Most travelers fly to San Jose Mindoro with the intention of traveling overland to Sablayan Occidental Mindoro . Not known to many that San Jose has one resort to boast upon and that is Grace Island Resort located in Ambulong San Jose Occidental Mindoro.
Grace Island Resort was not included in our original itinerary but since we had a free full day of stay in San Jose, this resort proves to be highly recommended as one of the island hopping trips .
How to reach Grace Island Resort?
There are 3 options really. One is to course your boat reservation in one of the beachfront hotels in San Jose. You must do so a night before your trip for them to be able to contact/contract with an available boatman/owner.
Another option is to head to Caminawit Port San Jose and look for boats for rent going to the resort.
If you seek convenience, Grace Island Resort contact numbers are 0939 917 8507, 09491836058, 09215924353 they have a scheduled boat transfers to/from the resort for a minimal price.
My experience
Upon approaching the resort after a very hot 1 hour travel by boat my impression was this resort was built with family entertainment in mind. I can see groups on a banana boat screaming at the top of their lungs whilst other family members trying to capture the moment. From afar, i see people on kayaks and snorklers aplenty. Kids are having fun under the hot summer sun within the designated swimming area. And i just love how their cottages was made to float in the water interconnected with wooden bamboo walkway.
Smiling receptionists was the welcoming committee. As soon as greetings were exchanged they will orient you the resort's numerous facilities/activities such as banana boat, kayak , mountain bike , mini zoo , snorkelling area, fish sanctuary and Restaurant.
The resort's restaurant was a big let down for me.There was no food menu and service was so slow. Since they were not selling anything to eat we just ordered a can of soda which took 1hour to be served. The restaurant was neatly designed with overhead capiz lanterns though.
One of the resort's main attraction is the Fish Sanctuary. Here you will find large sized fishes fattened by tourists . These fishes are spoiled to the brim. Alongside them is 2 sea turtles. Snorkelling inside the sanctuary is allowed if you've no fear of fish bites. They would think you're a large chunk of bread being offered to them.
The mini zoo is how it is, really mini. Monkeys and a few birds can be seen in captivity all for the enjoyment of the tourists ? :)
And at the top of the mountain, this overlooking view of the sea on the other side of the resort is quite breathtaking. The water is so calm and serene. Really peaceful sight!
For what the resort is lacking in its substantial food offering in their kitchen , they have redeemed themselves in their water sports activities and welcoming committee. I just wish they would employ cooks and waiters/kitchen staff so guests wouldn't go hungry ever again.
Overall, i give this resort a thumbs up only for a day tour or at most overnight stay. Please be reminded to bring cooking/eating utensils because they allow grilling/cooking within the resort.
Have an enjoyable summer and always take nothing but pictures and leave behind nothing but footprints. Always take care of our environment for they will love us back a hundredfold. :)
Contact Details of Grace Island Resort:
Cell no: 0939 917 8507
Email: graceislandresort@yahoo.com.ph
Website: http://www.graceislandresort.com/
Address: San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, 5100 San Jose, Mindoro Occidental, Philippines
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