Gigantes Islands (Islas de Gigantes) | Iloilo City

The Gigantes Islands, or Islas de Gigantes, is a remote archipelago of ten islands located in the northernmost part of Carles, Iloilo. Known as the "Scallops Capital of the Philippines," it is a premier destination for island hopping and seafood lovers.

Visual Characteristics

The islands are characterized by massive limestone karst formations, turquoise lagoons, and white sandbars. The most iconic sight is the view from the Cabugao Gamay deck, showing a thin strip of land flanked by two rocky hills. Tangke Saltwater Lagoon features emerald waters enclosed by steep limestone cliffs, while the Bantigue Sandbar is a long, shifting stretch of fine white sand that changes shape with the tides.

Location & Access Logistics

Gateway: Bancal Port in Carles, Iloilo, is the primary jump-off point.

From Iloilo City: Take a van or Ceres bus from Tagbak Terminal in Jaro to Carles or Balasan (3.5–4 hours). From Balasan, take a tricycle to Bancal Port.

From Roxas City: Take a bus or van to Balasan (1.5–2 hours), then a tricycle to the port.

Boat Transfer: A public boat departs Bancal Port daily at 10:00 AM for Gigantes Norte. Private charters are available for flexible schedules.

Fees: Environmental and port fees are collected at Bancal Port; individual entrance fees (PHP 20–50) are charged at each island stop.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The name "Gigantes" stems from local legends and the discovery of oversized human bones in burial jars within the islands' caves. The archipelago is divided into Gigantes Norte and Gigantes Sur. Ecologically, the area is rich in marine life, particularly scallops, which are harvested daily and served at almost every meal.

Key Highlights & Activities

Island Hopping: The standard circuit includes Cabugao Gamay, Tangke Lagoon, Antonia Beach, Bantigue Sandbar, and Pulupandan Islet.

Caving: Exploration of Bakwitan Cave, which historically served as a typhoon shelter for locals.

Seafood Dining: Unlimited or extremely cheap scallops (often PHP 1 per piece) and "wasay-wasay" (a local shell-fish).

Snorkeling: Antonia Beach is the primary spot for observing coral and fish.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Accommodations: Most resorts are located on Gigantes Norte or the mainland at Carles. Options range from basic fan rooms and tents to more upscale resorts in Carles.

Utilities: The islands rely on generators. Electricity is typically available only from 15:00 or 18:00 until 06:00.

Connectivity: Mobile signals are weak and inconsistent; Smart/Sun generally have better coverage than other networks. No ATMs are available on the islands; cash is mandatory.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (November to May) is optimal to avoid rough seas. The peak travel window is April to May. Visitors should note that Tangke Lagoon may be closed for rehabilitation during certain periods (often September).

Facts & Legends

The islands are famous for the "1 Peso Scallop" phenomenon, highlighting the abundance of the resource. Local lore suggests the islands were once inhabited by giants, a story reinforced by historical archaeological finds of massive skeletal remains.

Nearby Landmarks

Gigantes Norte Lighthouse – Historic Spanish-era ruins on the northern tip.

Sicogon Island – A neighboring high-end island resort destination.

Bancal Port – The main logistical hub on the mainland.