Romblon, Philippines: The Underrated Island Paradise You Need to Visit
If you’ve been dreaming of a tropical escape where crystal-clear waters, powdery white beaches, and unspoiled island life still exist — far from the usual tourist trails — then Romblon, Philippines is your answer. Often overshadowed by Boracay or Palawan, Romblon quietly holds its own as one of the most beautiful yet underrated destinations in the Philippines.
Tucked in the heart of the Sibuyan Sea, Romblon is actually an archipelago of three main islands — Romblon Island, Sibuyan Island, and Tablas Island — each offering unique landscapes, rich history, and postcard-perfect beaches. From marble quarries to hidden waterfalls and thriving coral reefs, this province is a paradise waiting to be explored.
If Romblon’s quiet beaches appeal to you, the island huts in Coron, Palawan offer a similar mix of adventure and serenity for your next stop.
Where Is Romblon?
Romblon is part of the MIMAROPA region (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan) in the central Philippines. It sits between Mindoro and Panay islands, surrounded by turquoise waters and smaller islets.
Its location makes it ideal for travelers looking for both adventure and serenity. The islands are accessible yet blissfully untouched, with charming fishing towns and friendly locals who still live close to the rhythms of the sea.
How to Get to Romblon
Reaching Romblon is part of the adventure — and that’s exactly what keeps it special.
✈️ By Air
- The easiest route is to fly to Tablas Island via Tugdan Airport (in Alcantara) from Manila (approximately 1 hour).
- From there, you can take a ferry or boat to Romblon Island or Sibuyan Island.
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⛴️ By Sea
- Ferries from Batangas Port travel to Odiongan (Tablas), Romblon Town, and Magdiwang (Sibuyan). The journey takes about 8–12 hours, depending on your destination and weather conditions.
Though the travel time may seem long, the reward is a destination still untouched by mass tourism — a rare find in today’s world.
Top Things to Do in Romblon
Romblon’s beauty lies in its diversity. Whether you love beaches, waterfalls, history, or diving, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
Travelers exploring Romblon often continue their journey to Port Barton in Palawan, another peaceful hideaway perfect for slow travel.
🏝️ 1. Lounge on Bonbon Beach (Romblon Island)
Arguably the most famous beach in Romblon, Bonbon Beach looks like it was painted by nature itself. Its sandbar stretches gracefully into the turquoise sea, connecting the mainland to Bang-og Island during low tide.
The beach is free, public, and uncommercialized, making it perfect for lazy afternoons, long walks, or simply watching the sunset melt over the horizon.
📸 Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to catch the sandbar in its full glory.
🐠 2. Go Diving in Romblon’s Marine Sanctuaries
Romblon is a hidden gem for scuba divers. Its crystal waters are home to colorful reefs, nudibranchs, and rare marine species.
- Three P Holiday & Dive Resort (Romblon Island) offers some of the best dive experiences, from coral gardens to macro photography sites.
- Cobrador Island and Logbon Island also feature excellent snorkeling spots just minutes from the shore.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, the underwater world of Romblon is nothing short of mesmerizing.
🪨 3. Visit the Marble Capital of the Philippines
Romblon is known as the “Marble Capital of the Philippines” — and for good reason. The island’s mountains are rich in high-quality marble, said to rival even Italy’s Carrara stone.
You can visit marble factories and workshops in Romblon Town, where artisans sculpt everything from delicate figurines to massive statues. Watching them work by hand gives you a deep appreciation for the island’s craftsmanship and heritage.
For a tropical escape in a completely different setting, the Maldives’ Fihalhohi Island offers lush forests and crystal-clear waters.
🏞️ 4. Explore Cobrador Island (Naguso Island)
Just off Romblon Island’s coast lies Cobrador Island, a small paradise known for its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine life.
You can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on its soft white sand beaches. The island also has a charming lighthouse offering panoramic views of the sea and nearby islets.
If you want to experience Romblon’s untouched beauty, Cobrador is a must.
💦 5. Chase Waterfalls on Sibuyan Island
If you’re craving adventure, head to Sibuyan Island, often called the “Galápagos of Asia” due to its biodiversity.
Some of its most stunning waterfalls include:
- Cantingas River and Falls – A local favorite with natural pools perfect for swimming.
- Dagubdob Falls – A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush jungle.
- Lambingan Falls – Peaceful and scenic, ideal for picnics and short hikes.
Sibuyan is also home to Mount Guiting-Guiting, one of the most challenging and rewarding climbs in the Philippines, attracting mountaineers from around the world.
🕍 6. Walk Through Romblon Town Proper
The capital town of Romblon Island feels like stepping back in time. Stroll through its old Spanish-era streets and landmarks:
- Fort San Andrés – A restored 17th-century fortress built by the Spanish to protect the island from pirates.
- St. Joseph Cathedral – One of the oldest churches in the region, built from coral stones.
- Romblon Plaza – A peaceful spot to watch daily life unfold, surrounded by marble monuments and friendly locals.
The town’s charm lies in its simplicity — no crowds, no rush, just quiet island living.
🚤 7. Hop Between the Islands
Romblon is made for island hopping. You can easily explore multiple islands by renting a local boat or joining small tours.
Popular stops include:
- Alad Island – Great for snorkeling and shell collecting.
- Logbon Island – A serene escape with clear water and coral gardens.
- Cobrador Island – The best mix of beach and marine life.
Each island offers something unique — from hidden coves to picture-perfect sandbars.
Where to Stay in Romblon
Romblon offers cozy stays ranging from beachside cottages to eco-resorts:
🏡 On Romblon Island
- Three P Holiday & Dive Resort – Perfect for divers and beachfront relaxation.
- The Romblon Fun Divers & Inn – Affordable and close to town.
🏖️ On Tablas Island
- Footprints Beach Resort (San Andres) – A tropical retreat with beautiful sunsets.
- Aglicay Beach Resort (Alcantara) – Great for families and water activities.
🌿 On Sibuyan Island
- San Fernando Nature Park – Near Cantingas River, great for nature lovers.
- Villa Rivas Garden Resort – Ideal for those exploring Mount Guiting-Guiting.
Best Time to Visit Romblon
The best time to visit Romblon is during the dry season (November to May). The seas are calm, the skies are clear, and it’s perfect for island-hopping and diving.
The wet season (June to October) can bring heavy rains and rough seas, but the islands remain lush and beautiful.
If you want to explore a completely different landscape, the misty hills of Ella in Sri Lanka provide peaceful walks and scenic train rides away from the beaches.
What Makes Romblon Special
Romblon stands out not for luxury or nightlife, but for its raw, authentic charm. It’s a place where you can:
- Swim in lagoons without a crowd.
- Eat freshly grilled seafood by the shore.
- Talk to locals who’ll treat you like family.
- Explore mountains and reefs that feel untouched by time.
It’s the kind of destination that reminds you why you travel — to reconnect with nature, discover new cultures, and slow down.
Travel Tips for Romblon
✅ Bring cash — ATMs are limited, especially on smaller islands.
✅ Respect local customs and marine sanctuaries.
✅ Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral reefs.
✅ Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during holidays.
✅ Bring snorkeling gear and a waterproof camera — you’ll need them!
Romblon is just one of Asia’s hidden paradises, and you can find more in our Asia travel guides collection.
Final Thoughts: Why Romblon Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List
Romblon, Philippines, is that rare destination where you can truly disconnect and rediscover the beauty of simplicity. With its white-sand beaches, marble heritage, and friendly island vibe, it offers the best of the Philippines — without the crowds.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls on Sibuyan, diving off Romblon Island, or just walking barefoot on Bonbon Beach, every moment feels pure and unspoiled.So before you book that next trip to Boracay or Cebu, consider going off the beaten path.
Romblon isn’t just a destination — it’s a secret paradise waiting for you to find it. 🌴
