Tablas Island is the largest among the islands in the province of Romblon that is little-known as a tourist destination but is starting to see accidental and adventurous visitors. It is divided into several municipalities namely, Alcantara, Calatrava, Ferrol, Looc, Odiongan, San Agustin, San Andres, Santa Fe, and Santa Maria, all of which offer their own natural attractions, varying from isolated beaches, to hidden waterfalls, and to hiking trails. The island hosts the airport for the province of Romblon and is accessible via different carriers by air and by sea.
Leaving from Batangas port aboard Montenegro Shipping Lines at 5pm (Php762 for economy, Php991 for air-con, leaves everyday at 5pm), passengers are automatically rewarded with a sun setting behind Tingloy Island while being pursued by the ship. Side by side bunk beds offer a comfortable enough rest for those who don't mind while instant noodles and chips are available for those who rather munch the 10-hr trip away.
Binucot Bay (which means "hidden bay") in the municipality of Ferrol features several coves with isolated and long stretches of white sand beach. The area is good for snorkeling, diving, sunset watching, or just having a beer. It also hosts a pawikan (sea turtle) hatchery that both protects from poachers and educates visitors. Binucot Bay is accessible from Looc (20min, Php150) and Odiongan (30min, Php200) via a motorcycle ride (locally called habal-habal).
A few minute's walk from the resorts in Binucot Bay, past a tiny area of mangroves, is a small cove that hides between forested hills and hosts its own beach. The hidden cove offers private views of the sunset and a short hiking trail around the hillside. A couple of fishing boats use its shore as a jump-off point while a lone white house [not seen in picture] takes advantage of its seclusion to create a relaxing home.
