Carles is the northernmost municipality of Iloilo on Panay Island and offers a lot of great things to do. It is about 90 mi (146 km) away from Iloilo City. The sea is turquoise and white sand beaches and coves welcome guests on each of its stunning islands. While in the area, you should definitely check out Gigantes Lighthouse and on the way back you should stop by Bakwitan Cave. Hiking the karst landforms surrounded by azure waters may present some challenges but the reward comes with finding the mysterious caves, crystal white sandbars, or clear emerald pools such as the Tangke Saltwater Lagoon. If you’re looking for a beachside stay while here, scroll down for the best beach resorts in Carles, Philippines.
Popular islands in Carles
Carles is composed of many islands and some are understandably more popular than others. Here is a rundown of a few popular destinations that you shouldn’t miss out on:
Sicogon Island: Sicogon’s white sand beaches have the magnificent Mount Opao as their background, lending a sense of tranquility to the whole scene. The diverse terrain offers plenty of activities, and tourists can go hiking up the mountain, trekking along the trails, and kayaking on pristine waters.
Gigantes Islands: This island group is Instagram-famous for its pristine locations, chief among which is Cabugao Gamay. I would love to take some selfies here! The islands are also home to underrated destinations such as Tangke Saltwater Lagoon, which ABS-CBN reports as “Iloilo’s hidden paradise”.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to beach. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on May 14, 2024.
Beach life in Carles, Philippines
As a municipality that spans many islands, it’s only natural that Carles has many great beaches. Islas de Gigantes is one of Carles’ most popular destinations and is known for Antonia Beach and Cabugaw Gamay. Sicogon’s Buaya Beach is quite popular as well and is a great spot to watch the sunrise. To me, Carles seems like the perfected place to go island hopping with friends.
It is best to head to Carles in the dry season for a fun beach vacation. The dry season runs from November to May in Iloilo.
Beach resorts in Carles, Philippines
1. Huni Sicogon (from USD 102)
This recently renovated resort is located on Sicogon Island. The rooms have ocean and mountain views. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms. If you have work to do, you can select a room that has a desk and chair.
Guests are offered a complimentary breakfast, and there’s even a restaurant on the premises that you can head to for other meals. The property has a pool where you can unwind with a swim.
- Property highlights: In-room massages are available here and there's a spa as well.
- Nearest beach: The property is situated on San Fernando Beach.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Deluxe Room will be great for couples, while groups can opt for the Deluxe Room with Twin Bed or Family Room options.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "One of the most remarkable aspects of Huni Sicogon Beach is its breathtaking natural beauty. The beach boasts pristine white sands that stretch for miles, complemented by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The surrounding landscape features lush greenery, towering palm trees, and vibrant flowers, creating a stunning backdrop for relaxation and exploration." - by Google reviewer, Mae Janiola
Huni Sicogon
Address: Brgy. San Fernando, Sicogon Island, Carles, Philippines, 5019
16.01 km (10.0 mi) from Cabugao Gamay
2. Solina Beach & Nature Resort (from USD 94)
This luxurious beachfront resort is located on the coast and is about a 75-minute boat ride from the Gigantes Islands. The modern villas are tasteful with a hint of coastal decor. Most rooms have cozy outdoor furniture on the patios where guests can decamp after an adventure-filled day.
American and Asian buffet breakfast options are provided here and the on-site Angga Restaurant offers international cuisines, and I’d love to try out some of their specials. The beach bar serves grilled seafood and drinks. The highlight of your stay here will be the pool, which is surrounded by sun loungers under sun umbrellas. Billiards and ping pong tables are available at this beach resort near Estancia, delightful if guests want to have fun indoors. Free Wi-Fi is provided here.
- Property highlights: Situated right on the beach, the on-site Dayon Tower Bar has amazing views.
- Nearest beach: The beach is just a short walk from the pool.
- Beach access: Private
- Suggested rooms/units: The villas have a balcony with views of the pool and sea. Opt for one of the cabins if you're looking for something rustic.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "Good for relaxing. Beach is not that "swimmable" tho but the pool is also good and large enough. I like the breakfast buffet as they serve variety of food." - by Google reviewer, Charmaigne Roco
Solina Beach & Nature Resort
Address: Barangay Guinticgan, Iloilo
25.39 km (15.8 mi) from Cabugao Gamay
3. Se San Beach Resort - Isla de Gigantes (from USD 29)
Se San Beach Resort offers a ferry shuttle service from Bancal Wharf to the property, available each day from 10 am to 4:30 pm. The lodging is situated on Gigantes Norte Island, making it the perfect jump-off point to explore the other islands. Each accommodation has amenities such as desks and air conditioning. The resort provides room service and currency exchange services. Activities such as fishing and canoeing are also available here.
The property is nestled between mountains and the turquoise ocean, offering guests great views. Sun umbrellas and sun loungers are provided for guests, and I wouldn’t mind just spending an afternoon just napping on the beach. Note that internet is not provided on the premises.
- Property highlights: The resort's comprehensive tour packages include meals, tour guides, and boat transfers.
- Nearest beach: The property is situated on the beach.
- Suggested room/unit: The Deluxe Double Room option will do great for couples.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "The beach front is very shelly so be careful. But the water is clean. Staff very helpful especially our guide john. Nothing was to much trouble. Had a full day island hoping and a tour of the island too ." - by Google reviewer, Neil Standish
Se San Beach Resort-Isla de Gigantes
Address: Brgy. Asluman, Gigantes Norte
5.33 km (3.4 mi) from Cabugao Gamay
Other beach accommodations in Carles, Philippines
4. Treasure Beach Resort (from USD 34)
Treasure cove Sunday! Barkadahan time, family time, beach time. #sunday #beachday #friendsday #familyday
Posted by Treasure Beach Cottage & Cafe on Saturday, November 11, 2023
These cozy cottages are located on the beach. Guests may ask the hosts for help with planning their island-hopping tours. The rooms have a simple decoration scheme, and all of them come with a private bathroom.
Guests can enjoy continental and à la carte breakfast options. The on-site restaurant serves grilled dishes, seafood, Asian, and American fare, so guests don’t need to go anywhere for delicious meals.
- Property highlights: Private island hopping tours are offered here, a great way to elevate a vacation with your friends.
- Nearest beach: The beach is right beside the beach.
- Suggested room/unit: If you're planning a romantic getaway, opt for the Falle Couple’s Room with a beautiful balcony.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "This place has a great view of the beach! Watching sunsets here was our favorite part of the trip. The staff helped us book a private island hopping tour to Islas Gigantes." - by Google reviewer, Theo Ortega
Treasure Beach Resort
Address: Balasan - Carles Road
24.87 km (15.5 mi) from Cabugao Gamay
5. Gigante Island Homestay - Balay sa Gigante (from USD 15)
Reasonable pricing at 250 pesos for seafood meals.
Free wifi, spacious rooms, accommodating hosts, island hopping and land tour arrangements.
Remote and peaceful location, accessible through Bancal Port, with non-touristy island hopping options.
Fresh and delicious seafood meals, worth the price, with the option to request specific seafood in advance.
This homestay is on Gigantes Norte Island, which makes it the perfect base from which to explore several islands. The host offers island-hopping tours.
Guests will appreciate spending peaceful mornings and evenings at the breathtaking beach and the delightful garden. There is a TV in the shared lounge and Wi-Fi is provided. As there are limited restaurants on Gigantes Norte Island, the owners serve freshly cooked meals with scallops and crabs. I’d stay here just for the delicious seafood!
- Property highlights: Private boat pick-ups can be arranged from Bancal Port.
- Nearest beach: The beach is just by the resort.
- Suggested rooms/units: The Quadruple Rooms come with bunk beds and are great for groups. Couples can opt for the Queen Room.
Gigante Island Homestay - Balay sa Gigante
Address: Piagao Uno Brgy. Granada, North Gigante
7.79 km (4.9 mi) from Cabugao Gamay
6. Glamping unit at North Coast Island Resort (from USD 43)
This eco-friendly rental is located on the coast of Gigantes Norte Island. Glamping units befitting groups of six are available here. There are only three tents on the property so the place is bound to be serene. Towels and toiletries are provided in the clean baths.
Guests are encouraged to conserve electricity and water while staying here. Guests must carry cash on them because there are no banks nor ATMs on the island. There are limited restaurants here and the resort offers packages that include meals. The on-site Boulders Cafe serves imported and local drinks. Aside from providing a calm beach experience, the resort gives guests assistance in their island-hopping and land tours with the help of tour guides.
- Property highlights: There's a viewing deck that juts out into the sea, making it a great spot to take photos.
- Nearest beach: The beach is within a short walk from the resort.
What guests are saying about their beach stay:
- "This is a wonderful place by the sea but it's not on a beach and you have to go through some rocks to get a swim." - Aleksey (Hallandale Beach, Florida)
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the air conditioner worked very wellvery nice view and roomserene laidback cozy and comfywe keep anticipating what delicious food they'll put on the tablethey have 2 cute dogs: sherlock & lucky the place is very serene and comfortableCleanliness:
the glamping tent was nice clean and coolall the facilities are very clean and is a space very eco friendlynice clean and beautiful hide away everthe glamps were clean and well-designedour tent was clean and comfy (it's air-conditioned and really really spacious)Host:
all staff are kind and have good hospitality skilllucy & all the staff for being so kind & accommodatingthe staff were hospitable and helpfulthey were very helpfulbut the owner and the staff were very helpful and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
i highly recommend this place perfect location if you want a short break from manila lifethis place is nice if you want a decent overnight stay in the islandthe best location (great sunset) food (amazing) staff and glamping everstaying at this place was the best part of our trip and i highly recommend statying herethe perfect place to relax and getaway with your loved ones
Have a beachside stay in Carles
Carles is for travelers who like the feel of the sun and the wind on their backs while discovering the natural beauty of caves, beaches, and towering cliffs. You’ll feel far away from the bustle of the city in these beach accommodations, so book one and guarantee yourself a great vacation.
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