Exploring Roxas City’s Ruins of Alcatraz: Capiz’s Abandoned Resort (2-Day Itinerary)

Discovering the Ruins of Alcatraz (Roxas City, Capiz)

Steering a tricycle up the rough lane in Barangay Culasi, we suddenly saw it: enormous grey walls and winding staircases perched on a hilltop. The Ruins of Alcatraz – locals even call it “Alcatraz ni Bermejo” – felt like something out of a storybook. In truth, it was meant to be a luxurious hilltop resort by the Bermejo family. Locals explained that after Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) struck in 2013, the grand project was abandoned indefinitely. Now nature is reclaiming the unfinished structure: vines creep over concrete slabs, and the shell of an infinity pool faces the sea. Arriving at golden hour felt cinematic – exactly as one guide warned, with the “rocks and ruins as the background,” it gives off a big cinematic vibe.

As we climbed over 100 rough steps to the top, the payoff was breathtaking. From this vantage, you can see the entire Roxas City coastline unspool before you. Wanderlog praises the view as “scenic, a serene spot for meditation” – note there are no railings, so the view is both thrilling and a little scary. We weren’t the only ones impressed: friendly local kids appeared as volunteer guides and photographers, eager to show us around for a small tip. (It’s a known local custom – a few pesos in hand is worth a ton of photos and guidance.) The stillness and raw beauty here make it a hauntingly beautiful spot – equal parts solemn ruin and scenic lookout.

Rumor has it the property is even up for sale amid budget woes, a sign of its uncertain future. But for now, visitors can enjoy the mystery safely. We spent a long time just wandering the halls of this “Prison-turned-paradise” (minus the bars), soaking up the salt breeze. As the sun began to dip, it painted the ruins in warm light – a perfect cue to head back to shore for fresh seafood.

2-Day Sample Itinerary on Roxas City, Capiz

Day 1: Baybay Beach & Ruins of Alcatraz

1. Morning – Baybay People’s Park: Start your day at Roxas City’s seaside People’s Park (La Playa de Roxas). Enjoy the cool sea breeze and have breakfast at a local eatery (fresh fruit shake and silvanas cookies are local favorites). Take a stroll along Baybay Beach’s walkways and watch fishermen unload oysters and crabs – after all, Roxas is nicknamed the “Seafood Capital”.
2. Late Morning – Local Market: Visit the Capiz Public Market near the plaza to sample bunyag (rice cakes) or grilled seafood kabobs as a light snack. This is also a good spot to chat with Capizeños and gather tips for getting to the Ruins.
3. Midday – Ruins of Alcatraz: Take a tricycle or motorbike up to Barangay Culasi (the ride takes about 15–20 minutes from Baybay Beach). When you arrive, hire one of the local kids as a guide – they’ll show you around the ruins (and take photos) for a modest tip. Explore the halls and towers, imagining what the finished resort would have looked like. Remember to stay hydrated and wear good shoes.
4. Afternoon – Sunset at the Ruins: Time your visit so that you’re at the top by late afternoon. The panoramic ocean view is especially magical as the sun sets. Take in the “raw, rugged beauty” of the abandoned walls against the orange sky and capture dramatic shots – no wonder it feels cinematic!
5. Evening – Seafood Dinner: Head back down to the Baybay area for dinner. At People’s Park you’ll find a seaside food court with grilled seafood and pork barbecue. Sit under the stars, listen to the waves, and indulge in capiz’s famous oysters, prawns, and fried fish. It’s the perfect way to celebrate surviving Day 1’s adventure.

Day 2: Roxas City Heritage & Culture

1. Morning – O (Immaculate Conception): Start day two with a visit to the historic Capiz Cathedral in downtown Roxas City. Built in the 1700s, its white façade stands by the river, embodying the city’s Spanish-era heritage. If you can, catch a Sunday Mass to feel the community spirit of local Capizeños.
2. Late Morning – Roxas City Bridge and Plaza: Walk across the old Roxas City Bridge (nicknamed the “Old Capiz Bridge”) spanning the Panay River. Locals call Roxas the “Venice of the Visayas”, and this scenic bridge – completed in 1910 – offers a glimpse of that charm. On the far side is a plaza with a fountain and statues, a nice spot for photos and chatting with vendors selling pasalubong treats.
3. Afternoon – Roxas Museum or Town Tour: Visit Ang Panublion Museum to learn local history, or simply wander the old streets. Drop by the ancestral house of President Manuel Roxas (the first president of the independent Philippines) which is now a small museum of memorabilia. Along the way, try Capiz specialties like casava bibingka or the famous ginamos (fermented fish).
4. Late Afternoon – The Edge / Baybay Viewpoint: If time allows, swing by “The Edge of Roxas City” – a coastal snack bar known for 360° views of the sea and relaxed vibe. Savor a coconut shake while watching fishing boats on the horizon. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on your trip.
5. Evening – Sunset & Farewell Dinner: For a final sunset, return to Baybay Beach. You might even revisit the Ruins for a dusk photo, or simply watch the sun sink below the waves. Cap off your stay with one more seafood feast at a Baybay grill, toasting your new memories of Roxas City’s beauty and history.

After these two days, you’ll have experienced the best of Roxas City’s hidden gems – from the haunting allure of the Ruins of Alcatraz to the warm hospitality and culture of Capiz’s capital. This journey offers a blend of adventure, history, and reflection: proof that even abandoned places can leave a lasting, inspirational mark on visitors.