Bolobodiangan Island, Concepcion, Iloilo
The Visayas is often associated with beautiful beaches. The popularity of Boracay, however, sometimes over-shadow the other similarly beautiful beaches scattered in the area. Among which are the 16 hidden gems of Concepcion in the Province of Iloilo. Concepcion is just 2.5 to 3 hours away from Iloilo City, hence, a great place to visit when in Iloilo.
Bolobadiangan Island is often visited by tourists because of its long and winding white sandbar. During low-tide, the sand bar extends as far as if it almost touches the next island. Owned by the heirs of the Eusala family, accommodations is available through the Sand Bar Beach Resort situated in the island. There are simple cottages that visitors can rent, which ranges from Php500-800. One can also rent or bring their own tents and pay a minimal amount. The island resort does not have a restaurant, so one should bring their own food and drinking water. Water for bathing is for sale at Php10/gallon.
Concepcion beaches offer world-class quality beaches. It would be a shame not to visit these hidden gems, when it is so close to Iloilo City.
If taking a bus, it is best to stay overnight as the last trip in Concepcion going back to Iloilo City is at 3pm and 4pm for going to Sara (the next municipality where there are several bus trips by Ceres Liner going to the city). If bringing a private vehicle, one day of fun is do-able. Take a Leganes-bound jeepney and get off at Tagbak Terminal in Jaro. HPQ Liner has regular trips going to Concepcion daily. Take note, however, of the last trip which is at 3pm. Beyond 3pm, Sara-bound jeepneys are available and from Sara, there are numerous bus trips bound for Iloilo City.
CONTACTS:
Accommodations
- Concepcion
Junbee Recreation Center
Mr. Augusto “Jun” Garilva: 09209021681; 3920371
[email protected]
- Bolobadiangan Island
Sandbar Beach Resort
Mr. Rex Eusala: 09207198042
- Agho Island
09296089830; 09155454616
Boat
Ronnie (boatman): 09072897111
Sandbar boat operator: 09129575002
Municipal Tourism Officer – Mario Lazarito: 09085929096; [email protected]
Rates
Accommodations
Junbee accommodation: P200-250/pax
Sandbar accommodation: P800 (big cottage); P500 (small cottage)
Boating
Sandbar boat operator: P2000 (back and forth only)
Island tour arrangement with Municipal Tourism Officer: P1500 (small boat), P1800 (2-island tour), P2200 (3-island tour)