Guisi Lighthouse was the first destination in my solo day trip in Guimaras. According to my driver, it is the farthest spot in my itinerary so we decided to visit it first while the rest of the places to be visited on the way back. The first half of the drive to Guisi was smooth while offering some nice countryside view of Guimaras. The second half was bumpy and sloppy due to bad road conditions. This gave me an impression that Guisi Lighthouse is still off the radar of most tourists.
View of Guisi Beach at the top of the old lighthouse
Guisi Lighthouse is a ruin of an 18th century Spanish parola located at the Guisi Point of Barangay Dolores in Nueva Valencia. Known as Faro de Punta Luzaran, it is the second oldest lighthouse in the Philippines. Upon arrival, I was accompanied by my driver who also served as my tour guide inside the property. A "Welcome" sign written on a fish-shaped board at the entrance greeted us. Entrance fee is P10 per person only.
I immediately noticed the ruins of an old Spanish settlement and the tower from afar. I was excited so I went straight ahead to the lighthouse. From outside the old lighthouse looked dilapidated and there was even a sign that prohibits anyone from climbing the rusty tower. I knew beforehand that a few people have climbed and have taken photos from the top of the lighthouse. I felt discouraged when I saw the sign but my tour guide insisted that it's safe to climb.
Upon his permission, I slowly and carefully climbed the spiral staircase. At the top of the lighthouse, I was blown away by the breathtaking panoramic view of Guimaras strait. The old lighthouse was built by the Spanish government in 1894 -1896 that used to serve as a navigational aid to the fishermen and sailors cruising this strait.
On the right side, one can see the view of Guisi beach. I have earlier seen how inviting the crystal clear water was on this beach as it was visible on the way to the lighthouse. I was taken by surprise by the sight of this amazing beach that I was already thinking of not leaving Guisi without exploring it - whether or not my tricycle driver will allow me. To my delight, he told me it was actually part of our itinerary! :-)
After a few minutes of feeling the cool breeze, enjoying the magnificent view and taking photos at the top of the tower, I went down to explore more of the ruins. I could easily say that these Spanish-built structures seemed strong enough to have stood for a long time. Trees and plants have grown within and on the walls of the ruins. No wonder this place has become a favorite spot for photo shoot like wedding and pre-nuptial. I was the only visitor at that time so I have the whole place to myself. :-)
Another prominent feature in the ruins is the newer lighthouse (white) which replaced the old one. It's currently functional and really looks modern. Actually there is another tower a few meters from the first one, but is also not working.
The new lighthouse looks modern
The newer and modern lighthouse
Although I'm not a history buff, I was amazed by this historical site. It feels enriching that just close to where I used to live, discovering this Spanish structure made me learn new significant historical insights about Guimaras that I had not known all those years ago.
After paying the entrance fee to the caretaker, I left the place feeling fulfilled and started walking down to Guisi beach. It's time to hit the beach! :-)
Read more about my Guimaras escapade:
- Part 1 - My Solo Day Trip in Guimaras
- Part 2 - Guisi Lighthouse: Historical and Sightseeing Spot in Guimaras
- Part 3 - Guisi Beach: Guimaras' Well-Kept Secret
- Part 4 - Surprised by Alubihod Beach in Guimaras
- Part 5 - Island Hopping Tour in Guimaras
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