Carabao Island

Philippines , Philippines

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Carabao Island, locally known as Hambil, is the southernmost island of Romblon Province in the Philippines, belonging to the municipality of San Jose and often described as “Boracay from 30 years ago” due to its pristine, uncrowded beauty.

Spanning about 2,205 hectares, the island features secluded white-sand beaches—especially on its eastern side—crystal-clear cerulean waters, majestic limestone cliffs, and otherworldly caves like Cathedral Cave that are accessible through cliff formations. It offers quiet organic activities such as spelunking, cliff diving, beach lounging, and boat trips to sprawling coves, making it a serene alternative to nearby Boracay just an hour away.

Accessible by pump boat from Tablas or Caticlan (where the nearest airports are), the island’s interior is covered with lush rainforest and coconut trees, and visitors can get around using a habal-habal motorcycle taxi or rented boats. Once a U.S. defense fort called Fort Frank at the entrance to Manila Bay, Carabao Island has evolved into an up-and-coming tourist destination that combines tranquility, adventure, and high-quality accommodations while retaining its unspoiled natural charm.