Guimaras is one of the smallest island provinces in the Philippines, next to the lovely Siquijor and the enchanting Camiguin. Just like the other two, this little island has a number of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. While it is known to most people as the land of the sweetest mangoes in the world, the beaches and its other wonders should not be overlooked. Allow me to show you how this beautiful island captivates and tell you 5 must do things to make your quick visit worthwhile.
Grab a bite at The Pitstop – Over the years, this humble restaurant has received mixed reviews. Some were satisfied and there were a few who went home disappointed. But let me tell you why you should still give this a try. It’s the mango pizza. I know! Mango on a pizza doesn’t really sound so appetizing but if you are a curious soul and loves the thrill of trying new things then this is definitely for you.
Take a dip in Alubihod Beach – Alubihod Beach is probably the most crowded beach in Guimaras. It’s a public beach after all. But more than the white sand beach and its turquoise clear water are the people, and the opportunity to interact with them, know their story and learn about their culture.
Visit Guisi Beach and Lighthouse – If you are fond of hills with ancient structures overlooking a vast ocean and a charming beach then Guisi Beach and Lighthouse will surely not disappoint. This place reminds me so much of Capones Island of Zambales and Cape Bojeador of Ilocos Norte except the view is much more scenic.
Go Island Hopping and visit the Turtle Island – Guimaras is surrounded by water and other small islands so not going on an island hopping would be a waste. A must visit is the Turtle Island which is home to some adorable turtle species. Explore its white sand beach and lively underwater environment with these lovely creatures and make a your visit an experience of a lifetime.
Hire a motorbike or a tricycle and roam around the island – Take the time to check out other must see landmarks within the island. Visit the smallest Rizal Park. Get a photo taken next to the famous GUIMARAS sign. Visit the Trappist Monastery. Stroll within the vast mango plantation. And if you have a time to spare, take a glimpse at the windmills in San Lorenzo..
TRAVEL TIPS & OTHER USEFUL INFO
- Going to Guimaras is really easy and boats are available in their designated docks in Iloilo City starting 6AM to 7PM, if the weather permits, and cost is very inexpensive.
- Guimaras is a great side trip if you are visiting Iloilo or Bacolod. A quick day tour in this little island is quintessential for a complete Western Visayas epic experience.
- The best way to explore the island is to hire a motorcycle and a local driver to tour you around for P1000/motorcycle or if you are in a group, a tricycle that could fit 4 people would only set you back P1500/tric. Of course, these rates are negotiable. As to how low it could go depends really on your haggling skills and your charm.
- If you are not a little press for time then you may take the passenger jeep going to San Lorenzo to see the windmills to save cost.
- Boats for island hopping are normally found in Alubihod Beach and could set you back P2000 – P3000 for the rental. You can either go on a full-day island hopping tour or if your time is limited, you may ask the boat to take you back by lunchtime.
HOW TO GO TO GUIMARAS
From Manila – Fly to Iloilo City via CebuPacific or PAL. From the airport, ride a van to take you to downtown Iloilo (15Min ; P50). Make your way to Ortiz Wharf and ride an outrigger boat to Jordan Port in Guimaras (15Min ; P15)
From Bacolod – From Bredco Port in Bacolod, ride a ferry to Iloilo City (2Hrs ; P300). Make your way to Ortiz Wharf via a tricycle (10Min ; P30) and catch an outrigger boat to Jordan Port in Guimaras (15Min ; P15). Alternatively, you can take a ferry going to San Lorenzo, Guimaras via Pulupandan Wharf which can be reached within an hour from Bacolod City via bus and a tricycle.
BUDGET, ITINERARY & OTHER ESSENTIALS
Our visit to this island was part of our 5-Day BIG Adventure which started in Iloilo exploring Garin Farm and Gigantes Islands then to Bacolod’s Mambukal Resort and Lakawon Island to lastly Guimaras. Our 5-Day BIG Adventure Guide will be available soon so stay tuned. Meantime, here are some essentials about this tour you might wanna know.
SAMPLE ITINERARY (Day Tour) | 0700 ETD Ortiz Wharf - Jordan Port 0715 ETA Jordan Port 0730 Start Island Hop 0800 SEAFDEC. Explore. 0900 Turtle Island 1000 Back At Alubihod Beach. Explore. Beach Bum. 1200 Lunch The Pitstop 1300 Guisi Lighthouse 1400 Guisi Beach 1500 Mango Plantation 1600 Rizal Plaza. Capitol. 1700 End Tour. ETD Jordan Port - Ortiz Wharf 1715 ETA Ortiz Wharf |
SUMMARY EXPENSES (4 People) | 2-Way Fare Boat - P30 Island Hop @ P1000/4Pax - P250 Tric Rental @ P1200/4Pax - P300 Lunch at The Pitstop - P200 Other Fees - P50 TOTAL - P830/Pax |
BOAT RENTAL FEE (Island Hopping) ***Rates are Subject to Change | 1-10 Pax First 1 Hour - P500 Succeeding Hours - P150/Hr 15 Pax First 1 Hour - P700 Succeeding Hours - P300/Hr 20 Pax First 1 Hour - P1000 Succeeding Hours - P300/Hr |
WHERE TO STAY
Cause there are places that’s worth spending more than just a day, here are some of the places you can stay at ever you decide to give this lovely island another day.
There you have it lovelies. Guimaras is sure small but don’t let its size fool you as it definitely has a bunch of surprises in store. Our 5-Day BIG Adventure is coming soon so stay tuned. For comments, questions, and suggestions, just drop them below. Until next time. Ciao!
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4 Comments
Hi Keza!
your blog is very informative. thank you!
just want to know if the tricycle rental 1200 is for the whole day?
and for island hopping you only visited turtle island?
thanks a lot!!!
Hi. Yes it’s for the whole day. The island hopping is not limited to the Turtle Islands. You can visit several islands at your leisure. Enjoy your trip!
Hi po,
This blog is so helpful. Can I just ask if you have recommended contact person to tour guimaras? thank you so much
Hi Darl, sorry I don’t have a contact person in Guimaras since we were in a hurry to take shelter in the port as it was raining that we forgot to take the number of our tric driver.