The Philippines has 7,107 islands. It sure will not run out of islands, known or unexplored. And whether you are in Luzon, Visayas or Mindanao, the three major islands where those 7,107 islands are scattered, you will most likely wound up in an island, one way or the other. An example would be the Camotes Island located east of Cebu Island, north of Bohol Island and Southwest of Leyte Island. It is described as a group of islands, four major islands to be exact, is found in Camotes namely, Pacijan, Poro, Ponson and Tulang Island and is actually made up of four towns, namely, Poro, Tudela, Pilar and San Francisco – that form part of the province of Cebu. A paved road joins Pacijan and Poro Islands while Ponson Island is separated by the Camotes Sea and is found about 4 kilometers northeast from Poro Island. North of Pacijan Island is Tulang Island.
Camotes Island is defined by crystal clear pristine waters, sugary-white sand and spectacular sunset views, which for many years have been unexplored, remote and remained Cebu’s best kept secret. In recent years though, the local tourists have discovered the islands and to date has become a top tourist destination picked by foreign travelers due to the unique experience one will have when in Camotes Island.
HOW TO GET TO CAMOTES ISLAND
The fastest way to get to Camotes island is via Jomalia fastcraft from Mactan which only takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Alternatively, one may also drive 1.5 – 2 hours north from Cebu City to Danao Port (or take the North-bound bus) and take the ferry boat for another 2 hours going to the island.
One can choose to travel by public bus (take the north-bound Ceres bus from the North Bus terminal in Reclamation Area Cebu) or take a private transport.
Private vehicles may be parked overnight at the Danao pier for a fee of approximately PhP 300 per night.
For those who wish to take their vehicle to Camotes Island, you may arrange with the ticketing booth at the port upon arrival. Rate is approximately PhP 1,200 per vehicle per way.
Things to do in Camotes Islands:
Get ready for an activity-filled vacation at Camotes Islands! There are tons of things to do while here to completely enjoy your trip with your loved ones. Be sure to take on the challenge and make the most of your getaway.
You can try out the following while on the islands:
Snorkeling and Scuba diving Obviously, the best thing about being on an island is enjoying the crystal clear water. The marine life at the Camotes Island is rich and diverse so you will have a great time. Check the Flying Fish Resort for one of the best spots to snorkel.
Island Hopping. Don’t limit yourself to just one island. Join a tour or rent a boat to take you around to explore the different beaches in all islands nearby.
Explore Lake Danao Lake Danao, in the northern part of Pacijan Island, isone of the most exciting tourist spots in the Camotes. Here you can find endless activities to fill an entire day: swimming, zip lining, and kayaking. The entrance to Danao Lake Park cost around PHP 15.
Check out Buho Rock Buho Rock in Poro island is the place to go for some great vacations ‘selfies’. This beautiful coral rock formation used to be a resort but is now abandoned. Come for a half day of picnic and swimming and remember to bring comfortable shoes as you will have to brave some stairs to reach.
See the Busay Waterfalls Also in Poro island, near to Tudela, you will find the Busay Falls where you can take a refreshiong dip into the clear waters. This is a beautiful spot to include in your itinerary
Pay a visit to St. Joseph Parish and Sto. Nino Church of Poro If you want to make your visit a bit more cultural, don’t miss the churches in the islands to learn about their historical past.
Try spelunking at Timubo Cave, Bukilat Cave in Tudela, Guadalupe Cave, and Holy Crystal Cave There are plenty of caves worth exploring in the Camotes Islands if you are feeling adventurous. The entrance to the caves might cost around PHP 20. Don’t forget to bring appropriate shoes, fashlights or headlights.
Beach bumming in Mangodlong, Santiago Bay, Bakhaw, and other white sand beaches on the islands of Pacijan, Tulang, Poro, and Ponson Beaches are the main attractions of the islands and we will leave it up to you to choose your favourite. We hope you get a nice tan!
Play beach volleyball or frisbee Feeling bored of laying down and tanning? Most beaches in Camotes offer other sports activities and you will have plenty of sand space for a volleyball match. A summer to remember at Camotes Islands Plan your summer escapade now and take time to discover Camotes Islands. This piece of paradise will surely surprise you and leave you in awe. The charm and natural beauty of this striking destination will make you fall in love with it over and over again. Seize the moment and enjoy every minute you are here.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kI3Bq_Aics
-Cherry May S. Santillan
Gr.12 Accountability
Aventurier 