This Filipino town is on the southern-most edge of Negros Occidental. It is a peaceful community with a few beachside resorts and natural attractions along the Sulu Sea.
Hinobaan is predominantly an agricultural region, and away from the resort coastline there is little development. Fishing is a major industry, with plenty of tuna and marlin in local waters. Visitors enjoy excellent seafood restaurants as well as the opportunity to charter their own fishing boat.
The other major pastime is scuba diving. Hinobaan’s coral reefs do not receive many visitors and remain relatively pristine. A few dive shops in the immediate resort area rent out equipment, lead regular diving tours and offer certification courses. Water skiing and snorkeling are also popular activities.
Travel to Hinobaan - getting there
Hinobaan sits along the national highway a little over 100 miles from the provincial capital of Bacolod. From here it is a short flight to both Manila (45 minutes) and Cebu City (30 minutes). Both cities operate an extensive network of flights to cities across the region. It is also possible to reach Hinobaan by ferry from neighboring islands.
In brief
Worth it? The Hinobaan rustic resorts are best suited for those looking to travel off the beaten path.
What to do: exploring local caves, joining a diving tour, chartering a fishing boat.
Best time to go: the December to April dry season is the best time to visit.
How long? One or two days are plenty of time in Hinobaan.
Hinobaan attractions
- Ubong Caves: this network of caverns is found in Bangaray Bacuyangan and opens up to the sea. Visitors can enter by land or sea.
- Trekking: there are a few hiking opportunities in the Hinobaan area, most of which are best suited for independent trekkers.
Side trips from Hinobaan
- 2 - Sipalay: to the north of Hinobaan, this beach resort is known for its diving and caving potential.
- Bolila Island: accessible from the pier, this minor island is a potential daytrip destination.