2015 • 06 • 09
Tucked into the curves of the beautiful coastline of Kiamba, Sarangani is Tuka Marine Park, a marine sanctuary made of 4 protected coves. Only one of the beaches (Tuka 3) is open to the public and the local government ensures visitors are regulated so that the area retains its pristine condition. Surrounded by thickly-forested cliffs, there are no roads that lead to the inlet. Instead, a 20-minute boat ride amidst a calm lull of waves will lead you to this peaceful paradise of white sand, rich flora, and clear turquoise waters.
Material/Type: White Sand
Nearest Airport: General Santos International Airport
How to get there: Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have flights to General Santos City daily from Cebu, Iloilo and Manila. In Gensan, head to Ablog’s Trasnport Terminal in North Osmena St., and ride a van to Kiamba (P150, around 1-2 hours). In Kiamba, take a tricycle to Lourdes Park and look for the Tourism Office which provides access to the cove (Contact 0910 280 5600). The entrance fee to Tuka Marine Park is P50 (day trip) or P75 (overnight) with P100/head fee for the boat ride.
Where to stay: Pitch your tents at the beach or rent a hut (P500 overnight) or fan room (P1500, 6-8 guests) or air-conditioned one (P2500, 4-6 guests).
Where to eat: Bring your own food to grill or you can also ask the Tourism Office to arrange packed meals. Also, bring a trash bag to collect your wastes as leaving garbage on the beach is prohibited.
Don’t miss: Snorkel or dive to see the vibrant landscape of corals below. It’s not a marine sanctuary for nothing!
If you have more time: Hang out with the locals and take a romantic walk on the charming bridge at the Baywalk located just beside Lourdes Park at Kiamba’s Town Plaza.
Reminders
Hi. Is it safe to visit this area now that ISIS is in the Phillipines, our govt is suggesting it may not be a good time for westerners to visit anywhere in Mininado area.
Hi David
It’s safe there, It’s very far from those critical areas which you can see from those false media. The Marine Park is under the supervision of the Government of that municipality so you don’t have to worry about. And also you can ask for a tourist guide that’s working under the dept of tourism locally.
Enjoy!!!
Hello.. How much will cost for us if we ask for a tourist guide?
How much does it cost overnight? What are the water activities and how much? ….
Hello David. I’m from General Santos City, which is pretty close to Kiamba where Tuka beach resort is located. The threat is actually just in the other provinces which are very far from here. SOCSKSARGEN (South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City) are safe for tourists as far as I know.
Gu am is there any contact number for our reservation tnx
How to make reservations in Tuka Beach?
hi! we’re planning to visit and we’re bringing a car. do they have available parking spaces where we can safely leave the car overnight? we dont mind if we have to pay for it.
Hi, Thanks for the info. Just came back from tuka. here is the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sw8r0GCrpm0
How can i book a date and who do i contact to book?
How to make reservation?
Hello,
May bayad pa if magpipitch ng tent sa tuka? Kasi we are planning na mag tent nalang kesa kumuha ng cottage
Is it open to public on April 1 to 4 , 2021 despite of the pandemic , are there reservation for overnight stay?
How much does it cost overnight? What are the water activities and how much? ….