Somewhere in the Bicol region is a peninsula located in the Philippines, blessed with pristine white beaches, stalactite-rich caves, and interesting waterfalls. Caramoan is surrounded with picturesque islands and cliffs. This is why Survivor, a US-based reality TV show, chose the island as its location. There’s a lot to explore and you won’t get enough of it. Here’s a list of the best things to do in Caramoan.
1. Sabitang Laya
Survivor’s favorite spot at Caramoan boasts two long stretches of creamy, white and ridiculously fine sand. With the two beaches combined, the sand extends up to two kilometers (1.2 miles) – perfect for strolling. Sabitang Laya is ideal for swimming as the waters offshore aren’t deep. Like El Nido in Palawan, the island has interesting and awesome rock formations. The best time to visit is between January to August when the island doesn’t get strong waves.
Sabitang Laya
Address: Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines
2. Manlawi Island
Imagine this: inviting blue-green waters of Manlawi and you eating lunch at a floating cottage, your feet in the seawater, and your left hand holding an ice-cold beer. That’s the usual scene at the biggest sandbar of Caramoan. You can build sandcastles here while enjoying the pearly white sand. Best time to visit is on a weekday when it’s not crowded and during low-tide, so you can see the entire sandbar.
Manlawi Island
Address: Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines
3. Cotivas Island
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Have you ever seen real pink sand? The sand at Cotivas Island isn’t as fine as Manlawi or Sabitang Laya, but it’s pinkish. That’s the island’s distinct quality. You’ll also see coconut palm trees, and the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming. Best time to visit is during low-tide and the entrance fee is about 1 USD. Renting a nice little hut costs about 2 USD.
Cotivas Island
Address: Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines
4. Matukad Island
What’s an island without a little mystery? Matukad is dubbed as the most mysterious island in Caramoan because of the hidden lagoon that can only be seen when you climb the sharp limestone rock formations. When you get lucky, you will be rewarded with the sight of your life: the biggest milkfish you will ever see. This island stands out from the rest because of the enchanted lagoon and it’s just 30 minutes from the jump-off point. The island is also shaded with trees, so it’s perfect for overnight camping.
An enchanted lagoon, a camp, astounding rock formations, and turquoise waters – what’s not to love?
Matukad Island
Address: Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines
5. Lahos Island
Just a few minutes away from Matukad is Lahos Island, with its two big identical rocks separated only by a white sand beach. The sands aren’t as fine as Matukad but the place is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Lahos Island has a rich marine life. Never visit Lahos Island when it’s high-tide; you won’t see it. They got the name Lahos from the tagalog word, “laho” which means vanish.
Lahos Island
Address: Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines
6. Cagbalinad Island
This island is synonymous with serenity and solitude. It’s peaceful and offers more privacy. If you want a quiet environment then visit this island. You will be greeted with stunning rock formations, perfect for rock climbing. Climbing the rocks will give you a panoramic view of Gota Beach, which is only right across Cagbalinad.
Cagbalinad Island
Address: Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines
7. Tinago Island
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
This island is hidden from view. Tinago means “hidden” in Bicol and exactly what this cove is. It is only accessible through a narrow passageway in between two limestone formations. Once inside, you will be greeted with a sandy beach surrounded with limestone rock formations. There are no huts or freshwater here, so you need to bring your food, water and perhaps a picnic mat for lunch.
Tinago Island
Address: Caramoan, Camarines Sur, Philippines
8. Omang Cave
Found at Caramoan’s National Park and located just between Barangay Ilawod and Paniman is Omang Cave, with its intriguing and beautiful stalactite formations. It resembles a cathedral and natural light passes through the cave’s big openings. From Gota Village, you will need to pass and cross two rivers to reach the entrance. The river is called Sohotan River, which is another beauty in Caramoan.
Omang Cave
Address: Caramoan National Park, Philippines
9. Kulapnit Cave
The cave got its name from the vernacular word, “kulapnit” which means bat. There are thousands of them inside this cave. If bats don’t frighten you, visit Kulapnit Cave just before dark. They parade at dusk. Some essentials that you need to take with you are a flashlight, water, headlamps, and a camera for taking photos.
Kulapnit Cave
Address: Sitio Bariw, Caramoan, Philippines
10. Bulang-bugang Cave
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Bulang-bugang is an underwater cave accessible only through a small opening at the bottom of a huge rock formation. Only one person at a time can pass through it to get to the cave, which is at the opposite side of the rock. Be extra careful because the rocks are sharp and it’s really slippery.
Bulang-bugang Cave
Address: Taisan Sabitang Laya, Caramoan, Philippines
11. Layahan and Hugsad Falls
Most tourists do not know about these two waterfalls because they’re far, and only a few locals have explored them. You would need to trek for about two hours to get to these falls, but you will be rewarded with refreshing waters and beautiful scenery.
Layahan and Hugsad Falls
Address: Barangay Hanopol and Barangay Patag in Caramoan, Philippines
The island paradise
Are you tired of the city crowd? Come visit Caramoan and be mesmerized with the simple island life. Go camping on one of the islands and watch the stars at night. It will be a rewarding experience, especially when you’re with the people you love.
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