Off the northeastern coast of Marinduque lies Maniwaya Island, a palm-fringed paradise that has gracefully transformed from a humble local swimming spot into one of the province’s most sought-after weekend getaways. With its cream-colored sand, clear turquoise waters, and lazy-island rhythm, Maniwaya offers the perfect backdrop for sipping a fruit shake, flipping through a favorite book, or simply letting the hours drift by.
For years, Maniwaya was Marinduque’s best-kept secret—a place where only a few families lived, where day-tripping locals from Santa Cruz would rent a small boat, swim under the sun, and leave before dusk. No resorts, no electricity, no facilities—just pure island life. But word traveled fast. Before long, weekend wanderers began arriving, and small resorts slowly appeared, adding comfort without stealing the island’s simplicity.
Today, Maniwaya hums with just the right amount of energy. There’s electricity, potable water, and a range of fun activities—jetskiing, banana boat rides, snorkeling, scuba diving, wakeboarding. Visitors can hop on kayaks, ATVs, and speedboats, or simply wander the island on foot, taking in its 264 hectares of quiet, sun-kissed land.
But what truly makes Maniwaya unforgettable lies just beyond its shores. A short 30-minute boat ride from Buyabod Port brings travelers not only to the island but also to a string of natural wonders. Foremost is the famous Palad Sandbar—a one-hectare stretch of powdery white sand that appears only at low tide, glowing like a patch of moonbeam in the middle of the sea. The island-hopping circuit also includes the dramatic Ungab Rock Formation and nearby Mongpong Island, a rugged counterpart with its own stretches of white sand.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or tagging along with fellow tourists to save on boat fares, Maniwaya’s charm always feels personal. The waters are so clear you can see the sand and rocks beneath your boat, like the sea itself is welcoming you with open arms.
Simple yet vibrant, peaceful yet full of possibility—Maniwaya Island remains a testament to how untouched beauty, once discovered, can become a beloved escape without losing its soul.
SPECIAL THANKS
Manila Bulletin (Photo: 17 Feb 2025)
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