Taal Lake is a volcanic lake formed from a still active volcano.
The
Taal Lake Yacht Club offers boat rides to the volcano and tours for a cheap price, much cheaper than other tour groups, especially if you reserve ahead of time. The only caveat is that you have to get there yourself, which is not difficult.
To get there from Manila, go to the Southwest Terminal and take a San Agustin Bus towards Tagaytay. On board, tell the conductor that you're going to Oliveriz Square in Tagaytay. Once in Tagaytay, take a tricycle to the Yacht Club. The tricycle should cost 300 pesos, though some haggling may be required. Also, tell the driver that you already have reservations for the Yacht Club (even if you don't), otherwise they may take you somewhere else to sell you their own tour package.
To return to Manila, the yacht club can help you flag down a tricycle. From there, go across the road from where the bus dropped you off and wait for a bus heading back to Manila. Round trip for the bus was 110 pesos.
view of Volcano Island from Lake Taal
you will get wet while riding the banca
looking at other islands from Volcano Island
bancas on the island
Yellow Lake, which is another lake inside Volcano Island
the ground is warm to the touch
there are also steam vents scattered around
the little horse that you can ride to top (more of a pony)