Not your usual touristy place to wander in. We never expected we would ever set foot here as it was never under our radar. So glad we made this trip – its charm lies in being unknown to many.
Here are our top picks for the things you can't miss when visiting Tablas Island in Romblon.
#1 DISCOVER THE PRISTINE ISLANDS OF TABLAS, ROMBLON
Romblon is one of those islands mostly untouched by people and time. We spent the whole day exploring different islands with clear waters, white pebbly beaches, and even got to cook freshly caught seafood in open fire.
In one of the islands, we had to climb limestone cliffs to get a view of its surroundings. Some of the islands we visited are Tinagong Dagat (Hidden Sea), Gorda Point and White Rock along Calatrava.
#2 EXPLORE THE CALATRAVA BLUE HOLE – YEP, BLUE HOLE
You can explore this magnificent natural wonder (some even go cliff jumping from the cliff above). At the time of our boat trip, the underwater current was a bit strong so our daughter had to stay on the boat. But just a few meters from the blue hole, there is a beach where little ones can explore. (I apologize as this is the best photo I have of the blue hole)
The underwater marine life is just AMAZING. It’s one of the best feelings I've had since I started snorkeling and free diving. Romblon does not disappoint, not one bit.
#3 DISCOVER THE ‘PEARL OF MELODY’ CAVE
According to our tour guide, the name of this cave came from a traveler who lost her pearl earrings inside the cave. Getting to this cave was a bit challenging especially with a little one in tow. We had to jump off the boat and swim about 20 meters while following a rope to guide us in the cave. But I tell you, the destination was amazing – untouched Mother Nature. (Just be careful, it’s a bit slippery inside)
#4 GO CLIFF JUMPING AT LINAO DI VECTO WATERFALLS
The waterfalls was about a kilometre away from the road, so you had to walk through grassy paths until you reach denser forest. After a few more meters, you will be greeted by aqua green waters and natural pools to lounge in.
Now, you don’t have to jump the cliff if you don’t want to – but it was a once in a lifetime experience for me. I just had to jump! For the little one, she was more than excited to swim in the cool waters.
#5 FIND YOUR HIDDEN SPOT AT BINUCOT BEACH
Just relax and walk around Binucot Beach – it boasts of clear and shallow waters you can snorkel in (just be aware of a few sea urchins). The beach is also pebbly so better wear slippers or aqua shoes.
Binucot is also known as twin beach because at the end of the shore, you would notice the splitting into two coves. At the far right of the beach, we found limestone formations where we spent the afternoon while waiting for the sun to set.
#6 LOOK FOR STARFISH (AND HIKE) AT AGLICAY BEACH
Aglicay Beach Resort is one of the first resorts on Tablas Island. It was a huge resort complete with a tennis court, volleyball court, restaurant and other facilities. While swimming, we found a Choco chip Starfish which excited the little one. You can also follow a hiking trail towards the right of the resort.
#7 MARVEL AT THE MARBLE SOUVENIRS DOWNTOWN
How can we not check out marble souvenirs when we are at the marble capital of the country?! Romblon is still the number one producer of marble in the Philippines, hence the town is littered with stores selling marble souvenirs. We visited Honey Gervacio Marble Accessories and got small trinkets as souvenirs for family and friends. You can even have your trinkets engraved for free.
Planning your trip to Romblon? Make sure to travel during summer or dry season – the sun and sand make a perfect combination for a winning travel experience. And since a lot of the experiences we shared has to do with water, great weather has an impact on your itinerary.
If you are in need of a local tour guide, I would recommend Deo Fausto of Deo's Islands Adventures ToursnTravels (+639990020806). Check out his Facebook page to see what his company can offer. They have all-in packages from as short as 1day to as long as 5days, and everything will be taken care by him.
Don’t forget to check out our post on how we packed all these activities in just 4 days!
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