Want to visit white sand beaches and a few islands of Northern Iloilo while in Iloilo for only a “day trip”? The town of Ajuy has organized a tourist package called “Three Islands Tour,” in which visitors can experience three different islands in convenience and be back in the city just after sundown. These three islands are Calabazas Island, where an 18th century Spanish Era lighthouse stands, Marbuena Island, an island-resort where visitors can take part in a nature walk, and Nasidman Island, a traditional fisherman’s village. All of these three scenic islands are blessed with white sand beaches, clear blue waters, and rich marine resources.
Calabazas (or Calabasa) Island is more commonly referred by the townsfolk as Parola because of the lighthouse built in the 1900s located in one of its hills. There is also a coral garden near Calabasa Island, where visitors can go snorkeling.
Meanwhile, Marbuena Island is a privately owned Island, where Marbuena Island Resort is located. Amenities in the resort include a function hall, playground, tennis/basketball court and spacious lawn for seminars, weddings or other similar events. Accommodation varies from fan-rooms on its floating cottages to fully air-conditioned rooms (Visit Marbuena Island Resort Official Website).
Nasidman Island, on the other hand, is where you can get to witness local traditions of fishermen.
Here’s a copy of Ajuy’s “Three Islands Tour” Itinerary:
- 9:00 am: ETD – Iloilo City
- 10:30 am: ETA – Mangorocoro, Ajuy
- 10:45 am: ETA – Marbuena Island (Snacks will be served)
- 11:30 am: Briefing and Nature Walk (PR: Tour Guide)
- 12:30 noon: (Lunch)
- 1:30 pm: ETD – Marbuena Island
- 2:15 pm: ETA – Calabazas Island
- 2:45 pm: ETA – Nasidman (Snacks will be served)
- 3:15 pm: Fishing Village Tour/Fishing/ Head, Hand & Foot Massage/ Free Time
- 4:30 pm: ETD – Nasidman Island
- 5:00 pm: ETD – Ajuy
- 6:30 pm: ETA – Iloilo
For more information you can contact:
The Office of the Mayor (Ajuy, Iloilo 5012)
Telefax: (63)(033)392-0408
Email: ajuy_lgu@yahoo.com
oohhh…? hmmmmmm
how much kaya?
interesting ^ ^
Hey, Marcos. Thanks for the review of the islands around Ajuy. I was treated to a tour of Calabazas Island by some local people recently but was not aware of the other two islands being available for tours. I will defininately check them out next time I am there.
As always you are doing a great job of keeping the world informed of the goings on in Iloilo and vicinity. Keep posting to Twitter also!
Northern Iloilo seem to be a promising spot to be explored, yet…am quite excited as you reveal one tourist’s spot at a time as if you’re “taking one treat at a time from the treasure chest.” Interesting! Will check it out next time… Keep up the good work, Marcos!
Dear Marcos, Thank you so much for posting, Ajuy Three Islands Tour. I’m sure the tour package is very exciting, considering the Ajuynon culture is part of the package, historical and the Marbuena Island, a very ideal place for tourists.
Three Filipino Travel Agencies, in Melbourne, Sydney and Queensland are interested to promote this island tour program. Please continue, featuring beautiful spots in our island.
Iloilo has lots of pristine white island beaches on the northern strip or part of the province of Iloilo. guys please add me! at Friendster john_gaje@yahoo.com
I’m interested in going to the Northern Iloilo islands the next time i go home. Very well done again!
Thanks tol, you’re the best. thanks
Cool… Very interesting…
AWESOME! We have lots of beautiful islands in Panay that are not yet exposed. Thanks that Marc, Bernie and the rests are here to introduce our beloved Panay Island to the whole world, especially our BELOVED ILOILO city and province. Btw, how’s our City Hall master plan? Anything new about the proposed new city hall?
Thanks for sharing.
Indeed, Iloilo is known for its beautiful spots, good food and friendly people. Oh, well I miss Living in Iloilo