Caramoan Peninsula

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
17/08/2025
Minalahos Island, in front of Gota Beach, Caramoan Peninsula, Camarines Sur, Philippines
Fabio Achilli from Milano, Italy, Wikimedia Commons

The Caramoan Peninsula in the Philippines offers a unique island hopping experience with its untouched white-sand beaches, towering limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. It caters to those seeking adventure and natural tranquility, famously serving as a filming location for the 'Survivor' reality television series.

The destination is not known for a bustling social scene or designated party areas; instead, its appeal lies in its remote, crowd-free islands. Paniman Beach serves as a primary jump-off point for island tours, where visitors gather before embarking on their explorations.

Top 4 Things to do in Caramoan Peninsula

Activities in Caramoan Peninsula primarily revolve around discovering its numerous islands, exploring hidden lagoons and caves, and enjoying panoramic views from its elevated points.

1. Island Hopping Adventure

Embarking on an island hopping tour is the quintessential Caramoan experience. Traversing the clear waters, you encounter numerous untouched islands, each offering a unique charm. On **Matukad Island**, beyond its white sands, a short climb over jagged limestone leads to a hidden lagoon with a lone giant milkfish. **Lahos Island** captivates with its narrow strip of sand connecting two rock formations, perfect for swimming and exploring small coves. **Sabitang Laya** (also known as Bagieng Island) boasts long stretches of white sand beaches ideal for sunbathing and relaxing. You can also discover the expansive **Manlawi Sandbar**, which emerges during low tide, offering a vast expanse for strolling and photography, and **Cotivas Island**, known for its calm waters. The tours often include opportunities for swimming, snorkeling among vibrant corals, and simply unwinding on secluded beaches. This journey truly allows for appreciation of Caramoan's diverse coastal beauty.

Cost: Joining a multi-day tour package from Manila, which typically includes transfers, accommodation, meals, and 1-2 days of island hopping, can range from PHP 3,399 per person (for a group of 4+) for a 2D1N tour to PHP 5,199 for a solo joiner on a 3D2N tour. For a private island hopping boat rental from Paniman Beach, a 'short tour' can cost around PHP 2,000, excluding individual island entrance or environmental fees, which may be additional. Some tours include these fees.

Transport: To reach Caramoan, you can fly to Naga Airport (approximately 1 hour from Manila), then take a van or bus to Sabang Port (1-2 hours, around PHP 150-200). From Sabang Port, public boats typically depart to Guijalo Port in Caramoan (approximately 2 hours, PHP 120-150). Alternatively, direct buses from Manila to Caramoan town proper are available (14-16 hours). Once in Caramoan, tricycles or jeepneys are available to take you to Paniman Beach, the main jump-off point for island tours.

2. Trek to Guinahoan Island Lighthouse

A visit to Guinahoan Island offers a refreshing change of scenery with its rolling hills, reminiscent of Batanes. A relatively short and easy trek leads to a lighthouse atop the island. From this vantage point, sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the vast ocean unfold, providing an excellent opportunity for photography and quiet contemplation. Observing local wildlife like goats and cows grazing on the hills adds to the rustic charm of the experience. The shoreline at the base of the hill is also lined with mangroves, showcasing another facet of the island's natural environment.

Cost: This is typically included as part of an island hopping tour. Individual boat rentals would include the transport to the island. There might be a small environmental or entrance fee not explicitly listed as a separate cost from the tour package.

Transport: Guinahoan Island is accessible via island hopping tours departing from Paniman Beach. It is usually part of a 'Long Trip B' or extended island hopping itinerary.

3. Spelunking and Caving

For those seeking a subterranean adventure, Caramoan offers opportunities for spelunking. Exploring its captivating caves, adorned with natural stalagmites and stalactites, reveals a different side of the peninsula's geological wonders. Some caves are part of the island hopping itineraries, providing a unique exploration element to the beach and island experiences. The darkness and unique formations within these caves create a sense of discovery and awe.

Cost: Some tour packages include caving. For specific caves like Culapnit Cave, a guide fee of approximately PHP 500 per group (for up to 5 people) may apply. Entrance fees, if any, are generally minimal or included in organized tours.

Transport: Caves are typically accessed as part of an organized island hopping tour or a separate land tour, depending on their location. Transport would be via boat to coastal caves or land vehicle to inland caves, followed by a short walk or trek.

4. Visiting Mother of Peace Shrine (Mt. Caglago)

Perched 800 feet above sea level, the Mother of Peace Shrine on Mt. Caglago in Tabgon offers a spiritual experience coupled with breathtaking vistas. Reaching the shrine involves ascending a significant number of steps (537 steps if approaching by boat, 527 steps if by land). The effort is rewarded with a serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the Caramoan landscape, stretching across the islands and the sea. It's a place for quiet reflection while appreciating the natural beauty from above.

Cost: This activity is often included in comprehensive tour packages. Any specific entrance or donation fees at the shrine itself would likely be minimal.

Transport: Mt. Caglago is accessible by land transport (tricycle/van) to its base, or by boat if it's part of an island-hopping route that includes a drop-off point. Land transfers within Caramoan are usually included in tour packages.

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