After we roam around the City of Legazpi we decided to visit Caramoan Island since it is also in Bicol but it is still 3 hours away from where we are. We left Legazpi City at 1 am so we can witness the sunrise while crossing the island.
We reached Caramoan past 4 am as we took the long way to go to Caramoan. We passed through mountains foot and some zig-zag areas that we haven't seen before. Feels like we're traversing on the edge of the Philippines as every time we asked for the direction they tell us to keep going left as turning to our right will lead us to the ocean. We can't use google map or Waze as there's no signal in that area. So no one sleeps during the whole travel until we reach the port of Bikal where we travel by boat going to the island.
Caramoan Island or Caramoan Peninsula is one of the best islands here in the Philippines. It is where the U.S. version of the hit reality TV show “Survivor” was shot. The beauty of it is secluded and pristine in the region of Bicol. Its exact location can be found in Camarines Sur. It is about 8 hours away from Manila if you are going to hit the road but if you are traveling by plane, you'll be there in about an hour.
Boats are used to transfer tourists from one island to another as their means of transportation to tour the islands. It is also your mean of transportation to go to the main island. Though I heard last 2018 they already build a bridge that will let you travel going to the island via private car. Caramoan is surrounded by small beautiful islands that you can also visit.
Boats are usually rented by groups and it cost about $50 to rent one for a whole day tour of the Island but it varies in size so the rate can be higher too. You can also ask the boat owner to cater for your food while you are touring the island. See that black box that the man is holding, that was our food during that trip. We even grill some fish and squids while we are on the island.
The island is most loved by those who are seeking an adventurous getaway as it is popular because of its different activities like diving, swimming, snorkeling, and spelunking. But the main attraction is the island itself that is so beautiful and also known as a gateway to the other beaches, limestone cliffs, and caves where you can do the spelunking.
There is this tiny island called Lahos where the beach is between two rock clusters that disappear during high tide, so visiting there is really by chance and during low tide only.
One of my favorites there is Matukad Island, it has a tropical forest and hidden lagoon and it looks like it's straight off a postcard. Matukad is riddled with huge limestones cliff that is a treat for climbers. But the best in Matukad is their fine white sand beaches that look and feels like the one in Boracay.
The rate for the boat renting is really worth it. Your eyes will feast on the beauty of each island and its surroundings plus you'll be enjoying each island that you visit. Each island has different stories to tell and gives you different experiences too. Especially if you are in Lahos and then the tide suddenly changes, it's fun and a bit scary to see and watch how the island slowly disappears and is covered by water.
We also roam the main island using tricycles as we cannot bring our car to the main island.
Stayed on this resort where we also enjoyed watching the scenery while having coffee on their verandah.
We stayed there for three nights and four days. And if you are going to ask me if I'll still go back there if given a chance, my answer will be a big yes. The Islands offer so much that you just can't get enough of it. Besides, who will say no to that beautiful sand, water and view. We left Caramoan after lunch on our fourth day leaving our hearts and hoping to go back there again someday.
And if you've come this far thank you for your time. All words are formed in this crazy head that is enjoying life while finding that path that really suits her. Photos are my own shots.
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February ___, 2022
“Fall in love with taking care of yourself. Fall in love with the path of deep healing. Fall in love with becoming the best version of yourself but with patience, with compassion, and respect to your own journey.” —S. McNutt