Romblon: Marble Wonders, Untouched Shores, and Slow Island Living
Romblon, tucked away in the middle of the Sibuyan Sea, is one of those underrated places that quietly steals your heart. Known as the Marble Capital of the Philippines, it’s a province made up of three main islands—Romblon, Tablas, and Sibuyan—each offering something different. From raw, unspoiled beaches to dramatic waterfalls and friendly communities, Romblon is for travelers who want something real, quiet, and off the usual tourist map.
Nature, Adventure, and That Raw Island Charm
Romblon Island, the provincial capital, may be small, but it’s packed with surprises. Around town, you’ll find centuries-old churches, ancestral homes, and craftsmen shaping blocks of marble into sculptures and souvenirs by hand. It’s got that laid-back, walk-everywhere vibe, and in just a few minutes you can go from a town plaza to a white-sand beach.
Then there’s Tablas, the biggest of the three islands. It’s wild, rustic, and perfect for road trips. Drive through coconut-lined roads and you’ll stumble on hidden coves, cliff-jumping spots, and beaches that feel like your own private paradise. And if you want mountain views, head to Binucot Beach or catch a sunrise at Garing Hill.
Last but not least is Sibuyan, often called the “Galápagos of Asia” for its untouched forests and incredible biodiversity. Home to the majestic Mt. Guiting-Guiting, this island is a dream for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to disconnect and go deep into the wild.
Romblon’s Simple Food, Fresh Catches, and Local Flavor
Romblon’s food scene is all about freshness and comfort. You won’t find a lot of big restaurants or flashy cafés here, but you will find generous servings of home-cooked meals, seafood straight from the boat, and locals happy to share a meal.
Try their version of sarsa, a simple pork stew that hits the spot after a long day outdoors. Sea urchin (swaki) is a local delicacy too—usually served raw with vinegar or calamansi. And if you’re lucky, you might get invited to a seaside ihaw-ihaw with grilled fish, rice, and mangoes on the side. No frills—just good food and good company.
For pasalubong, don’t miss the handcrafted marble items—from mortars and pestles to rosaries and tableware. It’s one of the few places in the world where marble is still carved by hand, not machines.
Festivals, Folklore, and Small-Town Hospitality
Romblomanons are some of the most welcoming people you’ll ever meet. Strangers wave as you pass by, tricycle drivers know where everything is, and there’s a quiet pride in the way locals share their stories—especially when it comes to their marble heritage and island legends.
Come in January and you’ll get to experience the Biniray Festival, a colorful celebration in honor of Señor Santo Niño. There are fluvial parades, street dancing, and a community vibe that makes even outsiders feel like they’re part of it.
Must-Visit Spots in Romblon
- Bonbon Beach – A white-sand beach with a natural sandbar connecting to Bang-og Island. It’s undeveloped, peaceful, and perfect for sunset walks and picnics.
- Tiamban Beach – Just a few minutes from Romblon town, it’s a local favorite for its calm waters. The vibe is super chill—bring snacks, a towel, and spend the day doing absolutely nothing.
- Fort San Andres – A Spanish-era watchtower built in the 1600s overlooking the town. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Romblon Bay and learn a bit of history while you’re at it.
- Garing Hill – A scenic viewpoint in Tablas with a stunning view of the island’s coastline. It’s best at sunrise when the whole landscape turns golden.
- Binucot Beach – A quiet, horseshoe-shaped beach perfect for snorkeling and beach bumming. There’s a viewpoint nearby where you can watch the waves crash into rugged cliffs.
- Mt. Guiting-Guiting – One of the most challenging climbs in the Philippines. This is for serious hikers looking for an intense trek through pristine rainforest.
- Cresta de Gallo – A tiny, postcard-perfect island off Sibuyan with powdery white sand. It’s remote, rarely crowded, and absolutely worth the boat ride.
- Busay Falls – A multi-level waterfall in San Fernando, Sibuyan with natural pools. It’s a great day hike with refreshing dips along the way.
- Romblon Cathedral – Also known as St. Joseph Cathedral, it’s one of the oldest in the country. The stonework and quiet atmosphere make it a lovely stop while exploring town.
- Marble Workshops in Romblon Town – See how locals handcraft marble into stunning works of art. You can even buy souvenirs straight from the artists themselves.