Marinduque, a small island province in the MIMAROPA region of the Philippines, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Despite its relatively small size, there are plenty of things to do in Marinduque that will keep visitors entertained and engaged throughout their stay.
One of the top attractions in Marinduque is the Boac Cathedral, a stunning religious site that boasts an impressive belfry and commanding views of the surrounding area. The cathedral is just one of many historical and cultural landmarks on the island, including the Moriones Festival, which takes place during Holy Week and features colorful parades and reenactments of the Passion of Christ. For those interested in the natural beauty of the island, Marinduque offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to swimming to exploring the many caves and waterfalls that dot the landscape.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Marinduque has something to offer. With its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, it’s no wonder that this small island has become one of the Philippines’ best-kept secrets.
Getting to Marinduque
Marinduque is a small island province in the Mimaropa region of the Philippines. It is accessible by air and sea, with the most convenient way being a direct flight from Manila to Marinduque Airport or a ferry ride from Balanacan Port in Quezon Province.
By Air
Cebu Pacific Air operates daily flights between Manila and Marinduque Airport, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour. The airport is located in Gasan town, which is about 45 minutes away from the capital town of Boac. From the airport, passengers can take a tricycle or van to their respective destinations.
By Sea
For those who prefer to travel by sea, there are several ferry companies that operate daily trips from Balanacan Port in Quezon Province to Marinduque. The ferry ride takes about 3-4 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions. Passengers can choose between regular and air-conditioned seats, and there are also private cabins available for rent.
Getting Around
Once in Marinduque, there are various modes of transportation available to get around the island. The most common are tricycles, which are three-wheeled motorcycles that can accommodate up to three passengers. There are also jeepneys, which are larger vehicles that can carry more passengers and travel longer distances.
Overall, getting to Marinduque is relatively easy and hassle-free, whether by air or sea. With its beautiful beaches, natural attractions, and rich cultural heritage, Marinduque is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for a unique and memorable travel experience.
Accommodation in Marinduque
Marinduque offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Visitors can choose from a range of hotels and resorts that cater to different budgets and preferences.
One of the affordable hotels in Marinduque is Balar Hotel and Spa, located in Boac. This hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. The rooms are equipped with basic amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms.
For those looking for a more luxurious stay, Cabanas is an excellent choice. This resort is located in Buenavista and offers guests a range of amenities, including a private beach, an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies.
Exploring Marinduque
Marinduque is a province in the Philippines that offers a lot of tourist spots, attractions, heritage houses, and more. It is a perfect destination for those who want to experience a mix of adventure and relaxation. There are many things to do and see in Marinduque, and each town has its own unique charm. Here are some of the top places to explore in Marinduque:
Boac
Boac is the capital town of Marinduque. It is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial houses and the Boac Cathedral. The town is also home to the Kawa-Kawa Falls, which is a popular destination for those who love nature. Visitors can also visit the Boac Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the town.
Gasan
Image Credit: kylrms / InstagramGasan is a town in Marinduque that is known for its beaches. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling at the Gasan Beach and the Mongpong Island. The town is also home to the Villa Briones Heritage House, which is a must-visit for those who want to learn about the history of the town.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a town in Marinduque that is known for its Moriones Festival, which is held during the Holy Week. The town is also home to the Marinduque Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the province. Visitors can also explore the Marinduque Capitol Building and the Marinduque Hot Springs.
Buenavista
Buenavista is a town in Marinduque that is known for its scenic views. Visitors can explore the Buenavista Cave, which is a popular destination for adventure-seekers. The town is also home to the Mt. Malindig, which is a great destination for those who love hiking and trekking.
Torrijos
Torrijos is a town in Marinduque that is known for its Poctoy White Beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling at the beach. The town is also home to the Torrijos Church, which is a must-visit for those who want to learn about the history and culture of the town.
Beaches and Islands
Marinduque is known for its pristine beaches and picturesque islands. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear blue waters, lounging on white-sand beaches, and exploring unique rock formations. Island hopping is also a popular activity in Marinduque.
Maniwaya Island
Maniwaya Island is a must-visit destination in Marinduque. It boasts a long stretch of white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also explore the island’s unique rock formations and enjoy snorkeling and diving. The island is accessible via a boat ride from the mainland.
Mongpong Island
Mongpong Island is another beautiful destination in Marinduque. It features a serene beach with crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations. Visitors can also enjoy snorkeling and diving in the island’s waters. Mongpong Island is accessible via a boat ride from the mainland.
Gaspar Island
Gaspar Island is a small but beautiful island in Marinduque. It features a secluded beach with clear blue waters and unique rock formations. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the island’s waters. Gaspar Island is accessible via a boat ride from the mainland.
Baltazar Island
Baltazar Island is a hidden gem in Marinduque. It features a secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the island’s waters. Baltazar Island is accessible via a boat ride from the mainland.
Tres Reyes Islands
The Tres Reyes Islands are a group of three islands in Marinduque. They feature pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the islands’ waters. The Tres Reyes Islands are accessible via a boat ride from the mainland.
Marinduque is a paradise for beach and island lovers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, lounging on white-sand beaches, exploring unique rock formations, and island hopping. With so many beautiful destinations to choose from, Marinduque is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a tropical getaway.
Natural Attractions
Marinduque is home to several natural attractions that offer visitors a glimpse into the island’s stunning beauty. From towering mountains to cascading waterfalls, Marinduque has something for everyone who loves nature.
Mount Malindig
One of the most prominent natural attractions in Marinduque is Mount Malindig. This towering mountain stands at 1,157 meters above sea level, making it the highest peak on the island. It is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers who want to experience the stunning views from the summit. The trek to the top can take between 5-7 hours, depending on the trail taken.
Bathala Caves
Bathala Caves is a popular spot for spelunkers who want to explore the island’s underground beauty. The caves are located in the town of Sta. Cruz and are made up of several chambers. The caves are known for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years.
Paadjao Falls
Paadjao Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the town of Torrijos. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and has a natural pool at the bottom where visitors can take a refreshing dip. The waterfall is accessible by a short trek through the forest.
Kawa-Kawa Falls
Kawa-Kawa Falls is another beautiful waterfall located in the town of Mogpog. The waterfall is known for its crystal-clear water and is surrounded by towering trees and lush vegetation. Visitors can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls or take a dip in the smaller pools that are scattered throughout the area.
Ungab Rock Formation
Ungab Rock Formation is a unique natural attraction located in the town of Gasan. The rock formation is made up of several towering limestone formations that have been eroded by the sea over time. Visitors can explore the area on foot and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Marinduque’s natural attractions offer visitors a chance to connect with nature and experience the island’s stunning beauty. Whether you’re a hiker, spelunker, or just love waterfalls, Marinduque has something for everyone who loves the great outdoors.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Marinduque is a province rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore various cultural and historical sites scattered throughout the province. Here are some of the must-visit cultural and historical sites in Marinduque:
Boac Cathedral
Boac Cathedral is a popular tourist destination in Marinduque. The church, also known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture. The church was built in the 17th century and features thick walls and buttresses that have withstood numerous earthquakes and typhoons. The retablo, or altar, is also a sight to behold, with intricate carvings and gold leaf decorations.
Sta. Cruz Church
Sta. Cruz Church is another historical site in Marinduque worth visiting. The church, also known as the Nuestra Señora de la Paz y Buen Viaje Church, was built in the 18th century and is one of the oldest churches in Marinduque. The church boasts a beautiful façade and a grand altar with intricate carvings and decorations.
Casa De Don Emilio
Casa De Don Emilio is a historical house in Gasan, Marinduque. The house was built in the 19th century and is a fine example of bahay na bato architecture. The house features a mix of Spanish and Filipino design elements, including wooden floors, capiz shell windows, and a spacious courtyard.
Luzon Datum of 1911
The Luzon Datum of 1911 is a historical marker located in Barangay Lumang Bayan, Boac. The marker signifies the point on which all geodetic surveys and maps in the Philippines are based. The marker is a testament to the country’s rich history and the importance of accurate land surveys.
Marinduque’s cultural and historical sites offer a glimpse into the province’s rich history and culture. Visitors can explore these sites and learn more about Marinduque’s past and present.
Local Cuisine
Marinduque is not only known for its beautiful beaches and stunning landscapes, but also for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors must try the traditional dishes that are unique to the island.
One of the must-try dishes is the Sinigang, a sour soup made with meat or seafood, vegetables, and tamarind broth. It is a popular comfort food in the Philippines and is perfect for those who love sour flavors.
Another dish that visitors should not miss is the Kari-Kari, a Filipino stew made with oxtail, vegetables, and peanut sauce. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who love peanut-based sauces.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of refreshing drinks made with local fruits such as calamansi, a small citrus fruit that is similar to a lime. Calamansi juice is a popular drink in the Philippines and is perfect for quenching thirst on a hot day.
There are also many restaurants in Marinduque that offer a wide range of local and international cuisine. Visitors can try Cafe Mamita, which offers local dishes such as Adobo sa Gata and Maruya, or YNP Your Next Pizza, which offers delicious pizza and pasta dishes.
Festivals and Events
Marinduque is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals and events that attract visitors from all over the world. The most famous festival in Marinduque is the Moriones Festival, which takes place during Holy Week. This religious and cultural event celebrates the story of Longinus, a Roman centurion who was converted to Christianity after witnessing the crucifixion of Jesus and later became a martyr. The festival is characterized by the wearing of masks and costumes depicting Roman soldiers, and participants parade through the streets of Marinduque in elaborate processions.
Aside from the Moriones Festival, there are other events that visitors can look forward to in Marinduque. The province also celebrates the Feast of the Holy Cross, which is held on May 3rd. This event is marked by a procession that starts from the Boac Cathedral and ends at the Malbog Sulfur Spring in Buenavista. The procession is led by the image of the Holy Cross, and participants carry banners and flags as they make their way through the streets.
Another festival that visitors should not miss is the Gasan Fish Festival, which takes place in the town of Gasan. This event is a celebration of the town’s fishing industry, and it features a variety of activities such as fish-catching contests, cooking competitions, and street dancing. Visitors can also sample a wide range of seafood dishes that are unique to Gasan.
Travel Tips
When planning a trip to Marinduque, there are a few travel tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Budget
Marinduque offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Visitors can choose from budget-friendly lodgings to more luxurious resorts. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Transportation
Getting around Marinduque is relatively easy, with various transportation options available, including tricycles, jeepneys, and buses. Visitors can also rent a motorbike or car to explore the island at their own pace.
Sunscreen
Marinduque boasts beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, so it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunscreen with a high SPF is recommended, as well as wearing a hat and sunglasses.
Souvenirs
Marinduque is known for its local handicrafts, including woven baskets, bags, and mats. Visitors can also purchase traditional Moriones masks, which are worn during the annual Moriones Festival.
Marinduque Travel Guide
Before embarking on a trip to Marinduque, it’s recommended to research and plan ahead. A Marinduque travel guide can provide useful information on the island’s attractions, accommodations, and transportation options.
How to Get to Marinduque
There are several ways to get to Marinduque, including taking a direct flight from Manila to Marinduque via Cebu Pacific Air. Visitors can also take a bus or drive to Lucena Port and take a ferry to Marinduque.
Where to Stay in Marinduque
Marinduque offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly lodgings to more luxurious resorts. Visitors can choose from hotels, resorts, and homestays depending on their preferences and budget. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
