Tuka Bay Marine Sanctuary in Municipality of Kiamba, Province of Sarangani
September 6, 2014Madayaw!!!
Tuka Bay Marine Sanctuary in Municipality of Kiamba, Province of Sarangani, Island Mindanao, Philippines
In an archipelago like the Philippines, you’re never too far from the said… ocean, sea or the highlands!
Venture out of the City?
Just to discover and revealed placid waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxation?
Me and My Byaheng Mindanaw Team – The Weekend Warriors, we did Visit, Explore and Discover the newest paradise.
Soak up the atmosphere at Tuka Bay Marine Sanctuary in Municipality of Kiamba, Province of Sarangani. Enjoy the charming beauty with nestled between stunning green mountain ranges and the clear blue waters to an exclusive pristine beach….
Kiamba is one of the municipalities in the western part of Sarangani Province that boasts a long stretch of fine white beach that faces the indigo waters of the Mindanao Sea.
A short boat ride will take you to Tuka Marine Park, a protected area where fishing is banned. It has four protected coves and only one – Tuka 2 is open to the public as mentioned by the pump boat driver, our guide.
As soon as you approach the shores of Tuka Bay Marine Sanctuary, you’ll see lots of nipa cottages as well as wild grasses and shrubs that even make the area more wonderful not to mention the beautiful virgin forest that backdrops the islands area. Cottage rate is Php300.00 with standby generator in the area and you can opt to stay there for an overnight.
Tuka, is a protected marine sanctuary for many species of colorful corals, is perfect for snorkeling; imagine the serenity the emerald seawater brings with white sand beaches.
For me, the Park is the perfect destination for tourists who are looking forward to unwind and forget everything about the fast-paced and stressful urban life. There are no vendors and hawkers and annoying vehicle noises making Tuka perfect for those who want loneliness and peacefulness.
As for my experience, I did see colorful corals affluently the area wherein lots of small fishes flourish in it, that was only nearby the beach seashore. The site has awesome coral formations and you will be literally swimming with schools of fish once you decide to snorkel. With only Php100.00, you can already rent snorkeling equipment so you can use it exploring the waters of the marine sanctuary all day.
I have learned that the local government has been doing its task in maintaining and protecting this coral colony. One is by spearheading a joint yearly beach clean up with municipal employees, the Environmental Conservation and Protection Center, and some private sectors.
Also found in the marine park is Manny Pacquiao’s rest house in almost fully colored by an orange paints. The 14 – bedroom mansion stands perfectly facing the beach just beside the Tuka Marine Park and is only made available for the family, their guests and relatives, according to the caretaker whom I talked with.
How to Get There
To get to Tuka Marine Park, you have to rent a boat worth Php1,500.00, which accommodates up to 15 people. The boat will anchor to the Tuka Marine Park and it will wait for you until you finished exploring the marine park and head back to the Kiamba proper.