QUICK GUIDE: Tuka Marine Park in Kiamba, Sarangani

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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.

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A burst of lush greenery greets you on arrival.
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We couldn’t quite capture how clear the water was but trust us, it’s amazing!
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Boats can fit up to 15 people. Be prepared to get wet though.
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At the far end of the cove is Manny Pacquiao’s beach mansion.
rules
The former Pacman beach house now has rooms for rent while signs placed throughout the beach to remind visitors to #LeaveNothingButFootprints.
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The park is well-maintained and one of the cleanest beaches we’ve been to.



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Comments

  1. David Pickford says:

    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.

    • KING says:

      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!!!

    • Fourth says:

      How much does it cost overnight? What are the water activities and how much? ….

  2. Japheth says:

    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.

  3. Ram says:

    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.

  4. Kim says:

    Hello,
    May bayad pa if magpipitch ng tent sa tuka? Kasi we are planning na mag tent nalang kesa kumuha ng cottage

  5. Jhon-jhon says:

    Is it open to public on April 1 to 4 , 2021 despite of the pandemic , are there reservation for overnight stay?

  6. Fourth says:

    How much does it cost overnight? What are the water activities and how much? ….

  7. aya says:

    Hi interested to book for rooms , can i ask for contact number please that can be reached. the number you have provide is unattended.thanks

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