JOMALIG ISLAND: 2024 DIY Budget Expenses and Itinerary

Jomalig is an island municipality of Quezon and is considered one of the smallest towns in the province. Just a small island off the coast of the Pacific Ocean,  it was only in recent years that it captivated the hearts of a lot of travelers because of its raw beauty, golden and white sand beaches.

Years ago, I was about to join a medical mission in Jomalig island but it didn’t push through.

Ever since I’ve been wanting to go to this island in Quezon, but I was looking for someone or a group to join. I don’t know at that time I had an idea that since Jomalig is so far away from the mainland, going there is a tough one in terms of logistics. Imagine enduring a 4-hour land trip from Manila to Real,  Quezon then another 5 hours boat ride going to Jomalig. Imagine 5 hours!

Little Boracay of Jomalig

Well, it’s only recently that I’ve finally decided to travel to Jomalig, the DIY style. And it’s the best decision! Me and my girlfriend, Eloi, loved Jomalig so much, and if there’s one tip to give you if you also plan to go to this island is, do it DIY! It’s going to be a lot more fun, and this blog post will show you how.

I know a lot of travelers would also want to experience Jomalig, but most are hesitant to endure the long 5-hour boat ride.  So to ease that feeling of uncertainty and fear, more are looking for a tour package.

Honestly, at first, I searched for some group travels to Jomalig, but it was just weird that all of the tour packages I contacted just canceled a few weeks or days before the travel. So Eloi and I decided to go there via DIY.  It’s an amazing experience to be in an island paradise where we were free to do whatever we want without following a schedule.

So if you’re willing to have an awesome adventure, this blog post is for you! Let’s start.

Jomalig Island Beach

How to get to Jomalig Island

One bus company that offers daily trips to Real, Quezon is Raymond Bus in Legarda, Manila near Arellano University. You can either ride the LRT 2 and it’s just near the Legarda LRT Station, just a walking distance.

You may also commute and ride a jeepney going to Divisoria from Cubao and tell the driver to drop you off at the bus station.

There are 2-night trips to Infanta and Real Quezon,11:30 PM and 1 AM schedules. We weren’t able to catch the 11:30 PM trip so we opted for the 1 AM schedule. Pay at the counter first, look for the one that has signage of Infanta, and tell the counter that you’re going to Real and pay P230 for ordinary and 270 for aircon. (2023 Update)

• Raymond Transportation
  Address: 246, Legarda Street, Sampaloc, Manila, 1015
  Contact Number:(02) 733 9380

UPDATE: There are UV express vans offering trips to Real, Quezon located in Espana, Manila. This is just an update from our friends and readers, but I think the bus is still a more reliable option.

After hours of travel and some intermittent sleep, we arrived in Real Quezon just a few minutes after 5 AM.

There are tricycles there at the jump-off point. Just tell the driver that you’re going to the port for boats bound to Jomalig. Once, you’re in Quezon, you must know the proper pronunciation of  Jomalig, it’s “Hu-ma-lig.” Okay? Hahaha! This is derived from the Tagalog word, humalik which is based on a love story legend. Yes, the history of Jomalig actually came from a love story. 

The fare for the tricycle is only 10 pesos per person. The port is called Ungos port in Real. It is important that once you get to the port, you immediately talk to the person in charge there and log in to the manifest for the first boat to depart. Boats going to Jomalig are mostly big boats that carry cargo and commodities for the island, so the passengers usually stay at the top load of the boats, where they can sleep for the long travel.

Good morning from the port of Real going to Jomalig

Fare for the boat ride going to Jomalig is 500 pesos per person with meals (2023 update).  Yes, you read it right. Meals are served during the trip, but don’t expect a fancy meal okay? These are just simple ala mangingisda meal hehe but enough to fill your stomach for the long boat ride, and I liked it.  (2023 Update: Meals are no longer provided on board. So bring your own food)

The boat departed Real, Quezon at about 6:30 Am, and we arrived in Jomalig just a few minutes after 11 AM. You’ll know that you’re approaching Jomalig when you see an island with a glistening golden sand beach. It’s so beautiful, it will get you too excited.

Based on the latest update, boats from Real can depart as early as 5:00 AM as long as it is full. The second trip is usually at 7:00 AM. Then, the last trip is 10:00 AM.

The water was clear and it blended well with the golden sand. The moment I first set foot on the island, I remember telling myself that we’re going to have a blast in Jomalig!

There is a tourism and environment fee of 170 pesos to pay once you arrive. Habal habal or the motorcycle is a popular way of transportation in Jomalig. We paid 50 pesos each for a ride going to the resort. (Update: Habal-habal is now 70 pesos in 2023)

Full Blog Post: How to get to Jomalig Island 

Via Private Cars

If you brought your own car, follow the Marikina – Infanta Highway to Real, Quezon. Then head on to Ungos- Road. You can get help with Google and Waze.

Alternative Way to Jomalig

During the off-season, boats going to Jomalig irregular. There are times that there’s no trip going to Jomalig. One alternative is to take the boat going to Patnanungan, a nearby island of Jomalig. Fare is Php 350 for 4 to 5 hours of travel time. Once you arrive at Patnanungan, hire a boat going to Jomalig for one hour of travel time. Fare is Php 1500 and you can share with other travelers to minimize the cost.

Where to stay on Jomalig island

Due to the increasing number of travelers going to the island, there are more options now for resorts to stay in Jomalig. Please be reminded that it is not allowed anymore to pitch a tent at Salibungot beach or the main beach in Jomalig. You have to stay in a resort and you can pitch a tent there for 150 to 300 pesos.

We stayed at SPIR Beach Resort. SPIR stands for  South Pacific Island Resort.  It’s on the other side of the island with a spectacular beachfront and sandbar! Just contact Nanay Thelma at 09078285161, the owner of the resort,  if you want to stay there. Honestly, I recommend SPIR not just because of its beautiful beachfront but because the owners are very hands-on with their guests. You’d feel like you’re staying with a relative. They’re really nice.

SPIR Resort Jomalig

We availed a room accommodation for two for only 500 pesos per night. You also have the option for group accommodation like the Kubo Style cottage (500), Cabana (300), and tent pitching.

(2023 Update: On my latest visit this May 2023, I stayed at El Vito Resort located at the edge of the beach with lots of sandbars. This is where the river meets the sea. It’s such a peaceful place. Also, highly recommended! You can contact them through these numbers 09214483379 / 09260640480 or message their Facebook Page here –El Vito Resort. Tell them that I referred you, and maybe you could get a discount. Char lang. Hahaha! I’m in the process of writing a review of this resort soon.)

Full Blog Post: Where to stay in Jomalig Island

Food in Jomalig island

Worry about the food? Well, you don’t need to bring all your baon (food) to the island!  At SPIR, you can have a generous meal of seafood for only 100 pesos per person per meal. They’ll cook the food and serve it for you. It’s affordable and generous seafood, unli rice, and unli clean drinking water. Feels like you’re at home. Plus, you’re surrounded by coconut trees while eating. How about that? (Update: Food is now about 150 pesos per person per meal in 2023)

Nanay Lota and Ate Aila will take care of you. They fed us during our entire stay on the island. Plus, you’ll also enjoy chit-chatting with them. Oh, I’m beginning to miss Jomalig.

Jomalig Island Tourist Spots

It’s a must that you do the tour! Jomalig is more than just the main beach at your resort. The island has so much beauty to discover!

We really intended to rest on our first day. We were so tired after the long travel, but Kuya Victor was persistent, the old habal-habal driver who brought me from port to the resort.

At first, we politely declined his offer. We just wanted to rest and sleep hahaha! So while our food was still being cooked, Eloi and I, decided to explore the beach in front of the resort. It was our first beach experience in Jomalig and we were amazed by the clear waters and the beautiful sandbar. 

In front of the resort.

Victor offered the tour again, and it was a different case at that time. It was like the beach took away all our exhaustion from the travel. It felt like we were re-energized and we can still do the tour that day. Hahaha!

I remember thinking, at least by tomorrow Eloi and I are just free to chill and kill time by the beach. So yes, we decided to do the habal habal. Hahaha! Eloi and I had one habal–habal each for a fee of 600 pesos per person.

Habal habal tour was truly an adventure. It was a great way to explore the island, see the locals’ way of life and visit some beautiful spots. When I say adventure, it is really an adventure! I mean there are times when I felt like the habal habal ride was like a motocross. It was fast and furious. Hahaha!

Here are the beautiful beaches and spots we explored during the tour! Take note of these places to visit in Jomalig.

Kanaway Beach

The first and farthest destination of all the spots we explored. Kuya Victor had a strategy of going to the farthest location first and then going back. 

I tried to capture the adventurous habal–habal ride using my action cam but I realized it wasn’t working anymore. What?! Waaahh! But it’s okay. I still have my camera.

Kanaway Beach

Feeling pogi. Feeling strong when one with nature. hehe

Kanaway beach is stunning in its own way. Clear waters and a pristine beach. But what makes this place stand out are the rock formations scattered throughout the beach. Looking beyond, you will see two islets which are called Pulo and Manlanat Islets which you can explore during low tide. We spent our time in Kanaway taking pictures, and enjoying the untouched beauty of nature. Look!

Yes!

Oh, by the way, there is an entrance fee of 30 pesos per person in Kanaway collected by the caretaker. 

Map

Full Blog Post: Kanaway Beach in Jomalig

Little Boracay of Jomalig

Jomalig is known for its golden sand beaches, but hey there is a part of the island that has white powdery sand. Travelers who have been there called it Little Boracay because it is comparable to the popular Philippine tourist spot.

Naliligaw pow ako. hahaha!

Wag kayong magulo, natutulog ako. bwahaha!

Little Boracay is managed by Pamana Beach Resort so there is a 30 pesos entrance fee. The place was peaceful as there was no other tourist there except us. We relaxed on a hammock and even took some beautiful photos.

wow. just wow.

Chill lang…

The entire place is unspoiled and raw that sometimes there are a lot of seaweeds, but the resort owner is serious at taking care of the place. We saw a man with his huge net taking off the seaweeds from the shore.

Selfie naman. hehe

Map

READ THE BLOGF POST:  Little Boracay of Jomalig Island, Quezon

Lingayen Cove or Little Batanes

It was a hell of a ride going there!

There were many times our motorcycle got stuck in the sand, and because of my weight, just imagine how much effort Victor exerted as a driver. Hahaha!

lakd lakad lang

Another peaceful place with gold to the white sand beach between two boulders of rocks.  We hiked the huge rocks and we were welcomed by this stunning view of the long stretch of white sand and the blue sea. Just spectacular!

See? my girlfriend has a Masters Degree in Instagram Posing Hahaha!

Andami nyang pinapagawang pose sakin. Ang hirap. hahaha!

A fee of 50 pesos is collected by the caretaker for every tourist that visits Little Batanes.

Golden Sand Beach

At first, I didn’t understand why they just call this the Golden Sand, I mean almost all the beaches in Jomalig has golden sand, so why call this place like that?

But man, it didn’t disappoint. It has a stunning sandbar with glistening golden sand and some tiny rock formations scattered all over the place. God is just so good at creating this unique beauty of nature.

Read the blog post: 15 Best Beaches in Quezon 

Puno ng Walang Forever

I laughed a bit when Victor told me about our next destination. He was also too proud to say, that next is called “Puno ng Walang Poreber.”

What? Hahaha!

Walang forever guys. Joke lang 🤣  2023 update. 💔

And when we arrived in a vast green land, we immediately understood why. This beautiful tree stood in the middle of a wide piece of land that felt so lonesome to look at. Just like someone who just broke up with her boyfriend or the other way around. There is a reason why this tree is called, Puno ng Walang Poreber.

[ Full Blog Post:  “Puno ng Walang Poreber” in Jomalig ]

Salibungot Beach

This is the main beach of Jomalig, the most popular among all the beaches mainly because this is near the port and also you can find here the popular “I love Jomalig” sign.

Salibungot Beach

But more than that, Salibungot has a charm of its own. The golden sand and crystal clear waters is just too irresistible. After hours of touring Jomalig under the heat of the sun, Salibungot beach relaxed us as we both swam to its pristine waters while holding hands. Naks! Hahaha!

We also experienced the view of the dramatic sunset in Salibungot. Eloi and I just sat there on the beach looking as the last rays of the sun bid goodbye to the island’s golden color.

Sunset

Dramarama sa Hapon hahaha!

When we got back to the resort, we went straight to Nanay Lota and Ate Aila’s kubo for our dinner. They served us this grilled huge fish for dinner with toyo and calamansi. We were both satisfied.

It was a jampacked first day for both of us! Just imagine how I slept that night. Hahaha!

[ READ: Salibungot Beach in Jomalig Island  ]

2ND DAY IN JOMALIG 

Jomalig gave me something I’ve never experienced in a long time, that is to sleep more than 8 hours! I felt so refreshed, and besides, it was our second day and we were free to do whatever we want. Any activities. No itinerary. Don’t you love that? Hahaha!

After having our breakfast, we decided to hit the beach early in the morning. I brought my Cabin Zero bag with me. We already talked about it, that Eloi will take some photos of me wearing the bag because I will write a blog post about it and will post some promotions on my social media accounts. You know sponsors. Hahaha!

Here’s just one of my photos with my Cabin Zero.

#MyCabinZero

We went back to our room for a while, then after that, we hit the beach again to experience the sandbar in the morning.

This is another advantage of experiencing Jomalig via DIY, you are free to just relax. No pressure. Since we already did the tour the other day, we just spent our Saturday beach bumming. We walked on the sandbar, until such time that we couldn’t resist it anymore and decided to swim.

Eloi and I walked further the stretch of the beach until the end of it.

Not minding the summer heat, we just enjoyed our moment together. Jomalig is a kind of beach that you’re willing to get darker and be under the sun, to experience. It’s worth the sunburn on my skin.

Also, we’ve found some worthy spots for photos.

The best beach experience happened when we reached the tip of the beach. Actually turning right, we’ll find the Salibungot Beach, but we just decided to stay there, soaked under the sun. Awesome summer experience.

It was as if we owned the entire place. There were just us and enjoying our moment.

Moments

When we got back to the resort, it was already lunchtime. Then we took a bath and stayed in our room for a while. What a life! We stayed the entire afternoon at the resort, feeling the breeze of the sea, chilling, and sometimes taking naps.

The next day, we woke up early. We had our breakfast at 6 am and planned to leave early to catch the first trip going back to Real.

Nanay Thelma arranged the habal–habal to bring us to the port which is called Moros or Sitio Moros.

We left Jomalig with a heavy heart. I wanted to stay longer, but we both have work on Monday. It was sad, but on the other hand, we both felt recharged to face the challenges of the city. It was like a button in us has been reset. Jomalig Island is truly special, with its beaches and nature to its warm people, Eloi and I would want to come back.

And I also want you to experience Jomalig in your own eyes and senses. Come and say yes to adventure!

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best QUEZON TOURIST SPOTS (Beaches, Churches & More)

Jomalig Island Budget and Expenses

Here is the breakdown of expenses in our Jomalig trip ALL -IN for 3D2N. Updated for 2023

Jomalig Island DIY versus Tour Packages

Most of the tour packages (van going to Real) to Jomalig offer 2D1N for about 2,500 pesos, excluding the Habal-habal tour which is 800 pesos per person (2023 update).

2D1N is not enough to explore Jomalig. I’m just being honest here. We decided to do the tour on our first day because we knew that we still have the second day in Jomalig to rest and chill. And we enjoyed it a lot! Compare to a 2D1N with a tour? So you’re too tired from the long travel from Manila then you do the tour for the entire day, then tomorrow you’re going back to Manila? That’s too exhausting. Even the locals in Jomalig said that 2 days is not enough. Go for 3D2N. 

Jomalig Island Travel Tips

1. Electricity is still limited from 5 PM to 1 AM. But good thing, SPIR Resort has a generator that they usually turn on in the morning. (Update 2023: Most resorts now have electricity 24/7)
2. Jomalig has mobile signals and data but it can be very weak at times. But you can still make a call or text. (Update 2023: Jomalig now has stronger data and signal. Based on our experience, Globe is stronger. We came back to Jomalig last April 28 to May 1, 2023)
3. When going back to Manila, and once you’re in Real, Quezon better to ride a jeep for Php 20 to the Bus terminal in Infanta. Instead of waiting for the bus in Real which is mostly full already. You don’t want to stand during the 4-hour travel to Manila, right? Some tricycles offer a ride to Bus Terminal in Infanta from Real for Php120 max of 4 persons.
4. Again, it is no longer allowed to pitch a tent at Salibungot Beach. You have to stay in a resort and do camping there. This is to protect the beach from garbage left by some campers.
5. It is best to go to Jomalig during summer, or until a few months after summer. During “ber” months, huge waves can sometimes cancel the boat trips, and you’ll end up stranded on the island.
6. Bring sunblock and other toiletries.
7. Bring enough cash. There is no ATM on the island. All transactions are through cash.
8. Leave No Trace. Always. All the time. Let’s protect this paradise.
9. You’ll pass through the Polillo Group of islands going to Jomalig, there are also some islands there that are becoming a popular destinations like Patnanungan Island, Minasawa Island, and others.
10. You can also travel to Jomalig via Atimonan Quezon. All you have to do is travel by bus from Manila to Atimonan, then by boat to Jomalig. There are a lot of buses going to Lucena. Once you get in Lucena, take another bus or jeep to Atimonan. Ride a tricycle going to the old port. Ask around at the port for the boats going to Jomalig.
11. Honestly, some people are asking me if there’s an airport in Jomalig, so I’ll just include it here. Well, there is a small airstrip in Jomalig for small private planes and helicopters. So it is not the airport that you’re expecting. Right now the main way of transportation going there is by boat.
12. Also, I’ve been receiving questions if they can surf in Jomalig. Well, I’m aware that waves going to Jomalig can be very tough during the rainy season, but I didn’t find any surfing spot on the island.
13. When Jomalig was featured in KMJS or Kapuso mo Jessica Soho, the island is now getting the attention that it deserves. More tourists are expected to visit the island now, unlike before so be prepared for a longer waiting time at the port.
14. A friend from Jomalig advised that there is now an ATM at the town proper, but still, always make sure you bring enough cash. As a lone ATM on the entire island, there is a possibility that it might run out of cash.
15. Summer of 2019, we traveled to Jomalig for the second time after exploring Burdeos and Polillo Island. We stayed at Jojomalig Resort and we had a great time. We were happy that Jomalig has maintained its raw beauty and unspoiled beach. I hope all travelers will help the locals as well as the tourism office in protecting the island.  Full blog post here: Second time in Jomalig 

UPDATE 2023: I came back to Jomalig last April 28 to May 1, 2023. I have already updated the expenses here. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. 

Second Time in Jomalig

Sweet lang

Jomalig Island Itinerary 

Here is our itinerary when we traveled to Jomalig and explore the island for 3 days. This can serve as a guide for you, but feel free to tweak it a bit depending on your schedule.

DAY 1

1:00 AM Bus ride from Manila to Real
5:00 AM Arrival in Real, Quezon
6:00 AM Boat ride to Jomalig
11:00 AM Arrival in Jomalig Island
11:30 AM Arrival at the resort
12:00 Noon Lunch
1:00 PM Start of Habal Habal Tour
(you have the option to do the tour the next day. We decided to do it on our first day to have free time on our second day)
6:00 PM End of Tour
7:00 PM Dinner
8:30 PM Sleep na (sobrang pagod pero masaya)

DAY 2
7:00 AM Breakfast
8:00 AM Walk by the beach
9:00 AM Sandbar experience
10:00 AM Beach Bumming
12:30 Noon Lunch
1:30 PM Freetime – Sleep, Chitchat, Relax at the Resort
4:00 PM Merienda
5:00 PM Walk by the beach in the afternoon
5:30 PM Watch the sunset
6:30 PM Back to the resort
7:00 PM Dinner
8:00 PM Freetime
9:00 PM Sleep

DAY 3
5:30 AM Wake Up
6:00 AM Breakfast
7:00 AM Bath
8:00 AM Left the resort
8:15 AM Port
10:30 AM Boat ride to Real, Quezon (the boat was late)
4:30 PM Arrival in Real, Quezon
6:00 PM Bus station
11:00 PM Back in Manila
2:00 AM Arrived home in Cavite

Jomalig Island Resorts and Accommodation

Again, I highly recommend SPIR beach resort because I’ve personally experienced their warmth and exceptional service. Positive Reviews! Just contact Nanay Thelma at 09078285161. Just in case you’re looking for other options, here is the list of  Jomalig Island beach resort s. A homestay is also an option on the island. Please be reminded that there is no hotel on the island.

1. SPIR Beach Resort – contact 09078285161
2. El Vito Resort – 09214483379 / 09260640480 (This is where I stayed in 2023 trip).
3. Jojomalig Resort – contact 09399034275
4. Bananas Resort Jomalig- contact 09494583724
5. Apple Beach Resort Jomalig – contact 09106597361 / 09157992954
6. Tejada’s  Resort Jomallig- contact 09075375234
7. Balwarte Farm & Resort – 09094835485
8. Caparas Beach Resort – 09299573655
9. Kadena Beach Resort – 09097755317
10. Villa Corazon – 09195263502
11. Tato Farm & Beach Resort – 09174537360
12. Tapado Beach Resort – 09216759983
13. Purakay Beach Resort – 09108316888
14. Lolita Beach Resort – 09108623231
15. L & J Beach Resort – 09186565477
16. Jojomaligaya Beach Resort – 09478919617

For the weather forecast of Jomalig Island, please check out this Accuweather Update. It also has an update of its nearby islands like Patnanungan Island Quezon and the rest of Polillo islands. There you have it. I hope you enjoyed this travel guide and reviews of  Jomalig!

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Beaches in the Philippines

Jomalig Island Video

If you want to get a glimpse of Jomalig island through a video, I’ve found this one. It makes me want to go back to Jomalig! This is a video by lodi traveler Rocky Fabilane. Follow his Youtube Channel! Oh my, take a look at this awesome video. It made me feel nostalgic a bit. waah!

Jomalig Island FAQ

1. How do I get to Jomalig Island?
From Manila by Land/Sea: Take a bus to Real, Quezon, then a boat to the island. Bus options include Raymond Bus in Legarda, Manila, with a travel time of 4-5 hours. Boat options include passenger boats from Real or Atimonan. The boat ride from Real takes about 5 hours​​.

2. What are the accommodation options on Jomalig Island?
There are beachfront resorts, guesthouses, and camping sites. Popular resorts include Apple Beach Resort and South Pacific Island Resort, offering amenities like air conditioning, hot showers, and Wi-Fi. For budget travelers, Jojomalig Beach Resort and Kadena Beach Resort offer basic accommodations. Camping sites are also available, like Lolita Beach Resort​​.

3. What activities can I enjoy on Jomalig Island?
Join local fishing excursions, try snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping. There are also beautiful beaches to explore, like Salibungot Beach, Lingayen Cove, and Golden Sand Beach. The island offers a rich experience in local culture and traditions​​​​.

4. What are some local delicacies to try on Jomalig Island?
Don’t miss out on fresh seafood.

5. What is the recommended budget for a trip to Jomalig Island?
A safe budget for a 3-day/2-night stay is around P4000 per person. This includes transportation, accommodation, food, activities, and miscellaneous expenses like environmental fees and souvenirs​​​.

6. Any tips for travelers visiting Jomalig Island?
It’s best to visit during summer as boat trips may be cancelled due to rough waves in the ber-months to January. Most resorts now have stable electricity. The island’s accommodations are generally modest, suited for those comfortable with camping or basic lodging​​.

7. What is Jomalig Island known for?
Jomalig Island, located in Quezon Province, is known for its beautiful beaches, untouched natural beauty, and a relaxed, simple lifestyle. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway​​.

Jomalig Island Map

Updates Log
First Published on May 28, 2017
Updated on April 21, 2019, to include our second visit to the island 
Updated for 2023, and 2024

More Quezon Blog Posts:

• Cagbalete Island in Mauban, Quezon
• Alibijaban Island in Quezon
• 15 Best Resorts in Quezon Province
• Lucena to Sta. Cruz by Ferry 

More Beaches and Resorts in PH

• Beach Resort in Bataan 
• Batangas Beach Resorts