carabao island tour

7 BEST Things To Do In Carabao Island, Philippines

Carabao Island is a BEAUTIFUL destination just a stone’s throw from the more popular island, Boracay.

There are so many fantastic things to do in Carabao Island including beach hopping, cliff jumping, panoramic viewpoints, and more!

Many tourists that stay on Boracay Island often take day tours to Carabao, however, it’s worth staying on the island for a couple of days to enjoy its serene vibe, white sand beaches, and turquoise blue seas away from all the crowds on Boracay.

I have put together this complete travel guide of the 7 Best Things To Do On Carabao Island to help you craft together your own itinerary!

Also in this post, I have included useful information on how to get to Carabao Island Philippines, where to stay, how to get around, and the best time to visit.

Table of Contents

CARABAO ISLAND PHILIPPINES – OVERVIEW

Before talking about all the best things to do in Carabao Island, let’s discuss the essentials, such as getting there, the best time to visit, and more.

HOW TO GET TO CARABAO ISLAND ROMBLON?

Carabao Island (also known as San Jose Island Philippines by locals) is located in the central region of the Philippines and there is only one option to get here which is by boat.

The most common route to reach the island is from Tabon Bay in Caticlan which is 10 minutes drive north of the main seaport in Caticlan.

There are local boats departing at 9 am bound for Carabao to either Hambil Pier on the east coast and to Lanas Beach on the west coast.

Check which side of the island you booked your accommodation on and make sure to jump on the correct boat.

The cost of the boat from Caticlan to Carabao Island, Romblon, is 250 pesos (including the environmental fee) and it takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

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HOW TO GET AROUND CARABAO ISLAND?

There are a couple of options on how to get around the island and they are by scooter, habal habal, tricycle, or on foot.

You can rent a scooter on the island for around 500 pesos per day and make your own way around to all of the tourist spots at your own pace.

The best place to rent a scooter is via your accommodation.

If you are not confident driving a scooter, the other option is to hail a tricycle or habal habal (motorbike taxi) along the main roads.

For a 15-minute drive, you can expect to pay around 50-100 pesos.

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CARABAO ISLAND PHILIPPINES?

The best time to visit Carabao Island Boracay, weather-wise, is between April and July when temperatures are hot and there is barely any rainfall.

This is also high season in Carabao, so expect to see more tourists during these months.

I recommend planning your Carabao trip on the shoulder months of the high season between November and March which sees a bit of rainfall but usually only lasts for a couple of hours and the rest of the day is sunny.

Try to avoid the typhoon season which is typically between August and October.

CARABAO ISLAND MAP

7 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN CARABAO ISLAND

Now that you have a better understanding of Carabao Island, let’s go through the best activities on the island, from hitting the beach to cliff jumping and more.

LANAS BEACH

Lanas Beach is one of the best beaches on the island and should definitely be added to your list of things do to in Carabao.

Lanas Beach is located on the western side of the island, which is around 15 minutes away from the port. From Lanas Beach, you’ll be able to see Puka Beach on Boracay Island in the distance. 

Lanas Beach is very calm and peaceful which makes it the perfect place to relax. It also offers one of the most romantic and relaxing sunset viewing spots.

There are not many resorts and accommodations on the island which means most of the time you’ll have the beach all to yourself and can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere surrounded by golden sand beach and turquoise water without being disturbed.

If you want a bit more action you can go to Lanas Beach Resort or to The Beach House and order your favorite cocktail at the bar whilst listening to the sound of the waves and enjoying the stunning ocean views .

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CATHEDRAL CAVE CLIFF JUMP

On the west side of the island, you will find the Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump.

Cathedral Cave has become a popular tourist spot on the island which offers numerous activities such as cliff diving, snorkeling, and cave exploring.

The entrance fee at Cathedral Cave Carabao is 100 pesos.

Many day tours from Boracay Island include the Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump on their itinerary which makes it one of the most popular and crowded spots on the island.

The cliff jumping area around Cathedral Cave is man-made and all the diving boards are connected to each other by bamboo walkways and bridges, which makes this location a perfect spot to just walk around and explore the cliffs.

There are local food huts available where you can order food and drinks for lunch. It’s also quite entertaining to watch people build up the courage to take the leap off the diving boards.

Cathedral Cave is divided into two different sides. On the left-hand side, there are two diving boards, which are about 3 meters and 5 meters high.

On the right-hand side, you will find the higher cliff jumps. Some of the jumps on this side range from 8 meters up to approximately 14 meters. 

Once you land safely in the water you can explore the pristine blue and turquoise waters and discover the colorful corals under the water.

When you’re done exploring, there are bamboo ladders in place making it easy to climb back up to the top of the cliffs for another jump.

You’ll also find the big caves on the right side which are worth exploring. There are helmets laying right outside by the entrance which are required to be worn when you enter.

It’s a good idea to get a guide to come along with you when you go exploring Cathedral Cave as there are several small tunnels, smaller caves inside the main cave, and some sharp rock formations in the water which tend to be slippery.

You’ll find the guides right by the entrance of Cathedral Cave.

The BEST Hotel in Carabao Island

Need a place to stay? Lanas Beach Resort is conveniently located in Carabao Island.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Lanas Beach Resort offers the best of both worlds.

NGIRITON CAVE

Ngiriton Cave is one of the more interesting spots to check out on Carabao Island, located at the top of a hill and hidden in the forest at Sitio Lindero.

The way to the cave passes through local farmland and you’ll most likely have to stop and ask someone in the small village to point you in the right direction.

When you reach the jump-off point, it’s a short 5-minute walk along a dirt trail and up a set of stairs to the entrance of Ngiriton Cave. There is a fork in the trail and y ou will have the way to the left to find the entrance.

The huge opening of the Ngiriton Cave welcomes you with a huge swarm of bats hanging from the ceiling and hummingbirds circulating on the inside.

When I visited the bats were going crazy and flying in every possible direction.

The Ngiriton Cave had quite a bad smell to it probably because of all the bats so we decided to not spend much time there and continued on to the next tourist spot.

KODING KODING CLIFF JUMP

Koding Koding Cliff Jump is another must-visit spot on the island.

The Koding Koding Cliff Jump is about 3 to 4 meters high and a much smaller jump than the Cathedral Cave Cliff Jump. The entrance fee is 100 pesos.

Before getting into the details, I highly recommend bringing your Waterproof Phone Case to take awesome photos without risking damaging your phone.

It’s possible to swim around the area however, the sea can sometimes be a bit rough and you should be prudent in the water.

You can also chill out on a bamboo raft or just sit in one of the cottages and admire the crystal-clear water.

There are food, snacks, and soft drinks available for purchase on-site if you wish to grab something to eat and chill out in one of the huts.

Koding Koding Cliff Jump also features a small cave and an underground lagoon.

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BUSAY CLIFF JUMP

Busay Cliff Jump is one of the newest cliff-jumping spots and you won’t find too many tourists at this location. The entrance fee is 100 pesos.

When you get to Busay Cliff Jump it seems at first like you are stepping into someone’s backyard.

Be aware that in the surrounding areas of the Busay Cliff Jump there are monkeys that are quite curious so hold on tight to your belongings.

Busay Cliff Jump features three epic rock jumps ranging from 1 meter, to 3 meters, and the highest being 5 meters.

Other than cliff jumping you can make use of the rubber rings and kayaks, or go swimming around the area and enjoy the crystal clear waters at this location.

Don’t forget your quick-dry travel towel , you’ll definitely need it!

You can also rent lifejackets if you’re not a competent swimmer and light refreshments are available for purchase at the tour desk.

SAN JOSE BEACH

San Jose Beach is the main beach area of the island featuring crystal clear waters and swaying palm trees along the shoreline.

San Jose Beach is postcard-material and makes for a great spot to get an Instagram-worthy photo.

San Jose Beach is also very close to the center of the town where you’ll find several hotels, restaurants, eateries, and bakeries. It’s definitely the more touristic part of the island. 

Even though it’s the most touristic beach on Carabao, there aren’t many people as there are no day tours from Boracay Island that land here on San Jose Beach. You can even go snorkeling, which is great!

And of course, you will want to take your GoPro , the best item you can include in your backpack.

When I was on the island I saw no more than half a dozen tourists during the entire two days that I was there. This makes San Jose Beach a very quiet and tranquil place to explore.

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TAGAYTAY VIEWPOINT

Tagaytay Viewpoint is the best place on the island to watch the sunset and it’s not to be missed.

Tagaytay Viewpoint is one of the most well-known locations on the island. It’s surrounded by tall coconut trees and cows, horses and goats frequent the area.

You will feel as though you have arrived in the countryside all whilst smelling the salty air around you.

The entrance fee is 50 pesos upon arrival to the lovely woman who owns the land at Tagaytay Viewpoint. She is very welcoming to all of her visitors and you are free to explore the area as you please.

The woman and her family have taken very good care of the grounds and it’s decorated with the most beautiful shells, sheltered huts, and deck chairs. 

Once you stand on the highest point on Tagaytay Viewpoint you’ll be able to admire Boracay Island in the distance.

There is a treehouse on Tagaytay Viewpoint Carabao from which you can watch the sky turn purple, orange, and red.

This was a great place to sit down, order a soft drink and unwind whilst watching the spectacle of the sky.

However, to witness the sun go down above the horizon you’ll have to venture over to the other side of the treehouse.

There’s a fence that you’ll have to cross to get around to the other side of the hill.

A short stroll through the tall grass will lead you to the best viewing point to watch the sun disappear over the ocean.

I visited in the low season (September) and I was the only tourist at Tagaytay Viewpoint on this particular day, making it even more enjoyable without the crowds.

WHERE TO STAY IN CARABAO ISLAND

There are dozens of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay in Carabao. See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury: Lanas Beach Resort

Located in Carabao Island San Jose Romblon, Lanas Beach Resort is the best property on the island, with luxurious rooms as well as dorms for budget travelers.

All the rooms are modern and cozy, it’s nestled steps away from the beach, and they have an on-site restaurant which is great to have breakfast or a meal before exploring around.

Mid Range: The Beach House

I personally stayed at The Beach House and can’t recommend this place enough!

Located a stone’s throw from the ocean’s edge, this boutique accommodation features an in-house restaurant, beach bar, outside terrace, private beach area, and off-road vehicles for use.

The rooms are clean and spacious and are fitted with air-conditioning, large comfortable beds, a wardrobe, a private bathroom, free wifi, and a minibar.

Affordable place to stay for couples, friends, and families.

FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY,  SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

What to pack for romblon carabao island.

When visiting Carabao Island, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

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FINAL THOUGHTS – THINGS TO DO IN CARABAO ISLAND

I hope you enjoyed reading this article about what to do in Carabao Island, and if you have any questions at all,   please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

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THANKS FOR READING

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CARABAO ISLAND ITINERARY | Complete Travel Guide

With the world becoming seemingly smaller every day, it is difficult to find new and untouched places to explore. Luckily, it is still possible, and Carabao Island in the Romblon region of the Philippines is totally an off the beaten path location. Follow our Carabao Island itinerary to discover one of the true hidden gems in the Philippines.

What’s crazy about Carabao Island is that it sits right next door to one of the most popular islands in the entire country, Boracay. Boracay is packed with tourists, yet its beautiful neighbour, Carabao, is almost empty of any tourists.

While many tourists go on a day trip from Boracay to Carabao, we fully recommend staying on Carabao Island in Romblon for at least a couple of days. It’s an awesome, authentic experience of island life in the Philippines and one you won’t forget in a hurry. If you are anything like us and love getting off the beaten path and have a good sense of adventure, you won’t regret adding it to your overall Philippines itinerary .

Check out our  Southeast Asia Packing List  for a guide on what to pack for your Philippines adventure!

Disclaimer – This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a small commission if you make a purchase at NO extra cost to you. This will never impact our reviews and we only recommend products and services we firmly believe in. Thanks for your support!

How to Get to Carabao Island

The easiest way to reach the island is to first fly into Caticlan Airport. Our plane was full of tourists all heading for Boracay and we were the only people heading to Carabao. From the airport you will need to take a tricycle to Tabon Baybay Port which only takes 5 – 10 minutes.

The “port” is in a local village at the end of a dirt road and doesn’t look much like a port at all. From what we could find out from the locals, the Caticlan to Carabao island ferry leaves at 9am and 3pm each day. The ferry cost us 100 PHP ($2 USD) per person and took just over 30 minutes.

The ferry boat docks on the east side of the island at the town of San Jose. Once we arrived on Carabao we were required to pay a 50 PHP ($1 USD) entrance fee and we paid 20PHP for a ride to our accommodation which was only a couple of minutes from the port.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is no electricity between 6am and 2pm . That means no air conditioning, no fans and no WIFI during these hours. Use this time to get out and explore the island.
• It was the quietest of all of the islands we visited in the Romblon region.
• There are no banks on the island so make sure you come with enough cash to get by.
• Scooters are not available for hire, but you can find semi-automatic bikes.
• While WIFI was hard to come by and patchy when you did find it, our Smart SIM card had surprisingly good 3G coverage.
• There is very limited information online regarding accommodation, ferries and restaurants. It’s all part of the experience to just turn up and make the best of it all.

Carabao Island Accommodation

As the island is off the tourist track, there is very little infrastructure and only a handful of places to stay. You won’t find many fancy resorts here. If you are travelling on a budget, expect a basic room with a fan and air conditioning if you are really lucky.

We recommend booking a place before you arrive as the place we originally wanted to stay was already booked when we got there. We ended up staying at Edward’s Lodge, and while it wasn’t expensive, we wouldn’t recommend it or particularly want to return.

While we stayed on the east side of the island in the little town of San Jose, many of the nicer hotels and guest houses are actually on the west coast, spread along the beach. As the island is quite small, it really won’t matter too much which side you stay on and you will probably get a chance to explore the whole island regardless.

Budget: Carabao Guest House – It’s basic but has everything you need for just a few dollars a night plus you are right on the beach. Choose from dorm beds or book yourself a private room.

Mid-range: Lanas Beach Resort – Lanas Beach Resort is a beautiful beach front property with a nice bar and restaurant on a patio overlooking the beach. We came here for lunch during our time here and even though they weren’t officially open yet, they still cooked us up a delicious meal.

Luxury: Oceans Edge Resort – This is the one place on the island you can stay in absolute luxury. The resort is located on the cliff’s edge and has a stunning swimming pool that looks out over the ocean. If you want to escape the crowds of Boracay but still enjoy some luxury, this is the place to do it.

Best Time to Visit Carabao Island , Romblon

The best time to visit this region in the Philippines is from November to May. While the temperatures remain fairly consistent year round, there is quite a high chance of rainfall between June and October.

We always recommend visiting during shoulder season, meaning November and May, in order to avoid crowds and to have availability at various hotels.

As there isn’t a major dip in temperatures throughout the year, you could visit at any time and diving is still popular in the Romblon region year round.

Getting Around the Island

We’re not sure that scooters have made their way to Carabao Island just yet. After spending an hour asking around for scooter rentals, the closest thing we were offered was a personal semi-automatic bike from one of the locals. At this stage of our travels we had never ridden a semi-automatic bike so we decided against renting one. Now that we have some experience riding semi-automatic bikes I wish we had rented one as they are actually really easy to ride.

Our second choice was to hire one of the locals to take us around the island to explore. A full day of exploring around the island, with two of us on the back of the bike cost 800 PHP ($16 USD). It was a tight squeeze with 3 of us on the bike, but manageable for the day.

If you want to rent your own bike it will cost around 500 PHP ($10 USD) for the day.

Top Things to Do on Carabao Island , Philippines

When planning your Carabao Island itinerary one of the most important things is finding out what there actually is to see and explore here. Luckily, Carabao Island has plenty of awesome activities for you to enjoy which we have listed below.

We suggest staying on Carabao Island in Romblon for a minimum of 2 – 3 days. You will need at least a couple of days to explore the island. If you are looking to relax and have a full holiday here, you could easily spend more than that. Here is our suggested itinerary for 3 days on Carabao Island, Romblon.

Cathedral Cave Cliff Jumping

Cliff jumping at koding koding point, rent a bike and explore, lanas beach, said beach (san jose beach), tagaytay viewpoint.

It wouldn’t be much of a remote island adventure without some cliff jumping and Cathedral Cave is just about the perfect place to do this. The rugged cliffs tower over beautiful blue water and the local people have built a cliff jumping playground for the adventure lovers out there.

This place is a great mix of natural and man-made structures. The cliffs provide an epic backdrop for jumping into the blue water below and the walkways and diving boards make it easily accessible. There’s no need to scramble over jagged rocks here.

The entrance fee for Cathedral Cave is 100 PHP ($2 USD) per person. This is a bargain as there has been loads of work put in to build the bamboo walkways, platforms and diving boards here. The diving boards range all the way from 3 metres to over 10 metres high. We spent an hour jumping from the cliffs into the beautiful water below.

This is a popular spot for day trips from Boracay, which means that it can get crowded here really quickly. Try and come early in the morning to beat the crowds. We arrived early and there were only a handful of people here, but about half an hour in several boats arrived and the place was packed.

There are a couple of awesome shaded platforms looking out over the diving boards where you can sit and have an ice cold juice or beer and watch the world go by. Cathedral Cave was definitely one of the highlights of the island.

After we had our fill of Cathedral Cave we made the short drive down to Koding Koding Point where there is a similar type of cliff jumping set up. The entrance fee for this spot is also 100 PHP ($2 USD) and they have also built bamboo bridges, walkways and diving boards here. There is also the added bonus of a slide into the water here.

All of the diving boards are much lower here, with a maximum height of around 3 metres. This spot is much more mellow than nearby Cathedral Cave, but it was just as enjoyable as there was very few other people here.

The water is such an outrageous shade of blue here and it was so much fun jumping into the water. This is where I learnt to backflip as the diving boards are the perfect height (although my first attempt ended in a serious belly flop).

A couple of boats did start to make their way from Cathedral Cave to Koding Koding Point as we were leaving, so again, we suggest trying to visit here early.

While we didn’t get the full experience of doing this, we recommend renting a bike and exploring the island for yourself. We got a glimpse of some cool spots while sitting on the back of our guide’s bike, but it is always better to do it yourself. Having your own bike means you can explore and find your own cool places. Bike rental should cost around 500 PHP ($10 USD) for the day.

Lanas Beach is the other main beach on the island and it is located on the opposite side of the island to San Jose. It is on the west coast and there are several places to stay right on Lanas Beach as well as in San Jose.

As you would expect on a tropical island, this beach is an endless stretch of untouched white sand and blue water. We didn’t walk along the whole beach but the stretch that we did walk along, in front of Lanas Beach Resort, was completely empty. To really get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet head to Lanas Beach.

Palm trees line the beach, meaning you can catch some shade and get out of the sun for a while, or head up to the patio overlooking the beach at Lanas Beach Resort to grab a cold drink.

One of the main reasons that we wanted to visit Carabao Island in the first place was some of the pictures we had seen of Said Beach. This is the main beach in front of the town centre of San Jose on the west side of the island.

The combination of bright white sand and blue water looked like something you would see on Boracay minus the crowds. The entire beach is lined with palm trees and as it is so long it never feels like it is busy.

We stayed just north of this beach so we walked along it each day and spent an afternoon basking in the sun here. It is truly spectacular and made the journey here worthwhile.

Unfortunately, when we visited there was loads of seaweed washed up on the beach and many of the locals worked hard each day to clear this from the beach. Even with all the seaweed it was still beautiful and by the morning we were leaving a large section of the beach had been cleared giving us a glimpse of just how good this beach was.

Towards the south end of the beach, near the Sea Garden there is a secondary bay that is much smaller and very secluded. We had to walk through the water to actually reach it, but there wasn’t another soul in sight when we got to this secondary beach. It’s worth walking to the south end of the San Jose Beach to discover this hidden gem.

While you can visit Tagatay Viewpoint at any time of the day, you will really want to come here for an epic sunset. The viewpoint is right on top of a hill and gives unreal views all the way down to the water. You can see Boracay and some of the other surrounding islands as well from up here.

They have built a cool tree house where you can hang out and enjoy the sunset views all the way to Boracay. The entrance fee for Tagatay viewpoint is 100 PHP ($2 USD) per person.

Where to Eat

Our Carabao Island itinerary is a little bit light on suggestions for places to eat, but that’s because there really wasn’t much of a choice when we visited. Many of the places shown on Google maps were either closed or shut down, but the places that were open were very cheap and the food wasn’t bad considering where you are.

There was also one proper convenience store called 5/13 which stocked snacks, cold drinks and some other basic foods.

Carabao Island Grill – This is where we had most of our meals in the town of San Jose. The food ranges from 50 – 185 PHP ($1 – $3.70) per meal and they had a good mix of Filipino and western food.

San Jose Public Market – If you enjoy seafood you can buy your own fresh fish from the market for around 100 PHP ($2 USD) and you can actually pay most of the restaurants to cook it for you. Carabao Island Grill charges 30 PHP ($1.20 USD) to grill your fresh fish for you.

Lanas Beach Resort – Even though they weren’t officially open when we visited, they still cooked us up a curry and the view from their restaurant along Lanas Beach is hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

It seems crazy that somewhere so awesome and beautiful can be situated in such close proximity to Boracay, and yet be so quiet in terms of tourism. This is the perfect place to come and find amazingly beautiful beaches and cliff jumping spots, but with very few other people around.

Our Carabao Island itinerary encompasses all of the best parts of the island but we recommend coming to explore it for yourself. Skip Boracay and enjoy a more authentic island experience on Carabao.

Planning a trip to the Philippines? Check out our other blog posts on the area:

• ROMBLON ITINERARY | The Philippines Best Kept Secret
• BON BON BEACH ON ROMBLON ISLAND
• CRESTA DE GALLO ISLAND | Hidden Paradise
• PERFECT 3 WEEK PHILIPPINES ITINERARY
• SOUTHEAST ASIA PACKING LIST

*Please note, prices are a reflection of our experiences while traveling the Philippines in May 2019 and are subject to change. Prices quoted in PHP were the exact prices we paid and USD conversions are listed for your convenience.

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Hi, we're Luke and Roxy, a travel couple from Ireland and Canada. We are all about finding awesome, off the beaten path adventures and love to find the cheapest way of doing things. Thanks for visiting our blog!

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Carabao Island (Romblon): Secret Beach Getaway Near Boracay

Carabao Island used to be a secret place, somewhere a small number of backpackers knew about. Today it’s more familiar — in fact, it’s even part of island hopping tours in Boracay. Even so, Carabao Island has kept its cozy charm. It remains a place for those who like white-sand beaches but prefer a quieter location instead of the Boracay .

Here’s our updated travel guide to Carabao Island in Romblon, located an hour away from Boracay.

Our stay at Carabao Island

From caticlan, from boracay, from tablas island, romblon, places to see in carabao island, where to stay in carabao island, things to know before you go, what to read next:.

Carabao Island is a small island in Romblon Province. It’s locally referred to as “Hambil” by locals or its fancy-sounding Spanish-derived name Isla de Carabao.

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There are various theories as to why it’s called Carabao Island. Locals told us there used to be lots of carabaos (water buffalos) in the island. Others say that the island topography resembles a carabao, but there are others that say the shape resembles an “anvil”, hence the local name Hambil.

At the time of our visit, I knew little about Carabao Island but I admit that my interest was piqued. We came here from Tabon Baybay port in Caticlan, on a 1-hour ferry ride. Interestingly, the shirt of our boat captain was wearing says “Carabao Island” and underneath that The Promised Land”.

We got off the ferry and right there at the port was a long stretch of white sand facing a clear blue ocean. I was already expecting it to be beautiful, but what I didn’t expect is that we wouldn’t have to go too far to see it. It goes from the port and continues alongside the main road. As other beaches in the country, it’s safe guarded by lines of coconut trees.

I learned that there used to be a marine sanctuary here about 3 years ago; now the beach is open to the public.

In the late afternoon, the water recedes to reveal a field of seaweeds several meters away, where there are sea urchins, star fishes and sea anemones. In the morning and afternoon, everybody is free to frolic in its tropical waters.

Aside from the beach, there are also attractions in Carabao Island accessible via habal-habal or boat.

After hours out in the sun, we decided to explore the island. Hali and I chartered habal-habals which rode through through steep hillsides until we reached a coconut tree plantation. Past the farm’s wooden gates is an area called Tagaytay Point , which overlooks the island of Boracay. Boracay’s famous white beach is at the other end.

We rested here for a bit. We watched the farm’s caretaker harvest coconuts from the tree, which he gave to us for free.

We stopped next in Koding-Koding Point . The rocks here are pointed and ragged, with a wooden diving board ready for those who are brave enough to dive towards the sea below. Unfortunately, it was habagat season during our visit and the waves were too strong, so diving wasn’t advisable. Hali kept hinting about diving anyway, while our guide kept hinting back that it wasn’t safe.

We went inside the nearby cave, where there’s an underwater tunnel that leads outside. It wasn’t safe to go through it as well for the same reason as above. Hali tried to go through it and we were afraid for him, as it seemed the waves would trash him against the cave walls and ceilings. We were relieved when he finally came up the water. He told me it was amazing underwater and I should’ve taken a peek too.

Our last stop was Ngiriton Bat Cave . There’s nothing much to see here, to be honest. There used to have thousands of bats living in the cave. It was turned to an excavation site and the bats were since gone.

The ride back from the land tour to our accommodation in Kameo Lodge was nice. We passed a road with flowering plants on both sides and then another long road along the beach. The beach’s sand wasn’t as white as the one earlier, but who can say no to a cool sea breeze?

Travel Guide to Carabao Island (Romblon)

It’s possible to visit Carabao Island on a day tour, which is what most tourists prefer especially those who are staying in Boracay. Other spend more days since Carabao Island offers a more relaxing option compared to other nearby places.

How to get to Carabao Island

There are different ways to reach Carabao Island depending on where you’re coming from.

• Ride a tricycle to Tabon Baybay port where there are daily passenger boats to Carabao Island. Fare is P100 per person. Boat schedules are 8-9AM, 2-3PM, and 3-4PM daily. Return trips to Caticlan are at 6AM daily.
• Head to Bulabog Beach in Boracay and charter a boat from the locals for a day trip to Carabao Island. Rate depends on boat size and can range from P1500 (good for 4 people) to P3000-4000 (10-12 people), depending on your haggling skills.
• An alternative is to head to Station 1 and find boats operated by locals living in Carabao Island. Ask for a ride for a small fee. These boats normally leave as early as 2PM.

Tip : If you want to go from Carabao Island to Boracay, you can try asking for a ride from boats on island hopping tours as the pickup/dropoff points is Boracay Island.

• There are ferries in Sta. Fe in Tablas Island en route to Carabao Island. Ferry schedule is at 9-10AM. Fare is P100 per person. Return trips to Sta. Fe are 5:30AM daily.

These are the attractions in Carabao Island.

• White Beach . This is the island’s main beach. It has fine white sand, clear water perfect for swimming.
• Tagaytay Point . A farm overlooking the island of Boracay. This is also a favorite spot for watching the sunset. Entrance fee is P70 per person.
• Koding-Koding Point (or Kuding-Kuding Point). Here you can cliff jump and swim through an underwater tunnel that leads right out the ocean. Entrance fee is P100 per person.
• Cathedral Cave . Here you can go on spelunking or jump from 2 diving boards 30 feet hight. Entrance fee is P100 per person.
• Angas Cave . Another cliff-jumping site.
• Ngiriton Bat Cave . A cave used to be home to thousands of bats. There is nothing to see here, so I recommend skipping it. Entrance fee is P100 per person.
• Tan-Agan Picnic Grove . This is a fairly new installation in the island. Here in Tan-Agan Beach you can see vibrant-colored tents and floaters.

You can rent a habal-habal to explore these locations. Rate is P700 per person.

At the time of our visit, there were limited accommodations in Carabao Island. We stayed at Kameo Lodge, about 15 minutes away from the port. Rate starts at P500 good for 2 people.

• Kameo Lodge : Facebook | 0915 690 9174

Here are other resorts in Carabao Island.

• Carabao Backpackers and Guesthouse . Located in Lanas, this is another budget-friendly option in Carabao Island. Rooms and dorm spaces are available. Book discounted rooms here .
• Lanas Beach Resort . A resort with a nice beachfront and a restaurant offering local & international dishes. All rooms have a sea view. Book discounted rooms here .
• The Beach House . Another comfortable resort with its own private beachfront. Book discounted rooms here .
• Oceans Edge Resort . A luxurious resort with swimming pool. Book discounted rooms here .

Looking for something else? Click here search for other resorts in Carabao Island .

Planning to stay in Boracay Island instead? Click here to search for other resorts in Boracay .

• Bring enough cash. There are no ATMs in the island.
• There is decent mobile signal coverage.
• There are casual eateries in the island. Resorts may also offer cooking facilities if you prefer to cook your own food.
• Carabao Island is generally a quiet island. Do not expect to find bars or party lounges.

Has this Carabao Island travel guide been helpful to you? Let us know in the comments section!

This is part of our backpacking trip in Panay Island . Here are the places we’d been to:

• Boracay in Aklan
• Carabao Island in Romblon
• Malalison Island and Seco Island in Antique

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

13 Comments

Hi, ilang oras po yung tricycle from caticlan airport to tabon baybay port? and meron po ba kayong contact ng mga boat drivers from tabon baybay port to confirm the 3PM sched which is our only time to get to the island… thanks!!!

Katherine Cortes

Afaik walang trike from Caticlan Airport to Tabon Baybay Port. From the airport, you need to ride a van to Caticlan Port and from there ride a trike to Tabon Baybay Port.

I have no contact but there are 2 schedules in the late afternoon: 2 or 3PM and then another at 3 or 4PM. It’s advisable to be there early. Hope that helps.

Hello po..ask ko lng po kng my trip on the same day going back to boracay?like mga late afternoon?thanks

Maria Lynielene F. Fabon

Hi,Kat! Thank you for your wonderful blog! I just want to ask if may contact kayo sa Carabao Island?

Sa accommodation lang which I’ve listed naman sa post. 🙂

hello ung boat from tabon port isang biyahe lng 8to 9am, kng sakali hndi pala nmin maabutan yan wl ng biyahe, kinabukasan p ulet tama ba ako ng pagka intindi hehe, at ung pabalik from hambil 6am lng, salamat sa pag sagot

Ang alam ko oo, pero tanong niyo na rin dun para sure. 🙂 If ever naman I’m sure may marerentahan rin kayong bangka since malapit lang naman siya.

Happy and Busy

Yun oh! haha #1 sa google! Kath! yung boat marami parin from Tabon Baybay port nu? hahah Thanks sa guide!

Hahaha! Thanks katukayo. Uu tsaka daily naman yun afaik. Usually pag boat scheds nagcoconfirm na rin kami in person a day before, if advanced dating namin.

Hi Kat, just discovered your blog and I love it! 🙂 I am looking for tips whether I should go to Boracay or to Carabao Island in January. Which island would you prefer, if you had only 3 days for beach and leisure at the end of your holidays? I am not looking for party or crowds, but I will travel solo… Before I will do a 9 days tour in Northern Phillipines and want to relax the last days in one place. Your post about Boracay doesn’t make it easier for me, it sounds good too… 🙂

I’m actually leaning more towards Boracay because it has a wide selection of restaurants and activities, if you ever want to do anything other than beach bum. Station 1 or 3 should be relatively quieter, as well as Puka Beach. You can also island hop and stop over Carabao Island from Boracay.

Carabao Island is really nice, but apart from the land tour there’s not much to do and restaurants/stores are really limited – there were only 2 eateries near our accommodation then if I remember correctly. If that’s not an issue and all you ever want is some peace and quiet, definitely stay here.

Anyway Boracay and Carabao Island are really close to one another so you can easily change places. 🙂

KATHLENE CLEAH DAGPIN

Hi Kat. My boyfriend is coming to Carabao Island via Kalibo Airport. I just want to ask if you know any latest requirements going there. THANKS.

Alam ko vaccination card na lang hinihingi ngayon.

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Carabao Island Travel Guide: 5 Awesome Things to Do!

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: September 12, 2023

Categories PHILIPPINES

Carabao Island is a bit of an unknown gem right around the corner from Boracay in the Romblon Province . Many people take the awesome day trip from Boracay at some stage but it’s actually a perfect spot for a multi-day adventure stay, away from the crowds of Boracay. If you like cliff jumping , you need to get yourself to Carabao. There are two awesome spots to send some backflips but it’s not just cliff jumping there are loads of other things to do on Carabao and I’ll show you what they are in this Carabao Island Travel Guide.

Table of Contents

CARABAO ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

Carabao Island, often overshadowed by its illustrious neighbor, Boracay, is a hidden gem nestled in the Romblon province of the Philippines. Boasting pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, this serene island escape provides a tranquil contrast to the bustling tourist hubs nearby. Named after the Filipino word for “water buffalo,” Carabao Island exudes an untouched charm, reflecting a blend of raw natural beauty and rich local culture. It’s a haven for those seeking a more laid-back and authentic island experience. In this article, I’ll share a few of the best things to do on Carabao Island.

HOW TO GET TO CARABAO ISLAND

Less than 10,000 people live in Carabao and its capital is San Jose. There are hardly any cars on the island, with motorbikes and boats the popular form of transport.

Carabao Island is just above Boracay and below the island of Tablas. To the right, across the ocean is Roxas. This means, there are many ways of getting to Carabao Island but at some stage, they all involve a boat.

• From Tablas: You can rent a private boat for $20 USD or whatever you can negotiate with a local fisherman, or boatman. You can also take the morning/daily ferry, which departs around 8 am in the morning. There is no nightly ferry.
• From Boracay: There are many day charters but also boats that will happily leave you on Carabao. Expect to pay anywhere from $5-10 for the private transfer depending on the size of your group.
• From Caticlan: The ferry from Caticlan to Carabao leaves daily at 9 am
• From Roxas: From Roxas, you will need to take the ferry to Tablas and then another ferry to Carabao.
• From Manila:  You can fly into Caticlan or Tablas and then take the ferry as mentioned. There is no airport on Carabao.

CARABAO ISLAND TRANSPORT

There are hardly any cars in Carabao and no public transport. If you need a ride you can jump on the back of a motorbike. However, the island is so small you can walk to most places locally.

We rented a motorbike one day to visit San Jose and Cathedral Cave but other than that we walked everywhere. The motorbike cost $9 USD for the entire day with gasoline included.

WHERE TO STAY ON CARABAO ISLAND

We stayed at a local homestay. It was a beautiful family that had a few kids. We hung out with the kids every day and the family cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner for us local style. It was a great way to do the stay.

There are also a few nice resorts nearby such as Oceans Edge Resort , which will have you right on the beach and within walking distance of the cliff jumps and viewpoints!

5 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON CARABAO ISLAND

Alright, let’s get into this list of the top things to do on Carabao Island in Romblon, Philippines.

KODING KODING CLIFF JUMP

Kuding Kuding on Carabao Island is one of those places you walk into and just get so excited you almost panic. Crystal clear, vibrant blue water lay in waiting for you from several diving platforms at this epic hangout spot.

There are several diving boards of only about 3 meters in height so it is a great spot for families, kids, and travelers alike. There are also rafts to hang out on in the water. Ladders make it easy to get in and out of the water but reef shoes are advised.

I suggest visiting Kuding Kuding Cliff Jump and Cathedral Cliff Jump on the same day if you have the energy as they are both nearby and definitely both worth visiting!

Carabao is a small island so you can probably walk to Kuding Kuding cliff jump depending on where you are staying or you can hire a motorbike for about 500 pesos give or take depending on your negotiation abilities.

There are tables inside little huts to chill and take cover from the sun after cliff jumping. Food and drinks are also available but nothing too extensive just basic snacks.

View full blog post:  KODING KODING CLIFF JUMP

CATHEDRAL CAVE CLIFF JUMP

From the road, we found the small Cathedral Cave sign and walked down the winding, muddy trail through all of the trees. After a few hundred meters we reached the entrance and paid 100 pesos to enter. That is just $2.50 USD. There has been a lot of bamboo construction of walkways and diving boards so you aren’t just paying to jump off a regular cliff, which justifies the fee.

There are two areas to jump at Cathedral Cave. We first visited the site on the left. Here there are two diving boards, which are about 3 meters and 5 meters.

A bamboo walkway winds across the roads leading you out to the ocean. The water was insanely clear and blue, it was such an epic spot and we actually had it all to ourselves for most of the time.

Along the boardwalks, you can stop off to the sides and explore the caves. The water glows and small fish are swimming about. If you are game there are several small tunnels and caves within the caves to explore.

The other side is where the big caves are and also where you will find the big cliff jumps. You can take a guided tour inside the caves to see all the natural formations. They make you wear a helmet and it’s quite an interesting cave to check out.

We were there for the cliff jumps so I was stoked to have a diving board, which was roughly 8-10m high directly above the crystal clear water. I sent way too many backflips as we watched on as the local visitors built up the courage to jump.

Some of the local kids, however, were pros. They were jumping from the highest cliff, which had to be at least 20 meters. I decided to give it a crack and join them for a jump.

There’s no doubt that cliff jumping is one of the highlights and best things to do on Carabao Island.

View full blog post:  CATHEDRAL CAVE CLIFF JUMP

TAGAYTAY SUNSET VIEWPOINT

One of the highlights of Carabao Island was hanging out in a treehouse, watching the sunset while staring out across the ocean to the recently vacated Boracay Island. At Tagaytay viewpoint, you can get the sunset and the Boracay view all in one place.

It is quite touristy but it’s Carabao, it’s not busy. They have built a house and small cafe as well as a treehouse to turn the spot into a cool viewing area. It is surrounded by a lot of trees but you can get a great sunset view or the view of Boracay. From the east coast of Carabao Island, you could walk here in half an hour or drive your bike all the way up the path.

TAGAYTAY TREEHOUSE CAFE

There are a few awesome little treehouses set up at Tagaytay. If you get there early enough, you can hang out in these treehouses and watch the sun set over the ocean while sipping on a drink from the cafe!

SAN JOSE PALM BEACH

One day we rented a motorbike for $10 USD and made the journey up and over the hill to San Jose Beach. This is the main beach area of the island and there are a few resorts here. It seemed to be the more touristy side of the island with lots of food options and coffee spots. The water here is much clearer than the east side or at least while we visited and the main attraction is the palm trees along the beach.

Many of the palms are very bent, which makes for that classic tropical postcard photo. We found that there were some really cool palms down the far end of the beach at a spot called Sea Garden, which you can find on Google Maps. Finding these iconic palms is one of the most popular activities on Carabao Island.

SAN JOSE HIDDEN BEACH

Once we reached Sea Garden, we continued to explore further along the coast. An old staircase and bridge were falling apart but we wandered through some small caves and found some private beaches. No one else was to be seen and we enjoyed exploring some of the more random parts on Carabao Island.

It was a very quiet place and something to treasure. Crowded beaches are becoming more and more common in the Philippines and throughout the world so to sit down on the sand and watch the ocean come and go is a beautiful thing. This exploration was one of my favorite things to do on Carabao Island.

BEST TIME TO VISIT CARABAO ISLAND

Carabao Island, located just south of the more famous Boracay Island in the Philippines, offers a quieter alternative to its bustling neighbor. It boasts pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and a more laid-back atmosphere. If you’re considering a visit, here are some recommendations regarding the best time to go:

• Peak Tourist Season: The period between December and February, in particular, is the peak tourist season. This is because many are looking to escape the colder climates of their home countries. The weather is cooler and quite pleasant during these months.
• Hot Months: March to May is the hottest period of the year, known as the summer months in the Philippines. Expect sunnier days and warmer temperatures, but this is also a good time to enjoy the beaches.
• This period is considered the rainy or monsoon season. While there will be days of heavy rain, it doesn’t mean it will rain continuously. There are still many sunny breaks in between.
• If you’re looking for a quieter experience and don’t mind the occasional rainfall, this might be the time for you. Accommodation rates tend to be lower during these months.
• Consider local festivals and events. These can add a cultural dimension to your trip, though they may also mean more visitors. For instance, the “Kanyaw Festival” is held in September to honor the island’s patron saint.
• Carabao Island is less commercialized than Boracay, but it’s always good to visit when the environmental impact is minimized. The Philippines occasionally implements tourist limits or temporary shutdowns on popular islands to allow for rehabilitation. As of my last update in 2021, there was no such shutdown on Carabao Island, but it’s always a good idea to check current conditions.
• Due to changing global situations like the COVID-19 pandemic, always check travel advisories, quarantine requirements, and safety protocols.

In Summary: The best time to visit Carabao Island depends on your preferences. If you prefer sunnier days and don’t mind more tourists, December to May is ideal. If you want a quieter experience and are okay with occasional rains, June to November is a good choice.

BACKGROUND OF CARABAO ISLAND

The island’s history is not as extensively documented as some of the larger Filipino islands, but here’s a brief overview:

• Before the Spanish arrived in the Philippines, the islands, including Romblon and Carabao Island, were home to indigenous communities. These early inhabitants were likely to be Austronesian settlers who migrated from the southern parts of Asia.
• The Spanish colonized the Philippines in the 16th century. Romblon and its islands, including Carabao Island, were visited by Spanish explorers, and eventually, the Spanish influence became prominent. Catholicism was introduced, and several churches and Spanish-era structures were built throughout the province. However, Carabao Island, being smaller, didn’t have as many notable structures as other islands.
• After the Spanish-American War at the end of the 19th century, the Philippines was ceded to the United States. The American colonial government introduced a new system of governance and education. During this period, infrastructure development took place, and English became a medium of instruction.
• During the Second World War, the Philippines was invaded and occupied by Japanese forces. While the primary battles and resistance movements were centered on the larger islands, smaller islands, including those in Romblon, felt the effects of the war. After the war, the Philippines was granted independence by the United States in 1946.
• Carabao Island, along with the rest of Romblon, embarked on local developmental projects post-independence. Over the years, tourism has grown, especially with the rise of Boracay as a popular destination. Carabao Island began drawing visitors looking for a quieter and more pristine environment.
• The island has been earmarked for tourism development due to its proximity to Boracay. Infrastructure improvements and resort developments have been taking place, with the local government aiming to strike a balance between development and environmental sustainability.

WHERE IS CARABAO ISLAND

Carabao Island, also known as Hambil Island, is located in the Philippines. It is part of the Romblon province and lies just about 8 kilometers south of the world-famous Boracay Island in Aklan. Positioned in the Sibuyan Sea, Carabao Island is closest to the northern tip of Panay Island. Despite its proximity to the bustling Boracay, Carabao offers a more tranquil and untouched ambiance, making it a peaceful alternative for travelers in search of a quieter retreat.

MORE ROMBLON TRAVEL GUIDES:

• Tablas Island: 20 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON TABLAS ISLAND
• Sibuyan Island: 9 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON SIBUYAN ISLAND
• Carabao Island: 5 THINGS TO DO ON CARABAO ISLAND
• Romblon Island: 17 THINGS TO DO ON ROMBLON ISLAND
• Cresta de Gallo Island:   CRESTA DE GALLO ISLAND, ROMBLON – EPIC DAY TRIP
• Hiking G2 (Guiting Guiting):   TREKKING MT GUITING GUITING (G2)

Sunday 29th of October 2023

Places to stay on Carabao: 1. BORACAY VIEW RESORT (on Carabao Island). 2. Oceans Edge 3. The Beach House 4. Lanas Beach Resort

Carabao lies North of Boracay, not South of Boracay 🤗

High 10 Island Hopping Excursions in Asia - Brand Rator

Sunday 6th of June 2021

[…] a trek, snorkeling, or on boat rides simply on this island. ​ Carabao island will be visited as a day tour out of Boracay – which is the most well-liked vacationer vacation spot within the nation. Boracay is legendary […]

Rider Transferdirect

Wednesday 20th of January 2021

Amazing! I know nothing about traveling all over the country but after reading this It’s added to my list, what a wonderful looking place to explore.

Thursday 21st of January 2021

It is a hidden gem to stay here.

Top 10 Island Hopping Tours in Asia - Enewsgate

Sunday 15th of March 2020

[…] a trek, snorkeling, or on boat rides easily on this island. ​ Carabao island can be visited as a day tour out of Boracay – which is the most popular tourist destination in the country. Boracay is famous for having one […]

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• Carabao Island Day Tour

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This is not the typical mainland adventure. But Carabao is such a hidden gem that it is just worth visiting. Only an hour boat ride away, the main attraction in this tour is beautiful rock formation at Kuding-kuding Point and the crystal clear waters. There are passages beneath the rocks too, creating a mini pool inside — you can walk right through during low tide, or swim your way in and out on high tide. If you are into thrilling adventures, you can go cliff jumping.

THINGS TO DO AT CARABAO ISLAND

✓ Cliff Jumping ✓ Swimming ✓ Snorkeling ✓ Mini-cave Tour ✓ Local Fishing

This tour is 6 hours long, it will start at 9:00 AM and end at 3:00 PM. This is also a small group size, personalized, and of low-impact service type of tour.

TOUR SCHEDULE

• 9:00 AM – Meet up at Astoria Station 1 beach
• 9:30 AM – Off to Carabao Island
• 10:00 AM – Arrive at Kuding-kuding Point in Carabao
• 10:30 AM – Swimming, Snorkelling, Local Fishing, Mini-cave Tour
• 12:00 NN – Lunch
• 1:00 PM – Swimming, Snorkelling
• 3:00 PM – Back to Boracay

INCLUSIVE OF

• Round Trip Transfers
• Local guide
• Local lunch and drinks
• Entrance and Environmental Fees

NOT INCLUSIVE OF

• Hotel pick up and drop off

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• This is a shared (join-in) tour
• Duration is 6 hrs.
• Walking and climbing
• Children below 3 yo allowed with parents
• Children 4-10 yo can participate with parents
• Senior citizens and PWDs may have a difficult time because of the stairs
• Showers, comfort rooms, and changing rooms are available at the site
• In case of bad weather condition, the guide may cancel the trip, and reschedule the next day
• There is a smoking area at the site

WHAT TO BRING

• Swimwear, a change of clothes, sun hat, sunglass, toiletries, and a personal towel (when taking shower at the site)

TERMS & CONDITIONS

• Full refunds will be issued for cancelations made at least 72 hours prior to the activity
• Cancelations can be made if there is a safety problem due to the weather conditions the day before or the day of activity, in which case a 100% full refund will be processed.

MEET-UP INFORMATION

• Meet up point is at Astoria Station 1 beach
• Meet-up Time is 9:00 AM
• Group will leave at exactly 9:30 AM. Delayed guests will be considered a no-show
• Return Information: Tour will finish and return to meet-up point at 3:00 PM

CARABAO ISLAND: Things To Do, Guide On A Budget & Itinerary For A Worthwhile Visit

Carabao Island is one small paradise at the southernmost tip of the Province of Romblon and is just an hour away from the world famous island, Boracay . Thought by many as a mere side trip but this island is so amazing, it is a worthwhile destination in itself. More than just the long stretch of beach with sands as white and fine as Boracay ’s are caves, lagoons, diving spots and mesmerizing views. This island certainly knows how to entertain and captivate that you are guaranteed to have a great time should you decide for a day or two to visit. So in this article, I will be sharing with you how Carabao Island just made our adventure in Romblon even more magical.

A Day Well Spent In Carabao Island

Our visit in Carabao Island was part of our 4-Day Romblon Holy Week Escapade . Our goal was to surpass the epic adventure we had in the Babuyan Islands a year ago that we thought of nowhere else to do that but in Romblon . The province is one of the least visited in the whole archipelago which made the adventure sweeter. We love taking roads less traveled and Romblon is just the perfect place to do just that allowing us to escape the chaotic holiday crowd. Drafting our itinerary was a bit tricky for we wanted to keep everything cheap and feasible. The fact that we are going there on a holiday was already screaming spending a fortune but we still gambled and took our chance in jump starting our adventure in Carabao Island.

Related Read:   ROMBLON 4-DAY ITINERARY: Guide, Budget & Everything Else You Need To Know

Choosing Carabao Island as our jump off point was probably the best decision we had ever made during our Romblon trip. It set the mood perfectly for us. The island vibes, the tropical goodness, the laid back atmosphere and the kindness we experienced were just few of our cherished memories of the island. Although there were some unexpected discrepancies with the cost as opposed to what were indicated on some blogs, they were minute next to the joy the island gave us. The plan was to only spend a day in Carabao Island and head to Tablas Island before sundown but since it was a holiday and boats going back to Tablas were no longer available, we were forced to spend the night there as well.

We arrived in Carabao Island at 9AM where every homestays and inns were already fully booked. Despite that, we were still lucky to get a beachfront accommodation which only cost each of us P100. It was a small open hut that allowed us to also pitch our tents at the beach. It wasn’t fancy or anything. Just some place we could leave our stuff while we tour around. After securing our shelter for the night, we immediately went on to explore the island on a motorcycle. None of us can drive so we hired drivers to take us to each tourist spot for a price of P700.

Our first destination was the Cathedral Cave where we spent 30 minutes to appreciate the beauty of an underground cavern. After that, we went for some adrenaline rush in its cliff diving spot which was a 30-feet drop. We decided to pass on Kuding-Kuding Point as it offers nothing different from what we just experienced in Cathedral Cave and went to see Tagaytay Point instead. We spent about an hour there basking at the beauty of sprawling grasslands and surrounding coastlines with Boracay Island peeping at a distance. Before sunset, we went back to our accommodation and spent the rest of the day exploring their very own version of White Beach.

What We Love About Carabao Island

• Despite Carabao Island’s reputation being the twin sister of Boracay, I like that it wasn’t crowded. It has this serene and laidback atmosphere that we really loved.
• There were lots of coconut trees! They line up along the White Beach giving us this insane tropical vibes.
• The White Beach really lives up to its reputation. Sands were as powdery white as Boracay. Water is of pristine cerulean color but with less people and noise.
• The entire island is surrounded with white sand beaches that you can basically just drive to any spot and still get a nice beach to yourself.
• There were very few tourists in the island despite us going there on a holiday. We had every tourist spot to ourselves and share them with some few amazing souls.
• With the exception of our motorcycle tour, everything in the island is cheap from seafood, accommodation to the cooking service we hired for our meals.

What Are The Tourist Spots In Carabao Island

There are several spots in Carabao Island which you could visit to get a taste of the island’s version of adventure and nature. All these spots could be visited via a motorcycle for a price of P500/person. Note that price could rise up during holidays.

• White Beach – You don’t actually need a motorcycle to get a taste of the island’s most precious beach. You’ll be captivated by this stunner upon disembarking. Sink your feet into its silky soft powdery white sands and bask at its beauty which is set to take your breath away instantly.
• Cathedral Cave – If you are big on spelunking then Cathedral Cave is the perfect place to be. Have fun getting passed its obstacles while being entertained by amazing rock formations. And if the adrenaline rush is still not enough, take a 30-feet plunge into the deep blue sea. A time spent in this awesome spot is hardly a time wasted.
• Kuding-Kuding Point – Another spot where to get your dose of stoke is Kuding-Kuding Point. This has one of the most breathtaking views in the entire island.
• Tagaytay Point – If you enjoy rolling hills and sprawling grassland with a scenic view of the coastline and nearby islands then this is where you should be. It’s a quiet place where you can simply lie down under the sky and let the chirping of the birds be your music.

How To Get To Carabao Island

• From Manila – You can fly via CebuPac to either Tablas or Caticlan. In Tablas airport, ride a jeep to Sta. Fe port. From there, take a passenger boat going to Carabao Island. In Caticlan airport, ride a tric to Tabon Baybay Port. From there, ride a passenger boat going to Carabao Island. Either route would take 2-3hrs to the island. Also passenger boats are available only starting 6-9AM. If you miss it, you may need to charter a boat for a price of P2000-P3000.
• From Batangas – There are several ferry trips from Batangas going to either Odiongan (Tablas Island) and Caticlan. 2GO has daily trips to both destinations.
• From Boracay – If you are in Boracay, you can simply go to Bulabog Beach and look for boats that you can charter to go to Carabao Island. A boat for day tour will actually cost P1500.
• From Romblon Island – If you are in Romblon and wants to get a glimpse of Carabao Island, there cheapest route would be to ride a passenger boat going to San Agustin. From San Agustin, you can ride a jeep to Sta. Fe and take the passenger boat from there going to the island. Total travel time is more or less 5 hours.

Useful Travel Tips

• Travelling to Carabao Island is normally cheap but expect a different scenario during holidays. The usual motorcycle tour which we read on some blogs priced at P300/person went to P700/person on our visit.
• If you’re travelling here during the holidays, have your accommodation booked in advance. Agoda could help you find the best place for the best price according to your taste.
• Passenger boats going to the island from either Tablas and Caticlan are available from 6-9AM and boats leaving the island to either destinations are available until 4PM.
• Upon disembarking, you will be asked to register your names and pay an environmental fee of P30/head. Tricycles and motorcycles also line up outside the port so you could easily get a ride to your hostel or destination.
• Most of the accommodations are located near the beach so no need to walk far if you are going for a dip.
• Most of the resorts there will have a facility where you can cook your food. However, if you’re like us and you would rather enjoy the island than spend time in the kitchen, there are various eateries there that would offer to cook your meals for you.
• Bring enough cash. There are no ATMs in Carabao Island.
• Cellphone coverage is decent for all networks. Mobile data is also available.
• Carabao Island is small and peaceful. It is the perfect contrast to its neighbor, Boracay so expect not to find any bars and party lounges.
• Tagalog, Bisaya and Hiligaynon are widely spoken but locals can very much speak and understand English.
• And of course the most important, RESPECT THE ISLAND AND ITS PEOPLE . Do not litter. Bring reusable water and food containers to avoid using plastic. Do not vandalize. Respect their rules, their culture and their beliefs but don’t hesitate to point out some things they can improve on.

Where To Stay In Carabao Island

Budget, itinerary & other essentials.

Our visit to Carabao Island was part of our 4-Day Romblon Holy Week Escapade . This island can either be your entry or exit point as it has access to various transportation options. As for us, this was our entry point but Carabao Island can very well become your main destination.

There you have it lovelies. Have you included Carabao Island on your bucket list yet? No.. Well, you should. I swear this island is all worth it. So tag along your friends and plan your trip. Until next time. Ciao!

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Jomalig island: diy budget travel guide + itinerary and why it will easily charm it’s way to your heart, related posts, balot island (sultan kudarat): travel guide, budget + itinerary, boracay 2023: travel guide, budget, requirements, & eats, malalison island: diy travel guide, budget + itinerary for when you need a time on the road less taken, 10 comments.

Love this! Been looking for information and came across your blog, sobrang helpful. Thanks for sharing! ❤️ Btw, yung price ng boat rental from Bulabog for a day tour, is that per pax? Thank you ☺️

Hi Jean. This is per boat but the price might be doubled now since prices have gone up after the pandemic.

Opo. Sana matapos na. Ka excite lang. Hehe. Thank you po sa pag response po.

No worries! Stay safe. ☺️

Nagbabalak ako magpunta sa Carabao Island after Covid pag safe na safe na. Malapit na din pala ito sa Boracay. Hehe

Let’s hope for this pandemic to pass real soon. And yes one hour of boat away lang to from Boracay. ☺️

Thank you for sharing. Ganda ng Blog.

Hi Karl. Thanks! ☺️

hi mam saan po pwede mag stay sa carabao island ng mura meron po kaung contact no.?or name tnx n advance

Hi Rhea. Other than those listed above, wala na ako ibang alam. Pero if you want mura, marami ka makikita along white beach.

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Escape to Carabao Island

It's a filipino paradise for tourists seeking tranquility, nature, and cultural authenticity that's affordable., carabao island is reminiscent of how boracay was 25 years ago.

First of all

Discover carabao island.

Immerse yourself in the serene and authentic tropical paradise of Carabao Island. Experience the beauty and tranquility of our white sand beaches, reminiscent of Boracay Island 25 years ago. Indulge in the freedom and affordability that Carabao Island offers, away from the crowds and noise. Discover a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

escape the crowds

Discover the tranquil beauty.

With its peaceful environment and quiet Boracay-type "White Sand" beaches, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds. Experience the freedom and natural beauty that will transport you back in time to the essence of nature, Filipino culture, and authenticity without commercialism.

And it's affordable

Unforgettable experiences await.

Embark on a journey of discovery and adventure on Carabao Island. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to hiking through lush forests, there are endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories. Indulge in authentic local cuisine, immerse yourself in the rich culture, and witness breathtaking sunsets that will leave you in awe. Carabao Island is a paradise waiting to be explored. And it's affordable!

About Carabao Island

Carabao Island is a captivating destination located just north of Boracay Island in the Philippines. With its quiet and serene atmosphere, it offers a unique and authentic tropical experience. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our peaceful white sand beaches. Experience the freedom and tranquility that Carabao Island has to offer. And it won't break the bank!

And You'll have An Unforgettable fun time

Escape to tranquility.

Beauty - Authenticity - Pure - Filipino

An Unforgettable Fun Experience

And it's affordable!

Carabao Island Holiday

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Carabao Island Travel Guide: Romblon’s ‘Hidden Gem’ No More

Carabao island itinerary, places to stay, things to do and more.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Carabao Island, Philippines

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C arabao Island, Romblon — Nestled in Romblon and a few minutes away from Boracay remains a little-known gem, the Municipality of San Jose or Carabao Island, but most known to locals as Hambil. Thanks to its unspoiled scenery, unimaginable beauty, and leisure activities, it is fast becoming a must-see destination in the Philippines.

During our superb 3-day tour care of the Department of Tourism MIMAROPA – with the company of other media friends – we have discovered how amazing this little island is. Read along to know more!

In this Carabao Island Travel Guide Blog, we listed some tips on how you can do your own DIY Day trip to Carabao Island, Romblon. We also included a sample Carabao Island Itinerary, Things to do and see, how to get there, and more.

Where is Carabao Island?

Carabao Island is part of San Jose town located in the southernmost tip of Romblon. The Island is a 15-minute boat ride from the smaller but equally beautiful island of Boracay. The island has the same white-sand beaches and pristine waters that can be found in Boracay but the island offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. San Jose is separated from Boracay by a narrow body of sea called Hambil Channel.

The island is also a divers paradise that offers beautiful unexplored dive spots like Lanas slope, West Wall, Devils Boulder, Gentle Wall, Tunnel Dive, Cathedral Cave, Channel Dive, Cemetery Wall, Village Reef, and Lobster Wall.

About San Jose, Romblon

In the 16th century, San Jose was abundant with cattle and carabao, thus its name. It was in 1965 when the Congressman of the lone District of Romblon Hon. Jose D. Moreno extended an effort to make the Carabao Island an independent municipality. San Jose, or rather Carabao Island is often referred to as the sister island of Boracay.

Best Time to Visit

Carabao Island is famous for its water activities and the best time to visit the island is during the dry season from Mid November to May.

How To Get There

To go here, from Manila, book a flight going to Tablas or Caticlan via Cebu Pacific. Travel time from Manila to Tablas will take around 1 hour and 25 minutes while the flight from Manila to Caticlan takes about an hour.

Cebu Pacific offers flights from Manila to Tablas thrice weekly. These one-hour-and-twenty-five-minute-long flights are usually scheduled on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The cheapest one-way ticket fare is estimated at around Php 2500. For more information, visit Cebu Pacific Air via www.cebupacificair.com .

How to get to Carabao Island From Tablas

From Tablas, catch a jeep to Sta. Fe and take a 1-hr boat ride going to the island. The ferry schedule is at 9AM. Boat Fare is P100 per person (USD2).

From Boracay

If you’re in Boracay and wanted to take a peak of Carabao Island’s beauty, you can ask where the public boats are at Bulabog Beach that goes to Hambil. Travel time takes about 45 minutes.

From Caticlan

If you’re coming from Caticlan, you can also charter a tricycle going to Tabon Baybay port to catch a boat that will take you to Hambil. Boat transfers are available in the morning and in the afternoon. The boat leaves Caticlan at 8AM and 3PM daily. Fare is P100 per person (USD2).

Where to Stay in Carabao Island?

From what once a secret place for backpackers before, Carabao Island is now ready to accept more visitors in the next few years. Here are some recommended accommodations in Carabao Island you might be interested to check out in your future travels.

Oceans Edge Resort

Address: Inihawan, Lanas, San Jose, Carabao Island, Romblon, Philippines

Check Rates and Availability

Ocean’s Edge Resort is a cliffside luxury resort located in Carabao Island in the town of San Jose, Romblon. It is a tropical island paradise that can be reached by boat from Boracay in less than an hour. Although travel to and fro either island doesn’t take too much time, the islands seem worlds apart. Read -> Oceans Edge Resort Review

Nipa Hauz Resort

Address: Lanas, San Jose, San Jose, Romblon

A very serene place with complete amenities and hospitable staff. You’d definitely feel the tropical vibe from its rooms and you also get to have direct access to the beach. Filipino dishes are also to die for at their in-house restaurant. If you’re a backpacker or a vacationer with a limited budget, then this resort is for you. The rate starts at PHP1000.

Carabao’s Rocksbay Resort

Address: Lanas Beach, Carabao Island, Romblon

A resort with a view of the beach at an affordable rate. The 1.5-star property offers various activities to their guests from kayaking, boating, hiking, and diving. They also boast excellent facilities such as daily housekeeping, luggage storage, BBQ facilities, restaurant, a bar can be enjoyed here.

The Beach House Resort

Address: Lanas, Carabao Island

Known as the only luxury boutique resort on the island, you get to experience comfortable accommodation while exploring the beautiful Carabao Island. With rates starting from PHP3,500, one can enjoy its facilities from their bar/lounge, a comfy bed, minibar, refrigerator, and more! Their restaurant also offers cuisine from Filipino to Western. Must-try are the seafood dishes!

Also read: Top Hotels And Beach Resorts In Carabao Island, Romblon

Places to Visit

But of course, no Carabao Island visit is ever complete without visiting these top places and trying out some water activities.

Koding-Koding Point

For the thrill-seekers, you may find this secluded destination exciting as this is the perfect place for cliff jumping. Just be careful with your steps as the rocks here are pointed and ragged. However, if you’re more of a laid-back traveler, you can also spend your day here by resting on a bamboo raft or just sit in one of the cottages and enjoy the view of the sea.

Sunset Viewing at Tagaytay Point

Surrounded with lush trees, you will certainly enjoy sunset viewing here at Tagaytay Point. At this view deck, you can see the entirety of Boracay, Caticlan, and Aklan. There’s a small café so you can chill and sip coffee while gazing at its admirable view.

Cathedral Cave

Another perfect place for jumping and cliff-diving is here at Cathedral Cave. There are diving boards for those who wanted to try cliff diving and bamboo walkways. Aside from these thrilling activities, there are also beach caves nearby to check out. The water’s so clear, you can see fishes swimming below. According to some locals, big fishes are swimming around at the back of the cave.

Strolling at Poblacion White Beach

Away from the touristy Boracay, you will also get the same view of the sea here at the Poblacion White Beach. It boasts a long-stretched of white sand, coconut trees lined along the shore, and a great view of the clear waters. You can bring your swimming suits and enjoy the clear blue waters. What could we ask for more?

Ngiriton Bat Cave

The long walk is worth it when you visit the Ngiriton Bat Cave. Here, you’ll see bats and hummingbirds. Upon entrance, you’ll get to have a fresh buko or coconut juice – the perfect refreshment after that tiresome walk. This is an exciting destination as you get to crawl through some narrow openings and exit into a forest, but don’t worry, you will be provided with a flashlight and safety helmet to enter the cave. Make sure to wear your most comfortable footwear of course.

Map of Carabao Island

Carabao Island Travel Tips

• As of this writing, there’s still no ATM machines on the island, make sure to bring enough cash.

Travel Budget

• The boat ride from Tablas – Php100 per person
• Boat Ride from Boracay – Php100 per person
• Koding-Koding Point Entrance Fee – Php100 per person
• Cathedral Cave Entrance Fee – Php100 per person
• Ngiriton Bat Cave Entrance Fee – Php100 per person
• Tagaytay Point Entrance Fee – Php70 per person
• Habal-Habal Rental – Php700

* Rates may change without prior notice.

The Overall Experience

Overall, if you want to have a breather outside Manila, but in a limited budget, then this is the place to be. The island is peaceful, offers plenty of beach activities for both the adrenaline-seekers and the laid-back ones. Boracay is beautiful, yes. However, for those looking for a quieter alternative, I think Carabao Island checks all boxes as a must-see destination in the country.

Walking amongst underrated island like this is such a liberating feeling. If you want to know what we’re talking about, then book your flight as early as now, and you’ll be amazed at how Carabao Island will take all those stresses away.

Searching for the best hotels and affordable flights? Check out our complete list of affordable Carabao Island hotels and resorts via Agoda  or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Did you enjoy reading our Carabao Island Travel Guide blogpost? Please follow #TeamOutofTown,  on  Facebook , and  Twitter ,  Instagram , and  Pinterest  for more travel ideas.

• Cruising Romblon – What’s Missing In Carabao Island
• 25 Island Destinations In The Philippines For Your Bucket List

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Carabao Island Travel Guide: Boracay’s Twin Sister

About Carabao Island

Carabao Island , the southernmost island of Romblon, has been living in the shadow of the world famous Boracay Island of Aklan, its so called “twin sister”. Popularly known as Hambil to the locals, Carabao Island is only an hour away from the hustle and bustle of the famed party island. But despite its close proximity to Boracay, Carabao Island offers an entirely contrasting ambiance.

Carabao Island is politically known as the town of San Jose in the province of Romblon. It has five barangay, home to less than 10,000 inhabitants. While the island’s primary source of livelihood is fishing, numerous residents work in various establishments in Boracay Island.

Carabao Island offers sun, sea, sand and serenity totally opposite of Boracay’s life. Where climbing a bent coconut tree, watching the sun rise and listening to the waves are some of its simple pleasures. Time passes unnoticed in this tropical paradise of serene beauty.

Make Carabao Island a part of your memory. Experience a virgin paradise, only one hour away from Boracay. Experience Carabao Island.

How to Get To Carabao Island

An international airport that will become the primary gateway to Boracay Island is rumored to be built in Carabao Island, but while the airport is still in haze, the nearest airport to the island is still Caticlan, Aklan.

From Caticlan

Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific fly to Caticlan from Cebu and Manila.  From Caticlan Airport ride a tricycle to Tabon Baybay (P15/pax) and look  for the public boat going to Hambil. The boat’s schedule of departure is at 8:30AM but usually departs past 9AM. Travel time from Tabon Baybay takes one (1) hour.

From Kalibo

Philippine Airlines ,  Cebu Pacific Air and  Air Asia Philippines  fly to Kalibo from Manila, Cebu and Clark. From Kalibo, catch a van or a bus to Caticlan for a two-hour ride, fare ranges from P200 to P250. Vans and buses unload passengers at Caticlan Jetty Port, from there  ride a tricycle to Tabon Baybay (P15/pax) and look  for the public boat going to Hambil. The boat’s schedule of departure is at 8:30AM but usually departs past 9AM. Travel time from Tabon Baybay takes one (1) hour.

From Boracay

If you are in the island of Boracay, there are public boats at Bulabog Beach that go to Hambil. These boats usually transport workers from Hambil to Boracay and back. Boat schedule is indefinite, fare is P50 per passenger and travel time is approximately 45 minutes. If you miss the public boat, you can charter one in Bulabog or in Puka Beach. Rate is as low as P1,000 , one-way for a boat that can carry up to six passengers.

From Tablas, Romblon

Tablas Airport is the gateway to the province by plane. Cebu Pacific Air regularly flies to and from Tablas, Romblon everyday. From the Tugdan Airport of Tablas, catch a jeep to Sta. Fe and get off at the Tourism and Terminal Building. There is only one boat trip from Sta. Fe daily, leaving at 930AM. Fare is P100 and travel time is approximately one (1) hour.

Alternatively , you can also reach Tablas by riding a fast craft or a ferry from Batangas, several shipping lines sail from Batangas to Odiongan everyday including Montenegro Ferry, CSGA Ferry Corporation, Romblon Tablas Sibuyan Lines, Super Shuttle Ferry, Rapal Inter Island Shipping, 2Go Travel and Ocean Jet.

From Roxas, Oriental Mindoro

From Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, a motorboat departs daily at 10AM to Odiongan, Romblon and returns on the same day at 1PM. Travel time is two hours. From the Odiongan Port, catch a jeep to Sta. Fe and get off at the Tourism and Terminal Building. There is only one boat trip from Sta. Fe daily, leaving at 930AM. Fare is P100 and travel time is approximately one (1) hour.

Where to Stay in Carabao Island

Most tourists stay at the Hambil Beach in Barangay Poblacion where one can just pitch a tent along the beach. There are accommodations nearby though that cater to tourists, Republic of Inobahan is one, located along the beach near the tourism office. It has 15 rooms for as low as P500 good for two persons (fan room)  and a restaurant that serves good food. You won’t miss this place, everyone in town knows where it is for it is owned by the current mayor. They also allow campers in their vicinity (which we did). They didn’t charge us anything except for the food bills when we ate at their restaurant. Thumbs up! 🙂

Top-Rated / Highly Recommended Accommodations in Carabao Island

Other accommodations in town are Vista Violeta, TJ’s Haven, GP Lodge and Freidles Cottage. These are aside from the home stays along Hambil Beach for as low as P300. Just ask around, the locals are very nice and helpful.

If you are staying in Lanas Beach, you can also pitch a tent anywhere along the beach or stay in the lodges nearby like Carabao Lodge, Ivy’s Vine Asian Beach Resort (Contact No: +639182573052) or Nipa Hauz Beach Resort (+639203643852).

What to Do in Carabao Island

• Beach Bumming
• Sunrise watching at Hambil Beach
• Scuba diving/snorkeling (bring your own equipments or go to the dive shops in Boracay, Tablas or Romblon). Dive sites in San Jose are Lanas Slope, West Wall, Devils Boulder, Gentle Wall, Tunnel Dive, Cathedral Cave, Channel Dive, Cemetery Wall, Village Reef and Lobster Wall.
• Check out the other beaches of Carabao Island: Tinap-an Beach and Lanas Beach
• Go caving in Ngiriton, Bunayag and Angas Caves
• Camping (bring your own equipments)
• Spend a day or two at Boracay Island
• Explore more of Romblon Islands

Sample Itinerary and Budget

Carabao Island Itinerary by Roro with Boracay Sidetrip Day 0 1930H-2000H: Assemble at Pasay Buendia Bus Station 2000H-2300H: Pasay to Batangas Pier Bus 2300H-2345H: At Batangas Port / Purchase RoRo Ticket to Calapan 2345H-2359H: Boarding / Waiting Time in Ferry to Calapan

Day 1 0000H-0230H: Batangas to Calapan 0230H-0430H: RoRo Bus Calapan to Roxas 0430H-0440H: Roxas Petron to Roxas Port by Tricycle 0440H-0500H: Purchase RoRo Ticket to Caticlan / Board Ferry 0500H-0900H: Roxas to Caticlan 0900H-0915H: Trike from Caticlan to Tabon Baybay 0915H-1030H: Caticlan to Hambil Island (Carabao) 1030H-1200H: Camp or check-in / Free Time / Beach Bum / Beach Hopping 1200H-1300H: Lunch 1300H-1800H: Free Time / Beach Bum / Beach Hopping 1800H-1900H: Dinner 1900H-onwards: Night Socials

Day 2 0700H-0800H: Call Time / Breakfast / Check-out or Break Camp 0800H-0900H: Hambil to Bulabog Beach Boracay 0900H-0930H: Bulabog Beach to Resort / Check-in at Resort 0930H-1200H: Free Time / Beach Bum / Beach Hopping 1200H-1300H: Lunch 1300H-1800H: Free Time / Beach Bum / Beach Hopping 1800H-1900H: Dinner 1900H-onwards: Night Socials

Day 3 0600H-0700H: Call Time / Breakfast 0700H-1300H: Fly Fish / Parasailing / ATV Ride 1300H-1500H: Fix up / Check-out / Late Lunch

Hi.I am planning to via 2go which would I take odiongan or romblon.Also do I need to ride another boat going to carabao island. Thank you in advance

I am also a solo backpacker going to Carabao Island on the last week of August. I am planning to go SCUBA diving also 🙂

Hello there.,,I’m planning to go here in math of August 2015..I’m a solo traveller….but anybody who has. Allan to go to this month with me..or a group.,much better.,,,I’m from Iloilo….can’t wait for my vacation in Philippines.l.l.

I am a single traveller. I want to take a day trip by public transport from Bulabog, Botacay to San Jose ((Hambil). Your suggestions please.

Hey tim, i am also a solo backpacker, when will you visit hambil?

[…] more information on getting to Hambil, or where to stay, mosey over to Lakwatsero (who I believe to be the premiere source of Philippine travel information) and Mustachio Ventures […]

Wow. You made a very comprehensive post. Thanks for sharing. I bet the Philippines has other great destinations. I will surely tell my friends about this so that they can include it in their list. Just browse travel republic for some great ideas.

anything you want to know about travelling to Carabao Island ,, just ask and I will do my best to answer

good day, planning to have our vacation this coming summer at Gigantes Island, want to know if there is any transpo from Gigantes Island in Carles to Carabao, Island?

could you please extend you help?

[…] Der Lieblingsblog der Leser, den sie selbst auch vorschlagen durften, ist die phillipinische Seite lakwatsero.com, die die Kategorie „Users Choice“ für sich entschied. Alle weiteren Infos zu den Gewinnern und […]

[…] aus England. Die internationalen Nutzer selbst wählten die philippinische Seite lakwatsero.com zu ihrem absolute Favoriten und machten sie damit zum Gewinner der Kategorie „Users Choice“. […]

hi ! how’s the diving in san jose- hambil ? can you recommend a dive operator ?

Hi Cucinera, to date, there is no dive operator in Carabao Island, but Boracay and Romblon based dive shops go there once in a while.

there actually is one very good dive shop here on carabao island . the experience is personalized with smaller groups than in boracay and the emphasis is put on quality of dive experience rather than quantity of dives a shop can out on in a day . every person that has been diving with nadja has come back with a smile on their face .

I will be personally taking my open water course from her in the next few weeks and can then give you a first hand opinion

ps . let me know if you are interested in getting her info

Wow! This is my first time to read your blog. And i was amazed about your traveling experiences. You’ve been to a lot of places that i dreamed to visit. Your blog helps me to plan where i should go next. I am a hotelier and i love to travel as well cause its my own way to unwind from a very stressful work. I would like to meet new friends along the way too. But sometimes i am afraid to travel alone. Anyway, its a very big challenge for me as a solo traveler. When I travel i always have this motto ” Travel more, Spend Less”. Yes, traveling can cost you thousands but i want to travel with less expense cause

can you give me some tips about traveling alone? and can you recommend me some places that i can visit in Visayas? Looking forward for your response. TWO-THUMBS UP FOR YOU! :))

Thanks Abby and welcome to the road 🙂

Anyway, I, too, treat traveling as my stress reliever 🙂 I frequently travel only on weekends and holidays since I have a day job too. I travel solo and sometimes with a group too. Traveling alone can be fun, but traveling with a group is cheaper and more fun 🙂 I only travel alone for spontaneous trips and for destinations that I find too difficult to reach (i don’t want to drag my friends on my misadventures, hehe).

Tips, hmmm, just stop planning and start traveling. You will discover a lot about the world and about yourself on the road. And you will meet a lot of friends along. In fact, I met most of my travel friends today during my solo travels and we now travel on a group regularly.

PS. Bohol, Cebu, Biliran, Samar, Leyte, Siquijor and Guimaras are amazing places in the Visayas 🙂

Hi!! My friends and I are beookd already for Kalibo, plane leaves 7am here in Mla. Okay lang ba na from kalibo diretso kami ng Carabao Island ( via Caticlan port ) then overnight at Carabao, next day late afternoon diretso ng Boracay? Tama na ba ang isang araw na tambay mode sa Carabao? salamat!

hello, yes u can get here right from caticlan.kaso lang ung public boat schedule is only 6am.but we can fetch u right at caticlan using our own boat. we have accomodation, tours and dining.we can arrange ur activities here at carabao island tapos pwede namin kayong ihatid sa boracay the next day.

see our links below facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Carabao-Island-Tours-and-Activities/160947924062012?ref=hl

youtubehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16pNCzmIl5o

gord and shirley

Hi Gord! Planning to have my vacation and hope I can have it end of this year. I really am interested for an overnight stay in carabao island then boracay the next day! Magkano ba yung transpo from carabao to boracay?

hi marvin , we do supply transport from carabao to boracay for 2500 php , but right now we are working on having daily round trips with numerous guests and should have that in place by november . when that happens , we will be charging 300 php/pax

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• Airport Transfer

Things to Do

Carabao island - 1-day tour from boracay.

What You'll Experience

Geographically located in the province of Romblon province, Carabao Island has enjoyed a boom in tourism due to its natural wonders and its proximity to Boracay. Explore this underrated paradise with a laid-back 1-day tour, which will take you to the best spots in the island for snorkeling, swimming, cliff diving, and more. Visit turquoise swimming holes, lush mangrove forests, and volcanic rock formations, or venture into a small cave to discover the sights within. Come noontime, enjoy the seaside view while having a delicious local lunch, already included in the price of your tour. Make your Boracay escapade more memorable when you book the Carabao Island - 1-Day Tour now on Traveloka! 

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1. Said Beach

2. Carabao Island Day Tours

Carabao Island Philippines – Why it is Not Just a Boracay Island Side Trip

Written By: Jing Calonge

Philippines

Updated On: January 9, 2023

Carabao Island in Romblon, Philippines is comparable to its neighbour, the chart-topping Boracay Island , in terms of powdery white sand beach and turquoise blue sea.

However, this tropical island is the reverse of Boracay when it comes to the presence of crowds, the party atmosphere, and the luxurious indulgence the latter offers.

If you love simple pleasures of enjoying nature in a serene environment, then Carabao Island is for you.

Table of Contents

Things to do on Carabao Island

One full day in the 8.51 square mile Carabao Island, more popularly known to locals as Hambil, can easily be filled with fun activities to do and places to go.

Here are your options for enjoying the island in a day.

Hambil Beach

This is at the island’s east side where the boats dock if you are coming from Romblon (the capital) through Santa Fe Port in Tablas Island. Tablas Island is one of the three major islands in the province of Romblon.

Passenger boats from Boracay Island also dock in Hambil Beach.

The sight of the powdery white sand, crystal clear and astounding turquoise waters of Hambil Beach upon our approach made my heart skip with excitement.

Walk through its long shore of fine sand, cool off at its clear waters, say hi to its resident fishes through snorkeling, or just spend the entire day beach bumming.

Unfortunately, I regret not taking more photos of Hambil Beach during daytime when the water is in its most vibrant blue.

I did love walking through the beach at sunset though.

Kuding Kuding Point

Kuding-Kuding Point is a rather new destination in Carabao Island getting known as a cliff diving site.

There’s a strip of the road nearing the entrance that is quite challenging though. This road segment is very narrow, with rocky downhill and uphill slopes.

You can ask your motorcycle driver if you can walk this part of the path, as it’s just less than a kilometer away from the site.

The site boasts of beautiful rock formations and amazingly blue waters.

Things to do at Kuding Point

Aside from cliff diving, there’s a small cave that has a mini pool that you can swim inside.

If you’re not up for a cliff driving, you can still enjoy Kuding-Kuding Point by taking in the gorgeous site or simply hang out over the raft below the cliff.

You can access the raft through a bamboo ladder.

• Getting There: You can get here from Hambil Beach in about 30 minutes by renting a motorcycle.

Lanas Beach

Lanas Beach at the western side of Carabo Island can be reached through a chartered boat from Boracay.

From Hambil Beach, you can go to Lanas Beach by motorcycle. You can actually rent a motorcycle for a day to go to different places of interest around the island.

You can see Puka Beach, the northern tip of Boracay, from this side of the island. Our motorcycle driver told us that Lanas Beach is a good take off point to beautiful diving spots.

Boracay Viewpoint

Our motorcycle driver also took us to a viewpoint of Boracay and Panay Island from a hill.

From the main road, we had about 5-minute walk uphill through grassland.

The breeze and shade from the hut at the viewpoint was a great way of cooling off from the heat of the sun.

That’s Boracay Island on the left and the northern portion of Panay Island behind it.

How to Get to Carabao Philippines

From Aklan or Boracay Island

The nearest airport in Carabao Island from Aklan is the Caticlan International Airport.

• From the airport, ride a tricycle going to Tabon Baybay port.
• From the port, take the passenger boat bound for Hambil. Boat leaves the port at 9 AM and the ride takes about an hour.
• If coming from Kalibo International Airport in Aklan, ride a one-hour van trip for Caticlan. Ask to be dropped at the Tabon Baybay port.
• If you’re in Boracay Island, you can take a chartered boat to Hambil, which is 40 to 45 minutes away. The boat can take you to Lanas or dock at the Hambil Beach, where passenger boats also land.

From Tablas Island, Romblon

Fly into Tugdan Airport in Alcantara, Romblon. From the Tugdan Airport, take the jeep to Sta. Fe and get off at the port where you will catch a boat.

The boat leaves at 9:30 AM, while boat ride is around one hour.

If time is not an issue, you can catch ferries bound for Tablas Island, Romblon from the Batangas Port. Travel time is 8-10 hours.

The ferry docks at Odiongan in Tablas Island. Ride a jeep to Sta. Fe at the jeep terminal in Odiongan. Jeep ride takes one hour. Get off at Sta. Fe port.

Going back from Carabao Island

Passenger boat leaves Hambil for Caticlan at 5:30 AM. That leaving for Sta. Fe also leaves at 5:30 AM.

Carabao Island as an Emerging Destination

Carabao Island’s proximity to Boracay Island has made it an emerging destination. It deserves to be a destination in its own right.

What I loved about Carabao Island is its tranquility and the STILL preserved state of the environment it is in now.

Accommodations and places to eat are basic facilities, free from the luxury you can have over at Boracay. Nonetheless, resorts and accommodations are slowly growing.

In fact, building an international airport within the island had been part of the government’s plan to directly link the island to other parts of the Philippines and other Asian countries.

Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), the proposed project had two national administrations come and go without the project being continued.

Responsible Travel Tips to Carabao Island

I am not against development. However, it’s sad to see how sadly some pristine islands in the Philippines have turned into commercialized areas crowded with tourists, at the expense of peace, tranquility and natural beauty it was supposed to offer.

The least we can do as travelers is to protect the area by being responsible visitors.

Don’t throw plastic bottles, food wrappers or any other solid wastes anywhere.

Better yet, find ways of avoiding using them if you can.

Learn more about ways on how to travel responsibly and reduce our negative impacts to the environment here .

Read More about travel to the Philippines:

• Breaking Down the Best Time to Visit Boracay
• Visit The Philippines – 10 Reasons This Should be Your Next Destinations
• Where to Stay in Cebu – Top 10 Hotel Picks
• The Best Things to do in Cebu City – Philippines
• Philippines Travel Guide
• Things to do in New Zealand

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About Jing Calonge

Jing Calonge is an environmental consultant from the Philippines who happens to love travel and photography. She considers traveling the best way to discover not just the world outside but to learn of oneself. She writes about her travel experiences at www.findingjing.com. Follow Jing at: FindingJing / Facebook / Instagram /

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12 thoughts on “Carabao Island Philippines – Why it is Not Just a Boracay Island Side Trip”

Thanks Jing for a great blog, which inspired me to come to Carabao Island. Actually I’m here now and agree with everything you said and more about the tranquil nature of the island, it’s like Boracay was 30 years ago! But as you say, things are developing quite quickly and there are some quite excellent resorts here now, I think 2 or3 , one of which is The Beach House in Lanas, probably the best beach resort and restaurant I have found in all my travels in the Philippines. Thomas’s comments have some validity, but I found the boat I came with from Caticlan fantastic, but it’s new and 2 story, but I think some of the others have seen better days. As Thomas says some of the roads are a bit dangerous, as they are being relaid, but the circumferential road that goes all around the island is just complete and is a higher standard than in Europe! I hope this island doesn’t get spoiled like Boracay, but now is the time to come! Land prices are very cheap also if you want build your dream getaway in what must be the best paradise island in the world so close to an airport, and Kalibo International airport is only 90 mins away.

You said an emerging island. While that may be true, you fail to mention that many of these roads are not completed yet. They are scary at the least and in parts just dangerous. Also the boat to Caribou can also be downright treacherous. As well as overloaded and not properly equipped with fire extinguishers or lifejackets. It has a long way to go. Not for the faint of heart. Upon arrival it is heavenly but I think people should be aware of the good and the bad. Especially when risk is involved.

Hi, thanks for the information, really useful!! We are traveling tomorrow to Caticlan and go directly to Boracay, then we are looking to go to Carabao, Tablas, Romblón and Sibuyan… If you had to choose over Carabao or Tablas, which one would you choose?

If a short trip definitely Carabao. Tablas is huge and spread out.

wow, nice place. really you share an awesome picture

@Marianne, Hope you had a great time in Bohol and Palawan. There’s always so much to see in every country. There sure are a lot of reasons to go back to the Philippines. 🙂

Thanks Kirsty, think you’ll like it x

I was in the Philippines last year – Bohola and Palawan – and this post brings back many happy memories. I need to look into another trip. Carabao looks beautiful!

This is really great island to explore. You shared awesome pictures of that place. You help me a lot to create my bucket list!

Carabao Island is such a beauty. You captured great pictures. Thanks for sharing it.

The Philippines never ceases to amaze me. I have always wanted to see it. Thank you for the great information and more destinations to add to our list!

Never ever herd about this place, but looks intresting.

• Destinations

Romblon: Carabao Island, A Pleasant Surprise

My grip on to the side of the boat tightened as the huge waves tossed us up in the air. Our boat was like jumping over a hurdle while forging through the swells that were about a meter high. Even with a life jacket on, I was a bit concerned and my imagination ran wild. Will our small boat be able to make it to Carabao Island without capsizing?  All thanks to our young but skillful boat men, my paranoia was wiped out about 45 minutes later when we arrived safely in Carabao Island . However, it wasn’t quite the Carabao Island that we were expecting it to be.

Our Awaited Arrival

We don’t know much about the place. I was walking along the White Beach in Boracay when I saw a photo of Carabao Island on one of the posters. I thought that it would be nice to check it out on our next island hopping tour.

The water was crystal clear however, a rocky coast with seaweeds washed up ashore welcomed us upon landing to this part of Carabao Island. We were then approached by locals and we asked them if we were indeed in Carabao Island. They confirmed that we were in one of its barangays, Barangay Lanas. These locals have been eyeing us from afar and have been waiting for our arrival. They are habal-habal (motorcycle) drivers who offer tours around Carabao Island.

After haggling with the price, we agreed to take a tour to Hambil Beach , their version of Boracay White Beach, which was on the other side of the island in Barangay Poblacion. As much as we wanted to do other things, we have little time to spare. We only have the boat chartered for four hours (10 AM – 2PM) from Station 1 in Boracay . So, without wasting anymore time, we hopped on to their habal-habal and made our way to Hambil Beach.

Carabao Island Backstory

It was originally known as Hambil Island until one of the Spanish voyagers who visited the island changed its name to Carabao Island or Isla de Carabao as it bears resemblance to that of a water buffalo from afar. But other stories say that a lot of Carabao roamed freely on the island’s terrain some time ago that’s why it was called Carabao Island. Today, Carabao Island is officially recognized as the island municipality of San Jose, Romblon located at the southern tip of Tablas Island.   Not too far away, separated by Hambil Channel, is the world-famous island of Boracay.

The “ Habal-Habal” Ride

The main mode of transportation to go around Carabao Island is the habal-habal . Navigating its narrow roads reminded me of our trip to Gigantes Norte in Gigantes Islands . The pathway was just wide enough for 2 motorcycles side by side to pass through. It has a series of ascends and descends traversing through coconut plantations, open fields and tree-laden path.

I particularly enjoy habal-habal rides because during these drives I get the opportunity to talk to or sort of interview the local drivers about their place. How things were and how things are now, what are their hopes and wishes for their place and how the surge of tourists affected their daily lives. More often than not, they were willing to share their thoughts. However, not all of them are very knowledgeable. There are even some who take advantage of travelers. But if I get lucky, I chance upon those who are genuine ambassadors of their respective places.

It took us about fifteen to twenty minutes to finally get to Barangay Poblacion. Along the road, Hambil Beach was already in sight just a few meters away from the town’s welcome arch. Our drivers dropped us off at one of the cottages then it was time to explore.

Carabao Island, A Diamond In The Rough

I stepped out from the cottage and moved closer to the shore to scan through the long stretch of uncrowded white sand beach which was kind of unexpected, given that it was close to Boracay. There was only one other group of tourists aside from us at that time.

The sea was fairly calm on this side of Carabao Island with minor waves delicately rushing to the shore. I made some more strides until I have felt its remarkably fine sand under my feet. The turquoise water was so clear and inviting and I couldn’t help to just gaze at it any longer so I joined my mom and aunt as they dipped in. It was noticeable that the seabed was as fine as the shore with few specks of minute stones.

After soothing our bodies with the refreshing water, I meandered along the shore to observe and to take a few more shots.

Lucky are those grade-schoolers whom I saw passing by this stunning road-side beach as part of their daily grind. The cottages have become an after school “tambayan” for some of them. At one end of the beach was the Port of Said, at the other end was the local tourism office.

Separating the beach from the main road and residential houses are the towering and gracefully bent coconut trees in perfect array along the coast. Truly an Instagram-worthy sight!

Carabao Island is a diamond in the rough; an untapped paradise that is brimming with potential to be one of the most sought after destinations if it will be well taken care of. Since it is a public beach, the shoreline has some bits and pieces of plastic bottles, soda cans and other garbage.  It is an easy fix if both locals and tourists would take ownership and commit to the “leave no trace” policy.

Although it a was very momentary first meeting, the rawness of Carabao Island made a mark on me. I hope to take another trip here to do some more exploring as it was more than just an escape to the neighboring world-class island of Boracay.

How to get to Carabao Island – Boracay Day Tour

From Boracay, we chartered a boat from Station 1 for a day tour to Carabao Island for Php 3,000 and docked at Barangay Lanas. Then we took a habal-habal to bring us to Hambil Beach or White Beach for Php 300 per person. You may contact our habal-habal driver for a tour around the island. His name is Kuya Carlo and you can reach him at +63 930 928 7281 .

It if is a bit steep for you for a day tour with limited time, there are also some boats going to Carabao Island from Bulabog Beach. Chartering a boat from here maybe cheaper as these are mostly the locals from Carabao Island who are working in Boracay who go back home in the afternoon around 2PM -5PM. When trying to get a ride from here use the name of Hambil Island rather than Carabao Island.

How to get to Carabao Island – From Caticlan – Longer Stay

According to our guide, there is also a boat that goes to Carabao Island directly from Caticlan. From Caticlan, take a tricycle and proceed to Tabon Baybay Port. From there you can take a passenger boat going to Carabao Island. Boat leaves at 8:30 AM and travels for about one hour to Port of Said in Barangay Poblacion (White Sand). Fare is Php 100. If you’re going back to Caticlan, the boat from Port of Said leaves at 5:30 – 6:00 AM the following day.

There is also another route from Sante Fe, Tablas, Romblon going to Carabao Island .

Other Things to do in Carabao Island

• Cliff Diving at Kuding-Kuding Cave (With Underwater Tunnel)
• Visit Ngiriton Cave (Bat Cave)
• Diving at Barangay Lanas
• Sunset Watching at Tagaytay Point

Read my other posts in this Panay Island series:

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Sad to know that are bits and pieces of trash in the shore. 🙁 Anyway, that beach is stunning. Carabao Island is such a beauty. ♥ I would really love to go here. Thanks for sharing 🙂

With just a little TLC, it will be pristine. Thanks Patatas. 🙂

I didn’t know this island, but Boracay. Thanks for letting the world know about another hidden and peaceful beach. Would love to visit the place soon. Would you recommend this island more than Boracay ?

It really depends on your preference. If you want to be disconnected and away from the crowd then this would be a better option. But you can always try both. 🙂

Very nice! We have been invited to visit Romblon next year to cover a new dive site. We will probably visit Carabao Island and its beaches as a side trip. 🙂

Wow! That’s cool. I am so inspired by your diving adventures that I wanted to do a DSD course when I come back home next year. 🙂

Hi When In My Journeys,

Nice nice! Yes, we strongly encourage you to do a DSD. We tell you scuba diving is addictive. Hehehehe!

There is always something exciting about exploring secret, hidden beaches. This one is worth all the effort to get to. The white sand is unbelievably beautiful. The water is just crystal clear! It’s paradise in every sense of the word.

We weren’t expecting too much but for me the island just over delivered.

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