Cabugao Gamay: The Soul of Carles: Local Life, Festivals, and Stories from the Sea

Far beyond the usual tourist trails of the Philippines, the coastal town of Carles in northern Iloilo holds a rhythm of life that beats to the sound of the sea. This fishing municipality, often called the “Seafood Capital of Iloilo,” is the proud gateway to the Gigantes Island group — a paradise where locals live simply, laugh easily, and welcome travelers like family.

Where the Ocean Shapes Every Story

Carles sits at the northeastern tip of Iloilo Province, surrounded by the Visayan Sea and blessed with some of the richest fishing grounds in the country. Here, the ocean isn’t just scenery — it’s livelihood, culture, and memory intertwined. Each dawn, you’ll find fishermen setting sail before sunrise, their bangkas (small wooden boats) cutting across calm waters as the first light touches the horizon over Isla Gigantes.

By the time travelers wake, the catch has already been laid out in woven baskets at the seaside market — scallops, crabs, and the freshest tuna you’ll ever taste. These are the same delicacies served to guests during festivals and island feasts, making food a bridge between visitors and the warm-hearted locals of Carles.

The Spirit of Festivals: Carles’ Cultural Heartbeat

Carles’ people take pride in their maritime roots, celebrating them through vibrant festivals filled with music, dance, and devotion. The Tagbuan Festival, held every May, brings the entire town together in thanksgiving for the bounty of the sea. Fisherfolk parade through the streets, carrying handcrafted replicas of boats, while women in colorful dresses perform dances inspired by waves and sails.

Visitors are often invited to join — to dance, to share a plate of scallops, or to simply watch how joy overflows from every smile. The festival is more than just a show; it’s a living expression of gratitude and unity, passed down through generations who’ve learned that the sea gives only to those who respect it.

Island Hopping Adventures from Carles

Most travelers come to Carles to embark on an unforgettable Island Hopping Tour to the famous Islas de Gigantes. This cluster of islands is known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, powdery white sandbars, and emerald lagoons that rival those of Palawan.

Cabugao Gamay – The most photographed spot in Gigantes, where a short hike rewards you with panoramic views of turquoise waters and sandbars weaving between two rock outcrops.
Antonia Beach – A quiet cove ideal for snorkeling and kayaking, often included in an Island Hopping Package.
Tangke Lagoon – A hidden saltwater pool enclosed by cliffs, perfect for a refreshing dip after a day of sun and sea.
Sicogon Island – Just a short boat ride away, this neighboring island offers a touch of luxury with eco-resorts and calm beaches ideal for couples seeking tranquility.

Each stop tells a story — of fishermen-turned-guides, of islanders who protect their reefs, and of communities learning how sustainable tourism can lift their livelihoods. Many visitors book their trips through local operators such as Travel & Tours Agency or Travel Booking sites that partner with small boat owners from Carles itself, ensuring income stays within the community.

Local Life: Kindness, Coffee, and Coastal Rhythms

Spend a morning wandering through the town proper, and you’ll quickly discover that Carles is more than its beaches. The marketplace hums with friendly chatter as vendors call out their offerings — dried fish, local vinegar, and sweet Carles mangoes. Small eateries serve steaming bowls of “linutik,” a native porridge made from mashed corn, often paired with freshly brewed coffee grown from nearby farms.

Conversations happen easily here. A simple greeting of “Maayong aga!” (Good morning!) often leads to a seat at someone’s table and an impromptu story about their fishing days or family back on Iloilo. For many foreign travelers, this authenticity becomes the trip’s highlight — the feeling of being not just a guest, but a part of the village rhythm, even if just for a day.

Festive Flavors: From Scallops to Seaweed

No visit to Carles is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Locals boast that their scallops — harvested straight from Gigantes Island — are the sweetest in the country. You’ll find them grilled, buttered, or served with garlic and calamansi in beachside huts. For something truly local, try “kinilaw,” a ceviche-style dish made with raw fish marinated in vinegar and coconut milk — refreshing, tangy, and perfect after a morning swim.

In some homes, seaweed is transformed into colorful salads or mixed with rice for everyday meals, a reminder of how island life thrives on creativity and sustainability. For travelers conscious of responsible tourism, eating local not only supports fishermen but also reduces environmental footprint by keeping the food chain short and fresh.

Where to Stay in Carles and Gigantes

Accommodations range from homestays to beach resorts, depending on your style of travel. Budget-friendly guesthouses within Carles town offer easy access to markets and boat ports. On Gigantes Island itself, several family-run resorts provide basic but cozy lodging — perfect for unplugging from city life.

If you prefer a blend of comfort and eco-consciousness, some boutique resorts on nearby Sicogon Island feature solar power, organic dining, and beachfront yoga sessions. Many offer direct booking links through Travel & Tours Agency websites, making it easy to plan your escape in advance.

Getting There: Your Journey to the Edge of Iloilo

Reaching Carles requires a bit of adventure, but that’s part of the charm. From Iloilo City, travelers can take a 3–4 hour bus or van ride to Carles town proper. From there, small boats depart daily to the Islas de Gigantes islands. For convenience, many foreign tourists book transfers and guided trips through a reliable Travel & Tours Agency.

If you’re arriving from other destinations like Boracay or Palawan attractions, domestic flights to Iloilo International Airport make the journey seamless. From there, you can combine your itinerary to explore both the islands of Gigantes and the historical wonders of Iloilo City.

Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers

Bring cash – ATMs are limited in Carles and Gigantes, so prepare enough pesos for food and transport.
Stay connected – Local SIM cards from Smart or Globe work well in most areas, though reception may fade on remote islands.
Pack eco-friendly essentials – Reef-safe sunscreen, reusable bottles, and a dry bag go a long way toward protecting the environment.
Secure travel insurance – This ensures peace of mind for island activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and boat transfers.
Use travel credit cards – Earn points, save on foreign transaction fees, and enjoy perks like airport lounge access.

Why Carles Deserves a Spot on Your Philippine Itinerary

Travelers often dream of Palawan, Boracay, or Guimaras — but Carles offers something deeper. It’s a glimpse into island life untouched by mass tourism, where smiles are genuine, seafood is freshly caught, and stories unfold with every wave that touches shore.

Whether you’re sipping coffee at dawn, joining a fisherman’s family for lunch, or dancing during the Tagbuan Festival, Carles reminds you that the heart of travel lies not just in destinations but in the connections you make. The town’s humble charm lingers long after you’ve left, carried like the sea breeze that follows you home.

Suggested Itinerary: Three Days in Carles and Gigantes

Day 1: Travel from Iloilo City to Carles, check in at a local inn, and explore the town market. End your day with sunset views near the port.
Day 2: Join an Island Hopping Tour to Islas de Gigantes, visiting Cabugao Gamay, Tangke Lagoon, and Antonia Beach. Feast on scallops and fresh seafood for dinner.
Day 3: Relax on Sicogon Island, enjoy kayaking or yoga, and cap your trip with a local dinner before heading back to Iloilo.

The Sea that Binds, the Stories that Stay

Carles may be small, but its soul stretches as far as the horizon. Every laugh, every wave, and every shared meal becomes part of a greater story — one that continues with every traveler who steps ashore.

So when you plan your next travel adventure, make sure the humble town of Carles and the breathtaking Gigantes Island are on your map. Pack your curiosity, secure your travel insurance, and use your travel credit cards wisely — then let the islands show you what real paradise feels like.

EXTERNAL LINKS

Cabugao Gamay

The Soul of Carles: Local Life, Festivals, and Stories from the Sea