: Guests enjoy a private sundeck with a lounge area, overlooking the sea—perfect for morning coffee or sunset cocktails.
- Direct Water Access: A set of steps descends from your villa directly into the sea, allowing for an impromptu swim or snorkel right from your room.
- Adults-Only Privacy: Designed exclusively for adults, these villas ensure total privacy and peaceful moments, ideal for honeymooners or couples celebrating a special occasion.
- Bathroom: The ensuite bathroom features a walk-in rainfall shower, twin sinks, and eco-luxury toiletries.
Despite their exclusivity, the Water Villas are part of a broader hospitality philosophy that keeps nature and comfort in perfect harmony.
Other Luxurious Accommodations
While the Water Villas are the highlight, Cauayan also offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to different preferences:
- Beach Front Villas
These villas are located just a few steps from the shoreline. With direct beach access and sweeping views of the sea, they are perfect for families or guests who prefer to stay on solid ground but still want to hear the sound of the waves.
- Beach View Villas
Slightly elevated and set further back, these villas offer guests serene views of the beach and are surrounded by lush tropical foliage, providing a peaceful, shaded retreat.
- Lagoon Villas
Set in a more secluded, green corner of the island, Lagoon Villas offer the sounds of rustling leaves and trickling water. They’re ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the shoreline.
- Cauayan Pool Villas
The most indulgent of the land-based accommodations, these villas feature private infinity pools overlooking the bay or jungle. Variants include:
- Sunrise Pool Villa – to enjoy early golden rays.
- Bay View Pool Villa – for elevated panoramic views.
- Premium Pool Villa – the top-of-the-line experience with maximum privacy and luxury.
Each villa, regardless of category, features air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, minibar, in-room safe, and signature Filipino design elements that showcase craftsmanship and culture.
Culinary Excellence
Dining at Horizon Restaurant
Dining at Cauayan Island Resort is more than just a meal—it’s a sensory experience. The Horizon Restaurant, with its open-air design and sea-facing views, invites guests to savor a menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients and international culinary techniques.
What to Expect:
- Filipino Gourmet Dishes: Elevated versions of local favorites like sinigang, adobo, and fresh kinilaw.
- International Fusion: European, Asian, and Mediterranean options to cater to global palates.
- Fresh Seafood: Daily catch from surrounding waters, including tuna, lobsters, groupers, and more.
- Customized Dining: Vegan, vegetarian, and dietary-restricted menus available upon request.
- Private Dining Options: Romantic beach dinners, floating breakfasts by the pool, or in-villa dining for complete privacy.
Pair your meal with a curated wine list or a tropical cocktail as you listen to the gentle waves lapping at the shore.
The Spa: Rejuvenation in Paradise
At the heart of Cauayan’s ethos is wellness. The Cauayan Spa is located in a tranquil corner of the island, offering a range of treatments rooted in Filipino healing traditions and modern techniques.
Signature Treatments Include:
- Hilot Massage – a traditional Filipino therapy to release tension and realign the body.
- Coconut Body Scrub – using local coconut oil and husks for deep exfoliation.
- Aloe Vera Sun Soother – ideal after a day in the sun.
- Couples Rituals – perfect for honeymooners, combining massage, scrubs, and champagne.
The spa’s open-air design, soft music, and natural elements enhance the experience, making it more than just a treatment—it’s a journey of healing.
Activities & Island Adventures
Cauayan Island Resort is both a sanctuary for rest and a playground for adventure. Here are some unforgettable experiences:
Water-Based Activities:
- Snorkeling and Diving: Explore nearby reefs filled with clownfish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral. The resort can arrange PADI-certified diving trips.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Paddle across crystal-clear lagoons or around the coast.
- Island Hopping: Join a boat tour to nearby wonders like Small Lagoon, Big Lagoon, Secret Beach, and Snake Island.
- Sunset Cruises: Sail around the island with wine in hand as the sun dips below the horizon.
On-Island Activities:
- Fitness Center: A modern gym equipped for those who want to keep up with their routines.
- Nature Walks and Hiking: Trails lead to scenic viewpoints, including a panoramic cliffside vista perfect for sunrise photos.
- Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare local Filipino dishes with the resort’s chef.
- Cultural Experiences: Enjoy kulintang music performances, native weaving displays, and Filipino storytelling nights.
Eco-Conscious Luxury
In line with Palawan’s UNESCO-protected status and reputation as the “last ecological frontier” of the Philippines, Cauayan Island Resort is committed to sustainability.
Environmental Initiatives:
- Solar Energy: Many of the resort’s power needs are supplemented by solar.
- Plastic-Free Commitment: The use of single-use plastics is minimized or eliminated.
- Water Filtration: Advanced systems reduce water waste and provide clean drinking water.
- Coral Reef Conservation: Guests are educated about reef-safe practices, and the resort supports local reef monitoring programs.
- Community Engagement: Local communities in El Nido are employed and empowered through job creation and skills training.
By staying at Cauayan, guests directly support the protection and preservation of one of the world’s most precious marine ecosystems.
Accessibility and Seamless Transfers
Getting to Cauayan Island Resort is surprisingly smooth, despite its remote setting.
How to Get There:
- Fly into El Nido Airport (Lio Airport) – the resort provides complimentary roundtrip airport transfers.
- From the airport, a short van ride to the Cauayan Jetty, followed by a 20-30 minute boat ride, lands you directly at the resort’s private dock.
The process is seamless and often accompanied by warm welcomes, cold towels, and scenic views.
Why Cauayan Stands Out as a Water Bungalow Resort
While the Philippines is dotted with luxurious beachfront resorts, true water bungalow experiences are rare, and Cauayan is one of the few destinations to offer this type of accommodation. Its limited number of Water Villas ensures privacy, exclusivity, and a sense of unhurried living. Unlike large-scale resorts that prioritize volume, Cauayan delivers bespoke luxury—perfectly suited for honeymoons, proposals, anniversaries, or once-in-a-lifetime trips.
Service Philosophy and Guest Experience
What truly elevates Cauayan Island Resort is its commitment to Filipino hospitality—malasakit and alagang tunay—which translates to genuine care and heartfelt service.
Expect:
- Personalized service and attention to detail.
- Friendly staff who remember your preferences.
- Concierge available for custom experiences.
- Surprise turndown touches like flower petals or handwritten notes.
Guests frequently mention in reviews how the staff become the highlight of their trip—making their stay feel not just luxurious, but deeply meaningful.
What Travelers Are Saying: Cauayan Island Resort
Guest Highlights:
Cauayan Island Resort: The Art of Island Living
Cauayan Island Resort and Spa doesn’t just offer a place to sleep—it offers a lifestyle. From its stunning overwater bungalows to its lush, eco-conscious surroundings and attentive service, it paints a picture of tropical perfection. Whether you’re diving into a coral garden, sipping a cocktail over the sea, or falling asleep to the sound of waves beneath your villa, Cauayan lets you live the island dream—elegantly and sustainably.
If you’re searching for a true water bungalow resort experience in the Philippines, look no further than this hidden gem in El Nido. Once you arrive, you’ll wish time would stand still.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Where is Cauayan Island Resort located?
Cauayan Island Resort is located in Bacuit Bay, El Nido, Palawan, Philippines. - How do I get to the resort?
Guests typically fly into El Nido Airport (Lio Airport), followed by a short land transfer and a boat ride to the island. - Does the resort offer overwater villas?
While Cauayan Island Resort does not have traditional overwater bungalows, it offers beachfront and hillside villas with stunning sea views. - Is Cauayan Island Resort suitable for honeymoons?
Yes! The resort is known for its romantic setting, making it a popular choice for honeymoons and couples’ getaways. - What activities are available at the resort?
Guests can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, island hopping, spa treatments, and sunset cruises. - Is Wi-Fi available at the resort?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available in public areas and most villas, although the connection may be limited due to the remote location. - Is the resort family-friendly?
While it caters mainly to couples and adult travelers, families with children are also welcome. - What dining options are available?
The resort has an on-site restaurant offering a mix of Filipino and international cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
Gallery
Peek Into Cauayan Island Resort and Spa, Philippines
