Verde Island

Philippines , Philippines

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Verde Island, also known as Isla Verde, is a small volcanic island in the Verde Island Passage between the main island of Luzon and Mindoro in the Philippines, administratively part of Batangas City.

The island is renowned as a marine biodiversity hotspot, sitting at the heart of what scientists call the “center of the center of marine biodiversity,” with hundreds of coral species and extremely rich reef life that attract divers and snorkelers from around the world.

Above water, the island has a quiet, low‑development feel with a small barangay community, white‑sand beaches such as Mahabang Buhangin, and a few eco‑oriented resorts, offering simple dives, hikes to its forested hills, and stargazing far from city light.

Access is usually by boat from Batangas City or by ferry from nearby ports, and the island’s protected status helps keep both its reefs and its laid‑back island lifestyle relatively preserved.