When one thinks of “seascapading” in Northern Iloilo, the Gigantes Group of Islands first comes to mind. But there’s more to Northern Iloilo than just Gigantes. Take for example, my hometown, Concepcion.
A 3rd-class municipality located around 60 miles from Iloilo City, Concepcion is home to several beach wonders. Some of these were already featured on national TV and have been commercialized, yet some remain low-key but are without a doubt equally beautiful.
Having spent most of my life there, I’ve seen most – if not all – of what the coastal town can offer. If anything, the islands of Concepcion are perfect for your group excursions, family vacations or the classic knee-jerk side trips.
But what are these islands, excatly? Here are my top 3 picks!
- Baliguian
First in the list is the farthest island of Concepcion. I’ve been there a couple of times and the atoll of a paradise never did disappoint – white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters and literally a fresh breath of air.
It takes around one to two hours to get there via motorboat from town proper, depending on the “calmness of the sea.”
The relatively flat island is situated east of the Visayan Sea and is rich in marine biodiversity. If you’re into snorkeling, you’ll definetly dig this place!
There are no hotels in Baliguian. If you want an overnight stay, you can bring a tent, camp along the coastline and enjoy the magnificent night sky. Just make sure your boatman comes back for you the next day.
- Bulubadiangan
Another must-visit island in Concepcion is the homegrown beaut that is Bulubadiangan.
It is where the famous Sandbar Island Beach Resort is located. With the resort’s name speaking for the island itself, many foreign and local tourists come to Bulubadiangan for its white long-winding sandbar. This, along with other attractions, like the clear blue waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
There are accommodations in Bulubadiangan, making it fit for group excursions. Despite this, the island allows visitors to commune with nature. Power is put out after 9 p.m. If you’re with your friends, you can spend the rest of the night around a bonfire and let the breeze lull you to sleep.
When in Bulubadiangan, one can also have a good view of the mountanous islands in Concepcion, like the Pan de Azucar Island with its majestic Mt. Manaphag.
Boat travel would take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to get to this piece of heaven on Earth.
- Agho
Save the best for last!
Of course, by now you’ve already heard about this small island known for its exhilarating seascape. Agho is my favorite among Concepcion islands. It will give you the “isla life” you thought you don’t need but in fact do!
This 8-hectare island is 9 kilometers away from mainland Concepcion. Its white beaches are surrounded by waters whose color play between blue and turquiose – perfect for the gram.
But swimming in Agho is not really advisable. The strong currents make it dangerous.
This should not mean you can’t enjoy the island, though.
Agho is an interesting place to visit. It is a perfect spot to see the sunset and sunrise. There are small cottages but expect no fancy accommodations, which is alright so that you and your peers can commune with nature in best ways possible.
The island is also a haven of marine wonders – vibrant coral gardens, a variety of fishes swimming around and giant clams, among others.
***
If you want to run away from the tedious routine of city life or take a break from work, Concepcion is just around the corner. Ride the bus, get on board the boat and have the greatest time of your life./PN
