Imagine waking up to the soothing sound of gentle waves, feeling the warm sun on your skin, with a soft white sand beach just steps away from your comfortable hut. That’s exactly what you can expect on Aramian Island. This island is a hidden paradise nestled in the stunning waters of Palawan, Philippines, and I’m excited to share my experience and key insights for anyone considering a visit to this magical place.
How to Reach Aramian Island
Let’s start with getting there. The trip to Aramian Island involves a few steps, but it’s totally worth it. First, you’ll want to fly into Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS), which is the major entry point to Palawan. Airlines such as Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia have regular flights from Manila and other big cities in the Philippines. Depending on when you book your flight, round-trip prices can vary from PHP 3,000 to PHP 8,000 (which is about USD 55-145). For the best deals, aim to book your flights weeks in advance during off-peak times, and be sure to plan several months ahead during peak season.
Once you land in Puerto Princesa, your next step is to take a van or bus to Taytay. There are several reputable van services available both at the airport and from main terminals. Expect this ride to take around 5-6 hours, costing about PHP 500-600 (approx. USD 9-11) per person. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, a public bus is available for around PHP 400 (USD 7), but it will take longer, averaging 7-8 hours. You can pick up the bus at the RoRo bus terminal near San Jose New Market.
Finally, you’ll need to arrange a boat to Aramian Island from Taytay. Boats for hire can be found at the Taytay port. Be sure to negotiate the price before boarding. A private boat ride typically costs around PHP 2,500 to PHP 3,500 (USD 45-65) for a round trip, depending on the boat size and your bargaining skills. The boat ride will last approximately 1-1.5 hours and provides stunning views of the Bacuit Archipelago. If you’re solo, consider teaming up with other travelers to share boat costs.
Aramian Island Resort view from a boat. Photo from TripAdvisor.
Accommodation Options on Aramian Island
Aramian Island is charmingly undeveloped, which adds to its appeal. Accommodation consists mainly of cozy resorts and guesthouses. Don’t expect to find luxury hotels here; instead, you’ll find simple yet charming lodgings that allow you to experience local island life firsthand.
During my visit, I stayed at the Aramian Island Resort. They provide neat and comfortable bungalows right on the beachfront. Prices fluctuate depending on the season and room type, but generally, expect to pay around PHP 1,500 to PHP 3,000 (USD 27-55) per night for a basic bungalow. The resort also has a small restaurant serving delicious Filipino meals and fresh seafood, with their grilled fish being a must-try! Another great option is Casa Rosa Inn, which offers similar stunning views. Their rates range from PHP 2,000 to PHP 4,000 per night (USD 36-73).
Keep in mind that power on the island is limited to generators or solar energy, usually available only at certain times, mainly in the evenings. So, make sure to charge your devices whenever you can and consider bringing a power bank. Wi-Fi is sparse or often non-existent, making it a perfect opportunity to unplug and fully enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
Activities on Aramian Island
Though Aramian Island is small, it offers plenty of exciting activities. Naturally, the beautiful beach is the main attraction. The soft sand and clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just chilling out.
Here are some fun activities you might want to consider doing during your stay:
Snorkeling and Diving: The waters surrounding Aramian Island are alive with marine biodiversity. You can either bring your snorkeling gear or rent it from your resort for around PHP 150 to PHP 250 (about USD 3-5 per day). You’ll encounter vibrant fish, stunning coral reefs, and possibly even some sea turtles! If you’re into diving, there are several dive sites nearby offering more adventurous underwater exploration.
Island Hopping: Discover the breathtaking nearby islands in the Bacuit Archipelago. For a fun-filled day, consider hiring a boat for a full-day tour that usually includes stops at lovely hidden lagoons and picturesque beaches. The price for a full-day island hopping tour typically ranges from PHP 4,000 to PHP 6,000 (USD 73-110) per boat, based on how many islands you decide to explore. You can get help organizing this at the local tourism office in Taytay.
Kayaking: Why not rent a kayak and explore the coastline in your own time? It’s a fantastic way to discover secluded coves while enjoying a bit of exercise. Kayak rentals are about PHP 300 to PHP 500 (USD 5-9) each day.
Sunset Viewing: Aramian Island provides magnificent sunset views. Grab a drink, find a cozy spot on the beach, and watch as the sky fills with dazzling colors as the sun sets. One of the best places for sunset watching is at the beach by Casa Rosa Inn.
Food and Drink on Aramian Island
Food options on Aramian Island are usually limited to what’s available at the resorts and guesthouses. Expect home-style Filipino meals like adobo, sinigang, and fresh grilled seafood. Since local fishermen catch the seafood daily, it is incredibly fresh. Meals will typically cost around PHP 200-500 (USD 4-9) per person, which is quite affordable.
You shouldn’t expect elaborate restaurants or a variety of international cuisines. Embrace the simplicity of delicious, home-cooked meals. Most resorts also sell basic drinks including soda, water, and beer. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s helpful to alert your accommodation ahead of time.
What to Pack for Your Trip
Before heading to Aramian Island, make sure you pack the following essential items:
Sunscreen: The sun shines strongly here, so protect your skin with a high-SPF sunscreen.
Insect Repellent: To avoid pesky mosquitoes, especially during the evening.
Swimsuit: You definitely need one!
Light Clothing: Bring lightweight, breathable clothes that dry quickly.
Flip-flops or Sandals: Ideal for the beach and easy to slip on.
Hat or Visor: Keep your face shaded from the sun.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from bright sunlight.
Power Bank: To keep your devices charged.
Snorkeling Gear: It’s a good idea to have your own if you prefer.
Cash: Bring plenty of pesos since credit cards are not widely accepted on the island.
First-Aid Kit: Include the basic meds and supplies.
Flashlight: Useful since electricity can be limited.
Dry Bag: This will protect your belongings from water or rain.
Reusable Water Bottle: Help reduce plastic waste by bringing your own bottle!
Important Reminders During Your Trip
- Practice Responsible Tourism: Always respect the local environment. Remember to take your trash with you when you leave the island.
- Conserve Water and Electricity: Use these resources wisely as they are limited on the island.
- Respect Local Culture: Aramian Island is home to a lively community. Be considerate of the local customs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions travelers usually ask when planning their trip to Aramian Island:
What is the best time to visit Aramian Island?
The ideal time to travel to Aramian Island is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The weather during this period is usually sunny and dry, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and going on island-hopping adventures. Avoid visiting from June to October as heavy rains and storms can occur.
Is it safe to travel to Aramian Island?
Absolutely! Aramian Island is generally safe for travelers. The local community is friendly and welcoming. However, as with any travel destination, it’s wise to practice safety measures. Keep your belongings secure and avoid walking alone late at night in less populated areas.
Are there ATMs on Aramian Island?
No, there are no ATMs on Aramian Island. It’s crucial to bring enough cash to cover your costs like lodging, meals, activities, and transportation. The nearest ATMs can be found in Taytay.
Is there cell service on Aramian Island?
Cell phone service can be patchy on Aramian Island. It’s a great time to disconnect and fully enjoy the tranquility. While you might be able to find signals in some areas, don’t depend on it for consistent communication. Some resorts might offer limited Wi-Fi, but it’s usually slow and unreliable.
What is the local currency?
The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). USD is not widely accepted, so ensure you convert your money to pesos before your trip.
Are credit cards accepted?
No, most places on the island do not accept credit cards. Bring cash for your purchases.
How can I book my accommodation?
You can book your stay in advance through third-party websites like Agoda and booking.com, or you can contact the resorts directly via their Facebook pages for booking options.
Your journey to Aramian Island promises to be a rewarding experience, filled with natural beauty and cultural immersion. If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Palawan, make sure Aramian Island is on your travel list. Don’t just take my word for it; pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and discover the wonders waiting for you on this stunning island!
References:
1. Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia websites
2. Local tourism offices in Taytay
3. Accommodation pages of Aramian Island Resort and Casa Rosa Inn on social media
