Unexplored Paradise Close To Boracay

Carabao Island is locally referred to as “Hambil” by locals or its fancier Spanish-derived name Isla de Carabao. It’s a small island under the province of Romblon.

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.

It’s possible to visit here 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 there'

The island is accessible via a pump boat from either Tablas or Caticlan where the nearest airports are located. In early 2017, Cebu Pacific launched its Tablas flight, the only airline flying directly from Manila to the area.

Carabao Island is also a perfect side trip for those already in Boracay since the town is a mere 30-minute boat ride from the world-famous island.

From Poblacion, San Jose, visitors can take a habal-habal for a trip around the lush island or rent a boat to visit its sprawling beach coves and cliff diving points

Visitors to Carabao Island take a scheduled boat from Sambiray Port, near the Caticlan Jetty Port to Boracay.

 Ocean’s Edge Resort. is one of the luxury resorts being developed in Carabao Island on top a hill with a stunning ocean views.

Inside Muni-Muni Villa,Ocean Edge Resort

          The new luxury boutique resort, a destination by itself, draws inspiration from the rawness of the island with its cogon-roofed villas blending fittingly with its natural surroundings. The breathtaking site accentuates a 180-degree panoramic view of the ocean.

                          Kalinaw Studio Villas,Oean Edge Resort

         Sunset view at Ocean Edge Resort, Carabao Island, Romblon

Tinagong Dagat Wet Land has electricity and water as there are residents in the area. It is said that when one is noisy, one won’t be able to catch sight of seashells here. Amenities such as comfort rooms, cottages, paddle boats, etc., will be provided in the future for travelers’ use

Tinagong Dagat Wet Land has electricity and water as there are residents in the area. It is said that when one is noisy, one won’t be able to catch sight of seashells here. Amenities such as comfort rooms, cottages, paddle boats, etc., will be provided in the future for travelers'use

Guindawahan, a drumstick-shaped island where dawa – a small-seeded cereal plant that is delicious when cooked in coconut milk – has been planted by the first settler named Bendoy, is home to various fishes and many corals.  Guindawahan has no electricity, water and cottages yet. While working on these, the municipality also plans to build a tourism outpost for travelers’ concerns and protection.

          Tan- Agan Picnic Grove, Carabao Island, Romblon 

                         Tan- Agan Picnic Grove, Carabao Island, Romblon

                                             Bantigue Resort, Looc , Romblon

                                Bantigue Resort, Looc , Romblon (Eiffel Tower & Big Ben)

                                  Cliff diving is a popular activity at Cathedral Cave in Carabao Island.

                                  The Cathedral Cave on Carabao Island

                                    Cliff diving is a popular activity at Cathedral Cave in Carabao Island.

                                   Cliff diving is a popular activity at Cathedral Cave in Carabao Island.

Looc Fish Sanctuary, Looc, Romblon

COVE AURELIO BEACH, Calatrava, Romblon

                                            Grotto De Banloc, Looc, Romblon

                                                     Grotto De Banloc, Looc, Romblon

                               The Media Group

One of the most famous beaches on Carabao Island is  Said beach which is only few meters away from the main port of the island. The white sand beach stretches for miles, so clean and quiet. There are also cottages, transient houses and small restaurants around the area. If you love the sun and just want to sun bathe and enjoy the beach without too much of a crowd, this place is for you!

Lapus-Lapus Beach, hidden behind limestone cliffs, is picturesque with its rocks looking like solitary islands during high tide. Calatrava, Romblon

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

                                   Bantigue Resort, Looc , Romblon (Eiffel Tower & Big Ben)