Malamawi is a hidden paradise and the top tourist spot in Isabela City, Basilan. It is a privately owned resort on the island with a long stretch of fine white sand shoreline. To see its beauty, I rode a ferry to Isabela City from Zamboanga City port. Then, I took a motorized banca to the island's port and a 20 to 30-minute motorcycle ride to the white beach.
The resort has a wide area with open ground covered with grass, coconuts, and other trees, maintaining a relaxing ambiance. There are cottages for rent and a function hall. A store and canteen are available inside the resort premises. Also, parking areas are available.
How to Get to Malamawi Island: Take a flight to Zamboanga International Airport. From the airport, take a ride to the port of Zamboanga City (near the city hall). Ride on a sea vessel to Isabela City. You can take RoRo with 1.5 hours of travel time or fast-craft for 45 minutes. Terminal tickets are purchased separately. READ: SOLO-BACKPACKING: ZamBaSulTa, Zamboanga Provinces and Misamis Occidental