Skip to content

Maniwaya Island and Palad Sandbar

No car needed

About

This is Marinduque's island getaway, and the Palad Sandbar is the star! Maniwaya has a long stretch of white sand, and a short boat hop away the Palad Sandbar rises out of the sea at low tide like a floating white strip, with Ungab rock formations nearby. Swim, snorkel, camp, and watch the sun come up over the water. Visitors say the sandbar is magical when it is empty, so go on an early weekday and check the tide table first. Tip: Maniwaya is far from the main town, so stay at least one night, and book your boat and a place to sleep before you arrive.

  • Go before 12 PM today. Rain likely after.

    Skip swimming and trails during thunderstorms.

  • Overnight (2D1N) recommendedTime to spend
  • November to June; go early on a weekday and time your visit for low tide to see the Palad Sandbar.Best time to go
  • variesEntrance and budget
  • Bus or van, plus a ferryNo car needed

What to do here

  • Walk the Palad Sandbar at low tide
  • Snorkel off Maniwaya
  • Camp and watch sunrise
  • Boat to Ungab rock formations

Know before you go

Skip boat trips when PAGASA raises a gale warning or storm signal.

Watch the tide and head back before the sandbar covers.

Park at Buyabod Port or General Luna Port; no cars on the island.

Book the Palad Sandbar boat through your resort; rates aren't published online.

Swim, snorkel, camp, and watch the sun come up over the water.

Where it is

Maniwaya Island, off Santa Cruz, Marinduque (boats from Buyabod Port or General Luna, Quezon)

No car neededReach Marinduque by RoRo from Lucena (Dalahican) to Balanacan, then travel to Santa Cruz and Buyabod Port for a short boat to Maniwaya (about 30 minutes). A second route is a bus or van to General Luna, Quezon, then the daily public boat to Maniwaya (about 1 hour). Book your boat through your resort.

Reviews

No ratings yet. Be the first to help others decide!

Sign in to rate and leave a tip.

Tips from visitors

Be the first to share something about this place.

FAQ

What is the best time to see Palad Sandbar?

At low tide on a calm morning; check the tide table before you go.

How do I get to Maniwaya Island?

Go to Buyabod Port in Santa Cruz for a short boat, or take the public boat from General Luna, Quezon.

Should I stay overnight?

Yes. It is far from the main town and the sandbar is best at quiet hours.

Is it crowded?

Weekends and Holy Week can be busy. Weekday mornings are quiet.

Best: November to June
At this place now? Tap “I’m here” to collect this city’s Passport stamp.