Stevrena Cottages

The room was small but fine and clean. The toilets could have been cleaner, and the shower was cold. There’s a little kitchen, plus free refill water and coffee or tea. We asked about renting a scooter, but they didn’t have helmets for us, and the motorbike wasn’t in the best shape. We’ve rented bikes all over Asia, so that stood out.

When the super typhoon left me stranded, the owner kindly discounted the two extra days I had to stay. They also kept us updated about the trip back to Cebu. The staff were welcoming and took good care of guests. The place was clean and pleasant, a few minutes from Sta. Fe port, right beside the road. Rates are affordable and work well for backpackers. I had a great time there.

MJ Square is within walking distance and has plenty of food choices, and the beach is walkable too. My friends and I had a great stay in a room for six. The beds were comfortable, the bathroom worked fine, and we liked hanging out and chatting in the little cottages. The air-conditioned rooms are clean and comfortable, and the owners and staff made us feel welcome. It’s an affordable option for groups or big families.

I rented a bike for 150 PHP, though the motorbikes are 300 PHP a day and worth it if you want to see the island. I’d say two days is enough for that. The location works for biking to the beach and even the ruins, while MJ Square is about a 20-minute walk. My discounted fan room was around 9USD a night, on the second floor of the main house. About five rooms share two bathrooms up there. They have bidets, but no hot shower. The Wi-Fi was reliable and the bathrooms were reasonably clean. The room was basic, just a bed and chair, with the electrical outlet far from the bed, which made the chair useful. It got quite warm on dry, humid nights even with the window open, so anyone sensitive to heat would be better off with AC. It’s inexpensive, and you get what you pay for. I had a great time exploring the island, and this was a good cheap base for biking around.