Caramoan Islands

Last summer of 2016, I persuaded my family to a road trip to Caramoan Peninsula. I have always wanted to go to Caramoan but plans did not always materialize. We are from Pili,Camarines Sur, which is about a few hours away from Caramoan.

There are two routes which you could take : First, you could take a boat from Sabang port in Sagnay,Camarines Sur to Guijalo Port in Caramoan. Second option is to travel by land where you would pass along the towns of 4th district of Camarines Sur(Partido)- Lagonoy and Presentacion. The first option would take 2 hours while the land travel would approximately take 3 hours long(from Pili,Camarines Sur).

We left for Pili at about 9 am and arrived at the town proper of Caramoan at 12 noon. We first searched for a place to stay. We managed to find a homestay in Paniman beach which cost us Php 500/room. There were four of us who shared the room

We opted to stay in Paniman than in the town proper because it is the take off point for island hopping activities.

We first ate our baon for lunch. Then, we rented a boat that took us to island hopping.

There are 2 boat rental packages and they have standardized rates.
a.) 1,500 – islands near Bikal Port such as Cagbanilad, Lahos, Matukad, Sabitang Laya
b.) 2,500 – more distant islands such as Cotivas, Manlawi Sandbar, Ocata Island and Lahuy Island

We chose the nearer islands since it is afternoon already.

We were so lucky that Survivors haven't started filming yet, so we were able to visit all islands. We have been told that some islands will be restricted to the public once Survivors started filming again.

Paniman Beach/ Bikal Port. The jump-off point for island hopping activities in Caramoan.

Disembarking at Lahos Island.

Enjoying the pristine water and powdery sand of Lahos Island.

Lagoon at Matukad Island with a humongous milk fish (bangus)

Climbed the steep limestone ledge to have a view of the lagoon. Got some bruises and cuts, but the view is all worth it.

Gota beach. Usually, this beach is off-limits whenever Survivors is filming.

Trek to Gota Beach Resort.

Cabins at Gota Village  Resort

Enjoyed our packed merienda at the fine sands of Cagbanilad Island.

 

Sunrise at Paniman Beach.

View from the Grotto of Our Lady of Peace

Will definitely go back to Caramoan Islands!