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Tablas

Philippines · Asia

Tablas, Philippines
Tablas, Philippines. Photo via Wikimedia Commons.

About Tablas

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.

Tablas travel guide

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.

Getting there

By plane The local Tugdan Airport TBH IATA no longer serves commercial flights as of late 2025. The primary gateway is now Caticlan Airport MPH IATA (also known as Boracay-Caticlan). From the airport, take a short tricycle ride to the Caticlan Jetty Port, where ferries depart for the island (see the By ferry section for details). Another option is Kalibo International Airport KLO IATA, which often has cheaper flights but requires a 1.5 to 2-hour bus or van ride to reach the jetty port in Caticlan.

By ferry 1 Odiongan Port. Main seaport of the island. It is serviced by multiple ferry lines from: Batangas: Daily overnight ferries (8–10 hours) via 2GO Travel, Montenegro, or Starlite Ferries. ₱900-2500. Caticlan: 3 hours travel time via 2GO Travel. ₱600-1200. Roxas: 3 hours travel via Montenegro, or Starlite Ferries. ₱400-900. (updated Dec 2025) 2 Santa Fe Port. Southernmost seaport of the island. It is serviced by pump boats from: Caticlan: 2 hours travel. (updated Dec 2025)

Getting 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)

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.

Overview adapted from Wikipedia, travel guide fromWikivoyage (CC BY-SA)。Photography via Wikimedia Commons.

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