Budget-Friendly Beach Destinations in Concepcion

Bulobadiangan Island

How would you like to go on a beach holiday without spending too much on accommodation and transportation? I used to think it’s impossible but after living in Concepcion, Iloilo for four years, I believe it is possible.

If there’s one thing vacationers are concerned of it has to be their expenses. Many splurge on beach vacations but never get their money’s worth. Why? They still go to the same old beaches like Boracay. But if you’re someone who values your privacy and want to spend some time alone with your family without spending too much, you know better than go to the usual beaches others flock to during holidays.

Concepcion is the place to be!

Lo-ong Beach

Located approximately 116 km from Iloilo City, Concepcion is a tourist destination in Northern Iloilo. Though many are still unaware of the beauty this town possesses, those who’ve been here will agree it’s definitely a must-see in Western Visayas.

You have two options when it comes to beaches in Concepcion. You can choose between those located in the mainland and in the islands. If you don’t like traveling by boat, you should consider spending your vacation at SBS Iyang Beach Resort. It is by far the oldest and most visited beach resort in mainland Concepcion. It is located around five minutes from town proper along the road going to San Dionisio. It has several open native cottages along the shore and small ones made of concrete and bamboo for those who prefer spending the night or a few days in the beach. Further, the resort has a convention center ideal for seminars, parties, and the like. Entrance fee is P5.00 per person and cottages start from P50.00 only.

Lo-ong Beach

Nothing is better than spending a day at the beach free of charge and that’s exactly what other beach front properties in Concepcion offer. One of the best places to swim in and lie on the sand the whole day is at the beaches found in Brgy. Lo-ong. All you have to do is ask permission from the owners. Most beaches here are free but there are those who charge P50 to P100 for parking your vehicle. Others also offer chairs and tables for rent. If you prefer going to these beaches, you better bring lots of food, water, and a tent to make the most out of it.

The islands of Concepcion have beaches that can rival those found in Palawan, Cebu, and Camiguin. There’s the famous Sand Bar Beach Resort found in Bulobadiangan Island with its long serpent-like sand bar that stretches from the main island to the waters facing Brgy. Sanggutan. The resort also features a snorkeling site and a breeding ground for giant clams. Native cottages start at P800 and entrance fee is P20 each. Amenities include a common kitchen, toilet, and bath. However, you have to hire a private boat to take you to the resort and back because there are no passenger boats going to this island.

Another budget friendly alternative is Agho Island. It has white sand beach perfect for swimming. Some of the attractions the island is proud of include rock formations sculpted by the wind and sea, coral reef teeming with colorful fishes and corals, and tabon birds that lay their eggs in the sand. You can pitch your tent for free in the island but in case you don’t have one, you can stay in one of their native cottages for only P500. Agho is privately owned and you can reach it by hiring a motorized boat.

Pan De Azucar Island is the most ideal place to stay in Concepcion especially if you want to experience what it’s like to live in the island. You can go trekking, snorkeling, diving, or just plain swimming in its sparkling blue water. Home stay is available in the island starting at P500 per night. The best part is you can easily get there because there are passenger boats around that charge only P20 one way. The pitfall is that they only have one trip per day so if you prefer going to Pan De Azucar, it’s best to stay for the night and go home the next morning. Big passenger boats leave Concepcion Fish Port at 11:00 in the morning. You can take the trip back to town at 6:00 in the morning the following day. In case you want to go home on the same day, there are many private boats you can hire for a reasonable price.

So why spend more when you can still have a blasting beach getaway without going beyond your budget? Concepcion has budget-friendly beach destinations ideal for couples, families, friends, or even for the solo traveler.