CARBIN REEF

Photo from: https://www.choosephilippines.com/go/islands-and-beaches/160/carbin-reef/

One of the fast rising attractions of Negros Occidental is Carbin Reef, a 200-hectare marine sanctuary located inside the 32,000 hectares Sagay’s Marine Reserve which is dubbed as one of the most successful marine conservation programs in the Philippines. Its visibly iconic feature is the cream-colored sandbar surrounded with turquoise water that resembles the naked Guyam Island of Siargao and White Island of Camiguin.

Situated in Sagay City, Carbin Reef is bare and uninhabited, and the only concrete structure is the watch-house at the western tip of the sandbar that serves as post for coast guard and local government. There are also makeshift cottages made of bamboo and light materials for guests. Camping is not allowed, and there is no water source and any kind of plant in the sandbar. Read More: https://www.lakwatsero.com/destinations/carbin-reef-travel-guide/#sthash.NpDlzaqB.dpbs

Photo from: https://theawkwardtravelerdotcom.wordpress.com/2015/04/08/the-awkward-travelers-guide-to-carbin-reef/

Carbin Reef is a huge, tongue-shaped, white sandbar 15km within Sagay City limits and is bounded on the north by Asuncion Pass and the Visayan Sea. It’s the center of the 32,000-hectare Sagay Marine Reserve.

The sanctuary was established in 1999 and abounds with a wide variety of underwater species, such as thriving coral formations, the occasional turtles, and large schools of fish.

Above the water, the reef seems to be a mere strip of sand, but below the surface is a wealth of natural beauty.

Due to the shallow water, diving is discouraged. Swimming and snorkeling conditions, however, are just about right. The reef itself can accommodate up to 100 people at low tide conditions.

The clear, pristine water is the perfect enticement for swimming, boating, and (best of all) snorkeling. If you simply love just being surrounded by the sea, the reef is a great private spot for a picnic or a frolic on the sand. Read More: https://www.choosephilippines.com/go/islands-and-beaches/160/carbin-reef/

Photo from: https://thehappytrip.com/2017/06/carbin-reef/

Carbin Reef is part of the bigger Sagay Marine Reserve which also includes the lesser known Maca Reef. It is a protected area so the number of visitors are limited each day. Before heading directly to Sagay, it is advised that you make the reservations first by contacting the Sagay Tourism Office:

Their office’s phone number and email address are (034) 488-0649 and sagaycityinfo@yahoo.com. You might also want to contact them via their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sagaycit y. Read More: https://theawkwardtravelerdotcom.wordpress.com/2015/04/08/the-awkward-travelers-guide-to-carbin-reef/