5 Exciting Activities in Iloilo If You’re Looking for Outdoor Fun

Recommended Place: Islas de Gigantes

Location: Carles, Iloilo

The northern part of Iloilo has a lot of islands to offer, so an island-hopping outdoor activity in Iloilo should be part of your getaway. Islas de Gigantes, or the Islands of Giants, off the coast of Carles town, is gaining much attention for its stunning rock formations and white sand beaches. A day trip to Islas de Gigantes will bring you to 10 islands, each with its character. The most photographed island is the Cabugao Gamay, which has a view deck that offers a stunning view of both sides of the island.

If you want a great photo, the sandbar at Bantique Island could be a perfect background. The island is also a favorite spot for swimming and snorkeling. Just like Palawan, Islas de Gigante also has a lagoon. "Tangke" or tank is what the locals call it. The Tangke Lagoon saltwater lagoon looks like a pool circled by fantastic rock formations. The water here is shallow so that anyone can have a short dip.

Besides the islands, Islas de Gigantes is also a spot for adventure seekers. They have the Bakwitan Cave and Pawikan, with stunning rock formations you may want to visit for unforgettable activities in Iloilo.

An island-hopping tour to Islas de Gigantes is only complete with a sumptuous lunch. Most tours include a seafood lunch, usually served at Antonia Island. Besides the prepared food, you can try scallops, crabs, and fresh black lip oysters, locally known as wasay-wasay, if you want a more adventurous feast.

Ride a van or bus to Balasan, then take a tricycle or motorcycle to Bancal Port in Carles. Travel time from Iloilo City is about two hours, and from the mainland to Islas de Gigantes is about 1.5 hours.

Recommended Place: Sicogon Island

Location: Carles, Iloilo

Another island in Carles that should be on your radar is Sicogon Island. For its crystal-clear waters, Sicogon was even the location of the classic movie Ang Pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa, which starred former Miss Universe Gloria Diaz.

With its redevelopment, the island's white sand beaches and turquoise water remain its main selling point. The exquisite view of Mt. Opao also welcomes visitors. Those who want a private getaway can stay at Huni Sicogon, a boutique hotel on the island with direct access to the beach and fun things to do in Iloilo.

Alternatively, you can join a group tour offering homestay accommodation on the island.

Take a bus or van from Iloilo City to Estancia town, which is about two to three hours away. From Estancia Port, Sicogon Island is about a 30 to 45-minute boat ride.

Crossing Guimaras Island by boat takes only 15 minutes if you want a shorter travel time. Guimaras Island is also a perfect summer destination with its beaches and several beautiful spots. A famous beach is the Alubijod Beach in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. Resorts are lined along this tiny beach, with native huts for day visitors and rooms for overnight stays. One can sit at the bean bags at the Alobijod Cove restaurant while sipping their fresh fruit shake, a popular getaway spot near iloilo.

One attraction on the island is the towering turbines of Guimaras Windmills in San Lorenzo town. The wind farm that generates renewable energy in the region also attracts visitors to the island. A quick visit to the 18th-century Spanish-colonial lighthouse beside the beach called Guisi Lighthouse is also a must.

As the home of the sweetest mangoes, you must try fresh and other products. The mango pizza at Pitstop restaurant is famous. The best time to visit Guimaras Island is during the summertime, the start of the harvest season.

A visit to the famous Trappist Monastery and its Pasalubong Center is also popular for Guimaras visitors. Here, one can buy their famous souvenirs, including mango butterscotch and other delicacies.

Those who want to tour around the island can rent a tricycle from Jordan Port.

Go to Parola Port in the City Proper. Then, take a ferry boat to Guimaras. The boat fare is PhP30.

Iloilo is not just all beaches. It is also a favorite destination for mountaineers and adventurers. Even in summer, its mountains offer the best views and fun outdoor activities in Iloilo. Several mountains here in Iloilo are suitable even for a day hike.

One of the most prominent peaks in Iloilo is Mt. Napulak in Igbaras town. Its summit, with a massive rock formation shaped like a woman's breast, offers a panoramic view of the lush environment. It's also best to climb here before sundown to witness a stunning view of the setting sun. You can climb Mt. Napulak in a day or go for an overnight camp here. It's a minor hike, so even beginners can climb here.

Also, one of the most accessible mountains in Iloilo that offers the best view is Mt. Lingguhob in Tubungan town. It takes about 4.5 hours of trekking to its campsite and another 45 minutes to the summit. Though long, anyone will surely enjoy beautiful trails all through out.

Those who want to climb these mountains can contact groups or the Municipal Tourism Office to connect with a local guide.

Recommended Place: Waterworld Iloilo

Location: Datu Sumakwel St., Alta Tierra Village, Iloilo City

Those who prefer to stay within Iloilo City but still want a fair share of fun can check out the first waterpark in the region, WaterWorld Iloilo. After a short hiatus, Waterworld Iloilo will reopen this March 22.

The waterpark is located within the Eon Centennial Resort Hotel and Waterpark Complex at Tierra Village in Jaro, Iloilo City. The waterpark offers rides, slides, and pools for all ages. Those who want to bring food can bring and enjoy it with their families in their dedicated area, which can cater to families and big groups. It also has a restaurant that can cater to guests, so you’ll have plenty of fun things to do in Iloilo.

Visit Yoorekka for more summer destinations and activities!