Jump to: About Maniwaya Island | How to Get There | Things to Do | Sample Itinerary | Budget and Expenses | Where to Stay | Travel Tips
About Maniwaya Island
Maniwaya Island is a hidden tropical paradise off the coast of Marinduque. Known for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and nearby Palad Sandbar, this off-the-grid destination is perfect for beach lovers, backpackers, and weekend warriors seeking peace and natural beauty.
How to Get to Maniwaya Island
- Step 1: Bus from Manila to Lucena Grand Terminal (₱250–₱350)
- Step 2: Jeep/tricycle to Dalahican Port → Ferry to Balanacan Port (₱260)
- Step 3: Jeep or van to Buyabod Port, Sta. Cruz → Boat to Maniwaya (₱70–₱100)
- Travel Time: Around 8–10 hours total
Top Things to Do in Maniwaya Island
- 🏖️ Relax at Maniwaya Beach – White sand, clear waters, and swaying coconut trees
- 🌊 Visit Palad Sandbar – A sandbar that appears only during low tide
- 🪸 Island Hopping to Ungab Rock Formation and Mongpong Island
- 📸 Capture the Sunset – Stunning golden-hour views by the shore
- 🔥 Beach Bonfire – Most resorts offer bonfire setups for groups
- 🤿 Swim and Snorkel – Enjoy the clear and shallow coral-rich waters
Sample Maniwaya Itinerary (2 Days / 1 Night)
Day 1: - 04:00 AM – Travel from Manila to Marinduque - 11:00 AM – Arrival at Maniwaya Island - 12:00 PM – Check-in & lunch at resort - 02:00 PM – Beach time or visit Palad Sandbar - 06:00 PM – Watch sunset, dinner, beach bonfire Day 2: - 06:00 AM – Island hopping to Ungab Rock Formation - 09:00 AM – Free time or swim - 11:00 AM – Check out & return to mainland - 07:00 PM – Arrival back in ManilaSample Budget and Expenses
- Bus to Lucena (RT): ₱500–₱700
- Ferry (RT): ₱500–₱600
- Boat to Maniwaya: ₱150–₱200
- Accommodation: ₱500–₱1,200 per night (budget resort)
- Island Hopping: ₱1,000–₱1,500 (shared boat)
- Meals: ₱150–₱300 per meal
- Total (2D1N trip): ₱2,500–₱4,000+
Where to Stay in Maniwaya Island
- Villa Atilana – Affordable beachfront rooms
- Wawie’s Beach Resort – One of the most popular budget choices
- Marikit na Bahay Kubo – Native-style accommodation perfect for groups
Browse resorts in Marinduque via Agoda
Travel Tips
- 📅 Best months to visit: March to May (summer season)
- 💡 Electricity is limited in some areas — bring power banks
- 💵 Bring enough cash; no ATMs on the island
- 🌊 Sandbar appears only during low tide — coordinate with locals
- 🧴 Don’t forget sunscreen, reusable water bottle, and snorkeling gear
Final Thoughts
Maniwaya Island is one of those rare destinations where nature speaks for itself. Whether you're lounging on white sand, chasing sunsets, or hopping to hidden islands, it delivers the peace and beauty many travelers seek. It may be a long trip, but it's worth every minute for anyone craving a raw, tropical escape. As someone who has visited all 82 provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines 82 Provinces Travel Guide here.
Sunset magic on Maniwaya Island – a perfect way to end the day
