Tired of the same old travel itinerary at the most common and familiar tourist spots in the Philippines? Don’t worry, this country has 7,641 islands for you to explore. If you’re looking for a quick adrenaline fix or a laid back adventure in paradise near Manila, Romblon is one of the best places to check out.
Where is Romblon?
When you Google Romblon, you’ll see a lot of people asking whether it’s part of Luzon or Visayas. Romblon is still part of Luzon, particularly the MIMAROPA region. It stands for the RO in MIMAROPA.
Romblon’s neighbors are Mindoro to the west, Marinduque to the north, and Masbate to the east. Romblon is about 260 km from Manila so you don’t have to go that far to experience an unforgettable adventure.
The province is composed of several islands in the Sibuyan Sea, including Romblon, Tablas, and Sibuyan, and many other islets. For this guide, we’re going to give you a glimpse of what an adventure looks like on Romblon Island, one of the main Islands of Romblon Province.
Romblon Province vs Romblon, Romblon
Don’t get these two places confused. Romblon Province is the entire region that covers all the islands of Romblon, while Romblon, Romblon is just one of the islands in Romblon. Romblon, Romblon is locally called Romblon 2x for brevity and to easily distinguish it from the province.
What You Need to Know About Romblon Island
About the Name
There are many stories about the origin of the word “Romblon”, but the most famous one was the version that says it evolved from the Romblomanon word Nagalumyom (which means a chicken sitting on its eggs in local terms), which later transformed to Lomlom, Donblon, and finally Romblon. Spanish chronicler Miguel de Loarca recorded the name as Donblon in 1582.
Local historians offer alternative origins though. They suggest the name came from the Spanish word ronblon (meaning “screw”), referencing the island’s screw-like shape. If you look at it, the island really does have a screw-like shape.
About the Place
Despite being the capital of Romblon Province, Romblon Island only has 86.87 km2 (33.54 sq mi) of land, surrounded by waters. There are 31 barangays in Romblon Island, and it’s where you can find the seat of its provincial government.
About the People
The people in Romblon Island are called Romblomanons, and they derive their ancestry from the Negritos who first occupied the land. There are about 40,000 people on the island as of 2020, but the number has definitely increased as more people discover the beauty of the island.
About Their Language
Romblomanons are part of the Visayan ethnolinguistic group, and they speak mainly Asi, a form of Bisaya. In other regions of the entire province, you will find more dialects called Ini, Basi, Tiyad Ini, Niromblon, or Sibuyanon (since the language is also spoken on Sibuyan Island). However, most people there can understand and speak Tagalog, the national Filipino language, and a significant portion of the population also understands English. So if you don’t know how to speak Bisaya (Visayan), don’t worry because the locals are generally friendly and accommodating, and they will do their best to communicate with you in Tagalog or English.
About the Weather
Romblon has a tropical climate classified under Type III of the Corona climatic classification system, which has no distinct wet or dry seasons. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from January to May, when the weather is typically sunny and ideal for exploring its pristine beaches. February to April offers the most pleasant conditions, with cooler breezes and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for island hopping, diving, and other outdoor activities. Avoid traveling from June to November, as this is the wet season when heavy rains and Habagat monsoon winds may disrupt travel plans and outdoor excursions. Romblon Island is also prone to being hit by typhoons, so make sure to check weather bulletins before planning your trip.
How to Get to Romblon Island
1.Via Airplane: Fly to Tablas Airport (Tugdan Airport) and take a jeepney or tricycle to San Agustin Port, then a Starlite Ferry to Romblon. Alternatively, fly to Caticlan, take ferries to Tablas or Carabao Island, and then proceed to San Agustin Port for the final ferry leg.
2.Via Ferry:
- Overnight Ferry from Batangas: Starlite and Montenegro Shipping Lines operate overnight trips, with departures from Batangas City Pier and an approximate 9-hour travel time.
- Starhorse Ferry via Lucena: A direct option from Lucena, Quezon Province, ideal for travelers from southern Luzon.
- Starlite Ferry via San Agustin: Provides direct transfers from San Agustin on Tablas Island to Romblon.
- From Sibuyan Island: Daily ferries from Ambulong Port offer a straightforward route for those already in Sibuyan.
Plan ahead and check ferry schedules, as they vary by season and day.
Places to Visit in Romblon Island
- Bon Bon Beach – The most popular beach in the entire province is just a 10 minute tricycle ride away from the town center (plaza), and when you arrive, you’ll definitely see what all the hype is about. One of the best features of this beach is the sandbar linking Romblon Island to Bang-og Island. If you’re lucky to visit on a good weather day, you’ll be able to walk the sandbar on the long stretch of white sand that connects the two islands.
- Tiamban Beach – If you’re done visiting Bon Bon Beach, don’t forget to drop by Tiamban Beach because they are near each other. It has a gently sloping seabed, which makes it a safe swimming area for kids. There are accommodations you can find in Tiamban Beach, but make sure to stock up on provisions before arriving because there are limited stores and other establishments in the area. You can also stay here and enjoy both Tiamban and Bon Bon beaches since they are practically neighbors, less than 500 meters away.
- Nonok Beach – This is a private beach resort just a short ride from the town proper. There are tables, huts, and a comfortable room for guests to enjoy. You can stay overnight in the beach house but you need to book in advance. For only 50 pesos, you can enjoy pristine waters, fine sand, and instagrammable views!
- Talipasak Beach – This is the farthest beach from the town, around 13km. The place is also called San Pedro Beach Resort and if you’re looking for some alone time with no distractions, this isolated beach is perfect for you. This white sand beach is also home to marble rock formations, and stretches of beautiful diverse coral, fish and marine life.
- Marble Beach – Located just 14 kilometers from the port of Romblon, the white sand beach of Sitio San Pedro in Ginablan offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It’s a popular destination for snorkeling, jet skiing and kayaking.
- Romblon Cathedral – Another amazing experience to explore in Romblon Island is its rich religious and cultural heritage. As the oldest Catholic Church in Romblon, the Romblon Cathedral found in Poblacion is a testament to the region’s rich history and craftsmanship. Built between 1640 and 1726 for the Recollect Fathers, this historic structure showcases the incredible skills of local artisans who meticulously crafted it using coral blocks and bricks.
- Fuente de Belen – If you’re in the town proper, you shouldn’t miss this historic water fountain built in 1864 by Eduardo Asuero located across from the municipal hall, The fountain is a cultural landmark adorned with an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the top, adding a spiritual touch to its significance.
- Twin Forts of Romblon – These are the Fort Santiago and Fort San Andres, located on opposite sides of the Romblon Bay. They are historic military structures built by the Spanish in the 17th century to protect the island from pirates and invaders. Fort San Andres is the only remaining structure of the Twin Forts of Romblon, as Fort Santiago atop Calvary Hill now lies in ruins, overtaken by wildlife.
- Libtong Falls – This is the only waterfall in the island, located at the southernmost tip of Romblon Island, about 1.5 km east from Reggae Vibes Hostel. The journey begins at a causeway where the river meets the ocean, marking the jump-off point for the falls. However, it’s advisable to check with a local before visiting, as the waterfall’s flow depends on recent rainfall.
Where to Stay in Romblon Island
Some of the beaches on Romblon Island have resorts that allow overnight stays, except those unspoiled beaches located farther away from the town. However, if you’re expecting an extended stay on the island, it is best to reserve your accommodations early on. There are several hotels and inns where you can stay in Romblon, Romblon, but these are some of the highly recommended ones:
- Horizon Hotel – A bit on the high end price for a small province, but completely worth it. This hotel was recently built and offers a huge floor plan, rooftop pool and restaurant, gym and other amenities. The highlight of this hotel is the absolutely stunning views from the rooms. Although it’s a 15-minute drive from the town center, Horizon has everything you need, including a reliable wi-fi connection and power generator.
Romblon Imperial Hotel – A mid-range hotel offering modern amenities, convenient for those who prefer to stay closer to the town proper. It’s a good choice for easy access to local attractions and the port. - LCF – BB Hotel – It is a budget-friendly yet comfortable accommodation option located in the town proper. This offers basic amenities for travelers looking for a simple, affordable stay. Its convenient location puts guests within easy reach of local attractions, making it a great base for exploring the island.
- Romblon Beach and Dive Resort – If you want to enjoy water adventures without going back and forth to your hotel, Romblon Beach and Dive Resort is a great choice. It offers a stunning coastal experience, featuring a vibrant house reef teeming with marine life, perfect for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The on-site dive center caters to both beginners and experienced divers.
- Sunset Cove Beach & Dive Resort – This 4-star property provides easy access to local attractions and a variety of dining options, making it a great base for your exploration of the island. You can also enjoy on-site amenities including a soothing massage service, a restaurant serving delicious meals, and an outdoor pool, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay for all guests.
Things to Remember For Your Romblon Island Trip
Here are some helpful tips to make your trip to Romblon Island even more enjoyable:
- Check the Weather: Romblon’s weather can be unpredictable, especially during the wet season (June to November). Always check the forecast before your trip to ensure ideal conditions for outdoor activities like snorkeling and hiking.
- Bring Cash: While some areas have ATMs, it’s best to bring enough cash, especially if you’re planning to visit more remote spots. Many small shops and resorts prefer cash payments.
- Pack Light: Romblon Island is a laid-back destination, so there’s no need for heavy packing. Comfortable clothing, swimwear, and sturdy footwear for hiking or exploring the island’s natural beauty are all you’ll need.
- Respect the Local Culture and Environment: Romblon is home to a friendly and welcoming community. Show respect for local customs, traditions, and the environment. Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals or sacred sites.
- Rent a Motorcycle or Tricycle: Getting around Romblon is easiest by motorcycle or tricycle. Renting one allows you to explore the island at your own pace and visit attractions like Libtong Falls or Fort San Andres.
- Check Ferry Schedules in Advance: If you’re traveling by ferry from nearby islands like Tablas or Caticlan, make sure to check the schedules ahead of time, as they can vary, and some routes may not be available every day.
- Plan for Limited Connectivity: While Romblon is becoming more accessible, internet connection can be spotty, so be prepared for slower communication and limited access to social media or email. Consider it a great opportunity to unplug and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Enjoy your Romblon Island adventure!
