Taklong Island

Philippines , Philippines

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Taklong Island is the main island of the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve located in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, off the southern end of Guimaras Island in the West Visayas region of the Philippines.

The island was proclaimed as a national marine reserve by President Corazon Aquino in February 1990 to protect marine biodiversity and consists of two main islands and 37 smaller islands with dramatic rock formations, numerous coves, white sand beaches, and sandbars. Named after a native snail that resembles the island's shape, Taklong Island is considered Guimaras' "hidden treasure" and is home to a marine biological station run by the University of the Philippines Visayas that was established in 1977.

The island features pristine deserted white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving with amazing colorful corals and tropical fish, vast mangrove forests known as Suba Malawig, hidden beaches, eco-trails, caves, and a watchtower offering 360-degree views of the island and surrounding waters. Taklong Island was severely affected by the 2006 Guimaras Oil Spill with 90% of its mangrove forest coated in oil sludge, but rehabilitation efforts started in 2007 and the area has fully recovered.

Visitors can reach the island by boat or paddleboard from Iloilo City or Bacolod City, and activities include island hopping, kayaking, mangrove tours, swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and exploring the diverse marine life and flora and fauna.