You may have heard that Camiguin has more volcanoes than towns.
But… say… did you know that Camiguin has the highest tourist spots per square kilometer ratio?
For such a small island, Camiguin is BURSTING with so much beauty all around, you’ll be shocked.
From white sand beaches to magical cold springs, to powerful waterfalls, and even a mysterious underwater cemetery, Camiguin has it all.
After exploring the island for a week, I’m going to share with you my favorite spots – from the super popular, to the not-so-well-known!
These are the best Camiguin tourist spots you can check out!
(I made up the square-kilometer-ratio thing, but it certainly feels right!).
The Best Camiguin Tourist Spots (18 Spots You Should Check Out!)
For this list, I’m not going to list the spots in random order.
Instead, it’s a strange combination of my personal favorites / what I believe everyone should see / the ones that aren’t too difficult to visit / trying to diversify the list so it’s not all the same type of attraction kind of thing.
So without further adieu, here they are!
- Sto. Nino Cold Spring
- Mantigue Island
- Katibawasan Falls
- White Island
- Sunken Cemetery
- The Old Volcano
- Mt. Hibok Hibok
- Guiob Old Church Ruins
- Tuasan Falls
- Bura Soda Water Park
- Katunggan Park
- Tongatok Viewdeck
- Giant Clam Sanctuary
- Parola Mambajao + 1914 Monument
- Ardent Hot Spring
- Taguines Lagoon
- Sto. Rosario Church
- Moro Moro Watchtower
If you’re familiar with some of these, you might be surprised that they’re so low down.
I’ll get to that, but first, let’s start with:
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #1: Sto. Nino Cold Spring
Probably my personal favorite!
There are hundreds (if not thousands!) of cold springs all over the Philippines. But few of them are as good as Sto. Nino cold spring in Catarman.
It has the perfect balance of being developed enough that casuals can enjoy it, but not overdeveloped that it loses its natural beauty (a theme you’ll find throughout Camiguin).
There are a few tables around the spring where you can chill. They have comfort rooms to change in. And there’s even a “kiddie pool”, a shallow area separated from the main swimming area (kiddie spring, if you will).
But the real star is, of course, the spring itself.
When you get in, you’ll immediately find two things:
- They’re not lying when they say COLD spring (seriously, the water IS cold), and
- The water is a magical blue
From above, the water reflects the nature around it, so it appears green. But once you’re in, you’ll realize just how blue it really is!
The swimming area is so large, you can call it a lake if you want.
And it’s pretty deep. Deep enough you can duck dive down, but not too deep that you can’t get some cool photos with the rocks underneath.
Once you’re finished swimming, you can lounge around the spring. Right outside the entrance, you can also buy souvenirs, or try Camiguin’s famous snack, kiping!
Facts About Sto. Nino Cold Spring
Fees: Entrance is php75/head ($1.5). You can also rent the tables there for php150 ($3).
Opening/Closing Time: Sto. Nino cold spring is open from 11am-5pm on Monday and Thursday, and 8am-5pm every other day of the week.
How to Get There: Sto. Nino Cold Spring is found in Catarman, a few minutes uphill from the highway. Most Camiguin tours will include this in the itinerary.
If not, the easiest way to get there is to rent a motorbike and use Google Maps. You can also hail a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) and ask them to take you here. Don’t forget to ask them to wait for you outside since public transportation in Camiguin is very limited.
Planning Notes: Tuasan Falls and the Bura Soda Water Spring are just nearby Sto. Nino cold spring. If you want to make the most out of your trip, try to include these in your plans while you’re in the area!
I highly prefer Sto. Nino over Bura Soda Water Park. So I recommend spending more time here than over there!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #2: Mantigue Island
Camiguin is a volcanic island.
This means you’ll hardly find any good white-sand beaches in Camiguin island itself.
But off the coast, you’ll find 2 FANTASTIC white sand islands: White Island and Mantigue Island.
Both are must-sees, but if you could only see one, I’d say go for Mantigue.
Why?
Because aside from having a white sand beach, the waters that surround the island are also teeming with life!
And I’m not talking about tiny fish scattered here and there. If you swim a little way off to the floating raft, you’ll find one of the best coral reefs in the country.
You’ll see school upon school of colorful fish – both small and BIG. And to top it all off, you’ll find SEA TURTLES here too!
Whether you’re snorkeling, freediving, or scuba diving, you’re very likely to come across one of these friendly creatures here!
Outside the water, you’ll find tables and cottages where you can chill. There’s no food on the island, so make sure you bring some along.
Unlike White Island, there are plenty of trees to give you shade when the sun gets hot. And if you want a little adventure, you can walk around the whole island.
On your little trip, you’ll see the other, crowdless side of the island.
You’ll find a hidden tire swing.
An abandoned house. And a tower that – if you’re like me and have nothing better to do – you can climb to get a nice bird’s eye view.
Facts About Mantigue Island
Fees: The boat fee to get to Mantigue is php750 ($15), good for four people for 3 hours on the island. There’s also an entrance fee of php75/head ($1.5). Both of these are paid before departure.
You can ask your boatman to circle around the island and get pictures of you too. We paid php200 ($4) for this, although I’m not sure it’s a standardized rate!
Finally, on the island, you can rent a shed for php150 ($3), or a plastic table and chair set for php100 ($2).
If you want to snorkel in the reef (which you should!), you’ll also have to pay a snorkeling fee of php50/head ($1). Snorkels are also available on the island for rent!
Opening/Closing Time: The island opens at 6am, and closes at 5 pm, with the last trip leaving at 3 pm. Take note that after 3pm, there won’t be any boats going to the island anymore, so plan accordingly!
How to Get There: The port to get to Mantigue is found in Mahinog, just a few minutes away from Benoni Port. From the port to the island takes around 15 minutes.
As always, Mantigue is usually included in tours. It’s also very easy to hail a habal-habal from Benoni Port to the Mantigue jump-off area.
If you’re driving a scooter or a car, you can search “Mantigue Island Departure Area” on Google maps!
Planning Notes: Your boat isn’t going to wait for you on the island. If possible, they’ll try to get back to the mainland to drive more passengers.
Your boatman will be back 3 hours later, but if you aren’t planning to stay that long, you should plan with your boatman.
Secondly, bring food!
Or at least snacks.
We were warned that there were no stores on the island, but we didn’t really think about it too much. 3 hours later, we couldn’t wait for our boat to come back because we were hungry!
You can split your 3 hours in Mantigue into sections.
In the first hour, you can go snorkeling.
On the second, you can explore the whole island.
And on the third, you can just relax and chill on the beach, or eat lunch/snacks (if you’re smarter than us and actually brought food).
Of course, your itinerary on the island can look completely different. But for me, that’s the best way to get the full Mantigue experience!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #3: Katibawasan Falls
Like waterfalls?
Then you’ll love Katibawasan!
Dropping 250 feet from above, this waterfall is the tallest in Camiguin. It’s also the most accessible.
Getting here is a breeze since it’s found right on the outskirts of Mambajao. You won’t have to hike through any forest either, although you will have to go down about 100-200 steps.
The waterfall drops into a little pool where you can dip your feet or swim. When you get closer, you’ll notice a cool phenomenon where some water spills out of the steep rock wall – sort of like mini waterfalls beside the giant majestic one.
But don’t get too close to the falls!
Since it’s so high, you can seriously hurt yourself if you get underneath – not to mention falling rocks.
Like a lot of Camiguin’s tourist spots, there are also plenty of tables and chairs that you can rent here. There’s also a store right outside the entrance where you can buy snacks – such as Kiping!
Facts About Katibawasan Falls
Fees: Entrance fee is at php75 ($1.5), with sheds and tables for rent at php150 ($3) and php100 ($2) respectively.
How to Get There: As always, the easiest way to get here is by renting a motorbike and using Google Maps!
Since Katibawasan is close to Mambajao, it shouldn’t be difficult to find a motorbike taxi here though.
Planning Notes: Katibawasan Falls is the closest attraction to Mambajao (only 13 minutes away from the airport). However, there aren’t many other tourist spots nearby.
That’s why when planning your trip, you can always keep Katibawasan as a “last minute” spot before hopping on your plane home. Just stay off the pool if you don’t wanna be bringing wet clothes on your flight!
Katibawasan is also one of the best places to enjoy Kiping – a local snack made from casava drizzled with molasses.
Outside the entrance, there’s a small store where you can buy this snack and take it with you inside!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #4: White Island
One of the most popular tourist spots in Camiguin has to be White Island.
In fact, it’s one of the main reasons people come to Camiguin in the first place!
There isn’t much marine life to explore here, nor is there any shade to hide from the sun, but who can resist such a beautiful sandbar out in the middle of the sea?
The water is clearer than you’ve ever seen, and the sand is so fine and white, that it can rival all the top beaches in the country (even Boracay!).
People come here as early as 5:30 am for a chill swim or to bask in the eternal sunshine of the island.
From White Island, you’ll also get a majestic view of Camiguin island and its peaks – most notably, Mount Hibok-Hibok.
And if you’re not the type to go sunbathing, you can easily rent a beach umbrella set from the boat operators.
Facts About White Island
Fees: The boat fee to get to White Island is php550 ($11), good for four people. There’s also an entrance fee of php50/head ($1).
When you’re on the island, you can rent a beach umbrella set for php150 ($3). This set includes an umbrella and some mats so you can relax on the sand.
Opening/Closing Time: Trips to White Island start at 5:30am and end at 4pm. At 5pm, the island closes and guests are asked to return to the mainland.
How to Get There: The port to get to White Island is found on the outskirts of Mambajao – about halfway from the town to the tourist zone of Catarman.
From Mambajao, you can ride an orange west-bound tricycle to take you here.
Or, you can search for “White Island Ferry Terminal” on Google maps!
Planning Notes: Go early!
Remember, White Island is a bare sandbar. There’s no cover from the sun unless you rent an umbrella.
That’s why getting there before sunrise is probably the best time to enjoy White Island.
If you go really early like 5:30am, you can also avoid the queue for boats. White Island gets a lot of visitors, so if you come at around 6-7am, you may have to wait a few minutes before getting a boat (like us!).
Since White Island right in the middle of Mambajao and Catarman, you can start the day here, then move on to Catarman spots like Sto. Nino Cold spring, Tuasan Falls, etc.
Or, you can do what we did. We started the day at White Island. Then, when the sun got too hot, we made our way over to Mantigue. Our own little “island hopping” if you will.
You can also go at sunset, but keep in mind that all boats leave White Island at 5pm.
Also, fun fact: There was also a man selling fresh sea-urchin when we were there.
If you’re brave enough, give it a try!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #5: Sunken Cemetery
Sunken Cemetery is Camiguin’s most recognizable landmark.
And it’s a REALLY intriguing one too.
The story goes that when Mt. Vulcan (the “Old Volcano”) erupted in the 1870s, the earthquake was so strong that an entire portion of Camiguin island collapsed into the sea. In that portion was an old Spanish cemetery, hence the name “Sunken Cemetery”.
While it certainly is a very unique and interesting place, don’t expect to see rows of gravestones or skeletons here!
After over a hundred years, most of the cemetery remains are now gone, and replaced with a sprawling coral reef!
Aside from the reef, you’ll also see some majestic purple giant clams here.
A giant cross and view deck were also built a stone’s throw away from the shore. You can swim or ride a boat here, and enjoy the glorious Camiguin sunset.
However, not everything from the old cemetery disappeared.
If you swim around the view deck, you’ll find an old gravestone and bust from the cemetery.
And if you swim even further away, you’ll find the old cross – a big, cement cross that was actually part of the original cemetery.
Aside from that though, don’t expect too much!
I came here expecting much more, so I was slightly disappointed – even though the giant cross and view deck in and of themselves make the trip well worth it already!
Facts About Sunken Cemetery
Fees: Entrance is free, but there are several fees on Sunken Cemetery depending on what you plan to do.
For a boat ride to the cross, that’ll cost you php100 ($2).
If you wanna swim, there’s a swimming fee of php100 ($2).
Then, if you want a guide (which you should get if you want to see the giant clams and the sunken cross), that’ll cost you php150 ($3).
You can also rent lifevest, masks, and snorkels if need be.
Keep in mind that these fees are paid in the green building ACROSS the road from the Sunken Cemetery gate. It’s a good idea to head over there before entering, so you won’t have to walk all the way back like we did.
Opening/Closing Time: Sunken Cemetery does not have an official opening and closing time.
However, most of the guides (and I believe the boatmen too) go home at around 5pm, so it’s a good idea to be a bit earlier than that.
How to Get There: The entrance to Sunken Cemetery is a little bit difficult to find. The jump-off point doesn’t show up in Google Maps, just the monument itself.
You can go to that general area and ask locals for help like we did.
Or, you can search for “Bask 45 Bistro” instead. Directly across that restaurant is a faded white gate – that’s the entrance to Sunken Cemetery.
Planning Notes: Sunken Cemetery is very close by to the Guiob Old Church Ruins and the Walkway to the Old Volcano.
Planning to visit all these 3 in one go is a great idea!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #6: Walkway to the Old Volcano
If you’re in for a quick workout, then you should make some time to climb the Old Volcano!
Mount Vulcan, the volcano that sent the cemetery under the water, has a walkway to a nice clearing where you can get views of the Sunken Cemetery from above.
It’s a mix of stairs, cemented walkways, and some rugged-but-clear paths to the clearing. You won’t get to the top of Mount Vulcan, but you’ll get high enough to get a really nice view.
Along the path, you’ll also encounter the stations of the cross – a visual story of the crucifixion of Christ. Some people bring candles and pray at each of these stations.
The “hike” isn’t too difficult, especially at the first six stations. At some point, the path gets a little steep, but nothing healthy people can’t handle.
Most people can reach the top in about 30 – 40 minutes, making it a nice quick workout with rewarding views!
Facts About the Walkway to the Old Volcano
Fees: The only fee here is the entrance fee, which is php75 ($1.5)!
Opening/Closing Time: The Old Volcano opens at 7:30 am, and closes at 5pm.
Since there’s no gate and no need for guides, you can actually go up anytime. However, to support the maintenance of the trail, it’s best to go during their open hours.
How to Get There: The Walkway to the Old Volcano can easily be found in Google Maps. It’s also very obvious from the highway – just look for big stairs leading up the mountain!
Planning Notes: Again, this spot is very near the Sunken Cemetery and the Guiob Church Ruins.
However, climbing to the top does take some time, so make sure you plan to stay at least 1 hour (maybe even 1:30) here.
Some people don’t go all the way to the top and just take some pictures in the trail.
But for me, that makes the whole thing not worth it since the best part of this spot is the view of the Sunken Cemetery below!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #7: Mt. Hibok Hibok
Mt. Hibok-Hibok is a popular attraction, but I have to give you a BIG warning:
This spot is ONLY for the physically fit!
Unlike the Old Volcano, which almost anyone can climb, Mount Hibok-Hibok is a challenging hike.
Climbing Hibok-Hibok means 3-5 hours of walking up steep inclines. In some areas, you’ll have to scramble and use your hands to climb up and up.
There’s even one section where you’ll need to climb a rope!
You’ll be surrounded by nature all around. I’m talking ALL around. When the trail gets narrow, you’ll have to push aside bushes and shrubs, and there are thorns and leeches lurking around here too.
But I don’t mean to scare you away!
Oh no, no.
I just HAVE to give you a warning since Mt. Hibok-Hibok is often listed (a little pre-maturely) as a “tourist spot” of Camiguin, leading people to think it’s an easy hike.
When in reality, our guide told us that MANY people quit when they realize that it isn’t just a casual stroll. We were even told that plenty of people break down in tears.
But if you’re up for the challenge you’ll be GREATLY rewarded!
Higher up, unique flora and fauna will surround you wherever you look – including mossy forests and endemic bird species!
And after about 2-3 hours of hiking, you’ll get to the crater of Mount Hibok-Hibok. Is a nice, flat, grassy area, with a little lake where you can take a dip if you want.
The crater area is also where you can set camp if you’re staying overnight.
From there, it’s about another hour heading up to the peak. This is where you’ll get a breathtaking view of Camiguin from above.
Unfortunately, there was heavy fog when we got there. So all we could do was sit and watch the mysterious fog float by.
But on our way down, we could see White Island allllll the way down there like a little speck. You can also see Bohol to the north and Surigao to the east!
Facts About Mt. Hibok-Hibok
Fees: To climb Mt. HIbok-Hibok, you’ll need to pay an environmental fee of php200/head. You’ll also need to hire a guide for php1,200 for up to 3 people (although the 3 people limit doesn’t seem to be strictly followed).
You can pay these to your guide before starting your hike.
Opening/Closing Time: Hibok-Hibok doesn’t have an opening or closing time (of course not, it’s a mountain!). Guides recommend starting your climb at 5am, and have brunch at either the crater area or the summit.
However, you can really choose anytime to go. You can even stay overnight if you want to! Just be sure to coordinate with your guide.
How to Get There: To climb Mt. Hibok-Hibok, the best thing to do is to contact a local guide beforehand.
You can message the Hibok-Hibok environmental office on Facebook for help, or you can refer to this list they sent me below!
We contacted Jerald Rabile, which turned out to be a pretty good choice. Apparently, the Rabile family has some strong roots on the mountain – his grandpa was literally the guy that trailblazed it!
Other than that, there are two trails to the summit of Hibok-hibok. One starts at Ardent Hot Spring (this trail was closed when we were there), and the other starts near the Yumbing Market (this is where we met our guide).
We jumped off at 5am, reached the summit at around 10am, started our descent at 11am, and were back in Yumbing at around 2pm.
Planning Notes: REMEMBER to bring food and enough water!
If you’re used to hiking, you should already know how much water to bring. For us, we brought 5 liters each, which turned out to be just right.
If you’re a first-timer, keep in mind that more water = more weight. More weight which you’re definitely going to feel at the start of the climb.
Being a first-time climber, I actually dumped 1 liter at the start of the climb. It made things lighter, but I regretted it when we were going down as I now had to ration my water (There’s only one water source in Hibok-Hibok, and it’s found right at the start of the trail).
As for food, it’s proper etiquette (if you can call it that) to bring some for your guide as well.
You can bring any kind of food or snacks you want. We bought Jollibee burgers from Mambajao the night before and ate those at the crater.
As for the time, I fully believe that the guide’s recommendation to jump off at 5am is best.
Starting this early allows you to take your time going up. And when you’re done your hike, you still have time to go and visit another spot. Yumbing Market is just across the road from the White Island dock, so maybe you could go check that out?
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #8: Guiob Church Ruins (The Old Church Ruins)
But okay… let’s take a step back to something everyone (not just the physically fit) can enjoy:
The Old Guiob Church Ruins!
Unlike the sunken cemetery, the Guiob church survived Mt. Vulcan’s eruption in the 1870s. It lost its roof, but today it still stands tall, covered in moss and other plant life.
From the road, you might miss these old, moss-covered ruins. But once you’re in, you’ll find that it’s actually quite big inside! You could even call it a park.
On the inside, you’ll also find trees lined up perfectly alongside the ruins.
You’ll find the ruins of this tower.
And you’ll also see a giant, GIANT tree.
With some benches around, the Guiob church ruins are a great place to relax after a day of exploring.
Facts About Guiob Old Church Ruins
Fees: To get inside, you’ll have to pay a php75 ($1.5) entrance fee.
Opening/Closing Time: The Old Church Ruins opens at 8am and closes at 5:30pm.
How to Get There: From Sunken Cemetery, all you have to do is drive west for about a minute and you’ll spot the Old Church Ruins from the road.
If you miss it, you can always Google “Old Spanish Church Ruins” to find it!
Planning Notes: Make sure to plan some time here!
This isn’t a typical old church, where all you do is take pictures and go.
Nope, this place has a park on it, and many old ruins to admire. I highly recommend going the “Camiguin way” and taking it slow here and taking the time to admire all the beautiful ruins (and that giant tree).
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #9: Tuasan Falls
No, Tuasan isn’t as tall or powerful as Katibawan falls. But if Katibawasan Falls felt a little too “developed” for your taste, then you might prefer these falls instead.
Yes, there are also tables and chairs where you can hang out here. And there are restrooms where you can change.
But because Tusans falls is found high up in the mountains (rather than just a few minutes away from the town), it gets a lot fewer visitors.
You’ll absolutely love this falls if you want to avoid the crowds!
There also aren’t any vendors waiting outside the entrance. At times, you might even feel like you’re all alone in some hidden waterfall in the jungle!
Of course, again, Tuasan is far from a secret spot.
You’ll even find a little “Hollywood Sign” as you drive towards it.
Facts About Tuasan Falls
Fees: Entrance to Tuasan costs the standard php75 ($1.5), while renting a shed is php150 ($3), and a table and chair set php100 ($2).
Are you beginning to notice a pattern here?
Opening/Closing Time: Tuasan Falls opens at 8am and closes at 5pm!
How to Get There: Tuasan is quite a way away from the highway. If you’re riding a habal-habal, make SURE you ask him to wait for you because you’ll be stranded if you don’t!
But if you have your own ride, finding Tuasan is as easy as Googling “Tuasan Falls”. The drive up to Tuasan is quite a scenic one as well, with the road flowing along with the river at times.
There’s also plenty of signages around leading you the way.
Planning Notes: As mentioned before, Tuasan is in the vicinity of Bura Soda Water, so visiting those two back-to-back makes a lot of sense.
Sto. Nino Cold Spring is also close by!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #10: Bura Soda Water Park
Another unique spot to check out is the Bura Soda Water Spring.
No, the water here does NOT bubble and fizz like I was led to believe.
And no, this isn’t a hot spring.
Instead, it’s unique because you can actually DRINK the water.
That’s right. The whole concept behind this place is that the water is supposed to taste like soda.
Well… Does it?
No, not really. 😂
Instead, it tastes pretty much the same as any fresh-from-the-rock spring water does. Definitely tastes a little different from bottled water, but it’s not a bad taste at all!
Now before you go and drink the water that people are swimming in, stop! That’s not the one you can drink!
Instead, over at the side, there’s a little station with pipes bringing the fresh spring water non-stop. This is where you can have a drink.
Aside from the “soda water”, the park is also a chill place to swim or just unwind.
The water here is in a shade of green, unlike the bursting blue of Sto. Nino Cold Spring!
Facts About Bura Soda Water Park
Fees: Can you guess?
That’s right.
Php75 ($1.5) for entrance.
Php150 ($3) for a shed.
And php100 ($2) for a table and chairs set.
Who would’ve thought?
Opening/Closing Time: Bura Soda Water Park opens at 8am and closes at 5pm. It’s almost important to note that this park is CLOSED on Mondays!
How to Get There: Like Tuasan, there’s plenty of signs that’ll point you the way to the Soda Water.
Or, you know, just Google it.
If you don’t have a car or bike, you’ll be happy to know that this place isn’t as isolated as Tuasan. There’s actually some people living nearby. However, I still recommend asking your driver to wait for you if ever.
Planning Notes: Here’s a little secret:
This place was a little underwhelming for me.
I mean sure, it’s a nice place that’s worth visiting. Plus, their whole “drink the soda water” thing is quite fun.
But if you compare it side-by-side with the nearby Sto. Nino cold spring, it pales a bit.
Just my thoughts though!
I still highly recommend you visit this place. But if I had to give you some planning advice, it’d be to give more time for Sto. Nino than this one!
Also, there was a guy selling Bibingka outside when we visited. It was REALLY good. The guy seems to travel from spot to spot though, so you may or may not catch him here.
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #11: Katunggan Mangrove Park
By now, you might get the impression that Camiguin is pretty action-packed.
While that’s true, there are also pretty places here that are ALL about chilling.
Case in point?
The Katunggan Mangrove Park!
This is probably the most laid-back spot on this list. All it is is a wooden walkway that takes you into the mangrove forest.
I found the mangroves here interesting because instead of thin trunks, these mangroves had thick trunks.
Plus, on the low tide, there were plenty of young mangroves peeping out of the mud. It looked quite otherworldly.
There are several benches where you can sit down and relax. Or, you can rent a small hut if you’re staying for a while.
There’s also a little store outside where you can buy some snacks like chips and coke.
All in all, if you’re short on time, this is one spot that you can skip. But if you’ve got time – or if you’re riding a motorbike around the whole island – this is a great place to stop over!
Facts About Katunggan Mangrove Park
Fees: Surprisingly, the entrance to this park is only php20 ($0.40). You can also rent a shed for php150 ($3) which is good for 3 hours.
Opening/Closing Time: Katunggan Park opens at 8am and closes at 5pm.
How to Get There: Katunggan Park is just a few minutes south of Benoni Port. Right after the Taguines Lagoon, you’ll find it.
Because it’s along the highway, you might be able to catch a tricycle or jeepney heading this way. I can’t say for certain though. If you’re gonna use public transportation, make sure to ask the locals!
Of course, the best way is just to rent a bike and use Google Maps.
Planning Notes: As said before, this is really a spot that you can leave out if you’re short on time. It seems to be more of a place for locals to chill, or for team-building activities.
But since it’s so close to Benoni Port, you can actually relax here while waiting for your boat.
Or, if you’re already doing a trip around the whole Camiguin, this is definitely a great place to stopover.
Finally, if you have too much time like we did, then why not check it out?
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #12: Tongatok Cliff and Viewdeck (Chan Lookout Point)
Picture this:
It’s sunset. You’re sitting on the grassy edge of a cliff, with a breathtaking view of Camiguin’s rocky shore. Below you, the waves crash endlessly on the rocks, and above you, the sky goes on and on and on into the horizon.
Welp, that’s exactly what you’ll get in the Tongatok cliff!
While it’s true that you can get an amazing sunset view in a lot of places around Camiguin, Tongatok cliff is one of the more popular spots – and for good reasons!
First, of course, the view from here is amazing.
But other than that, it’s also at a very convenient location.
Tongatok cliff is just a few minutes away from the Guiob Ruins and the Sunken Cemetery. Given that both of those spots close at 5pm, Tongatok cliff is a nice place to stopover on your way back to Mambajao.
And finally, third, there’s a resort right beside the cliff.
Inside the resort is the Tongatok Viewdeck – a nice little fenced area that’s great for pictures! There’s also a restaurant in the resort, which – if you’re already hungry from the day’s activities – is a convenient place to enjoy dinner!
Fact About Tongatok Cliff and View Deck
Fees: FREE.
It’s literally a cliff by the side of the road. Whose gonna charge you for that?
Opening/Closing Time: None!
How to Get There: On the way from Mambajao to Catarman, it’s hard to miss this cliff! You’ll also see the big white Tongatok resort.
If you need the help of Google, you can always search for “Tongatok Cliff Resort” or “Chan Lookout Point”.
Planning Notes: The BEST time to come here is during sunset.
This is the type of place where you take things slow and ponder life – all while watching the waves crash on the rocks and the sun go down over the Land Born of Fire.
Here’s a GIF I put together to give you an idea of what I’m talking about:
Chilling here is also a great way to end your day of exploring.
If you’re staying in Mambajao, and took a day exploring the Catarman spots (Sunken Cemetery, Sto. Nino Spring. etc.), then this’ll be right on your way home.
It’s so perfect! Most spots close at 5pm, so you can get here right on sunset.
Then, you can drive back to Mambajao just in time for dinner. Or, you could even have dinner in the resort.
Other Camiguin Tourist Spots
Those were the 12 BEST tourist spots in Camiguin that I personally recommend.
But wait!
There’s more!
When I visited in June 2022, some of Camiguin’s most famous spots were closed for various reasons.
Plus, I also found that some of the “tourist spots” listed by Camiguin’s tourism office weren’t that amazing.
But hey, you’re reading this in the future! Maybe by the time you visit, these spots will be opened to the public already – or maybe they’ll be significantly better than they are today.
So without further adieu, here are MORE Camiguin tourist spots!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #13: Giant Clam Sanctuary
One of the very BEST things to see in Camiguin is the Giant Clam Sanctuary.
I saw images online of rows of beautiful giant clams all lined up perfectly.
Sadly, when I visited in June 2022, the sanctuary was closed for political reasons!
The image above was taken from the Sunken Cemetery reef, where you can also find some giant clams.
However, we were told that the clams in the sanctuary itself were much bigger and much more impressive.
Hopefully, this site is opened by the time you’re reading this!
Why Did Camiguin’s Giant Clam Sanctuary Close?
Note: this is what I heard and deducted about the closing. This is NOT an official report!
One thing you’ll notice in Camiguin is that most of the tourist spots seem to be regulated by the Camiguin Tourism Office.
That’s why the prices are almost identical, as are the opening times. You’ll also see these “Clean Camiguin” signs everywhere.
However, someone told us that the owner of the Giant Clam Sanctuary didn’t cooperate with this centralization, and therefore, his business was shut down by the government.
Again, I have to stress this:
This is NOT an official report, just what I heard!
Hopefully, the Clam Sanctuary will reopen soon and we can visit it!
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #14: Parola Mambajao + The 1914 Monument
One spot I “discovered” on Google Maps is the Parola Mambajao – a tiny little park in the center of Mambajao.
While it isn’t the most impressive, I found it to be a lovely little place to unwind, and maybe watch the sunset.
Of course, if you’re short on time, this is one of the spots I’d definitely leave out since there’s nothing particularly special about it. It’s just a place where you can watch the locals, since this seems to be a favorite place for them.
There’s also a giant “I Love Mambajao” sign here where you can take pictures.
And a little further down the road is the 1914 Monument – an old water fountain that’s in the middle of a roundabout.
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #15: Ardent Hot Springs
Another spot that was closed when I visited was the Ardent Hot Spring.
It was such a bummer since I’ve heard nothing but wonderful stories about this spring.
The hot water comes from Mt. Hibok-Hibok (a volcano). On the way down to the man-made pools, it is cooled enough that you can enjoy swimming in the water.
Sadly, the hot spring was closed on my visit due to there being “no water in the spring nowadays.”
At least, that’s what my Hibok-Hibok guide told me. So I’m not sure when they’re going to reopen!
Update: August 18, 2022 – Ardent Hot Springs has Reopened!
Camiguin’s tourism office just announced on their Facebook page that Ardent Hot Springs is officially reopened for tourists!
They are still undergoing a renovation project, but you can now visit from 6am to 10pm.
They didn’t announce the prices, but I’m assuming it’s the regular php75 ($1.5).
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #16: Taguines Lagoon
Another spot that used to be popular pre-covid days is the Taguines Lagoon.
Taguines Lagoon is a manmade lagoon found right beside the Benoni Port.
It used to be a place for recreational activities like kayaking. There’s even a zipline that’ll take you across the whole lagoon.
Nowadays, it’s still a nice landmark if you’re driving around the whole Camiguin. Some of the locals also like swimming here.
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #17: Sto. Rosario Church
One activity I highly, HIGHLY recommend while in Camiguin is renting a motorbike and driving around the entire island (that’s why I mention it all the time!).
While you’re at it, you might want to stopover by the Sto. Rosario church in Sagay.
As far as old churches go, Sto. Rosario isn’t one of the most spectacular in the country (trust me, we have AMAZING old churches around here).
It’s a very simple church, built in the 1880s using coral stones.
However, it’s still a great place to stop and get a picture or two! Especially if you’re already in the area.
Best Camiguin Tourist Spots #18: Moro-Moro Watchtower
Last but not least is the Moro-Moro Watchtower in Guinsiliban.
If you grab a tourist map of Camiguin, this is a spot that usually shows up.
It’s an important piece of history, since these watchtowers were built to warn of Moro pirate attacks on the island.
However, Camiguin’s Moro tower really isn’t all that popular. And it’s actually quite difficult to find!
I was driving a motorbike and was looking for it in Google Maps – but all it was leading me to was an elementary school.
Apparently, the tower is found within the school’s premises.
In hindsight, I probably should’ve asked the locals where the tower was.
But I guess all I can do now is warn you where to find it – so you won’t feel lost like I was!
Which Camiguin Tourist Spot Are YOU Most Excited About?
And there you have it!
Those are the 18 best tourist spots in Camiguin to check out!
So which one are YOU most looking forward to?
Are you excited to bask in the sunshine of White Island?
Maybe to go freediving or scuba diving in Mantigue?
Or maybe you’re the type of person who can’t wait to dip in Sto. Nino cold springs, or chase waterfalls like Katibawasan and Tuasan.
Or… maybe you’re ready for a real adventure, and wanna hike Mt. Hibok-Hibok?
Whatever the case, I hope this blog got you excited for your Camiguin trip.
And if you don’t know what to expect from the island yet, go and check out my complete Camiguin travel guide here!
Cheers!
Hi dude. I truly appreciate your posts, specially on Camiguin. I'm from the same region as Camiguin is, and from CDO at that. But you're more informative than what I have in my memorry about Camiguin. Seriously, your posts are really helpful to travelers, tourists, etc. especially the updates on the places you went to. But please integrate the uodates on the same article piece and not at the bottom. Keep us up with your travel posts. So love them.
It was amazing and it inspired us to visit camiguin this year😍
Hey Mary!
I’m glad this inspired you!
Yes, Camiguin is definitely an amazing place 🙂