Buenavista

Buenavista, the oldest municipality in Guimaras, lives up to its name “good view.” This scenic island town offers a beautiful blend of coastal serenity, mango-filled valleys, and vibrant cultural traditions that make it a must-visit destination in Western Visayas. Whether you’re in for a laid-back island retreat or a flavorful local experience, Buenavista will surprise you with its humble charm and island hospitality.

Nestled on the northern tip of Guimaras Island, Buenavista is often the first stop for travelers coming from Iloilo City via the MacArthur Wharf. With a name that literally means “beautiful view,” the town delivers on its promise lush mangrove forests, sparkling beaches, and postcard-perfect sunsets await every visitor.

Don’t miss Navalas Church, the oldest Roman Catholic church in Guimaras, made from coral stones in the 1880s. Another must-see is Roca Encantada, the ancestral summer house of the Lopez family, perched dramatically on a rocky cliff with an unbeatable view of Iloilo Strait.

Explore the Taklong Island National Marine Reserve, a sanctuary rich in biodiversity perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, and island hopping. For a relaxing afternoon, take a boat ride through the Sapang River Mangrove Forest, or climb up to San Miguel Mountain View for panoramic shots of the island and the sea.

Buenavista takes pride in its close-knit, peaceful island culture rooted in agriculture and fishing. Locals are warm, cheerful, and always ready to share a story or two over fresh mangoes. Their simple but meaningful way of life is a refreshing break from city chaos.

The dominant languages are Hiligaynon and Kinaray-a, but most residents also understand and speak Filipino and English making it easy for tourists to connect and converse.

Of course, Guimaras is world-famous for its sweet mangoes, and Buenavista’s orchards are among the best! Try the local mango pizza, mango jam, and mango shrimp dishes. Other must-tries include native lechon, linagpang, and freshly caught seafood served island-style.

Join the fun during Manggahan Festival, a province-wide celebration of mango harvest where Buenavista joins in with colorful parades, street dances, and all-you-can-eat mango feasts! It’s a sweet time to visit literally and culturally!

Expect a lively mix of traditional Visayan folk songs, harana, and island acoustic performances during events and nightly gatherings. Music is deeply woven into the town’s soul, often echoing from fiestas to fishing boats.

Buenavista is known for:

• Its historic churches and heritage houses
• Roca Encantada’s picturesque cliffside views
• Proximity to Iloilo via a quick boat ride
• Its role in the island’s mango legacy
• Being a peaceful eco-tourism escape for nature lovers and adventurers