Discover the Philippines Juan by Juan, and enjoy one island at a time!
That’s the call to adventure that Cebu Pacific Air sends out to travelers eager to explore the pristine islands of the Philippines. As the country’s leading low-cost carrier, Cebu Pacific invites you to discover the unmatched beauty and cultural diversity of the Philippine archipelago, island by island, with affordable fares and an expansive domestic network. With 35 domestic destinations spanning Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, every corner of the Philippines is within your reach, and every island promises a unique story waiting to be told. From soaring volcanoes and turquoise waters to rich history and cultural vibrant festivals, Cebu Pacific ensures that wherever your next adventure lies, getting there is just as exciting as the destination itself. Such as my Camiguin Island escapade, made possible and convenient by Cebu Pacific Air!
Camiguin Island, often referred to as the “Island Born of Fire,” is a small but stunning tropical paradise located in the Bohol Sea, just off the northern coast of Mindanao in the Philippines. Despite its size, Camiguin boasts an incredible diversity of natural wonders, from white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush rainforests and towering volcanoes. The island is home to seven volcanoes, including the still-active Mt. Hibok-Hibok, and its volcanic history has shaped both its dramatic landscapes and its unique attractions, such as the Sunken Cemetery and the Old Church Ruins. Known for its laid-back charm, Camiguin offers visitors a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, with hot and cold springs, majestic waterfalls, and pristine islands like White Island and Mantigue Island, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. Regardless if you are exploring its rich cultural heritage or indulging in its local culinary offerings, Camiguin provides a truly unforgettable and uniquely laidback experience.
Now that you’ve caught a glimpse of Camiguin’s volcanic charm and natural wonders, it’s time to dive into a well-planned adventure that ensures you make the most of your stay on the island. From its scenic viewpoints and serene waterfalls to its tranquil beaches and vibrant local flavors, Camiguin promises an unforgettable journey. Here’s a detailed four-day itinerary that will guide you through the island’s breathtaking destinations, culinary gems, and unique experiences, giving you a taste of everything this “Island Born of Fire” has to offer.
READ GUIDE
- Day 1: From Clark to Camiguin via Cebu – A Taste of Adventure Begins
- Day 2: Exploring Camiguin’s Natural Wonders – Where Land Meets Sea
- Day 3: Island Hopping and Natural Sanctuary
- Day 4: A Relaxing Farewell
- Acknowledgments
- Book Your Flight to Camiguin Today!
Day 1: From Clark to Camiguin via Cebu – A Taste of Adventure Begins
Official Island Check-In – Smart Travel style
After a smooth flight with Cebu Pacific from Clark to Cebu and then a quick connecting flight to Camiguin, your adventure on this enchanting island officially begins. Before diving into your itinerary, a critical first step is registering as a tourist at Isle Visit Camiguin to receive your QR code.
With this, you can conveniently purchase online tickets for top attractions like Mantigue Island, Soda Water Pool, Tuasan Falls, and Sto. Niño Cold Spring. As Provincial Tourism Officer Ms. Candice Borromeo-Dael suggests, having both the QR code and online tickets will save you from long lines at these popular sites. Soon they would include booking of ferry tickets and more travel options for added convenience for the valued guests.
Pro tip: Screenshot your QR code and save it in your favorites folder on your phone for quick access throughout your trip.
Lunch at La Dolce Vita
For lunch, head to La Dolce Vita Italian Restaurant, where authentic Italian cuisine meets the fresh ingredients of Camiguin. We started with their Carbonara, which struck a perfect balance of creamy richness with al dente pasta. The Ravioli, stuffed with a delightful spinach and ricotta filling, had a handmade texture that screamed authenticity. The Fried Chicken and Pork Steak were juicy offering hearty, home-cooked meal after your flight.
Visit the Old Church Ruins
Once refueled, we immersed ourselves in Camiguin’s rich history by visiting the Old Church Ruins (Old Catarman Church), a haunting reminder of the island’s volcanic past. It is one of the oldest church ruins in the country. Next, take in the surreal beauty of the Sunken Cemetery, where an old graveyard now lies submerged under the sea, marked only by a massive cross that juts from the water—a powerful symbol of Camiguin’s resilience.
Tackle the Volcano Walkway
From there, stroll along the Walkway to the Old Volcano, where every step brings you closer to panoramic views of the island and sea but the looming rain hindered us from progressing further.
Marvel the vast sea at this view deck
Tongatok Viewdeck provides the perfect spot to capture those Instagram-worthy moments, with sweeping views of Camiguin’s diverse landscapes and rocky shoreline. It was windy when we visited and had a short visit because of the looming rain.
Bask in the sunset’s glory at Unwnd Camiguin
As the day draws to a close, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Unwnd Resort, a beachfront restaurant that elevates local flavors with a twist of international flair. Their Seafood Marinara was a good one—al dente cooked pasta generously topped with fresh shrimp, squid, and mussels in a tangy tomato sauce. The Seafood Kare-Kare put a unique spin on a Filipino classic, with seafood adding a light, briny contrast to the rich peanut sauce. For something bold, try the Tipsy Shrimp, and the Pampano Dela Reyna, which offered a fresh, clean flavor with hints of herbs and spices from the dips that brought out the natural taste of the fish.
Day 2: Exploring Camiguin’s Natural Wonders – Where Land Meets Sea
Bare Beauty of the White Island
Start the day early with a visit to White Island, one of the island’s most famous attractions. A sandbar with no shade, this small strip of white sand offers stunning views of the nearby Mt. Hibok-Hibok volcano. The entrance fee is a mere Php75 per person, and the boat rental is Php550 for up to 4 people. Be sure to get there as early as possible, as the midday heat can be intense. Despite the lack of shade, the crystal-clear waters and panoramic views make it a must-visit for nature lovers. I love testing the automatic capabilities of my DJI Mini 4 Pro and kept running around the sandbar.
Breakfast with familiar flavors of Tapsi
After a morning under the sun, head to Tapsi Corner for breakfast, where we indulged in classic Filipino favorites—Tapsilog (beef tapa, fried egg, and garlic rice) and Longsilog (Filipino sweet sausage with the same sides). The tapa was tender, with a balanced marinade of sweet and savory, while the longganisa was delightfully sweet and garlicky, pairing perfectly with the fried egg and rice. If you need caffeine fix, a coffee shop is just nearby.
Dip into this unique natural pool
Next up is the refreshing Soda Water Pool, where the cool, clear waters—said to have a slightly fizzy texture—offer a unique swimming experience. When we arrived, the pool was in the process of being refilled, allowing us to see just how pristine the water source was. The pool itself was refreshingly cool, perfect for escaping the island’s tropical heat. I wish to go back and try when the pool is at its peak and optimum level or depth.
Thundering Tuasan Falls
From there, head to the stunning Tuasan Falls. This natural wonder is nestled deep within the island’s lush greenery, offering a secluded, serene spot to take in the beauty of Camiguin’s waterfalls. The shoulder-deep catchbasin is a great place to take a dip, with cool icy waters cascading from the cliffs. The waterfalls park is developed including spacious parking lots, dedicated welcome counters, trinkets, and snacks stores. I could stay longer here. The thundering cascades and blast of wind was therapeutic for me, coupled by sauntering at their knee-deep portions of icy waters.
Towering Katibawasan Falls
Nearby, the towering Katibawasan Falls also promises a breathtaking experience, surrounded by verdant foliage that highlights the island’s untouched natural beauty. Its cascade features a slender flow towering at around 250 feet or about 76 meters thundering below to a waist-deep catchbasin. More tourists would love it here because of the fall’s enigmatic slender appearance.
Both of the waterfall parks feature developed amenities for every tourist’s convenience. There are pasalubong stores, parking spaces, dedicated toilet rooms, and huts for day use.
Chill at Cafe de Gloria in Mambajao
For lunch, you can visit Cafe de Gloria at Mambajao and try their decadent frappes. For mine, I got an Iced Americano to pick up my afternoon. Their beverage best sellers are Spanish Latte, Caramel Macchiato, and Tiramisu. Did you know that they source their beans locally? Yes! They have it directly from the coffee farms of Mahayag of Zamboanga del Sur province. What I love about the cafe is its homey interiors, the bookshelves with interesting titles plus the cool barista – Sir MJ! Hungry for more? Order from Glorom Food Hub to try their Tinola, Crispy Calamares, and Buffalo Wings located right beside the cafe.
Lukewarm dip at Ardent
Cap off the day at Ardent Hibok-Hibok Spring, a natural hot spring where you can relax in warm, soothing waters after a long day of exploring. With the cool evening breeze, it’s the perfect spot to wind down and ease your tired muscles. We visited before dusk and the smoke emanating from the burning of leaves created a mystical, ethereal, and mythical setting.
Dinner at Nouveau’s Mi Flavors of Asia
For dinner, we dined at Nouveau Resort, where the diverse menu offers a little something for every palate. We tried the Pinakbet, a Filipino vegetable dish cooked in bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), which was hearty and bursting with umami. The assorted dim sum showcased expertly steamed dumplings that were light, savory, and packed with flavor, while the Beef Gyudon, a Japanese rice bowl, was rich with tender slices of beef marinated in soy sauce and sweet mirin.
Day 3: Island Hopping and Natural Sanctuary
Island Getaway at Mantigue
On day three, set sail for Mantigue Island, a peaceful escape with its powdery white sands and emerald waters. The lush interior of the island provides a perfect contrast to its pristine shoreline, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing under the shade of trees. We spent a lot of running around and recording aerial clips here. It was windy but thanks to DJI Mini Pro 4 it can withstand these winds.
Saunter at Nature’s Picturesque Labyrinth
From there, visit Katunggan Park, a mangrove sanctuary where centuries-old trees form a labyrinth of twisted roots and branches. A wooden walkway weaves through the mangroves, allowing you to admire the ecosystem while enjoying the cool sea breeze. The park’s tranquility is complemented by the scenic views of the coastline, making it a wonderful spot for reflection and nature appreciation. Complete those daily step requirements by trodding the floating walking path around the mystical mangrove forest. I could spend a whole day thanks to the serene and calming environment.
Surreal dining at J&A Fishpen
Lunch takes you to J&A Fishpen at Taguines Lagoon, a rustic dining spot renowned for its fresh, catch-of-the-day seafood. We feasted on grilled fish, crabs, and shrimp, all perfectly cooked and paired with simple yet flavorful sauces that let the freshness of the seafood shine. The peaceful lagoon setting enhances the dining experience, offering a picturesque view while you dine.
Captivating sand and sea at Guinsilban
In the afternoon, we headed to Guinsilban Aqua Marine Park, where white sand and azure waters await. This spot is ideal for swimming or simply lounging on the beach as you take in the beauty of the surroundings. The park’s calm atmosphere makes it a great place to relax after a full day of exploring. What I love, as well, is the presence of a responder in an identifiable shirt.
Serene Golden Hour at the Provincial Plaza
Before the day ended, we made our way to the Camiguin Provincial Plaza for one of the most beautiful sunset views on the island. We hoped to have climbed the spiral staircase of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the horizon, watching as the sky turned shades of orange and pink, reflecting on the calm waters but it appeared rusty and unsafe to trod to. I just observed the sunset shades and hues cast on the mountainside and on the buildings while savoring the fresh cool sea breeze.
Dinner at Pedro’s is a treat for our senses. This 15-year-old homegrown restaurant, with its open-air dining hall and antique-style interiors, offers a cozy and nostalgic vibe. We indulged in Pancit Lomi, a thick noodle soup with a rich, savory broth, and Shanghai Fried Rice Platter, a generous serving of fragrant rice mixed with vegetables and crispy fried spring rolls. The Manok Surol, a traditional chicken dish cooked in coconut milk, was tender and aromatic, while the Kinilaw nga Isda (fish ceviche) and Inihaw na Isda (grilled fish) offered refreshing flavors that highlighted the freshness of the seafood.
Day 4: A Relaxing Farewell
Quick Dip before Check Out
On my final day, I took a quick dip in Nouveau Resort’s large outdoor swimming pool. With its crystal-clear waters and surrounding lush pocket gardens, it’s the perfect way to unwind before heading home.
Hayahay at Haruhay Eco-Beach Tavern
For a light snack, we visited Haruhay Eco-Beach Tavern by Potpot Pinili, which offers a selection of vegan dishes from their Daos Vegan Kitchen. The food here is thoughtfully prepared, with fresh and locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors that will satisfy even non-vegans. Potpot has customized our experience by preparing vegan Sisig Wrap and Seasoned Fruit Salad. I loved how Potpot transformed the mushroom filling into a tasty sisig core. The tea is made refreshing with a citrus blend. It is located near the Camiguin Airport.
Daghang Salamat Kaayo, CAMIGUIN!
As you depart, your Camiguin QR code will be scanned upon entry to the Departure Building of the Camiguin Airport for an easy exit from Camiguin. The return flight with Cebu Pacific will take me back to Cebu, where I will catch your connecting flight to Clark, bringing with you not only souvenirs but cherished memories of Camiguin’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.
Acknowledgments
A special thank you to Ms. Candice Borromeo-Dael, Camiguin Provincial Tourism Officer, for guiding us throughout the trip. Deep gratitude to Sir Junelou Basco and Ms. Cherry Lou Salga, and to Sir Iñigo Nebrida and Ms. Kharen of Unwnd Camiguin for their hospitality. A heartfelt thanks to Sir Anthony Dignadice, Duty Manager of Nouveau Resort, for making our stay memorable. My deepest appreciation goes to Ms. Roxanne Gochuico of Cebu Pacific Air for making this trip possible, and to Roy Marquez for accompanying me on this journey of discovery.
Book Your Flight to Camiguin Today!
Now is the perfect time to book your flight to Camiguin with Cebu Pacific. This breathtaking island offers a wealth of natural wonders, from the shimmering waters of White Island to the lush greenery of Katibawasan Falls. Don’t wait—start your adventure and discover the beauty of Camiguin one unforgettable moment at a time! Go to https://www.cebupacificair.com/
For your convenience, see below flight schedule (as of posting) with Cebu Pacific bound for Camiguin:
- DG 6693 CEBU to CAMIGUIN 11:40AM-12:35PM
- DG 6694 CAMIGUIN to CEBU 01:00PM-01:55PM
Additionally, Cebu Pacific Air has direct flights from Cebu to Manila, Davao, Clark, Iloilo, Bacolod, Tagbilaran, Calbayog, Tacloban, Siargao, Surigao, Cagayan de Oro, Butuan, Ozamiz, Pagadian, Zamboanga, Dumaguete, Kalibo, Puerto Princesa, Busuanga, Masbate, Legazpi and General Santos.