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Maniwaya Island Marinduque

Maniwaya Island in Marinduque (Travel Story & 2024 Guide Update)

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.

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

[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!

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

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.

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

[Click Here to Check Hotels in Marinduque]

Maniwaya Island 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.

 

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.

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

Credit: S&B Adventure

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.

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

Thank you, S&B Adventure! 🙂

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

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.

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

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. 🙂

Maniwaya Island Marinduque

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

 

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