I enjoy exploring the less mainstream destinations in the Philippines because it always reminds me how beautiful our country is. Beyond Boracay and the like, countless islands can truly take your breath away. Take, for example, Jomalig, among many others! Discovering these places is an adventure in itself.
A few months ago, my girlfriend, Eloi, and I explored Burias Island in Masbate. Just a few weeks later, we ventured to Maniwaya Island in Sta. Cruz, Marinduque.
Marinduque hasn’t been widely discussed among tourists until recently when social media started buzzing with stunning photos and experiences shared by travelers about this province. The first time I saw a picture of Maniwaya Island, I was captivated. I wondered, “Does Marinduque have such beautiful beaches?”
It was Eloi who encouraged and convinced me to go on this island getaway. Besides, blogging about the place seemed like a great idea, right? Haha!
Whenever I travel with my girlfriend, I ensure everything is at least somewhat planned. Although I often travel DIY (Do It Yourself), it’s a different scenario with her. Thus, we usually join organized travel events and tours. For our Maniwaya trip, we participated in an adventure organized by a couple, Bes and Son. It was one of the best travel packages we’ve experienced. The hospitality they extended to their guests, the quality of the food, and the friendships we formed were unparalleled.
[Click Here to Check Hotels in Marinduque]
We traveled for about 5 hours by van until we reached Gen. Luna in the province of Quezon, which served as our jump-off point to Maniwaya. From there, it was only an hour’s boat ride until we reached the island.
I was delighted the moment I saw Maniwaya, experiencing the same reaction I had upon witnessing some of the secluded islands in the country.
Clear waters and pristine beaches are always a sight to behold, and Maniwaya is charming in its unique way. We first set up our tent and made sure everything was in order before taking the time to walk along the beach. Our tour coordinator mentioned that lunch would be served in an hour, giving us just enough time to explore the island. Yay!
Just like many other girls, Eloi also loves taking pictures. So, as a good boyfriend, we always have to do the things that make our girl happy, right? As a result, we ended up with a lot of photos. And it was all okay; Maniwaya’s beauty and our moments together deserved to be captured.
[Click Here to Check Hotels in Marinduque]
We had a terrific lunch!
The homemade feel of the meals prepared by Bes and Son was delicious, especially the Lumpiang Shanghai and the spicy Adobo. It was our first meal, marking the start of the more satisfying food they served us over two days.
After lunch, we had some free time, as we were scheduled to visit Marinduque’s famous sandbar at 3 PM. Being there during summer, you can just imagine the scorching island heat. It was the perfect time for Eloi and me to swim and feel refreshed. The water was cool and crystal clear, ideal for the summer.
We then settled under a tree, simply sitting there and looking at the beach, another precious moment for us. I remember feeling so calm, relaxed, and sleepy at that time. Just imagine having a satisfying lunch and then enjoying some siesta time on the beach with the one you love. Wow!
To make a long story short, we both took a nap while lying on the sand. It was not an issue for us; we had done the same in Calaguas.
We awoke after a few minutes, ready to explore a new destination on Maniwaya Island.
Content
Palad Sandbar
It was just a 30-minute boat ride from Maniwaya until we reached Palad Sandbar, probably the most popular sandbar in the province.
At first, I was intrigued by some motorboats gathered in the middle of the sea. It was only when we got closer that I realized they were surrounding the sandbar.
Although there were many tourists at the time because it was the weekend, we still found a sweet spot at the farthest part of the sandbar. This allowed us to enjoy its beauty and take some good photos, both together and with our new-found friends. Without a doubt, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on the island.
Must Read! – Palad Sandbar in Marinduque
Ungab Rock Formation
Another stunning tourist destination in Marindique is the Ungab Rock Formation on Mongpong Island. Just a 30-minute boat ride from Maniwaya, we were greeted by stronger waves and these huge rocks that require a second look to fully appreciate.
This place is called Ungab because it is situated in the eastern part of the island, known as Sitio Ungab. It features what looks like a natural bridge or an arch, depending on your perspective. To me, it appears as a bridge with space underneath.
There’s a wide opening beneath the rocks that offers much-needed shade from the sun. Those who prefer to avoid sunburn or darker skin will enjoy swimming below this rock, aside from its clear waters.
It is also perfect for those interested in trying some rock climbing.
Our new friends ventured to the farther part of the rocks. As for Eloi and me, after swimming, we simply enjoyed each other’s company on the beach while eating halo-halo. Perfection. 🙂
Our trip to Maniwaya has made me realize the importance of exploring the world with someone you love. I plan to write a separate post solely about this topic in the future. But for now, all I know is that I am happy traveling and discovering new places with Eloi.
One afternoon on the beach of Maniwaya, we both sat together enjoying the sunset. She was sleeping on my lap. As I looked at her, and as the last ray of the sun slowly faded, I was reminded again to always cherish the present, the moment. Thank you, Maniwaya, for another wonderful experience.
Must Read! – Ungab Rock Formation in Mongpong, Marinduque
Maniwaya Island Travel Guide 2024
Getting to Maniwaya Island
To reach Maniwaya Island from Manila, the most common route is via General Luna in Lucena, taking approximately 6-7 hours. Begin your journey by taking a bus from either Alabang or Buendia to the Lucena Grand Terminal. From there, catch a van to General Luna and, finally, take a boat to Maniwaya Island. You have the option of boarding scheduled passenger boats or chartering a private boat for the transfer.
Accommodation
Maniwaya Island offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly to luxurious options. Popular choices among tourists include Wawie’s Beach Resort, Playa Amara, and Residencia de Palo Maria. It is advisable to book your stay in advance, especially during peak season.
Wawie’s Beach Resort
Contact: Warlie Constantino – 09213695359 / 09081828156 / 09464743700
Facebook Page: Wawies Beach Resort
Marikit-na Beach Resort
Address: Sitio Central II, Barangay Maniwaya, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque, Philippines 2490.
Contact this number and their Page for Rates. Phone: 09278789782 (Update 2016)
FB Page: Marikit-na Beach Resort
Playa Amara Beach Resort
Maniwaya Sta.Cruz Marinduque 4902
Contact: 0928 507 0362
FB Page: Playa Amara
Residencia De Palo Maria
Maniwaya Sta.Cruz Marinduque 4902
Contact: 09505055937/09985394726
FB Page: Residencia De Palo Maria
Island Hopping and Activities
Island hopping tours on Maniwaya Island typically feature visits to Palad Sand Bar, Ungab Rock Formation, and various snorkeling areas. The Palad Sandbar, known for its picturesque beauty, is best visited during low tide. The Ungab Rock Formation provides magnificent views and opportunities for cliff jumping and snorkeling, allowing you to explore the vibrant underwater ecosystem. Don’t forget to bring snorkeling gear.
Local Cuisine
Exploring local cuisine is a must. The island’s seafood, including dishes like grilled prawns, buttered garlic shrimp, and spicy crab curry, is fresh and abundant. Also available are traditional Filipino dishes such as Adobo, Kare-Kare, and Sinigang. Be sure not to miss the buko pie, a popular local dessert.
Travel Tips
Remember to pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a swimsuit, a beach towel, comfortable footwear, a waterproof bag, snorkeling gear, a reusable water bottle, extra clothes, and personal medications. Respect the environment by avoiding littering and damaging the coral reefs, and be mindful of coral etiquette and the fragile nature of the island’s ecosystem.
Budget and Expenses
For a group trip, a reasonable budget is around PHP 2,500-3,000 per person for a 2-day itinerary, covering accommodation, boat transfers, island hopping tours, and meals.
Planning Your Visit
Visiting during the low season from July to November offers a more secluded experience, though be prepared for rough seas. The best time to visit Palad Sandbar is during low tide, in the early morning or late afternoon.”
Maniwaya Island Itinerary
This is just a sample itinerary of our weekend getaway. There are many options for going to Maniwaya, this IT is based on our own experience.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
12:30 AM: Departure from Manila
6:00 AM: Arrival in Gen. Luna, Quezon
6:30 AM: Breakfast at Gen. Luna Market/Port
8:00 AM: Departure on motorboat to Maniwaya Island
9:15 AM: Arrival in Maniwaya
9:30 AM: Free time to set up the tent, etc.
10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon: Beach bumming and free time
12:00 Noon: Lunch
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: More swimming, beach bumming, and then Palad Sandbar and Island Hopping (3:00 PM Palad Sandbar experience)
6:30 PM: Dinner and socialization with new friends
9:00 PM: Sleep
Day 2: Further Adventures and Departure
6:00 AM: Wake up.
7:00 AM: Breakfast.
8:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Island hopping to Ungab Rock Formation (9:00 AM at Ungab Rock Formation).
12:00 Noon: Lunch.
2:00 PM: Departure from Maniwaya to Gen. Luna.
3:30 PM: Arrival in Gen. Luna.
4:00 PM: Shopping for souvenirs (Pasalubong).
5:00 PM: Departure to Manila.
7:00 PM: Dinner.
10:00 PM: Arrival in Manila
Updates Log
First published on July 3, 2016
Updated for 2020
Updated the Travel Guide for 2024
More island beaches in the Philippines below
- Batangas Beach Resorts
- Cagbalete Island in Quezon
- Masasa Beach in Tingloy, Batangas
- Kalanggaman Island in Leyte
- Sta. Cruz Island, The Pink Beach of Zamboanga
- Lucena to Santa Cruz by Ferry
8 Comments
BonetSmile
July 4, 2016 at 10:49 pmVery informative. I’ve never been to this place. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Pingback:
July 6, 2016 at 1:52 pmPingback:
July 30, 2016 at 4:58 amPingback:
August 3, 2016 at 1:35 pmPowell Abogado
August 9, 2016 at 8:43 amHi Jon, do you have a price estimate for the boat if we’re coming from Gen. Luna? We’re planning a DIY. Thanks!
Pingback:
November 2, 2016 at 4:17 pmtannu
July 13, 2017 at 4:26 amNice post. I will keep the information in mind.
https://onlinecasino2019.us.org/">play
November 24, 2018 at 3:30 amPretty! This was an incredibly wonderful article. Thanks for providing this information.