Tablas

Mount Payaopao

Tablas Island is a diverse destination located in the province of Romblon, Philippines. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Tablas Island offers a delightful experience for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway.

Understand

Tablas Island is the largest island in Romblon province and is blessed with diverse natural wonders, including rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque coastlines. The island is home to friendly locals who preserve their unique traditions and heritage, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Tablas Island offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts, such as hiking, snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. It is still one of the least urbanized places in the Philippines, so expect little to no commercial establishments and poor cellular reception in some areas.

Get in

By plane

• 1 Tugdan Airport (TBH ^IATA), Alcantara. The sole airport of Tablas island and only destination is Manila. Flights scheduled thrice-weekly. ₱3000-4000. (updated Jul 2023)

By ferry

• 2 Odiongan Port. Main seaport of the island. It is serviced by multiple ferry lines from: Batangas. 8-10 hours travel. ₱900-2500 Caticlan. 3 hours travel. ₱600-1000Roxas. 3 hours travel. ₱300-900 (updated Jul 2023)

Get around

Public transportation options on Tablas Island include tricycles/tribike, single (motorcycle taxis), and jeepneys. These modes of transportation are readily available and can take you to various attractions and destinations on the island. Renting a motorbike is also a convenient option for exploring Tablas Island at your own pace.

Do

• 1 Looc Fish Sanctuary (Boat ride from Looc Pier). The marine protected area located at the heart of Looc Bay features a floating raft hut where visitors can snorkel and rent a kayak to observe schools of fishes within the crystal-clear waters. ₱100. (updated Jul 2023)
• 2 Blue Hole of Tablas, San Agustin. an underwater hole 10 meters below the surface where you can scuba or freedive (updated Jul 2023)
• 3 Binucot Beach, Ferrol. A pristine beach offering crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach picnics. (updated Jul 2023)
• 4 Tinagong Dagat, Calatrava (motorboat from Calatrava Pier). Literally translates to "Hidden Sea", This stunning salt-water lake is surrounded by beautiful limestone formations and is remote enough that you could have the whole lake to yourself. (updated Jul 2023)

Eat and Drink

Tablas Island offers a variety of culinary delights. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish, shrimps, and squid. Explore local eateries and restaurants in towns like Odiongan, Santa Fe, and Looc, where you can savor authentic Romblon cuisine.

Sleep

Accommodation options on Tablas Island range from budget guesthouses to mid-range resorts. Many resorts offer beachfront locations, providing a serene and relaxing ambiance.

Stay safe

As you travel around Tablas, there are certain safety concerns that you should be aware of. During the rainy season, some parts of the island can become susceptible to landslides, which could impact road conditions. Additionally, flooding may occur in coastal and low-lying areas. Keep in mind that this is an isolated island with limited emergency services available, so it is important to exercise caution when navigating these risks.

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