🏝️Baltazar Island Lighthouse
About this place
Rising from Baltazar Island — one of the three islands in Gasan's famous Tres Reyes group — the Baltazar Island Lighthouse is a landmark that ties together history, navigation, and the kind of diving that still draws underwater explorers to Marinduque. Also known as the Los Tres Reyes Lighthouse, the structure sits off the coast of Pinggan, Gasan, and has been a fixture of these waters for well over a century.
A Brief History
The story of the lighthouse spans two eras. The original lighthouse was built during the American colonial period, and for decades it guided vessels through the waters off Gasan. In the 1980s, it was replaced by a new, solar-powered version — more reliable, less maintenance-intensive, and still doing the same job it was always built for. That generational transition is a nice piece of Marinduque's maritime heritage: from colonial hardware to renewable-powered modernity.
For Divers
Beyond its history, Baltazar Island is known as a great diving spot. The island features an underwater cave that draws divers looking for something beyond the usual reef scenes. For experienced divers exploring the Philippines, this is the kind of off-beaten-path dive site that rarely makes the tourist brochures — which is part of the appeal.
How to Visit
Baltazar Island is reached by boat from the mainland, typically as part of a Tres Reyes Islands island-hopping trip. Coordinate with local boatmen through Pinggan contacts or through tour guides familiar with the Gasan coast. Kagawad Dodong (+63 930 976 2106 / +63 946 175 8552) is one regular point of contact for boat rentals in the area.
For tour arrangement, Chelsea Kaye S. Sanchez can be reached at +63 961 504 3744 or chelseakayesanchez@gmail.com — she has experience guiding Tres Reyes trips.
A Worthy Add to the Itinerary
For Marinduque visitors already planning a Tres Reyes Islands day, Baltazar and its lighthouse are an easy add. It's the kind of stop that widens what people think of when they think of Marinduque — not just beaches and festivals, but a real maritime history marked literally on the horizon.
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November–May) for safe banca crossings. Mornings are calmest before the wind picks up; afternoon trips can get cancelled if seas turn rough. The lighthouse is a Spanish-era historic structure; sunrise and sunset light it dramatically but plan your boat return so you're not stranded after dark.
What to Bring
How to Get Here
Baltazar Island Lighthouse is on Baltazar Island, off the Gasan coast. Reached by banca — most operators include it in island-hopping tours, often combined with the Tres Reyes Islands (Baltazar is one of the three; the others are Melchor and Gaspar — the Three Wise Men). Ask at the Gasan Public Market or Brgy. Pinggan dock for current banca arrangements; Pinggan is the standard departure point for Gasan island trips.
⚠️ banca only — book in advance
Local routes, fares, and ferry schedules can shift without notice — and travel times depend on weather, traffic, and tide. Confirm fares and timing with the driver or locals before you set out.
Contact & Links
Local Verification
For questions about access, local advisories, or whether this place is currently operating, contact the local LGU before you go.