Located just off the coast of Tablas Island in the municipality of Looc, Romblon, the Looc Fish Sanctuary is a thriving marine protected area known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and remarkable biodiversity. Established as a community-led initiative in the 1990s, it has become a beacon of successful marine conservation in the Philippines. For nature lovers, snorkelers, and eco-tourists, Looc Fish Sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience that combines responsible tourism, marine education, and immersion in underwater life.
Located just off the coast of Tablas Island in the municipality of Looc, Romblon, the Looc Fish Sanctuary is a thriving marine protected area known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and remarkable biodiversity. Established as a community-led initiative in the 1990s, it has become a beacon of successful marine conservation in the Philippines. For nature lovers, snorkelers, and eco-tourists, Looc Fish Sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience that combines responsible tourism, marine education, and immersion in underwater life.
More than just a snorkeling destination, the sanctuary serves as an inspiring example of how local communities can revive degraded ecosystems and turn them into sustainable tourism attractions. Visitors not only get to explore the sanctuary's marine beauty but also support conservation efforts with every visit.
Wildlife and Natural Features
Looc Fish Sanctuary covers approximately 48 hectares of protected marine area, teeming with colorful coral gardens and schools of fish. Among the common species you’ll spot are sergeant majors, parrotfish, groupers, angelfish, butterflyfish, clownfish, and occasionally sea turtles. The sanctuary’s reefs host both soft and hard corals, offering crucial shelter for juvenile fish and marine invertebrates.
A floating bamboo raft serves as the central base for tours, surrounded by shallow reefs and seagrass beds, making it ideal even for beginner snorkelers. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, especially during the dry season, offering a window into an underwater world that thrives thanks to decades of community protection and regulation.
Activities
Looc Fish Sanctuary is best known for snorkeling, and guided snorkeling tours are the highlight of any visit. Life vests, snorkeling gear, and fish food are often included or available for rent, making it easy for first-time visitors to enjoy the experience. Glass-bottom boat rides are also available for those who prefer to observe marine life without getting wet.
Other activities include:
- Fish feeding, especially near the raft where schools of friendly fish gather
- Eco-tours, where guides explain the marine ecology and history of the sanctuary
- Kayaking, with rentals sometimes available from nearby operators
- Photography and drone shots, with stunning aerial views of the turquoise waters
Location and Accessibility
Looc Fish Sanctuary is located at 12.2461640115419, 121.9825899963322 in the municipality of Looc, on the southwestern coast of Tablas Island, Romblon. It’s accessible via:
- Boat ride from Looc pier: About 10–15 minutes from shore by pump boat or outrigger.
- By land from Odiongan or San Agustin: Vans or motorbikes can take you to Looc town proper. From there, proceed to the tourism office or directly to the pier.
To reach Tablas Island, visitors can fly from Manila to Tugdan Airport (Romblon Airport) in Alcantara, or take a ferry from Batangas to Odiongan, followed by a short land transfer to Looc.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, from December to May, when seas are calm and visibility is best for snorkeling. Early mornings offer the most tranquil experience with fewer visitors and more active marine life. Avoid the rainy season (June to November), as boat rides may be suspended due to rough seas.
Practical Information
- Entrance fee: Around PHP 100–150 per person
- Snorkeling gear rental: PHP 100–150
- Glass-bottom boat tour: Optional and priced separately
- Operating hours: Usually 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Guides: Available at the Looc Tourism Office or arranged at the pier
- Facilities: Basic but clean floating raft with life vests, shaded areas, and ladder access to the water
Nearby accommodations include guesthouses and small resorts in Looc, as well as more developed lodging options in Odiongan.
Visitor Tips
- Respect marine life: Do not touch or step on corals, and avoid using harmful sunscreens.
- Bring waterproof gear: A dry bag, underwater camera, and reef-safe sunscreen are recommended.
- Book with local operators: This ensures your money directly supports the community managing the sanctuary.
- Hydrate and wear a hat: Shade is limited, especially during transfers and on the raft.
- Be weather-aware: Trips may be canceled on short notice due to sea conditions, so always check ahead.
The Looc Fish Sanctuary is not just a beautiful snorkeling site—it’s a testament to what grassroots conservation can achieve. Whether you’re looking to swim with fish, support sustainable tourism, or simply experience the marine richness of Tablas, a visit here promises to be enriching in more ways than one.
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