Find out the best Camiguin tourist spots so you can carefully plan your next memorable adventure on the tropical island of Camiguin.
Camiguin is second to Batanes as the smallest island province in the Philippines. However, small packages always come with big surprises, as they say. True to that, Camiguin Island is one of the dream island destinations of northern Mindanao.
With a circumferential road of about 64 kilometers, you can explore most of its tourist attractions for a couple of days. We can compare the distance from NLEX (Balintawak) to San Fernando in Pampanga or NLEX (Balintawak) going to Calamba in Laguna with that road length.
Camiguin Island is rich in water resources and some pristine beaches. While its numerous volcanoes help shape what Camiguin is today, waterfalls, hot springs, and cold springs are some natural Camiguin tourist spots worth checking.
If you are looking for ideas for your next travel to Camiguin, go over the list below so you can carefully draft your Camiguin itinerary.
Let’s explore Camiguin tourist spots!
Table of Contents
1. White Island
The island’s true gem that amasses thousands of visitors yearly is the White Island off the northern territory of Camiguin.
As one of the must-visit Camiguin tourist spots, visitors can experience exciting things even just for a couple of hours of stay.
Surprisingly, the White Island is technically not an island but is a sandbar. Thanks to changing ocean currents, the island or the sandbar take different shapes throughout the year.
Experience walking along the runway-like sandbars while overlooking the Camiguin Island and the vast deep blue sea. You can also soak yourself to the shallow shores, or you can just lay by the powdery-white sand as well. When you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try snorkeling on the deeper coast.
Aside from these fun activities, White Island is also a great place to take scenic photographs or dramatic aerial shots.
When planning to visit White Island, make sure to check the tide forecast or ask your local guide first.
You can find boat rentals in the ferry terminal beside Paras Beach Resort.
2. Mantigue Island
While Camiguin itself is an island worth discovering, visiting some secluded more petite paradise is often exciting.
Hopping to another tourist destination in Camiguin, you can also visit the Mantigue Island off its eastern coast.
Unlike the sandbar of White Island, Mantigue Island is a tiny land where trees dominate, providing shade to its visitors.
The white sandy beach surrounding the islet allows travelers to play around while enjoying the crystal-clear waters. In addition, you get a perfect viewpoint of the active volcanoes on the main island as well. Moreover, such Camiguin tourist spots are under the protection of the local government as a marine sanctuary.
Meaning, commercial fishing is prohibited, and you can witness the bounty of its marine biodiversity through snorkeling and diving.
When wanting to cool down from the scorching sun, you can rent cottages at reasonable rates too.
Don’t also miss trying their new kinds of seafood to cap off your day tour on Mantigue Island.
3. Sunken Cemetery
Out of all the best Camiguin tourist spots to visit, one of the unique ones is the Sunken Cemetery in Catarman.
According to recorded history, the destructive eruption of Mount Vulcan in 1871 has caused the coast of Catarman to sink deep into the sea, including the former location of the cemetery.
Later in 1982, a giant concrete cross was erected as a marker of the old cemetery.
Fear not when you visit the Sunken Cemetery. Aside from its historical side, this place is also known as one of the best diving spots in Camiguin.
The rubbles of the old cemetery have become a beneficial home of marine creatures, which flourished thru time.
There are still few visible tombstones underwater, though. But the highlight of the underwater experience here is the colorful corals and abundant marine life every diver shouldn’t miss.
Getting to Sunken Cemetery is a 10-minute drive from Mambajao. Note that a local guide is mandatory, and you can ask your boatman to bring you to the best diving spot in the area.
4. Guiob Church Ruins
Stop by at the Guiob Church Ruins during your tour to Catarman, Camiguin tourist spots.
Have a slice of history and learn about the remnants of the old Spanish church, which stood the test of time. But, unfortunately, the Guiob Church was among the victim of the destructive eruption of Mount Vulcan in 1871.
The only remaining structures are the base of the bell tower and walls of the Spanish Church, which is categorically claimed as a historical landmark in Camiguin.
Large, towering trees surround the remains of the walls creating canopies of shade. The location also is an excellent spot to overlook the nearby sea while relaxing under the high trees.
Indeed, the Guiob Church Ruins makes an excellent stop for some learning, especially when traveling with kids.
5. Katibawasan Falls
When wanting to take a break from the sea, you might want to consider visiting the Katibawasan Falls in Mambajao.
Its towering 70-meter drop makes it the tallest waterfall in the province and a must-see to every traveler’s Camiguin itinerary.
The water flowing in Katibawasan Falls comes from Mount Timpoong, flowing gracefully from a narrow cliff. Afterward, the flowing water feeds into the rock basin on the mountain’s foot, where tourists can take a quick dip.
Taking a glimpse of Katibawasan Falls from a distance is also lovely when reaching down the basin. The vibrant flora surrounding this Camiguin tourist spot altogether adds to its natural and refreshing charm.
There are also shops right next to the entrance to buy some souvenirs or have some quick bites.
6. Mount Hibok Hibok
Travelers who want to spice up their Camiguin tourist spots itinerary can hike Mount Hibok Hibok with an elevation of 1,332 meters.
As you may have known, there are more volcanoes than the towns themselves in Camiguin.
Beginners and the pros alike can hike the trails of Mount Hibok Hibok. With its accessible to moderate trails, you can reach the summit from 3 to 5 hours, depending on your phase, ideal for day hikes.
The drop-off point usually starts at Ardent Hot Springs. As you ascend and reach the higher elevations, you will pass by brimming shrubs and towering trees, where mosses flourish. There are some pitcher plants and wild floras as well.
Finally, when reaching the peak, hikers are rewarded with an immense view of Camiguin Island. Furthermore, the southern parts of Bohol and northern Mindanao landscapes are very much visible too.
Ensure a hiking permit first at the DENR local office to assign a local guide to your group.
Is Mount Hibok Hibok an active volcano?
With a record of five eruptions starting in 1827, Mount Hibok Hibok also forms part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. It is, and it is also known as the youngest and only active volcano in Camiguin. That being said, this Camiguin tourist spot is duly monitored by the local authorities such as PHIVOLCS.
7. Ardent Hot Springs
Of all other fascinating things, Mount Hibok Hibok and other volcanoes have caused the emergence of hot springs in its base. One of these is the more popular Ardent Hot Springs.
Visiting Ardent Hot Springs otherwise is an ultimate reward after a challenging hike from Mount Hibok Hibok. Besides being not a fan of hiking, you can enjoy lounging in the pools as well.
Ardent Hot Springs has six large pools with varying temperatures. With the top-most being the hottest at 40 degrees, the water cascades down to the other basins, eventually decreasing its temperature.
Have a relaxing dip in your choice of pools. Make sure not to stay for an extended time to avoid skin irritation. It is best to cool down on the least temperate pool after lounging on the hotter banks.
8. Tuasan Falls
With numerous natural Camiguin tourist spots to fit in your itinerary, the Tuasan Falls is another destination not to miss.
The Tuasan Falls may not be as tall as Katibawasan Falls, but it is also equally lovely just by staring at it. Standing at 25 meters of a cascade, the Tuasan Falls lies in the middle of the forest near Barrio Mainit.
Visiting Tuasan Falls requires trekking before reaching it, making it ideal for hungry tourists for off-the-beaten paths. As an option, you can also ride a 10-minute habal habal ride from the drop-off point.
Given its more remote location, Tuasan Falls gets less crowd. Thus the ambiance is more peaceful and mystic at the same time.
Enjoy a tranquil moment as you swim in the clear waters of the basin. Filled with rich vegetation and the harmonious sound of the waterfall, you’ll be in awe of nature’s greatness while in Tuasan Falls.
9. Sto. Niño Cold Springs
Aside from the hot springs near volcanoes, there are also cold springs that everyone can visit to chill down from the scorching sun.
The Sto. Niño Cold Springs also lies in Catarman, just seven minutes away from the circumferential road.
This Camiguin tourist spot highlights its vast human-made pool with fresh, cold waters flowing from Mount Mambajao. As water flows downstream, the Earth’s layer naturally filters the stream, turning into an all-natural spring.
The main pool has a depth of four to eight feet, ideal for a freshwater swimming escapade.
The resort has manicured landscapes pleasing to gaze at, while the soaring palm trees complement its resort-feel vibe.
Locals usually spend their weekends here, especially during the summer season.
You can visit the Sto. Niño Cold Springs after a sightseeing tour from nearby Camiguin tourist spots, or visit before lunchtime. They do also offer a variety of seafood to refill your energy on your next excursion.
10. Binangawan Falls
Exploring down south of Camiguin Island, the town of Sagay has the Binangawan Falls right in the middle of its rainforest.
Compared to its counterparts Tuasan and Katibawasan, this has to be the hardest one to reach.
However, if you are adventurous enough and off for some challenges, you can try visiting the Binangawan Falls.
To save you some time from hiking, you can rent habal habal from the Sagay Central School to the near end of the concrete road. With steep roads along the way, tourists must practice utmost caution, especially during the wet season or after some downpours. Nevertheless, you also have the chance to gaze at amazing views uphill.
After reaching the drop-off point, you’ll need to trek up to 1 hour into the middle of the forest. Remember to wear your proper gears as you may eventually end wet and soiled before reaching Binangawan Falls.
Afterward, the scenic views of Binangawan Falls reward every visitor. The running water could be cold most of the time, though. So if you want to have some quick dip, make sure you have some extra wearables.
11. Taguines Lagoon
You won’t run out of water-related activities when you’re on Camiguin Island. Among other Camiguin tourist spots, the Taguiness Lagoon is both a leisure and agricultural travel destination.
Built as an on-site aqua facility, the local government decided to maximize its potential as a tourist spot.
The Taguines Lagoon Aquasports and Recreational Facility offer exciting water activities like single and tandem kayaking, paddleboat, and pedalboat riding.
The Ajis Aquapark, on the other hand, has a fantastic inflatable playground where kids and kids at heart are sure to enjoy. So slide down to fun and swim all you want.
When you’re feeling extra pumped, you can also try conquering the zipline at J&A Fishpen Resort. The 400-meter overhead line passes over the Taguiness Lagoon from the resort to the other side.
When you’re feeling hungry, many restaurants are lining the circumferential road, which has a distinct view of the lagoon and the sea as well.
The Taguines Lagoon is only a few minutes away from Benoni Port.
12. Giant Clams at Kibila White Beach
Moving down to the southernmost town of Guinsiliban, there goes a dedicated sanctuary for giant clams on a white beach.
A non-government organization called Kibila Giant Clam Conservation and Ocean Nursery maintains and oversees this conservation project. With the help of locals from the small village of Cantaan, tourism in this rural area has emerged.
When visiting the Giant Clams Sanctuary, your tour starts with the mini introduction of clams and their life cycle from their incubating tanks. Interestingly, the youth are often tour guides and are well-versed in the know-hows of giant clams.
The temporary habitat of young giant clams is usually in their concrete tanks before transferring to the reefs down the shore.
After a deliberate introduction from your tour guide, they will then assist you and bring you to the shore itself when wanting to do so. Note that full gears are available for rent at an affordable rate, so you won’t have to worry.
Visiting the giant clams is the main activity from this Camiguin tourist spot, so you better go, explore, and have fun.
There you can observe varying sizes and colors of giant clams by snorkeling. When we say giant, they do span from one to two meters at adult sizes. In addition, there are also beautiful corals and abundant marine fish.
It is also noteworthy that seven out of nine species of giant clams in the world are here.
For a detailed blog, you may read Kath’s experience about Giant Clam Sanctuary.
13. Camiguin Aviation
Take your adrenaline rush to another level at Camiguin Aviation Sightseeing and Acro-Adventure Flights. The Camiguin Aviation offers both pilot courses and sightseeing flights.
Talking about fulfilling or creating an extreme bucket list, the tourist package at Camiguin Aviation could be the answer.
Their standard island flight allows eager tourists to experience a once-in-a-lifetime exhilarating ride up above the ground for an hour.
You’ll get to have an unobstructed view of the whole island and some Camiguin tourist spots like Mantigue Island, White Island, the peak of Mount Hibok Hibok, and others more.
Worry not when it comes to safety because you’ll be brief of safety and scientific guidelines before flying. The only thing to worry about is how you’ll be in so much awe after your incredible experience. Taking pictures and videos may document riding above the grounds of Camiguin, but the lasting experience may worth unmeasurable.
When interested, you may want to visit the CamiguinAviation official website and contact page. They also have detailed FAQs that may be of great help.
14. Walkway to the Old Volcano and Stations of the Cross
The Walkway to the Old Volcano is both a pilgrimage site and an ecological tourist destination in Camiguin.
Christian tourists may likely want to have an easy trek uphill thru a not-so-steep concrete pavement. There are 14 Stations of the Cross to pass by as you ascend. The place makes a great place to commune with nature with flowering plants, tall trees, and flourishing wild plants.
The positioning of each station allows visitors to meditate and pray, allowing for a quick rest in between.
This Camiguin tourist spot opens to different walks of life and leads to a sizeable viewing deck overlooking the western portion of Camiguin Island and the Sunken Cemetery.
You may visit this tourist destination to sweat off some steam in the morning or when you want to kickstart your day before engaging in more thrilling adventures in Camiguin.
15. Bura Soda Swimming Pool
Have you ever thought of soaking yourself in a pool of Soda? Well, your curiosity may lead you to a quick visit to Bura Soda Swimming Pool.
Thanks to the volcanic springs of Bura, the water flows to the two swimming pools in Soda Swimming Pool.
It was named Soda because of its likelihood to a soda beverage where tiny bubbles emerge from the bottom of the pool. However, when it comes to taste, the spring water does taste like plain soda as well.
There are tap faucets where tourists can try drinking the water.
The swimming pool is open to the public at a minimal entrance fee. You can also rent cottages when you want to stay for an extended time.
🔗 Interesting Island Destinations | Siquijor |
Related questions when traveling to Camiguin
What do tourists like in Camiguin?
Tourists visit Camiguin on a day tour like to visit the White Island or Mantigue Island to enjoy the beach vibes. Likewise, tourists who spend two days or more on the island can substantially visit most Camiguin attractions otherwise.
What is Camiguin known for?
Camiguin Island is known for its active volcanoes; hence its often called “Island Born of Fire.” Aside from its active volcanoes, Camiguin is also famous for its rich and diverse marine habitats, which attracts both local and international divers. Make sure to pay a visit to their hot springs as well.
Is Camiguin worth visiting?
Camiguin Island is worth visiting for those who want to experience an island life away from the busy civilization. You may not find any luxurious hotels, restaurants, and boutiques here, but its natural wonders keep its avid guests from coming back to the island of Camiguin.
Traveling to Camiguin
From Manila to Camiguin
There are currently no direct flights from Manila to Camiguin Island. The nearest hub instead is in Laguindingan International Airport near Cagayan de Oro City.
Tourists will then travel by land, going to Balingoan Port, which takes around three hours. After that, you need to board a ferry boat bound to Benoni Port of Camiguin, which usually takes another hour.
From Cebu to Camiguin
Tourists coming from Cebu can conveniently book domestic flights bound to Camiguin. Therefore, traveling from Cebu has the most convenient as it takes only less than an hour.
🔗 Nearby Tourist Destinations | Cagayan de Oro | Bukidnon |
Conquer Camiguin tourist spots now!
You may have known now that Camiguin is an island born of fire. Traveling to the island to witness these Camiguin tourist spots is among the bucket list of travel fanatics and adventure seekers.
Whether you’re longing for challenging hikes to summit points and waterfalls, seeking new diving spots in the Philippines, or wanting to have some laidback beach bumming, Camiguin Island is second to none.
When planning to visit the island soon enough, tourists peak at the island during April and May. In addition, the weather in Camiguin is relatively humid, with some scattered rain showers.
Camiguin may have clustered tourists visiting now and then. But the island itself maintains its rural ambiance, hence adding a unique charm to the jungle island.
Book your accommodations in Camiguin so you won’t have to struggle in deciding where to stay on your first day. With this, you’ll have enough time and space to dedicate the much-needed vacation from your busy schedules.
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Safe travels!
Remember that we are still in the middle of a pandemic. For your guidance about the changes in health protocols, you may visit the guidelines from the Department of Tourism or the Camiguin Facebook page. Stay safe.