Camotes Island, Cebu: A Hidden Gem in the Visayas

Some say that great adventures come when you least expect it. And that’s precisely what I have found on the island called “Camotes”. 

Camotes Island is located east of Cebu City. With close proximity to Cebu or Mactan, it is a perfect weekend getaway or a quick travel escape from the city. It is comprised of four islands namely Pacijan, Poro, Ponson and Tulang Diot.

Camotes Island holds so much beauty awaiting to be discovered – majestic caves, powdery white sand beaches, unique diving and cliff diving sites, beautiful rock formations, pristine lake and waterfalls, beachfront accommodations – you name it, Camotes probably have it! 

How to Get to Camotes Island

There are 3 ways to reach the island:

• From Cebu Pier: 1.5 hour fast craft ferry from Cebu Pier 1 to Poro Port, Camotes with two ferry schedules at 6:00am and 3:00pm and return trip is at 8:00am and 5:00pm daily;
• From Mactan Wharf: 1.5 hour fast craft ferry from Mactan Wharf to Consuelo Port, Camotes, scheduled at 8:00AM and 12:00NN daily and return trip is at 10:00AM and 4:00PM only;
• From Danao Port: 2 hours RORO from Danao Port to Consuelo Port, Camotes. This option has 5 trips daily from 5:30am and last trip is at 5:30pm. It also costs lesser than the first two options.

I took the second option because I am closest to Mactan.

Getting Around Camotes Island: Camotes Island Tour

There are many options to go around the island – hire a tricycle, multicab or a motorcycle (locally known as habal-habal).  All of which are conveniently found just outside the port.

I took the habal-habal because it is the most practical option for a solo backpacker  like me. Whole day land tour costs Php 500 upto Php 2,500, depending on what type of vehicle to use and which sites to include in the tour. Multicabs are the more expensive option and are usually availed by small groups.

During my visit, there were more family travelers with 1-2 kids and a group of friends (mostly teens to early twenties). Passengers are a mix of weekend travelers, both locals and foreigners, and few local residents. 

What To See in Camotes Island: Tourist Spots, Attractions, Camotes Sea

There is a long list of attractions to explore at Camotes. Let me begin with some of my favorites:

Bukilat Cave

Bukilat Cave – the primary reason why I wanted so much to go to Camotes – to see this cave!  It is one of the settings of a hit Filipino Romantic Comedy movie “Can’t Help Falling in Love (2017)”. It is a yolo-kind of movie and I kind of relate very well to the actor’s perspective about life, love and travel.

From that moment I saw this cave from the movie, I knew I wanted to be there. And so, I did!

Bukilat is unique for its seven natural windows or holes that allow sunlight to seep through to brighten the cave naturally. In the middle, there is a huge opening creating a spotlight to an altar-like-formation resulting in a heavenly sight. Interestingly, it was said that when the cave was developed in the 70s, masses and other sacraments were also celebrated in this cave.

The cave has many interesting formations. The natural lights allow you to see clearly the stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave. A pool of brackish water rises when the tide is high and the ebbs when the tide is low. Its water is also believed to have healing effects. Some cemented steps are created to allow easy walk into the elevated parts of the cave.

There is a minimal entrance fee of Php 20. You will be asked to register in a logbook and there is a brief orientation before entering the cave. Flash photography and touching the natural formations are strictly prohibited.  It is not very touristy and there are also no souvenir shops or stores nearby – no signs of commercialized tourism. I think only a few tourists who have seen the hit romantic movie (like me) will really make time to see this cave. It is also the farthest of the 4 caves in Camotes, around 45 minutes from Consuelo Port.

Camotes Island is endowed with caves. You can find other caves on the island such as the Paraiso Cave, Holy Crystal Cave, Tangub and Timubo Cave.

Santiago Beach, Camotes Island

Located in Pacijan Island, Santiago Beach is the most popular and the longest beach in Camotes. This is actually my lasting memory of Camotes and in my personal view, the best spot to enjoy the island.

Santiago beach offers powdery white sand, no seagrasses or sharp-edged stones or corals, just pure sand which I loved the most.

When it is low tide, the vast shoreline reveals itself where you can enjoy a relaxing morning or late afternoon walk. Some guests were doing an early morning run, workout, martial arts routine and simply lay on the white beach. The water is not too deep which makes it safe for kids. There were also a few family travelers enjoying moments by the beach.

It is also a public beach and home to local restaurants and bars. They are open from morning until night time, serving breakfast to night time drinks. They serve a variety of rice meals, grilled foods, seafoods, soups, noodles, pasta, pizza, burgers, etc. Beverage options range from fresh fruits shakes, soda, mocktails and cocktails drinks. You can never go hungry on this island – foods are guaranteed tasty at a fair price!

Sunset viewing in Santiago Beach is divine. I enjoyed every minute that I was on this beach. I stayed overnight for just a weekend getaway. If I didn’t have work the next day, I would’ve stayed there longer. It exceeded my expectations and I am pleasantly happy to have spent my weekend here.

Mangodlong Beach, Camotes Island

It is also a white sand beach but smaller than Santiago Beach. It is closest to Consuelo Port and home to the upscale resorts on the island. The focal point in Mangodlong Beach is the rock formation with a letter signage, a giant octopus slide and a picnic area. Activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, wind sailing and diving are also offered at the resort for a fee.  It is owned and managed by a private resort which allows non-guest to enter for a minimal entrance fee of only Php 20.

Lake Danao

Considered as the biggest lake in the Visayas, Lake Danao is a tranquil place surrounded by lush greenery. One can expect total serenity while enjoying a good view of the calm water, vast mangrove swamp and local trees at Lake Danao Park.

Several activities can be enjoyed at this place, including kayaking, boating, water bike, zipline and even a picnic by the lake, at a low price. It is a great experience to try one of its water activities while enjoying the cool air and the good view of nature.

There are also local stalls that serve a wide variety of refreshments, snacks and meals, at an affordable price. Picnic tables are under the shade of the trees, where one can truly relax while enjoying a good snack. This place is a perfect place to cool down from the scorching heat of the sun.

Tulang Diot, Camotes Island

From the North coast of Pacijan you can take a local bangka to the island. It is a nice short trip from Pacijan Island which is only 10 minutes by boat. The island offers equally beautiful white sand beach and very friendly locals.

Buho Rock, Camotes Island

Buho Rock is for the adreline junkies who wish to have a cliff diving experience. The entire attraction stands on a rock with several areas for picture-taking, picnic and swimming. Many locals, together with their families used to have an excursion there. There are two different heights – 10 meters and 20-30 meters. If you’re on for the thrill, try the Buho Rock cliff diving!

Camotes Island Resorts, Hotels and Accommodations

Santiago Bay Garden and Resort

This is where I stayed. This popular beachfront resort has two infinite pools, a restaurant overlooking the vast shoreline, many cabanas and ample greenery. Truly a great place for a relaxing stay. This is also conveniently located near local restaurants and bars.

Swisslagoon

Located near Santiago Beach, Swisslagoon is another option. It offers nipa-hut accommodation with a homey-feel. The rooms are basic, with comfortable beds and aircondition. They also serve home-made breakfast.

Mangodlong Paradise Resort

Mangodlong Paradise Beach is the most expensive private resort in Camotes. It boasts modern design rooms, an infinity pool, a sunset bar and a bamboo cafe.

Mangodlong Rock Resort

Same location as the Mangodlong Paradise Resort but this is a more practical option. It is also managed by the same company and are conveniently located next to each other. It also boasts a smaller swimming pool, a restaurant and comfortable rooms.

Personal Review on Camotes Island

There is definitely something in Camotes that will make you fall in love with it. The short distance from Cebu makes the journey convenient and a perfect place for a quick escape. The island is raw, it is not overrun by tourists and prices are reasonable.

Camotes is endowed with natural resources and ample greenery. There is a certain subtlety and mystery in it that will make you want to see more, hear more and feel more. I actually wished I could have stayed longer. Nonetheless, I was happy to set foot and explore the island of Camotes! 🙂