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Sabtang Island

Nakabuang Arch & Morong Beach

Nakabuang Arch (also known as Ahaw Arch) is a massive natural limestone sea arch located on Morong Beach on the northern tip of Sabtang Island. It is one of the most recognized natural landforms in the Batanes archipelago, framing the white sand shore and turquoise waters of the sea channel.

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The natural stone Nakabuang Arch framing the white sand beach and turquoise ocean of Morong Beach on Sabtang Island

Natural Formation and Geography

Formed through thousands of years of marine erosion, wind weathering, and wave action on coastal limestone cliffs, Nakabuang Arch creates a natural gateway between the land and the sea.

Unlike many of Batanes' rough boulder shores, Morong Beach features fine white coral sand and a sheltered bay protected by surrounding rock formations, making it one of the few safe swimming locations in the province under calm sea conditions.

What to See and Experience

1. Photography Under Nakabuang Arch

Visitors can walk under the cavernous arch to capture photos framed by limestone rock, green coastal vegetation, and the blue ocean beyond.

2. Swimming at Morong Beach

The clear, shallow waters of Morong Cove provide a calm spot for swimming during fair weather. The beach drops off gently compared to open ocean coasts.

3. Traditional Ivatan Catering Nearby

Near the entrance to Morong Beach, local Ivatan catering groups serve traditional buffet lunches for tour groups, featuring local dishes such as uved, dibang, luñis, and yellow supas rice served on breadfruit leaves.

Logistics and Access

Detail Specification
Location Morong Beach, Sabtang Island
Access Route 30-minute falowa boat from Radiwan Port (Ivana, Batan) to Sabtang Port, followed by a 15-minute tricycle or van ride
Sabtang Fees ₱200 Municipal Tourism & Environmental Fee paid at Sabtang Port
Facility Amenities Basic restrooms, shade huts, and local food stalls near parking area
Physical Difficulty Easy (flat sand walk from transport parking area)

Traveler Tips & Safety Guidelines

  • Boat Schedule Synchronization: Visitors exploring Sabtang as a day trip from Batan must monitor return boat times. The final falowa back to Radiwan Port generally leaves between 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM.
  • Sun Protection: Morong Beach receives intense sun exposure during mid-day. Carry reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and adequate drinking water.
  • Tide Conditions: High tides can fill the passage beneath Nakabuang Arch. Exercise caution when walking through during high swell periods.

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The Batanes coastline at sunset over the Luzon Strait