Information about Antique

Antique

Located on the west coast of Panay Island, the province of Antique is mostly known for its natural attractions, including white beaches, islands, diving spots, waterfalls, and mountains. Thanks to its unique geography, it has been known as the province where the mountains meet the sea. 

Its tourist attractions are scattered throughout its 18 municipalities, but one of its most famous spots, Malalison Island (also known as Mararison Island), is located off the coast of Culasi. Other must-see tourist attractions in Antique include Seco Island and Bugtong Bato Falls in Tibiao, Malumpati Cold Spring and Bugang River in Pandan, and the Antique Rice Terraces in San Remigio. While in San Remigio, you can also see rafflesias, the largest flower in the world. 

Antique gets its name from the town “Hamtic,” which used to be the capital of the province. Hamtic refers to the large red ants that were aplenty in the area.

Best time to visit

In general, the best time to visit Antique is during the dry season, which usually falls from December to May. This will give you the perfect weather to enjoy the islands and beaches of the province. However, the rivers and waterfalls are more majestic during the wet season, from June to November.

Weather in Antique

The weather in Antique is generally pleasant, with average temperatures of 28 to 30°C. It can be rainy during the wet season, so plan for showers if you are visiting during that period.

Peak Season in Antique

As with most destinations in the Philippines, the peak season of Antique is usually March to early May, especially during the Holy Week.

Main festival/events in Antique

Antique’s most popular festival is the Binirayan Festival, which is held in December. The festival commemorates the journey that 10 Bornean Datus went on to reach the island of Panay, where they eventually settled. During the festival, locals take part in street parades, concerts, trade fairs, and beach shows.

How to get to Antique

You can get to Antique via direct flights to Antique Airport in San Jose. You also have the option to take a flight to Iloilo and then take a bus to Antique. You may also travel via sea, aboard Roll-On, Roll-Off (RORO) ships that travel to Caticlan or via passenger ferries that dock at the Lipata Port in Culasi.

Safety in Antique

Exploring Antique’s tourist spots is generally a safe experience, but as a precaution, refrain from going off route and be wary of strangers.

Getting around Antique

Buses and jeeps have routes connecting the municipalities of Antique. You can also ride tricycles for shorter distances.

Food and Drinks

There are many restaurants scattered throughout the province of Antique, but if you want to try the best binakol (a chicken soup dish cooked in bamboo tubes or coconut halves) and binabak (shrimp wrapped in banana leaves and steamed), you should head to the municipality of Pandan.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Antique

Most municipalities offer accommodations for tourists, so it’s best to book your stay near the tourist attractions you want to visit. If you want a lot of options, it’s best to look for hotels or resorts in the municipalities of San Jose, Pandan, and Tibiao.