Description

Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo: Cabugao Gamay, Mini Boracay and Scallop Lunch

The Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo is a full-day island-hopping experience that takes travellers from Iloilo towards one of the province’s most beautiful offshore destinations. Also known as Islas de Gigantes, this island group is famous for white-sand beaches, limestone formations, clear lagoons, sandbars, fresh seafood and postcard-perfect island views.

This Trip.com tour highlights three classic experiences: the iconic viewpoint at Cabugao Gamay, the soft white sand of Mini Boracay, and a generous island lunch with fresh scallops at Lantangan Beach. It is a good choice for travellers who want a convenient day trip from Iloilo without arranging land transfers, boats and lunch separately.

Quick Tour Overview

Experience	Gigantes Islands Day Tour | with Lunch & from Iloilo
Destination	Gigantes Islands / Islas de Gigantes, Carles, Iloilo Province, Philippines
Starting Point	Iloilo, with pickup available or meet-at-meeting-point depending on selected package
Tour Type	Join-in island-hopping day tour
Duration	Approximately 8 hours to 12 hours 30 minutes, depending on package and transfer arrangements
Main Highlights	Cabugao Gamay, Mini Boracay and Lantangan Beach scallop lunch
Food Highlight	Fresh seafood lunch, with unlimited scallops highlighted by Trip.com
Best For	Beach lovers, island hopping, photographers, seafood lovers, families, couples and first-time Iloilo visitors
Price Guide	From AU$27.04 on Trip.com at the time checked; always confirm live pricing before booking
Cancellation	Free cancellation listed by 00:00, 1 day before the date of use

Check availability and current prices on Trip.com

Why Choose a Gigantes Islands Day Tour?

The Gigantes Islands are among Iloilo Province’s most rewarding island-hopping destinations. They offer the kind of scenery travellers often associate with the Philippines: bright turquoise water, white sand, outrigger boats, palm trees, rocky viewpoints and relaxed seafood lunches by the sea.

The main advantage of joining a day tour from Iloilo is convenience. Reaching the Gigantes Islands independently can involve several hours of land travel, a boat transfer, local coordination and island-hopping arrangements. A guided day tour packages the essentials into one long but manageable trip.

Main Highlights

• Visit the iconic Cabugao Gamay Island viewpoint.
• Relax at Mini Boracay, known for fine white sand.
• Enjoy a seafood lunch at Lantangan Beach.
• Try fresh scallops, one of the food highlights of the Gigantes Islands.
• Travel by join-in tour from Iloilo.
• Experience island-hopping by traditional outrigger-style boat.
• See turquoise water, beaches, limestone scenery and coastal village life.
• Enjoy one of the most photogenic day trips in northern Iloilo.

About the Gigantes Islands

The Gigantes Islands, or Islas de Gigantes, are a group of islands off the coast of Carles in northern Iloilo. The destination is less developed than major beach resorts such as Boracay, which is part of its appeal. Visitors come for island-hopping, fresh seafood, sandbars, beaches, viewpoints and calm tropical scenery.

The islands are also linked with local legends. The name “Gigantes” means “giants,” and local stories connect the area with caves and old tales about oversized human remains. Whether you visit for history, scenery or seafood, the islands have a sense of character that makes them feel different from more commercial beach destinations.

Stop 1: Cabugao Gamay Island

Cabugao Gamay is the signature photo stop of the Gigantes Islands. It is famous for its narrow strip of white sand, coconut palms, rocky ends and elevated viewpoint. From the viewing deck, you can look down over both sides of the island and capture the classic postcard image of outrigger boats floating in clear water.

This is the stop many travellers most want to see. The beach is beautiful, but the viewpoint is the real highlight. If you enjoy photography, go up early while the group is still arriving so you have more space for photos.

What Makes Cabugao Gamay Special?

• White sand and coconut trees
• Clear turquoise water
• Traditional Filipino outrigger boats along the shore
• Short climb to a scenic viewing deck
• One of the most photographed views in Iloilo
• Good swimming and beach scenery when conditions are calm

Stop 2: Mini Boracay

Mini Boracay is highlighted by Trip.com as a peaceful beach destination with fine white sand. The name suggests a smaller, quieter beach experience inspired by the famous white sands of Boracay.

This stop is mainly about relaxing, swimming, taking photos and enjoying a softer beach atmosphere. It is a good contrast to Cabugao Gamay, where many visitors focus on the viewpoint. At Mini Boracay, the mood is more laid-back and beach-focused.

Stop 3: Lantangan Beach and Scallop Lunch

Lantangan Beach is the food highlight of the Trip.com listing. The tour promotes a lunch stop with unlimited fresh scallops, making this one of the most appealing parts of the experience for seafood lovers.

The Gigantes Islands are well known for scallops and fresh seafood. Lunch on island-hopping tours is often simple, local and generous rather than formal. Expect a relaxed island meal, usually served in a casual beach or coastal setting.

Why Scallops Are a Big Deal in Gigantes

Fresh scallops are one of the food signatures of the Gigantes Islands. Many visitors remember the seafood lunch as much as the beaches. Scallops may be served grilled, steamed, buttered or prepared simply with local flavours.

If you love seafood, this tour is especially appealing. If you do not eat shellfish, check with the provider before booking to see whether alternatives are available.

Other Gigantes Island-Hopping Spots You May Hear About

The Trip.com listing specifically highlights Cabugao Gamay, Mini Boracay and Lantangan Beach. Depending on the selected package, weather, sea conditions and local arrangements, Gigantes island-hopping routes may also feature or pass near other well-known spots. Always check your final package before assuming every stop is included.

Tangke Saltwater Lagoon

Tangke Lagoon is one of the most famous natural attractions in the Gigantes Islands. It is a saltwater lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. Water level and access can depend on tide and sea conditions.

Bantigue Sandbar

Bantigue Sandbar is a shifting white-sand stretch surrounded by clear water. It is best seen during favourable tide conditions, so availability can vary.

Antonia Beach

Antonia Beach is often included in Gigantes island-hopping routes and is known for swimming, beach time and seafood stops.

Pulupandan Islet

Pulupandan Islet is a tiny scenic islet often photographed for its simple tropical look, clear water and lone-tree or small-island atmosphere.

What Is Included?

Inclusions can vary by selected Trip.com package, so always read the live listing carefully before booking. Based on the Trip.com highlights and product structure, likely inclusions or experience features may include:

• Join-in Gigantes Islands day tour
• Island-hopping boat experience
• Lunch stop
• Fresh scallops highlighted as part of lunch
• Visit to Cabugao Gamay
• Visit to Mini Boracay
• Visit to Lantangan Beach
• Pickup or meet-at-meeting-point option depending on package
• English service or tour support depending on package details

What May Not Be Included?

• Hotel pickup if you select a meeting-point-only package
• Environmental fees or local fees unless stated
• Entrance fees to specific island stops unless stated
• Snorkelling gear unless included in your package
• Extra drinks beyond lunch inclusions
• Extra seafood orders beyond the included meal
• Towels
• Travel insurance
• Tips or gratuities
• Personal expenses

Important Package Note

The Trip.com listing shows pickup available or meet-at-meeting-point options. This means there may be different packages with different transfer arrangements. Before booking, check exactly where you are expected to meet and whether your accommodation is included in the pickup zone.

The total duration also varies from about 8 hours to 12 hours 30 minutes. Packages that start from Iloilo City with land transfer will naturally take longer than tours starting closer to the jump-off port.

How Long Is the Tour?

The Trip.com listing shows a duration range of 8 hours to 12 hours 30 minutes. This is a long day, especially if you are travelling from Iloilo City.

The long duration is mainly because the islands are far from Iloilo City. Expect land travel, waiting time, boat transfers, island-hopping stops, lunch and the return journey. Do not book a tight evening flight, bus or ferry after the tour.

Is It Really Possible as a Day Trip from Iloilo?

Yes, it is possible, but it is a full-day commitment. The Gigantes Islands are not just offshore from Iloilo City. You need to travel north towards the Carles or Estancia area before reaching the boat departure point.

If you have limited time, a day tour is the easiest way to see the highlights. If you prefer slower travel, consider staying overnight near Carles, on Gigantes Norte, or at a nearby resort so you can enjoy the area with less rushing.

Best Time to Visit the Gigantes Islands

The best time to visit is generally during the Philippine dry season, from November to May. During these months, the weather is usually sunnier and sea conditions are often calmer, which is better for island-hopping, swimming and beach photography.

The rainy season from June to October can bring rougher seas, stronger winds and a greater chance of cancellations or route changes. Tours may still operate, but flexibility is important.

Weather and Sea Conditions

Island-hopping in the Philippines is always weather-dependent. Even if the day starts sunny, sea conditions can affect which stops are safe. The boat captain may adjust the itinerary if the water is rough, tide conditions are unfavourable or a landing area is unsafe.

This is normal for island tours. It is better to miss a stop than to risk unsafe sea conditions. Follow the crew’s instructions at all times.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is best for travellers who want a scenic island-hopping day with beach stops, seafood lunch and classic tropical photo opportunities. It suits couples, solo travellers, families, friend groups, backpackers, seafood lovers and first-time Iloilo visitors.

It is also a good fit if you want a budget-friendly beach experience compared with more expensive island destinations in the Philippines.

Who May Not Enjoy It?

This tour may not suit travellers who dislike long travel days, get seasick easily, need luxury facilities, or prefer quiet private beaches. Join-in tours can involve waiting for other passengers, shared transport and a fixed schedule.

It may also be challenging for travellers with mobility concerns because island-hopping can involve boarding small boats, stepping onto beaches, walking over rocks or sand, and climbing steps to viewpoints.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour can suit families, especially children who enjoy boats, beaches and seafood. However, parents should consider the long travel time from Iloilo, sun exposure, boat boarding, swimming safety and possible rough water.

Children should wear life jackets on the boat and be supervised closely around the water, rocks and island viewpoints.

What to Wear

Dress for sun, saltwater, swimming and boat transfers. Lightweight clothes and swimwear are best.

• Swimsuit under casual clothes
• Quick-dry shorts or beachwear
• Rash guard or sun shirt
• Hat and sunglasses
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Water shoes or sandals with grip
• Light cover-up for the return journey

What to Bring

• Mobile voucher or booking confirmation
• Small dry bag
• Towel
• Change of clothes
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Hat and sunglasses
• Water bottle
• Waterproof phone pouch
• Power bank
• Cash for local fees, snacks, drinks or tips
• Motion sickness tablets if needed
• Snorkelling gear if not provided and you prefer your own

Boat and Swimming Safety Tips

• Wear a life jacket while on the boat.
• Listen to the boat captain and guide before entering the water.
• Do not jump into shallow water or unfamiliar areas.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the marine environment.
• Do not step on coral or disturb marine life.
• Hold onto boat railings when boarding or disembarking.
• Keep your belongings in a dry bag.
• Do not climb rocks or viewpoints beyond safe marked areas.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day.

Motion Sickness Tips

The boat ride can be smooth on calm days and uncomfortable on rougher days. If you are prone to seasickness, prepare before the tour.

• Take motion sickness tablets before boarding if you normally need them.
• Eat lightly before the boat section.
• Sit where you can see the horizon.
• Avoid looking down at your phone for long periods.
• Bring ginger sweets or anti-nausea bands if they help you.
• Tell the guide early if you feel unwell.

Photography Tips

• Go to the Cabugao Gamay viewpoint for the classic island photo.
• Use wide-angle mode for sandbars, boats and beach curves.
• Bring a waterproof phone pouch for boat and beach photos.
• Keep your camera secure during boat transfers.
• Take photos early at each stop before the beach gets crowded.
• Photograph your scallop lunch for a strong food-travel angle.
• Use sunglasses or a polarising lens to reduce glare on bright water.

Responsible Travel Tips

The Gigantes Islands are beautiful, but they are also home to local communities and fragile coastal environments. Travel respectfully and avoid treating the islands as disposable photo stops.

• Take all rubbish with you or place it in proper bins.
• Do not collect shells, coral or sand.
• Support local food vendors or small businesses where appropriate.
• Dress respectfully when passing through local villages.
• Do not fly drones unless allowed by local rules and tour operators.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen.
• Avoid loud music or disruptive behaviour on quiet beaches.
• Respect local guides, boat crews and island residents.

Food and Dietary Tips

The tour’s food highlight is seafood, especially scallops. If you love seafood, this is one of the best reasons to book the trip. If you are vegetarian, vegan, allergic to shellfish, or do not eat seafood, contact the operator before booking.

Do not assume every island lunch stop can handle special dietary needs at short notice. Bring backup snacks if food restrictions are important for you.

Nearby Places to Visit in Iloilo

If you are staying longer in Iloilo Province, combine the Gigantes Islands with other local highlights.

• Iloilo City: Heritage buildings, churches, riverside walks and excellent local food.
• Jaro Cathedral: One of Iloilo’s important religious landmarks.
• Molo Church: Known for its Gothic-style architecture and historical character.
• Calle Real: Historic streets and old commercial buildings in Iloilo City.
• Miagao Church: A UNESCO-listed baroque church south of Iloilo City.
• Guimaras Island: Famous for mangoes, beaches and easy side trips from Iloilo.
• Roxas City: A seafood-focused city in nearby Capiz Province.
• Sicogon Island: Another island destination near northern Iloilo.

Suggested Gigantes Islands Day Plan

• Early Morning: Depart from Iloilo or meet at the confirmed pickup point.
• Morning Transfer: Travel by land towards the northern Iloilo jump-off area.
• Boat Departure: Board the island-hopping boat with your group.
• First Island Stops: Visit Cabugao Gamay and enjoy the viewpoint.
• Beach Time: Relax at Mini Boracay or other selected island stop.
• Lunch: Enjoy seafood and fresh scallops at Lantangan Beach.
• Afternoon: Continue island-hopping depending on weather, tide and package.
• Return: Boat back to the port and travel by land back to Iloilo.

Travel Tips Before Booking

• Check whether your package includes pickup or requires a meeting point.
• Confirm the exact pickup time because departures may be very early.
• Bring cash for local fees, snacks, tips or extra drinks.
• Wear swimwear before departure to save time.
• Bring a towel and dry clothes.
• Use a dry bag for phones, wallets and documents.
• Do not book a tight evening flight after the tour.
• Check the weather forecast but expect the operator to make final sea-condition decisions.
• Ask about food alternatives if you do not eat shellfish.

Is the Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo Worth It?

Yes, the Gigantes Islands day tour is worth considering if you want a scenic, affordable and seafood-focused island-hopping experience from Iloilo. Cabugao Gamay gives you the classic viewpoint photo, Mini Boracay adds relaxed beach time, and the scallop lunch at Lantangan Beach makes the tour especially memorable for seafood lovers.

The main thing to understand is the travel time. This is a long day from Iloilo, and island-hopping depends on sea conditions. If you accept the early start, shared-tour format and possible route adjustments, the tour offers a rewarding way to experience one of northern Iloilo’s most beautiful island groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo?

It is a join-in island-hopping day tour from Iloilo to the Gigantes Islands, with highlights including Cabugao Gamay, Mini Boracay and a seafood lunch at Lantangan Beach.

Where are the Gigantes Islands located?

The Gigantes Islands are located off the northeastern coast of Iloilo Province in the municipality of Carles, Philippines.

How long does the tour take?

The Trip.com listing shows a duration range of approximately 8 hours to 12 hours 30 minutes, depending on the selected package and transfer arrangements.

Is this a private tour?

No. Trip.com lists this product as a join-in tour.

Is pickup included?

Pickup is available on selected packages, while other options may require meeting at a designated point. Check your chosen package carefully before booking.

What are the main highlights?

The main Trip.com highlights are Cabugao Gamay, Mini Boracay and unlimited fresh scallops at Lantangan Beach.

What is Cabugao Gamay?

Cabugao Gamay is one of the most iconic islands in the Gigantes group, known for its white sand, coconut trees, turquoise water and scenic viewpoint.

What is Mini Boracay?

Mini Boracay is a beach stop promoted for its fine white sand and relaxed island atmosphere.

What is Lantangan Beach known for?

Lantangan Beach is highlighted by Trip.com as the lunch stop where travellers can enjoy fresh scallops.

Are scallops included?

Trip.com highlights unlimited fresh scallops as part of the lunch experience, but always confirm the current package inclusions before booking.

Are other islands included?

The listing highlights Cabugao Gamay, Mini Boracay and Lantangan Beach. Other Gigantes spots may be included depending on the exact package, weather and local arrangements, but do not assume unless listed on your voucher.

When is the best time to visit?

The dry season from November to May is generally the best time for island-hopping, calmer seas and clearer weather.

Can the tour be cancelled because of weather?

Island-hopping tours can be affected by rough seas, storms or unsafe conditions. The operator may adjust, delay or cancel the tour for safety.

Is the tour suitable for children?

It can be suitable for families, but parents should consider the long travel day, boat rides, heat, swimming safety and possible rough water.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?

Non-swimmers can still enjoy the beaches and views, but they should wear life jackets near the water and avoid swimming in deep or rough areas.

What should I wear?

Wear swimwear under quick-dry clothes, a rash guard or sun shirt, hat, sunglasses and water shoes or sandals with grip.

What should I bring?

Bring your voucher, towel, dry clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof phone pouch, dry bag, water bottle, cash and motion sickness tablets if needed.

Do I need a dry bag?

A dry bag is strongly recommended because boat transfers, splashes and beach landings can get belongings wet.

Is free cancellation available?

Trip.com lists free cancellation by 00:00, 1 day before the date of use. Always confirm the live cancellation terms before booking.

Ready to island-hop through one of Iloilo’s most photogenic coastal destinations? Check live availability, pickup details, package inclusions and current pricing before booking your Gigantes Islands Day Tour from Iloilo.

More Information and Booking Details

Best deals for Gigantes Islands Day Tour | with Lunch & from Iloilo.
Admire the iconic Cabugao Gamay, famed for its white sands and coconut trees, best viewed from its scenic deck. ;Relax at Mini Boracay, a serene beach destination with fine white sand that rivals the famous Boracay Island.;Feast on unlimited fresh scallops at Lantangan Beach, the perfect spot for a satisfying and scenic island lunch.
Available from trip.com.