Located to the north of mainland Cebu, Carnaza Island has long been a hidden gem, treasured for its unspoiled beauty and pristine white sand beaches. While not entirely new to the tourism scene, the island gained popularity in 2019 when it was featured by GMA News and caught the attention of renowned YouTubers and bloggers.
Fast forward to today, marking five years since my last visit, returning to Carnaza Island holds a sense of nostalgia. This time, there’s no academic research on the agenda; it’s all about reviving cherished memories and embracing the island’s delights purely for leisure.
When you explore Carnaza Island, you’ll find a range of captivating attractions that promise unforgettable experiences. Let’s take a closer look at some of these hidden gems:
Taking a deep breath and gearing up for the ascent to the peak, ready to behold the breathtaking panoramic view.
Overlooking Twin Beach, this section on the right exudes a Palawan-like atmosphere.
Twin Beach
True to its name, it features two distinct sections known as Peak and Beach, where you can climb to an islet to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view showcasing the V-shaped layout of these unspoiled locations, complete with inviting white sandy shores, ideal for a relaxing sunbathing experience.
After a few minutes of climbing in the scorching sun, the effort was truly rewarding when we beheld the breathtaking panoramic view.
When you reach the peak, you’ll find perfect vantage points to capture Instagram-worthy photos, as shown in the images on the left:
LiogLiog Beach
Situated just 500 meters to the right of Twin Beach, provides a tranquil and private escape where we discovered ourselves as the only tourists during our visit, sharing the space with friendly local fishermen, and featuring extensive white sandy stretches and striking rock formations, making it a destination that demands attention.
Embraced by an exceptionally serene natural environment.
Kaelina Beach
Situated within Sitio Daanbaryo on Carnaza Island, Kaelina Beach boasts fine white sands that lure both locals and tourists alike. It’s a lively spot where you can bask in the sun and savor the warm waters.
During our stay, we had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of local children who were eager to impart their fishing expertise. Fishing is a primary livelihood on the island, and even the children are adept.
An ideal spot for leisurely hours of beachside relaxation in the warm waters.
An ideal location for witnessing the sunset
In a heartwarming encounter, when my friends craved sea urchins, a young child aboard a small paddle boat (baruto) graciously shared numerous sea urchins with us, forming a new bond in the process. It was an extraordinary moment that exemplified the island’s genuine hospitality.
Kudos to the kids who generously shared these freshly caught sea urchins!
The attractions on Carnaza Island go beyond their breathtaking natural beauty, providing unique chances for cultural interaction and forming lasting bonds with the hospitable local residents. These remarkable destinations should be at the top of your list when you visit this enchanting island!
Goodbye for now, lovely Carnaza. All smiles while seated in the middle of the boat, enjoying the shaded area.
Where to stay:
Accommodations on these islands are often basic, but this simplicity is part of the charm. Unlike established tourist destinations with luxury resorts, you won’t find lavish amenities here. Instead, you’ll discover small family-run guesthouses, beachfront huts, and the authentic hospitality of friendly locals. It’s the perfect choice for adventurous travelers who value genuine experiences over opulent comforts.
How We Got There:
Our journey began at 7:00 in the morning when we reached the North Bus Terminal, conveniently located near SM City Cebu, right across from the Bayfront Hotel. Here, you have a choice of transportation: you can opt for a V-hire, which offers a quicker 3-hour ride to the Tapilon port, or you can select a bus, which takes a bit longer due to multiple stops and amounts to about a 4-hour journey.
We decided to go with the bus since we were in no rush, and the travel time typically takes around 4 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
Arriving at Tapilon Port:
Once we arrived at Tapilon port, a short walk of approximately 2 minutes across the street led us to a small kiosk or center on the left-hand side. Here, you can complete the necessary registration and payment for the boat ride, as well as any environmental fees.
After the paperwork was sorted, we boarded the boat. The boat ride itself lasted approximately 2 hours, though this duration might vary depending on weather conditions.
Important Note: Keep in mind that the ferry schedule to the island has only one departure per day. You can contact the tourism center for assistance and confirmation of the boat schedule to ensure your timely arrival.
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