Hi, I’m Andy
Traveler and photographer.
I don’t travel just to see places. I travel because I want to know if there’s more than just everyday life. More about me
Tablas Island Philippines – A Tropical Paradise Away from Mass Tourism
Tablas Island, located in the Romblon Province, remains a destination that has received very little attention from tourism so far. In my opinion, completely undeserved, as the island offers several impressive places worth exploring.
The island’s natural beauty stands out through picture-perfect beaches, breathtaking mountain landscapes and endless lush green rice fields. Tourism is still in its early stages, meaning you’ll encounter very few travellers and tourists during your stay.
Tablas Island – A Hidden Gem in the Philippines
Tablas Island is still a genuine hidden gem in the Philippines. As a result, there are only a handful of travel guides and blogs covering the island’s attractions and beaches.
For this reason, researching the best beaches and sights on Tablas Island proved to be more challenging than on many of my previous trips.
During my motorbike journey around Tablas Island, I discovered several beautiful places and highlights, which I’d like to share with you here. Chances are, you’ll uncover additional hidden spots yourself that may not be included in this guide.
Still, with this Tablas Island travel guide, you’ll already gain a very good overview of the island’s most worthwhile attractions.
Large Island – Consider Splitting Your Trip Between North & South
Since many of the main attractions are located either in the far north or deep south of the island, it can make sense to stay in both regions for a few days.
Doing so helps avoid long travel times by scooter, as Tablas Island stretches over approximately 85 kilometres from north to south. Depending on road conditions, distances can take longer than expected. Splitting your stay into a northern and southern base will make exploring much more comfortable and relaxed.
Not in the mood to read? Then take a look at our Tablas Island photo gallery instead.
What to Expect in This Tablas Island Travel Guide:
1. Long Beach Tablas Island – Endless Bays & Secluded Beaches
Do you dream of a kilometre-long beach with excellent swimming conditions and hardly any visitors? Then this place will definitely impress you. The Long Beach, at least as locals refer to it, stretches across the entire southern tip of Tablas Island. Here, you’ll discover countless bays and beach sections, making it a true paradise for beach lovers.
Fantastic Views – Lakes, Rice Fields & Local Villages
In some areas, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of Carabao Island, as well as the nearby Cabahan and Manamoc Islands. Certain beach sections can be rockier with coarser sand, meaning they’re not always ideal for swimming.
Along the extensive coastline of Long Beach, you’ll encounter very little tourist infrastructure. Instead, the beach is surrounded by endless rice fields, creating a spectacular landscape together with the mountain ranges in the background.
You’ll also pass through small local villages, traditional wooden houses and the beautiful Agmanic Lake. The atmosphere surrounding Long Beach is peaceful, authentic and likely to leave a lasting impression.
Useful Facts About Long Beach Tablas
2. Southern Tip of Tablas Island – A Hidden Gem at Long Beach
Another highlight along Long Beach is the southern tip of Tablas Island. From the island’s southernmost point, you’ll enjoy fantastic views over both coastlines of Tablas Island, as well as towards the neighbouring Carabao Island.
This spot is also perfect for watching spectacular sunsets.
In the past, the well-known Tablas Island Resort and Cabalian Resort were located here. Both were heavily damaged by a typhoon and temporarily closed. The Cabalian Resort has since reopened and now offers simple beachfront cottages without luxury facilities.
If you’re exploring the southern part of Tablas Island, the Cabalian Resort is a great place to stop for food, enjoy a swim or have a drink while watching the sunset.
Useful Facts About the Southern Tip of Tablas
3. Looc Fish Sanctuary – Explore Tablas Island’s Underwater World
In the small and peaceful village of Looc, you’ll find the Looc Fish Sanctuary in the bay just offshore. A shuttle boat takes visitors to a floating platform, from where you can jump straight into the water and explore Tablas Island’s underwater world.
While snorkelling, you’ll encounter schools of fish and coral formations. Since the water is relatively shallow, you already get great views of the seabed from the surface.
From the Platform to the Lighthouse
The best snorkelling spots can be reached by swimming from the floating sanctuary platform towards the old lighthouse, which is in need of renovation. The distance between the platform and lighthouse takes approximately 10–15 minutes to snorkel.
Nothing Extraordinary
Although I enjoyed snorkelling at the Looc Fish Sanctuary, I have to admit that it’s not a world-class highlight. It was nice chatting with locals and spending some time in the water, but if you’ve already snorkelled in several places before, this spot probably won’t completely blow you away.
How to Reach the Looc Fish Sanctuary
Head to the village of Looc and continue to the pier. At the beginning of the pier, on the left-hand side, you’ll find a small ticket office, where you can purchase a ticket for 100 Peso per person.
Afterwards, a shuttle boat transfers you to the floating platform. Boats operate on demand. Once you’re ready to return, simply inform one of the staff members on the platform, and a boat will be requested via radio.
Useful Facts About Looc Fish Sanctuary
4. Hidden Beach Near Santa Fe – A Tropical Paradise Away From the Crowds
You’ll find this beautiful hidden beach close to the small village of Santa Fe. The semi-circular bay offers white sand and crystal-clear water, which turns a stunning turquoise colour under the sun.
Beautiful Views – Perfect Beach for Swimming
From here, you’ll enjoy great views towards neighbouring Carabao Island, while the western side of the nearly deserted beach overlooks Santa Fe Bay.
Since the beach is shallow, has very few rocks and calm waters, it’s an excellent spot for swimming and relaxing in the sea.
Relaxed Atmosphere by the Beach
Life moves at a very slow and peaceful pace here. Apart from a small village surrounded by countless palm trees, there is hardly any infrastructure nearby. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Only two small accommodations with simple wooden cottages and modest beach bars provide tourist facilities. These places mainly host local visitors rather than international travellers.
The villagers are incredibly welcoming. Since western tourists are still uncommon here, don’t be surprised if locals want to shake your hand, take a selfie or warmly welcome you to the village.
Tip: Visit The Beachaus Resort, order a drink and enjoy the sunset. Aldie, the owner, is extremely friendly, speaks excellent English and welcomes guests with open arms.
I personally stayed here for several days and genuinely enjoyed my experience. Don’t expect a luxury resort, but rather a fantastic atmosphere at a truly paradisiacal beach.
Useful Facts About Santa Fe Beach
5. Aglicay Beach – Stunning Scenery & Breathtaking Viewpoints
Aglicay Beach belongs to the resort of the same name and is a private beach. However, for an entrance fee of 50 Peso, visitors can also access the beach.
This small beach with white sand and turquoise water offers shaded areas beneath palm trees, hammocks and plenty of places to relax. Besides a beach volleyball court, you can even play tennis here.
Depending on the season and weather conditions, it can sometimes become quite windy, making the sea rougher. Since there are very few rocks in the water, the beach still provides excellent swimming conditions and is a wonderful place to spend a peaceful day by the ocean.
The real highlight of Aglicay Beach, however, is not the beach itself, but the world-class viewpoints.
Breathtaking Viewpoints at Aglicay Beach
For me, the actual highlight of Aglicay Beach wasn’t the shoreline, but the incredible viewpoints.
By climbing a series of stairs, you’ll reach a short hiking trail with three different viewpoints. From these spots, you’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views over Tablas Island’s west coast and Aglicay Beach.
The green hills, untouched nature and deep blue ocean create a truly impressive landscape. No words, photos or videos can fully capture this panorama, it’s simply something you have to experience yourself.
Useful Facts About Aglicay Beach Tablas
6. Binucot Beach – Perfect for Snorkelling
Binucot Beach lies within a beautiful bay, divided by a sandbank leading to a small offshore island. This natural phenomenon creates a unique panorama and is among the most beautiful coastal landscapes on Tablas Island.
While one side of the beach faces rougher waters, the opposite side offers shallow and calm conditions. The water at Binucot Beach is crystal clear, the sand appears white with golden tones, and the sea shines in bright turquoise colours.
Excellent Snorkelling Spot – Less Ideal for Swimming
Since Binucot Beach borders a reef, the water contains many rocks, corals and especially sea urchins.
For snorkelling, Binucot Beach is one of the best locations on Tablas Island, but it’s less suitable for swimming and relaxing in the water. If your priority is simply enjoying calm bathing conditions, Agpudlos Beach is a much better choice.
Useful Facts About Binucot Beach
7. Agpudlos Beach – A Beach You’ll Never Forget
I’ve explored many beaches during my travels, but I had never seen anything quite like this endless, deserted stretch of coastline. No matter where you look, you’ll see nothing but beach, palm trees and lush green surroundings. Even while walking through the shallow water, it feels as though the beach simply never ends.
Perfect Swimming Conditions – Incredible Scenery
This seemingly endless beach impresses with crystal-clear water shimmering in turquoise shades. The fine sand is slightly darker, appearing almost black in some areas.
There are no rocks, corals or crowds of people standing between you and a relaxing swim at Agpudlos Beach. The entire scenery and this extraordinary panorama will almost certainly leave you speechless.
Spectacular Sunsets
Located along Tablas Island’s west coast, Agpudlos Beach rewards visitors with colourful and breathtaking sunsets. For me, Agpudlos Beach is one of Tablas Island’s true hidden gems and a genuine paradise.
Useful Facts About Agpudlos Beach Tablas
8. Carmen Bay – Large & Scenic Bay
Carmen Bay is located at one of the northernmost accessible points of Tablas Island. This large bay is home to two bigger beaches and several smaller ones. The beaches feature crystal-clear water, but due to their pebble and rocky shoreline, they are less ideal for swimming. Instead, they are surrounded by a magnificent mountain landscape.
Apart from the beaches themselves, Carmen Bay doesn’t offer classic attractions, yet impresses with beautiful scenery and untouched nature. You’ll also enjoy lovely views towards the nearby Biaringan Island.
Useful Facts About Carmen Bay Tablas
9. Lighthouse & Blue Hole – Rugged Coastline and Lost Place Feeling
Not far from Carmen Bay, you’ll find a partially abandoned lighthouse, which can only be reached after climbing countless sweaty stair steps. From the white lighthouse, you’ll enjoy great views over Tablas Island’s rugged and rocky northern coastline.
Around the decaying buildings, you’ll still discover old generators and remnants of former technical equipment, adding a noticeable lost place atmosphere.
Viewing Platform Overlooking the Blue Hole
Hidden behind the lighthouse, a small path leads to a viewing platform. After following the partially overgrown concrete trail with impressive tree roots, you’ll reach a rocky viewpoint with another fantastic panorama over the northern coastline.
Directly below lies the Blue Hole, a roughly 40-metre-deep underwater cave, popular among snorkellers and divers. Somehow, I personally struggled to clearly spot the Blue Hole from above, perhaps you’ll have better luck?
Scenic Bays Surrounding the Lighthouse
On either side of the lighthouse, you’ll find two beautiful bays, both accessible via more stairways.
The eastern bay is completely secluded and surrounded only by green vegetation and rocky landscapes. However, due to the stones, it’s not ideal for swimming.
The western bay is also rocky, but the water is much calmer. From here, you can even swim towards the Blue Hole. Bringing your snorkelling gear and diving mask is highly recommended.
You’ll also encounter a few Bangka fishing boats and a small house. The local resident is extremely friendly and appreciates the rare visits from western travellers.
Useful Facts About Blue Hole & Lighthouse
10. Mablaran Falls – Cool Off at a “Waterfall”
What we in Switzerland would call a small stream, is often quickly labelled a waterfall in Southeast Asia. The Mablaran Falls are no exception.
If you’re expecting a classic waterfall like those found in Switzerland, Austria or Germany, you’ll likely be disappointed.
Nice Setting, But Nothing Spectacular
Let’s put it this way, the so-called waterfall is dammed into a small natural pool, creating a pleasant swimming area.
Several simple relaxation spots have been built around the small lake. Surrounded by jungle and tropical vegetation, the Mablaran Falls offer a peaceful place to cool off and unwind.
This spot is especially popular among locals on weekends. If you visit during the week, chances are high you’ll have the place almost entirely to yourself.
Useful Facts About Mablaran Falls
11. Boat Tour Along Tablas Island’s Northwest Coast – One of the Island’s Absolute Highlights
From Calatrava, you can join an incredible boat trip along Tablas Island’s northwest coast. The excursion is often compared to boat tours in El Nido, with one major difference: hardly any tourists visit this area. Compared to El Nido, everything here feels far more peaceful and untouched.
All locations visited during the tour are accessible only by boat, as there are currently no roads or hiking trails leading to these spots.
Locals frequently compare this boat trip to excursions around Palawan’s limestone landscapes, claiming the scenery is similarly spectacular. The biggest difference, however, is that here you’ll likely encounter no crowds and almost no other boats.
If you visit Tablas Island, this boat tour is something you should definitely consider adding to your itinerary.
Incredible Coastal Scenery
The journey along the northwest coast rewards you with dramatic rock formations, lush green hills and hidden beaches.
Throughout the trip, the boat passes numerous small, remote bays, while the untouched scenery creates a truly memorable atmosphere.
Lapus Lapus Beach – Welcome to Paradise
Lapus Lapus Beach sits in an exceptional location surrounded by towering rock formations. A huge rock divides the beach into two separate sections, both featuring crystal-clear turquoise water.
The atmosphere surrounding this place feels peaceful, remote and genuinely paradise-like.
Snorkelling Stop – Beautiful Setting, Limited Marine Life
The boat tour also includes a snorkelling stop near one of the rock formations.
Although the underwater world itself wasn’t particularly impressive, simply floating in the clear water surrounded by extraordinary nature made the experience enjoyable.
Tinagong Dagat – Hidden Saltwater Lake Above the Ocean
One of the most fascinating stops is Tinagong Dagat, a saltwater lake hidden on top of a rocky plateau and surrounded by stunning nature.
From here, you’ll enjoy beautiful views towards nearby Bendoy Island.
The lake is known for an unusual natural phenomenon: when the ocean experiences high tide, the lake is said to have low tide, and vice versa. This is believed to happen due to underground connections between the sea and the lake, creating opposite water level fluctuations.
At the end of the tour, adventurous visitors can choose to jump from cliffs approximately 4 or 10 metres high into the sea, although participation is entirely optional.
Tour With Romblon Island Explorer
I joined my boat trip with Bryan, a local guide from Tablas Island, and was genuinely happy with the experience.
Depending on the group size, prices range between 1,500 and 2,000 Peso per person. Bryan also offers additional tours around Tablas Island, so it’s worth contacting him on Facebook directly for further information.
Useful Facts About the Boat Tour
Accommodation & Hotels on Tablas Island
Hier habe ich übernachtet
Wie bereits erwähnt, ist die Insel sehr weitläufig, weshalb es durchaus Sinn machen kann, mehrere Unterkünfte zu buchen. Ich selbst hab mich zumindest dazu entschlossen, ein paar Tage im Süden sowie im Norden zu verbringen. Ich würde dir je eine Woche im Süden und Norden empfehlen. In den folgenden Unterkünften habe ich übernachtet:
- By the Sea Resort (Süden von Tablas)
- Pili Beach Resort (Süden von Tablas)
- The Beach House (Süden von Tablas)
- Footprints Resort (Norden von Tablas)
By the Sea Resort
The By the Sea Resort is owned by Flavio and Chiara, a very friendly and welcoming Italian couple. Both are kind, helpful and genuinely warm hosts, making you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
At the time of my stay, the rooms were being renovated, which is why I can’t provide a detailed description of the accommodation itself.
The food (700 Peso for dinner) was exceptionally good. Everything is freshly homemade and prepared with high-quality ingredients, exactly what you’d expect from Italians.
The beach in front of the resort is quite rocky and therefore less suitable for swimming. Instead, guests can enjoy a saltwater pool filled daily with fresh seawater.
The bay itself is very remote and peaceful, but keep in mind that mobile reception is currently unavailable. If you plan to explore the island by scooter, you’ll first need to drive along a fairly long stretch of rough gravel road.
Pili Beach Resort
Das Resort wird gerade erst fertiggestellt (Stand 05.03.2020) und liegt an einem schönen Strand ganz im Süden der Insel. Die Zimmer haben auch im halbfertigen Zustand einen recht guten Eindruck hinterlassen. Weiter gibt es einen grossen Swimmingpool und ein Tauchangebot. Der Strand sieht zwar sehr schön aus und ist in traumhafte Natur eingebettet, jedoch befindet sich einiges an Seegras im Wasser. Um das Südkapp und den Long Beach zu erkunden, bietet das Pili Beach Resort eine perfekte Ausgangslage.
The Beachaus Resort
The Beachaus Resort is a small local accommodation with three simple rooms and shared bathroom facilities.
If you enjoy connecting with locals and experiencing authentic village life, this is exactly the right place for you. The owner will genuinely do everything possible to make your stay enjoyable.
The food here was excellent, while the beach nearby is one of the best swimming beaches on Tablas Island. The location is also ideal for trips to the southern tip of Tablas Island and the Fish Sanctuary, both of which are easy to reach from here.
Footprints Resort
Located directly at the beautiful Agpudlos Beach, you’ll find Footprints Resort. The cosy cottages sit right by the beach and offer comfortable facilities.
More affordable accommodation options are available in the garden area or within the dormitory rooms.
The staff and the Norwegian owner are exceptionally friendly and genuinely contribute to making your stay memorable.
Footprints Resort is an excellent base for exploring northern Tablas Island. Attractions such as Mablaran Falls, Carmen Bay, Lighthouse & Blue Hole, as well as the boat tour from Calatrava, can all be reached conveniently from here.
Getting Around Tablas Island
Scooter Rental
As is common across Southeast Asia, the cheapest and easiest way to explore Tablas Island is by renting a scooter. Most hotels either offer scooter rentals directly or can arrange one for you.
Rental prices are usually around 500 Peso per day.
Considering the long distances between attractions, I’d highly recommend renting a scooter if you feel comfortable driving one.
Jeepney
Between villages, you’ll generally also have the option of travelling by Jeepney (local bus). However, Jeepneys are often extremely crowded and not particularly comfortable, and in many cases you’ll likely need to change vehicles along the way.
On the positive side, Jeepneys are very affordable, usually costing around 100 Peso.
Especially for routes such as Santa Fe to San Andres, Jeepneys are often the only realistic transport option.
Trycicle
As an alternative to Jeepneys and scooters, you can also use tricycles.
Drivers are generally willing to take you almost anywhere on the island, but with prices around 800–1,000 Peso per hour, this option becomes relatively expensive for longer distances.
How to Get to Tablas Island
From Manila to Tablas Island
The easiest way to reach Tablas Island from Manila is by domestic flight, with a travel time of around one hour. At the moment, there are approximately three flights per week connecting Manila and Tablas Island.
From Caticlan to Tablas Island
From Caticlan, you can reach Odiongan on Tablas Island by ferry in around two hours. Ticket prices start from approximately 500 Peso per person. According to my information, there is also a Bangka boat departing at around 8:30 am, with a travel time of roughly three hours.
From Carabao to Tablas Island
From Carabao Island, you can take a Bangka ferry to Santa Fe on Tablas Island. The boat departs daily from Said Port on Carabao Island at 7:00 am.
Price: Approx. 100 Peso per person
* All information provided without guarantee and may change over time.
Recommended Length of Stay for Tablas Island’s Beaches & Attractions
Tablas Island offers a surprising number of attractions and especially several beautiful tropical beaches, scattered across the entire island.
Since Tablas Island is relatively large and there’s plenty to explore, you’ll need enough time to fully enjoy your trip. I’d also recommend splitting your stay into two parts, ideally spending time in both the southern and northern regions of the island.
From north to south, Tablas stretches roughly 90 kilometres, and travelling between the two ends can easily take around two hours one way by scooter. If you’re staying in the southern part of the island, some excursions to northern attractions can quickly turn into 4–5 hours of driving for a return trip.
For that reason, I’d recommend staying at least 10 days on Tablas Island, while two weeks would be ideal in my opinion. This gives you enough time to explore the beaches and attractions at a relaxed pace without spending too much of your holiday on the road.
Best Time to Visit Tablas Island and Enjoy Its Beaches
Best Travel Season: December to May
The best time to visit Tablas Island is generally between December and May, during the dry season.
Throughout these months, you can expect sunny days, little rainfall and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as beach visits, snorkelling, diving and exploring the island by scooter.
Temperatures usually range between 25°C and 32°C, creating perfect conditions for relaxing beach holidays and tropical adventures.
Compared to more popular destinations in the Philippines, Tablas Island remains relatively quiet even during peak season, making it an excellent destination if you prefer beautiful beaches without large tourist crowds.
Rainy Season: June to November
The rainy season on Tablas Island usually lasts from June to November.
During this period, frequent rain showers and occasional tropical storms can occur. Although visiting Tablas Island is still possible, some activities and boat trips may be limited depending on weather conditions.
On the positive side, the landscape often appears particularly green and lush during the rainy months, while accommodation prices may sometimes be lower.
If your main goal is to explore beaches, go snorkelling and travel around the island by scooter, the dry season between December and May remains the best choice.
Conclusion on Tablas Island’s Beaches & Attractions
For me personally, Tablas Island ranks among the most beautiful and impressive places I discovered during my travels through Asia.
Tourism here is still in its early stages, and at most attractions and beaches, you’ll encounter hardly any western travellers. Tablas Island remains a genuine hidden gem in the Philippines, offering an authentic and traditional Filipino lifestyle that feels untouched by mass tourism.
Besides the incredible friendliness of the locals, I was especially impressed by the island’s nature and its stunning tropical beaches.
Another personal highlight was the boat tour along Tablas Island’s northwest coast. This spectacular coastline was not only breathtaking but also almost completely deserted, something that feels increasingly rare while travelling today.
Overall, Tablas Island completely exceeded my expectations. I truly hope to visit this island again one day, ideally before larger-scale tourism discovers what a special place it is.
Do You Have Questions About Tablas Island’s Beaches & Attractions?
Are you planning a trip to the exotic island of Tablas and still have unanswered questions? Feel free to ask, I’d be happy to share my experiences and help with your travel planning. Simply use the contact form below.
Have you already visited Tablas Island and discovered additional tips or hidden spots that could be helpful for other travellers? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments.
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