Las Islas De Gigantes: A Piece of Paradise Waiting to be Explored

Bantigue Sandbar (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

Central Philippines has probably the largest concentration of splendid white sand beaches kissed by crystal clear waters and limestone formations that are naturally carved by tranquil turquoise waves. One area that is now getting popularity is Las Islas De Gigantes in Carles, Iloilo.

Anyone who will visit this piece of unspoiled paradise will find himself or herself entranced by the natural beauty of the islands.  Las Islas De Gigantes are composed of two big islands (Norte and Sur) and several islets which will truly captivate the adventurous side of every visitor. This area is for people who want to enjoy nature at its purest and finest. Unlike the more famous beach destinations in the region, this area is not commercialized and not crowded. In fact, there are times when an islet could be yours for a day – no other visitors to interfere with your endless photo shoots and sunbathing. Just perfect!

What awaits every visitor at Islas De Gigantes::

Bantigue Sandbar (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

1.  Bantigue Sand Bar

This sand bar which emanates from two separate hills is more or less half-a-kilometer long and is only visible during low tide. It is like a sandy extension of the hills. Local guides will definitely know when is the right time to get there. To get a panoramic view of the sand bar, head straight to the lower hill (east side). Piece of advice: always take your slip-ons when walking especially at midday as the sand temperature could soar and burn your feet.    

Antonia's Beach Resort (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

2. Antonia’s Beach Resort

Located at the southeastern tip of Gigantes Sur, this island resort has possibly the best location in terms of beachfronts, wide and boat-free swimming areas, cliff jumping, and spelunking.  Rooms are limited, so it also offers beach tents for tenants. One downside that I can point out is its distance to the ferryboat station.

Entrance Fee:  Php 40.00

Cabugao Dako (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

3. Cabugao Dako (Grande)

If you’re island hopping, you should prepare packed lunch and water as these are not or seldom available on any island. Having said that, this spot is perfect to rest at midday, frolic on the sand, try cliff jumping, and enjoy your packed snacks or lunch. It has a comfortable picnic area and a makeshift restroom. 

Entrance Fee: Php 120.00   

Tangke Saltwater Lagoon (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

4. Tangke Saltwater Lagoon

It’s probably one of the most popular spots in the area. The lagoon is surrounded by high and steep cliffs of limestone which add to the dramatic view of the scenery. It’s best to drop by here when there’s few crowd and when the tide is high. Aside from swimming in the lagoon, visitors who seek adrenaline rush enjoy cliff jumping where adventure seekers jump some 10ft feet or so from the cliff into the sea.    

Entrance Fee: Php 70.00

Cabugao Gamay (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

5. Maruja Flora’s Island Paradise (Cabugao Gamay)

A few kilometers away from Cabugao Dako and Tangke Saltwater Lagoon is this piece of paradise. When you search for Islas De Gigantes, you’d probably encounter a picture of this islet on the Internet. And why not? The view is indeed very spectacular. Locals also call it “Mini Boracay”.    

Entrance Fee: Php 60.00

Pulupandan Beach (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

6. Pulupandan Beach (Ojastras Island)

About an hour boat ride from Gigantes Sur is Ojastras Island or more popularly known by the locals as Pulupundan Beach. This islet is completely covered with an amalgamation of white pebbles and sand. There is no entrance fee to this islet unlike some of the others that have been previously mentioned. Local fishermen frequent the island and spend their midday rest there before continuing their search for fresh catch.   

Balbagon Island. (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

7. Balbagon Island 

Just across from Pulupandan Beach is a much bigger island which is rather empty most of the time. Balbagon island although not really popular among the tourists, possibly because of its distance from the main islands, is a private island with long white sand beach and unusually warm water that offers a perfect swimming experience. It’s a private sanctuary for those who want a beach of their own. 

View of the Lighthouse (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

8. Lighthouse or Parola

Located at Gigantes Norte, this is a modern lighthouse, but the ruin where the old lighthouse used to stand provides a perfect backdraft for photography enthusiasts.

Entrance Fee: Php 10.00 plus Php 100.00 if you want to climb the Lighthouse.

Excavated coffins of the supposed "giants". (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

9. Hideaway

This area although not as pristine as the others that I visited is a must-visit as it presents the history of the islands. Depending on the current, you might need to hire a motorbike (Fare: 20 per person) to get to Hideaway and see the coffins of the supposed giants (hence, Gigantes) who were buried in one of the caves in the area. 

Mayor's Beach. (Photo by Gregg Manalo)

10. Higantillo and Higantona

These are rock formations jutting from the sea. According to a local resident, there used to be a resort in this area, but the onslaught of the super typhoon Yolanda brought the once pompous structure to its knees, and what remains now is a ruin. There is a high possibility for private swimming in this area. 

3 Sisters J Ferry takes passengers from Estancia to Langtangan (Gigantes Islands). (Photo by Gregg Manalo)