If there’s one thing travelers remember most about their Gigantes Island tour, it’s the scallops—sweet, tender, and freshly harvested straight from the sea. The municipality of Carles, Iloilo isn’t just famous for its stunning islands; it’s also proudly known as the “Seafood Capital of Iloilo”, a well-earned title thanks to its abundance of marine life and thriving local fishing community.
From beachside eateries to island homestays, scallops are the star of nearly every meal in Islas de Gigantes. Whether you like them grilled, baked, buttered, or simply steamed, you’ll find that each bite tastes like the ocean itself—fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable. Here’s your guide to the best places to eat scallops and other seafood delights in Carles and the surrounding islands.
Why Carles Is Known for Scallops
Located on the northernmost tip of Iloilo Province, Carles is a coastal municipality blessed with rich fishing grounds. The waters surrounding the Gigantes Islands teem with shellfish, squid, and other marine species, but scallops are the local pride. For decades, fishing families have harvested scallops daily, making it one of the main livelihoods in the area.
In fact, many locals say you haven’t truly visited Islas de Gigantes until you’ve had scallops cooked the island way—served fresh, simple, and best enjoyed with your hands while sitting by the sea.
Top Spots to Eat Scallops in Carles and Gigantes
1. Gigantes Hideaway Inn (Gigantes Norte)
One of the most famous places to try scallops is at Gigantes Hideaway Inn. Their buffet-style meals feature endless servings of scallops, cooked in multiple ways—garlic butter, baked with cheese, and even breaded and fried. The inn sources directly from local fishermen, ensuring every dish is as fresh as possible.
Most island-hopping packages include lunch here, making it a convenient and delicious stop during your Islas de Gigantes itinerary. Don’t miss their signature scallop adobo, a local favorite with a savory twist.
2. Antonia Beach Floating Canteens
While hopping between islands, you’ll likely stop at Antonia Beach—a popular lunch stop where small floating canteens serve freshly grilled seafood. Here, scallops are cooked right in front of you, seasoned lightly with salt, butter, and garlic. Pair them with a cold soda or fresh coconut juice, and you’ll understand why locals call this the ultimate beach meal.
Bonus: Some vendors offer unlimited scallops for as little as ₱200 per tray—an unbeatable deal for seafood lovers.
3. Solina Beach & Nature Resort (Mainland Carles)
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Solina Beach & Nature Resort offers a full-service restaurant that highlights Carles’ freshest catch. Their Scallops Thermidor is a must-try—rich, creamy, and perfectly baked. You can also enjoy their seafood platters featuring crabs, prawns, and grilled fish while watching the sunset from their open-air deck.
This resort blends luxury with local flavors, making it a great choice for couples or families ending their Gigantes Island tour.
4. Local Carinderias near Bancal Port
If you prefer simple, no-frills dining, the eateries near Bancal Port in Carles serve some of the tastiest scallops you’ll ever try—at local prices. Here, scallops are often served as kinilaw (ceviche-style), mixed with vinegar, chili, and onions for a zesty flavor explosion.
These humble food stalls are perfect for travelers arriving early or waiting for their boat departure. Locals are friendly and often share stories about their daily catch while preparing your meal.
5. Cabugao Gamay Beachside Grill
During your island hopping, ask your boatman to stop for a quick snack at Cabugao Gamay. Some caretakers here offer grilled scallops and squid, cooked on makeshift charcoal grills. It’s a no-menu, eat-what’s-available experience that’s as authentic as it gets.
Eating freshly grilled scallops while overlooking the famous sandbar view deck? That’s a memory you’ll carry long after your trip.
Must-Try Scallop Dishes
Scallops are versatile, and local cooks in Carles have mastered countless ways to prepare them. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:
- Grilled Scallops: Cooked with butter and garlic—simple yet heavenly.
- Scallop Adobo: A Filipino twist using soy sauce, vinegar, and bay leaves.
- Baked Scallops with Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly indulgent.
- Scallop Kinilaw: Raw scallops marinated in vinegar and lime juice for a tangy kick.
- Scallop Sisig: A sizzling take on the Filipino favorite, perfect with rice or beer.
Every dish highlights the natural sweetness of Carles’ scallops—proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the best.
Beyond Scallops: Other Seafood You Should Try
While scallops steal the spotlight, Carles’ waters offer much more. Don’t miss:
- Grilled Squid: Tender and smoky, usually served with vinegar dip.
- Crabs in Coconut Milk: A rich and creamy local specialty.
- Kinilaw na Isda: Fresh fish ceviche marinated with local spices.
- Oyster Pancake: Inspired by Chinese-Filipino cuisine, crispy and flavorful.
Seafood in Islas de Gigantes is always fresh, harvested daily by local fishermen who take pride in their craft. Supporting local eateries helps sustain the community and ensures you get an authentic taste of island life.
Where to Buy Dried Scallops and Pasalubong
Before heading home, don’t forget to take a piece of Carles with you! Locals sell dried scallops and fish crackers near Estancia Market and Bancal Port. Dried scallops are great for cooking soups and pasta dishes, while dried fish makes for the perfect Filipino-style pasalubong (take-home gift).
Prices vary depending on the season, but you can expect ₱150–₱200 for a medium pack of dried scallops—well worth it for their quality and taste.
Travel Tips for Seafood Lovers
- 🦪 Go early to seafood markets: The freshest catch arrives early in the morning.
- 🍽️ Bring your own condiments: Some island eateries have limited supplies.
- 🌊 Try local vinegar dips: Most use tuba (coconut vinegar) mixed with chili and onion.
- 💰 Carry cash: Most food stalls do not accept cards or mobile payments.
- 🌿 Travel sustainably: Avoid single-use plastics and support small local businesses.
Best Time to Visit for Seafood Lovers
The best time to visit Carles for fresh seafood is during the dry season (November to May), when fishing conditions are ideal, and seafood is abundant. If you visit during the annual Scallops Festival in March, you’ll experience parades, cooking competitions, and cultural shows celebrating the town’s seafood heritage.
Why Scallops in Carles Taste So Different
Locals believe the secret lies in the water. The surrounding seas of Gigantes Islands are rich in plankton and minerals, giving scallops their distinctive sweetness. Unlike imported scallops, which are often frozen, those from Carles are served fresh within hours of harvest—something you can truly taste in every bite.
Final Thoughts
From humble beach grills to elegant resort dining, Carles offers a seafood experience unlike any other in the Philippines. It’s not just about eating scallops—it’s about savoring the culture, stories, and community behind every dish. The flavor of Carles comes from the heart of its people, who wake before dawn to bring the ocean’s bounty to your plate.
Ready to indulge in the freshest scallops of your life? Start planning your trip with GigantesIslandTour.com — your go-to guide for Gigantes Island tours, local dining tips, and authentic experiences in the Seafood Capital of Iloilo.
Come for the islands, stay for the scallops—Carles will feed both your hunger and your soul.
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