5. Jomalig Island
If you want a more adventurous Quezon Province tour experience, consider heading to Jomalig Island. It is one of Quezon’s farthest islands so it’s not easy to reach. But for this exact reason, Jomalig’s sandy shore is more unspoiled compared to other beaches near Manila.
The island is known for its laid-back vibe, isolated feel, and golden sand beaches. While here, you can swim, snorkel, and go beach hopping. Salibungot Beach is the most popular beach on the island. You can also explore the island’s large lake and two-hectare mangrove area. It is also common for local motorcycle (called habal – habal) drivers to offer tours around the island.
From Jomalig, you can hire a boat and local fisherman to take you to neighboring islands and isolated beaches like Manlanat Island and Kanaway Beach.
There are small resorts and homestays on the island that accommodate visitors. Some resorts have rooms as well as camping grounds. Take note that visitors are no longer allowed to pitch a tent on the island’s public beaches. Therefore, you need to book a camping spot at a resort.
Jomalig sits on the Pacific Ocean, off the southern coast of Quezon province. The town of Real is the nearest jumping point to the island. From the town port called Ungos, you need to ride a boat for 5 to 6 hours to reach Jomalig. The island has an airstrip and caters to chartered flights.
6. Alibijaban Island
Alibijaban Island sits off the coast of Quezon’s Bondoc Peninsula and spans more than 400 hectares. The island has become a popular tourist destination in Quezon mainly because of its white beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forest.
The mangrove forest occupies the central and central sections of the island. This area, which covers 225 hectares, is protected by law and is officially named Alibijaban Island Wilderness Area. This wilderness is home to several mangrove species and bird species. This is an excellent area to explore and do bird-watching.
The surrounding waters of Alibijaban Island are teeming with marine life. This area is a protected marine sanctuary and is an amazing place to explore. If you want to snorkel here, don’t forget to bring your gear to the island.
The main accommodation options on the island are homestays and small resorts with nipa huts. It’s also possible to camp on the beach if you bring a tent along. Day trippers to the Alibijaban can also rent open cottages.
The municipality of San Andres Quezon is the main jumping point to the island. To reach Alibijaban, you need to ride a boat from the port of San Andres. San Andres is about 330 kilometers from Manila and can be reached via the Pan-Philippine Highway and Bondoc Peninsula Road.
