Hidden gems in the northern part of Cebu?
Beyond the renown of Bantayan and Malapascua and far from Cebu’s busy peninsula are two islands that have their own stories to tell. One is a turtle-shaped island sculpted by stone and wind, while the other is a little paradise swarming with coral life and a sense of community. Despite their modest size, Carnaza and Caohagan provide a mix of privacy and intimate coastline settings that make them must-see destinations for every island tourist.
What Are Carnaza & Caohagan
Carnaza
The windy island of Carnaza is home to white sand beaches, secluded coves, and limestone cliffs. With ragged rock formations and expansive scenery from the top of hills, the terrain is wild and untamed. With solar-powered houses, glamping tents, and a community that depends heavily on fishing and ecotourism, the island’s simplicity makes it so charm
Attractions like Carnaza Eco Park, the main resort’s wooden cabins, and seaside helipad, mix perfectly with the surroundings. For stargazing, snorkeling, and sunset viewing, Skull Cove, Twin Beach, and Kailina Beach provide breathtaking views and peaceful seclusion.
Caohagan
With its pristine white sand, glistening waves, and thriving marine sanctuary, Caohagan is an island straight out of a picture. It is well-known for its lively seafood market, where residents sell freshly caught fish cooked on-site, and its sandbar, which forms at low tide. About 694 people live on the island, and many of them get their power from solar panels.
From swimming and snorkeling to mingling with amiable locals and enjoying grilled seafood by the seaside, Cebu is a vibrant place despite its small size. A popular destination on Mactan island-hopping cruises, it provides a tranquil haven only thirty minutes from the mainland.
What to See & Do
Carnaza
The island’s primary resort, Carnaza Eco Park, has glamping tents, cottages, and access to Skull Cove, a cave that is rumored to contain the bones of a couple who perished from leprosy. It also has a helipad with expansive views. Another option for cultural immersion is to visit Twin Beach (Liog-Liog), which consists of two white sand beaches that face one another close to a local hamlet. The “neck” formation represents connectedness and is more than just a geological feature.
The twin beaches, according to locals, symbolize two towns that were formerly split apart by topography but brought together by common fishing grounds. Kailina Beach: A local-run sunset retreat that costs ₱20 to enter. This beach, which is run by Kuya Eddie, is more than just a panoramic location; it’s a gathering place for residents to share stories and watch the stars. Some tourists call it “therapeutic,” both emotionally and visually. Rock Formations: Sharp limestone cliffs that are perfect for light scrambling and photography.
Caohagan
Sandbar & Marine Sanctuary: pristine seas perfect for snorkeling; white sand appears at low tide. Caohagan’s sandbar abruptly rises to the surface at low tide, forming a makeshift bridge to neighboring reefs. You may use poetry to examine this visual metaphor for impermanence.
Seafood Market: For a price, locals sell fresh seafood, including fish, lobsters, and crabs, which are frequently prepared on-site.
Community Life: The 694 people of Caohagan depend on fishing and solar energy, but tourism is changing their means of subsistence.
Today, some families combine tradition with adaptation by operating homestays or providing guides. Eco Vibes in the island’s simplicity is what makes it so appealing, yet opinions vary. Some refer to it as “inorganic” because of commercialization and fencing. Others commend its grassroots environmental initiatives and tenacity following Odette.
How To Get There?
Carnaza
Exact Location:
- By Commute: From Cebu City, go to Cebu North Bus Terminal then ride a bus bound for Maya-Kawit or Maya-Bagay. Tell the conductor you’re alighting at Tapilon Port, not Maya Port. From Tapilon Port, ride a boat to Carnaza. The first trip is usually 7 AM–10 AM, but may vary with tides.
- By Car: Drive north via Cebu North Road toward Daanbantayan. Destination: Tapilon Port — not Maya Port (important distinction). From Tapilon Port, take a public or chartered boat to Carnaza. The scheduled first trip is usually between 7–10 AM.
Caohagan
Exact Location:
- By Commute: Travel to Maribago, Mactan Island. By taxi, Grab, or jeepney. Hire a chartered bangka or join an island-hopping tour. You can choose between Maribago, Angasil Port, or Santa Rosa Wharf as your jump-off point towards the island.
- By Car: From Cebu City, drive east to Mactan Island via the Marcelo Fernan Bridge. Different options are going to the island: Maribago is a common jump-off for island-hopping tours, while Santa Rosa Wharf has direct access to Caohagan. There you can hire a chartered bangka or join an island-hopping tour.
