How to Get to Grace Island Resort [2025–2026 Guide]
From Manila, fly 1h to San Jose (₱2,500–4,000) or take bus + ferry 8–10h (₱1,200–1,800). From San Jose, 15–20 min boat (~₱300–500) to Grace Island Resort.
If you’re dreaming of a tropical hideaway, Grace Island Resort in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, Philippines, is a great choice. Known for its floating cottages and clear waters, the resort feels remote but is quite accessible from Manila. You can either take a quick flight or a longer but more affordable land-and-sea route. In this guide, I’ll explain all the ways to reach Grace Island Resort in 2025–2026 with updated travel times, costs, and tips.
✈️ Option 1: Flight from Manila to San Jose (Fastest)
The quickest way to reach Grace Island Resort is by flying from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) to San Jose Airport (SJI) in Occidental Mindoro.
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The flight takes just 1 hour, making it the most time-efficient option for travelers. Cebu Pacific currently operates direct flights on this route.
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One-way fares range between ₱2,500–4,000 (US$45–70) depending on booking time and season. Early booking usually gets you the best price.
🚌⛴️ Option 2: Bus + Ferry from Manila (Cheapest)
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, the overland and sea route is an adventure in itself.
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First, take a bus from Manila to Batangas Pier, which takes about 2–3 hours and costs ₱200–300 (US$4–6).
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Then, board a ferry from Batangas to Abra de Ilog (Mindoro), lasting 2–3 hours and costing ₱300–500 (US$5–9).
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From Abra de Ilog, continue by bus or van to San Jose, which takes 5–6 hours and costs ₱600–1,000 (US$11–18). Total travel time is around 8–10 hours.
⛴️ Step 3: Boat Transfer from San Jose to Grace Island Resort
No matter how you reach San Jose, the last step is a short boat ride to the resort.
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Boats leave from San Jose Port and take only 15–20 minutes to reach Grace Island.
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The roundtrip boat transfer typically costs around ₱300–500 (US$5–9) per person, arranged directly through the resort.
🏝️ Travel Summary Table
| Route | Mode | Duration | Cost (per person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manila → San Jose | Flight | 1h | ₱2,500–4,000 | Fastest option |
| Manila → Batangas Pier | Bus | 2–3h | ₱200–300 | First leg of land route |
| Batangas → Abra de Ilog | Ferry | 2–3h | ₱300–500 | Budget-friendly |
| Abra de Ilog → San Jose | Bus/Van | 5–6h | ₱600–1,000 | Longest part of land route |
| San Jose Port → Grace Island | Boat | 15–20m | ₱300–500 | Arranged by resort |
💡 Tips for 2025–2026 Travelers
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Choose flights if short on time, as you’ll reach Grace Island in just a few hours versus a full-day land trip.
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Plan ahead during peak seasons like summer and holidays since flights and ferries sell out quickly.
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Coordinate boat transfers with the resort before arrival so you don’t have to wait at San Jose Port.
❓ FAQs – Getting to Grace Island Resort
Q1: What is the fastest way to get to Grace Island Resort from Manila?
The fastest way is a 1-hour flight from Manila to San Jose, followed by a 15–20 minute boat ride.
Q2: What is the cheapest way to reach Grace Island Resort?
The cheapest option is the bus + ferry + van route, costing around ₱1,200–1,800 total, though it takes 8–10 hours.
Q3: How far is Grace Island Resort from San Jose Airport?
It’s close — you’ll just need a 15–20 minute boat ride from San Jose Port.
Q4: Do I need to book the boat transfer in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to arrange the transfer with the resort when confirming your booking.
Q5: Can I reach Grace Island Resort in one day from Manila?
Yes — with a morning flight, you can be at the resort by midday. Even by land and sea, it’s possible, but it will be a long travel day.