The seahorse-shaped province of Antique is located on the western portion of Panay Island, Visayas. Antique tourist attractions, though low-key, offer various authentic experiences for visitors. Discover stunning indigenous rice terrace clusters, lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and breathtaking coastal destinations that make up its underrated landscape.

If you need a break from mainstream tourist spots in Iloilo or Boracay, this is your sign to explore unique Antique tourist attractions. Here is an informative list to get you started.

14 Antique Attractions Every Kind of Traveler Must Visit

Antique Tourist Spots for History Buffs

1. Parish of Saint Augustine of Hippo – Patnongon

The ruins of this Spanish colonial era church is one of the first Antique tourist attractions you must visit. It is a historical landmark, educational institution, and religious symbol in one. After its post-WWII restoration, it was converted into a school by the Mill Hill Missionaries in 1962, and is now known today as the St. Augustine’s Academy of Patnongon, Inc. 

2. Bagtason Loom Weavers Association

Curious about the province’s weaving tradition? Drop by the Bagtason Loom Weavers Association. This Antique attraction lets you learn about, and browse through patadyong woven crafts. You can also directly connect with traditional weavers and see their process up close. Patadyong refers to a multicolored cloth made of polyester, cotton, and abaca, layering plaid and checkered patterns to form unique designs. 

3. St. John De Nepomuceno Parish (Anini-y Church)

The sleepy coastal town of Anini-y boasts another Antique tourist attraction that’s worth the visit. The white facade of the St. John De Nepomuceno Parish was originally constructed with indigenous corals, limestone, and straw. Beautifully preserved and maintained, the church complex still serves the local community of Anini-y to this day. 

4. 10 Bornean Datus

Visit the ten 15-feet statues in Malandog, Hamtic to get to know the legendary chieftains. This Antique tourist attraction features bronze statues in impressive detail, referencing Visayan culture. According to a myth, there were ten Datus or chieftains from Borneo, fleeing a cruel Sultan and searching for freedom across the Sulu Seas. The story was debunked by historians; however, the province celebrates it as part of their cultural roots, particularly the Binirayan festival. 

Island Hopping Adventures in Antique

5. Malalison Island

If you’re looking for somewhere to go island hopping, check out Malalison (Mararison) Island. It became one of the most popular Antique tourist attractions, thanks to its so-called “Little Batanes” features. Trek with a guide to explore its rolling green hills, boat around the island, and dive into its mystical clear waters.

6. Seco Island

Get a glimpse of nature’s untouched beauty at Seco Island. This Antique tourist spot is a brilliantly white, elongated sandbar off the coast of Culasi and Tibiao. Its name is derived from the Filipino word for elbow, siko. Seco Island’s view of the seemingly endless sea can give out an out-of-this-world experience.

7. Nogas Island

Find tranquility at Nogas Island, situated on the southernmost tip of the province. Famous for its coral reefs, vibrant terrain, and crystal clear waters, this Antique tourist attraction offers a piece of untouched paradise. Walk the trail of charming kalachuchi and imposing balete trees, explore the Nogas lighthouse, and finally, snorkel and free dive before you head back.

Highlands of Antique: Attractions for the Wanderer

8. Malumpati Health Spring & Tourist Resort

One of the most frequented Antique tourist attractions is this hot spring resort in the municipality of Pandan. If you’re looking for somewhere to chill out and have fun, Malumpati Health Spring is the place to go. It is an ecotourism resort with water tubing, natural and man-made pools, cottages, kawa baths, and recreational activities.

9. Aningalan Highland Strawberry Garden

Strawberry season or not, Aningalan Strawberry Garden guarantees a fairytale-like vibe to every visitor. Locals even call it their “Little Baguio” because of its elevation, vibrant flora, and lively floral landscape. Experience cozy mountain views, playgrounds, horseback riding, and strawberry picking when you visit during peak season (November to March). 

10. Antique Rice Terraces

Witness a picturesque view of the best natural Antique tourist attractions: the mountains and rice terrace clusters. Nestled in General Fullon, San Remigio, the remote village can be reached through a long hike across five mountains. Once you reach the valley, you will be greeted with the untouched beauty of the province’s man-made terraces. Before tourists grew curious about it, the terraces were long maintained by the Iraynon Bukidnon natives.

11. Igbaclag Cave

This imposing rock is also referred to as the “Stone Castle”. If you’re looking for another adventurous Antique tourist spot in the middle of nature, visit Igbaclag Cave in San Remigio. Formed naturally with incredible stalactites, stalagmites, and surrounded by endemic flora and fauna, the cave awaits curious travelers looking for an easy, yet breathtaking adventure. This small cave is also hiker and non-hiker friendly. 

Inland Water Fun Antique Attractions

12. Naranjo Water Park

If you love the water, but aren’t much of an island-hopper, there are still a couple of Antique tourist attractions you can visit. One of them is Naranjo Water Park in Pandan, right along the stretch of the Bugang River. Experience a balance of calm, relaxing river cottages and the thrill of watersports and kayaking. The place also offers accommodation for visitors who wish to stay overnight, as well as dining options. 

13. Bugtong Bato Falls

Head over to Tibiao for a short trek to reach Bugtong Bato Falls. Cascading over seven levels, the falls sit surrounded by lush greenery, offering a calm and relaxing experience in the middle of nature. The clear, fresh water is perfect for chilling out and swimming. Most visitors are directed to the bottom-most level, which is also the best Antique tourist spot to take your waterfall photos.

14. Calawag Mountain Resort

Want to wake up to a rustic view of the mountains? Book an overnight stay at Calawag Mountain Resort, one of Tibiao’s many riverside recreation spots. Not only do you get a tranquil stay. Get ‘cooked alive’ in a kawa hot bath, go river tubing, pick your own pili nuts and rambutan at the farm, and take your boodle lunch in the middle of the water. 

How to Travel to Antique via Ferry to Panay Island

If you’re doing a Panay Island adventure, you can reach Antique tourist attractions via Caticlan, Aklan or Roxas City, Capiz. Here’s how:

1. Book your Starlite Ferries ticket using the Chelsea Travel website.

Visit https://www.chelseatravel.ph/ using your browser. You will receive an e-ticket voucher via the email address you provided.

Available Starlite Ferries Routes:

• Batangas to Caticlan Ferry
• Roxas, Mindoro to Caticlan
• Batangas to Roxas, Capiz
• Sibuyan to Roxas, Capiz
• Cajidiocan to Roxas, Capiz
• Romblon to Roxas, Capiz

2. Travel to Antique via car or bus.

You have plenty of options if you are traveling from Caticlan or Roxas City. Culasi is the best place to start exploring northern Antique attractions, while San Jose De Buenavista or Hamtic is the prime location for those traveling south.

Caticlan to Antique 

• Via Private Van – Arrange for a credible private van through a travel and tour service. Ideal for large groups of travelers.
• Via Bus – Upon exiting the Caticlan Port, look for the Ceres Bus terminal right outside. Take the next bus going to Antique. Stops include Anini-y, Bugasong, Culasi, Dao, Hamtic, Pandan, Patnongon, Sibalom, and San Jose.

Roxas City, Capiz to Culasi

• Via Private Van – Contact a credible tour service provider and book a private van if you are traveling in a large group.
• Via Bus – Head to Roxas City Integrated Terminal and catch a Ceres Bus bound for Kalibo. From there, take another bus from Kalibo bound for San Jose, Antique.

Don’t miss out on the eco-adventures and rich history you can experience in Antique. You won’t run out of scenic views and exciting activities to choose from, no matter what kind of traveler you are. 

ALSO READ: 5 Must-See Tourist Spots in Roxas, Mindoro

Starlite Ferries delivers true comfort and convenience at sea. Hop on an enriching journey to Panay Island today when you book your trip via Chelsea Travel. Don’t miss out on exclusive loyalty perks, discount vouchers, raffle prizes, and double-digit sales when you sign up for the Chelsea Loyalty Program. Download the mobile app or visit the Chelsea Travel website today!