Cabugao Gamay -- The Icon of Isla de Gigantes

Carles, Iloilo

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Bird's eye view of Cabugao Gamay from the view deck (Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

Being the icon of Isla de Gigantes, Cabugao Gamay Island is probably the most photographed island in Gigantes Sur. Upon reaching the island, you will immediately notice its unique shape, its powdery white sand and the healthy coconut trees lined up against the blue skies.

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a uniquely-shaped island

How the view deck looks like from the boat (Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

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(Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

Unlike other islands I've seen in various trips to beaches, islands in Gigantes have a unique shape. Cabugao Gamay looks like two islands -- one bigger than the other -- separated by a sandbar in the middle. Antonia Beach has a very similar shape but larger. Unlike Antonia Beach, both sides of Cabugao Gamay are good spots to swim in, with one facing the sunrise and another one facing the sunset. 

(Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

View of the island from the boat as we approached it (Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

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the view deck

Us on our way up to the view deck (Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

In one of the two boulders of earth/rocks is the view deck, where tourists can appreciate the island from a bird's eye view. It takes about a minute to two to get to the top -- a very easy climb. It's even easier to climb now that wooden railings and several wooden floorings have been set-up for tourists. The view deck is quite small and based on my estimate, it can only accommodate up to 10 people at a time. There's also only one spot where you can take photos so you'll have to wait for other tourists to finish having their photos taken. 

Tourists on their way up the view deck (Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

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the view

Even without finishing the climb all the way up to the top, the view remains magnificent -- the powdery sand made unbelievably white by the noontime sun, the greeneries blending with the blue sky and blue green waters, and the boats accentuating the shore. Although we were not there during sunrise nor sundown, I would expect that it will be even more picturesque during these times of the day.

(Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

(Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

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(Photo © iHeartPH 2015)

Notes:

Here are some important notes before you visit the island:

1. Don't be afraid to climb to the view deck. The view is spectacular from high up.
2. Bring a good set of footwear. You'll be climbing over limestone rocks so better if you have a sturdy set of slippers or booties. 
3. Don't forget to bring your shades or hats and wear sunblock.
4. Bring your underwater camera if you are planning to swim around the island. The water is so clear and can be a perfect spot for an underwater selfie. 
5. This is a secluded and almost uninhabited part of Cabugao Gamay so don't expect to do anything but laze, lounge, loiter, swim, snorkel, relax, daydream and reflect. If you are the kind of person who cannot stand doing nothing, better bring some good books to read, board games or playing cards.

Read more about other islands included in the trip:

• Tangke Salt Water Lagoon
• Antonia Beach
• Cabugao Dako
• Bantigue Sandbar

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