Mahanay Island part of Getafe and Talibon Towns, in Bohol province

by world-island.net

Mahanay Island, Bohol – A Hidden Gem Between Getafe and Talibon

Mahanay Island is a small, low‑lying island in the Camotes Sea, located just off the northern coast of Bohol. It is administratively shared by the municipalities of Getafe and Talibon, making it a unique destination that blends the culture and coastal charm of both towns. The island remains quiet, remote, and underdeveloped, offering a peaceful escape for travelers seeking authentic provincial life and pristine marine environments.

• This is confusing but both towns Getafe and Talibon have a barangay on the island called Mahanay and it is shared.  See at end of blog for more information on this sharing,

Demographic Overview

• Island Group:
  • Visayas Island Group
• Region: 
  • Central Visayas (Region VII)
• Province:
  • Bohol
• Town(s):
  • Getafe
  • Talibon
• Island Barangays:  3
  • Getafe: 2
    • Alumar
    • Mahanay (shared)
  • Talibon
    • Mahanay (shared)
• Island’s population 2020 census: 3,701 residents
  • Getafe: 1,810 residents
  • Talibon: 1,891 residents
• Land area: 11.07 sq. kilometers (4.27 sq. miles)
• Sea borders:   The island lies within the Camotes Sea.

by Jo Life in the Philippines

About Mahanay Island

Mahanay Island covers 11.07 km² with a 23.91‑km coastline, surrounded by coral reefs and shallow turquoise waters. Its terrain is mostly flat, rising only 1–4 meters above sea level, making it ideal for beach walks, swimming, and snorkeling.

The communities rely heavily on fishing and small-scale agriculture, supported by provincial livelihood programs such as seedling distribution and water catchment projects.

How to Get to Mahanay Island

Most travelers reach Mahanay Island via Talibon Port, where small outrigger boats (bangka) ferry visitors to the island.

• Boat fare: ₱1,500–₱2,500 round trip (depending on group size and negotiation)
• Travel time: 30–45 minutes
• Tip: Arrange your return trip with the boatman upon arrival, as boats are limited.

Tourism Spots & Things to Do on Mahanay Island

1. White-Sand Beaches

The island’s coastline features soft white sand and clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The main beach area is where boats typically dock.

2. Crystal-Clear Swimming Areas

Shallow, calm waters make Mahanay ideal for families and beginner swimmers.

3. Snorkeling & Coral Reefs

Bring your own gear or rent from locals. The reefs host colorful fish and vibrant corals, easily accessible from the shore.

4. Birdwatching & Nature Walks

The island’s interior is lush and undeveloped, offering opportunities to spot local bird species and enjoy quiet nature walks.

5. Cultural Interaction

With fishing as the main livelihood, visitors can observe or participate in local fishing practices and learn about coastal community life.

Getafe, Bohol – Gateway to Island Adventures

• 2020 population: 32,153 residents
• Barangays: 24
  • Mainland: 15
  • Mahanay Island: 2
  • Jagoliao Island: 2
  • Jandayan Island: 3
  • Nasingin Island: 1
  • Pandanon Island: 1

Getafe (also spelled Jetafe) is known for its cluster of offshore islands, including Mahanay, Pandanon, and Handayan. It serves as one of the administrative homes of Mahanay Island.

Highlights of Getafe

• Pandanon Island – Famous for its long sandbar and chapel by the sea.
• Handayan Island – Quiet beaches and fishing villages.
• Banacon Island Mangrove Forest – One of the largest man‑made mangrove plantations in the Philippines.

Getafe’s portion of Mahanay has 1,810 residents, making it the less populated side.

by Igie Vlog Tv

Talibon, Bohol – Main Jump-Off Point to Mahanay Island

• 2020 population: 71,272 residents
• Barangays: 24
  • Mainland: 18
  • Mahanay Island: 1
  • Calituban Island: 1
  • Cataban Island: 1
  • Guindacpan Island: 1
  • Jao Island: 2
  • Sag Island: 1

Talibon is a bustling coastal municipality north of Bohol and the primary access point for Mahanay Island. It has a larger share of the island’s population and provides essential services, markets, and transportation.

Highlights of Talibon

• Talibon Port – Main departure area for boats going to Mahanay Island.
• Talibon Wharf – Scenic harbor area with views of fishing boats and nearby islands.
• Talibon Church (Holy Trinity Parish) – A historic church in the town center.
• Nearby Islands – Banacon, Bansaan, and other small islands ideal for island hopping.

Talibon’s portion of Mahanay has 1,891 residents, making it the more populated side.

Why Visit Mahanay Island?

Mahanay Island is perfect for travelers who want:

• A quiet, uncrowded beach destination
• Authentic local culture
• Snorkeling without commercial tour crowds
• A peaceful stop during Getafe–Talibon island hopping
• A remote island experience close to mainland Bohol

It remains underdeveloped, which is part of its charm—no resorts, no crowds, just nature and community life.

Travel Tips

• Bring cash, as there are no ATMs on the island.
• Pack snacks and water—stores are limited.
• Respect local fishing areas and marine life.
• Secure your boat ride back early.
• Best visited during dry months (Nov–May) for calm seas.

by Van Puerto

Extra bonus: Why Mahanay (Bry. Mahanay) is Shared

Mahanay — the barangay in Talibon and Getafe on Mahanay Island — is “shared” because it is geographically split between two municipalities in Bohol province: Getafe and Talibon 

Geographic and Administrative Split

• Mahanay Island is a small island in the Camotes Sea, slightly north of Bohol Island, with a total area of about 11 km² 
• The eastern two-thirds of the island belong to Talibon Municipality, while the western one-third belongs to Getafe Municipality 
• This division means that the same name “Mahanay” is used for two separate barangays:
• Barangay Mahanay, Getafe — a coastal barangay in Getafe with a 2020 census population of 607 
• Barangay Mahanay, Talibon — a coastal barangay in Talibon with a 2020 census population of 1,891 

Why the Split Exists

The division likely reflects historical municipal boundaries and local governance needs. Each municipality administers its own barangay, with its own officials, services, and development plans. This is common in the Philippines, where islands or coastal areas are split between municipalities for administrative convenience.

Community and Economy

• The island’s economy is based on fishing, small-scale agriculture, and seaweed farming 
• It is part of Bohol’s network of over 70 islands, offering eco-cultural tourism opportunities like island hopping and marine activities 
• Mahanay is also one of the country’s 21 protected coastal areas under Executive Order 117, highlighting its environmental significance 

In short: Mahanay is shared because the island is physically split between Getafe and Talibon, leading to two separate barangays with the same name, each governed by its respective municipality.

by Primer Bohol