About Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary
Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary is privately owned and maintained by the Geneblazo family, lead by Sir Alex. Despite being privately owned, the family decided to open it up to the public to educate and entertain. Visitors can interact with these creatures up close through fish feeding and swimming experiences.
The sanctuary prides itself with a wide variety of marine life including lobsters, coral fishes, giant clams, grouper, sea turtles and many others. Each enclosure holds different aquatic creatures that are raised by Sir Alex and his family, along with their caretakers.
For more information, you may visit the company’s website or facebook page:
http://juaglagoon.wix.com/sanctuary
https://www.facebook.com/JuagLagoonMarineSanctuary
Contact number: +63 (907) 9577748 or +63 (918) 3045437
Location
The sanctuary is situated just off the coast of Matnog, Sorsogon, in the Bicol region of the Philippines. It is approximately 20 minutes from the Matnog port and 30 minutes from the white sands of Subic Beach on Calintaan Island.
How to Go
To reach Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary from Manila, you can take a bus directly to Matnog, with the trip taking 12-15 hours depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can fly to Legazpi City from Manila, which takes about an hour, and then take a tricycle to the bus terminal near Gaisano Mall, followed by a bus to Sorsogon and a jeepney to Matnog.
Manila to Matnog by Bus:
There are several bus liners going straight to Matnog including Philtranco, Penafrancia, Raymund and Amihan. The trip takes 12-15 hours depending on the traffic.
Manila to Legazpi City by Air:
Cebu Pacific Air and Philippine Airlines fly daily to Legazpi City from Manila. Legazpi City is about an hour travel by plane from the capital.
Legazpi City to Matnog:
To get to Matnog from Legazpi City, ride a tricycle going to the bus terminal located near Gaisano Mall. Ride the bus bound for Sorsogon. From Sorsogon, ride the jeepney heading to Matnog and ask to be dropped off near the port.
Alternatively, if you would like to avail of an island hopping tour, the sanctuary is usually included as part of the itinerary. To arrange for an island hopping tour, contact Sir Eddie at +63 (928) 2538607
Entrance Fee
There is no entrance fee to visit the sanctuary, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation of any amount or contribute items such as snorkels, goggles, and fins.
Activities
At the sanctuary, visitors can engage in the following activities:
- Fish feeding: Visitors can purchase food to feed the fish, which will attract a variety of species to the feeding area.
- Swimming with the fishes: Visitors can swim with the fish, but they must avoid wearing sunscreen to prevent poisoning the creatures.
- Viewing the marine life: Visitors can walk around the sanctuary and observe the various species of fish, lobsters, giant clams, sea turtles, and more from silt-styled shelters.
Best Time to Visit
The sanctuary is open year-round, but the best time to visit may depend on your preferences. The weather is generally pleasant throughout the year, with the dry season from November to May and the wet season from June to October.
Expenses
- Parking: P50 for entire day
- Boat: P1,500 per boat, back and forth trip (day tour) and P2,000 (overnight tour)
- Donation to the sanctuary
- Tip to boatman
Things to Keep in Mind
- Avoid wearing sunscreen if you plan to swim with the fish.
- Bring snorkeling gear if you want to get a closer look at the marine life.
- Be respectful of the sanctuary’s rules and regulations to ensure the well-being of the animals.
Where to Stay in Sorsogon
Visit my list of hostels, inns and backpackers’ lodges for less than P1,500 per night or search for Sorsogon hotels/resorts in the Agoda box below.
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the sanctuary open to the public?
Yes, the sanctuary is open to the public, but it is privately owned and maintained by the Geneblazo family. - Can I buy fish from the sanctuary?
No, the sanctuary does not sell fish for food or as pets. Their focus is on breeding and caring for the marine life. - Is there an entrance fee?
There is no entrance fee, but visitors are encouraged to make a donation or contribute items like snorkels, goggles, and fins. - Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to the sanctuary. - Are there any restrictions on photography or videography?
It’s best to check with the sanctuary staff about their rules regarding photography and videography, as some restrictions may apply.
