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Camotes Islands Travel Guide: Itinerary, Tourist Spots, Tours

Marel Baluyos

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January 24, 2023

Camotes Islands Travel Guide: Itinerary, Tourist Spots, Tours

Hanggang saan aabot ang 20 pesos mo?

Be found in the “Lost horizon of the South”. Camotes Islands, a group of islands in the Camotes Sea, Philippines, is now one of the summer’s most budget-friendly destinations in Cebu. Giving us more than its great beaches, its known natural caves, lakes and falls will connect you to the raw beauty of nature.

With just ₱20, you can enter and experience one of these great finds in Camotes Islands.

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1. Santiago White Beach

Its wide stretch of beach line makes it look like a giant pool during the high tide. A low tide reveals its vastness added with the clear blue waters — it’s truly one of the most magnificent beaches in Cebu.

Entrance fee: FREE

How to get there?

In the southern part of Camotes, Santiago Bay is 8.6 km away from Consuelo, San Francisco. Ride a motorcycle since it is the easiest way of transportation there or rent a motorcycle, tricycle or a van.

2. Lake Danao – “The Lovers’ Lake”

lake-danao-park-camotes-cebu — Photo by Hoven Encontro

The lake is guitar-shaped and is touted to be the largest lake in Cebu province. It has deep blue waters and a serene aura with its singing birds and the breeze.

Several activities can be enjoyed when visiting this place such as kayaking, boating, horseback riding, among others.

Entrance fee (park): ₱15 per head
Opening hours: 6am-6pm daily
Kayaking: ₱50
Horseback riding: ₱50
Pedal boating: ₱150 (30 mins)
Sakanaw/Lake Cruise: ₱500 (15 pax)

How to get there?

From the wharf, ride a motorcycle for more or less 15 mins. The lake is actually part of the Lake Danao Park which is just a kilometer away from the entrance.

3. Tulang Diot Island

Tulang Diot Island White Beach Camotes (2) — J-Co Samz

Tulang Diot Island White Beach Camotes (4) — Photo by J-Co Samz

An islet secluded in the northern part of Camotes Island. The white sand, sandbar and cerulean blue waters looks like a paradise for your own.

Environmental/Entrance fee: ₱10 per head
Cottage Rental: ₱500 per day
Tables with 4 chairs: ₱150 day
Tent space: ₱150 per tent (overnight, bring your own tent)

How to get there?

From the Consuelo Port, ride a motorbike going to Tulang Daku – fare is ₱100. Once you reach Tulang Daku, ride a boat to Tulang Diot – ₱10 per head only, 5-10 minutes to the island.

For more info: https://sugbo.ph/2018/tulang-diot-island-camotes-cebu/

4. Buho Rock Resort

buho-rock-resort-camotes-cebu — John Ray Aligato

A unique ship-shaped coral rock formation. Situated in a public beach resort, the view of the horizon and sunset is magnificent. It is known as a cliff diving site at a height of approximately 50ft.

The winding stairs you’ll have to take towards the blue waters will make the jump all the more worthwhile.

Entrance fee: ₱20 per head (₱10 for kids)
Opening hours: 8AM to 5PM daily
Note: No corkage. You can bring food and snacks.

How to get there?

It is located in Poro, Camotes Islands. Approximately 27 mins from the Consuelo Wharf. You can ride a motorcycle, tricycle or just rent a ride for transportation.

5. Timubo Cave

The entrance to the cave is a small hole to get you underground. Inside the Timubo Cave lies the cold water of its cave pool up to about 6ft deep where you can swim to your hearts content and also visit the grotto.

You will certainly be in awe of the stalactites and stalagmites that’s decorating the cave.

Entrance fee: ₱20 per head

How to get there?

Timubo Cave is located inside the Lake Danao Park. You can take a motorcycle from the Consuelo port to Lake Danao Park for about 30 mins and then towards the entrance of the cave.

6. Busay Falls

busay-falls-camotes-cebu — Joanne Estrera Torpio

The small beautiful falls has a cold clear natural pool. The place can be reach after a 10-minute hike. You can also dive as it is 8-10 feet deep. Like your own pocket-sized falls, it allows the guests more privacy and a peaceful swim.

Entrance fee: ₱10 per head

How to get there?

Far from Consuelo, it would take 30-50 mins to the falls depending on the ride. A motorcycle is much faster.

7. Paraiso Cave

paraiso-cave-camotes-cebu — Nestor Tampus III

Already developed, it is quite smaller than Timubo Cave. Paraiso Cave is an underground cave but sits in the middle of a private property. The water pool inside can be chest-level. Cold, clear and clean, three qualities that makes you want to go under and dive in.

Entrance fee: ₱50 per head (

How to get there?

This is very near the Consuelo Wharf. Only 9 minutes away if you have a ride but you can also take the motorcycle which is a lot faster.

8. Bukilat Cave

A secluded cave known for its streaming natural light from its roof opening. The sun light gives life to the cave, lighting up the stalactites and stalagmites along with its rock formations.

Entrance fee: ₱20 per head

How to get there?

The cave is on the other side of the islands Consuelo Wharf. It’s quite far. You can ride a bus from Consuelo Wharf to the municipality of Tudela or Tudela proper for P70 and then ride a habal2x/motorcycle for P50 or depending on the deal for 30-45 mins.

9. Holy Crystal Cave

The cave has eight levels which can be covered by one and a half hour. It has great formations of stalagmites and stalactites which is what creates the breathtaking crystal-like formations.

It is said that the water inside the cave have some miraculous or magical properties of sorts which is why it is named “Holy Crystal Cave”.

Entrance fee: Free

How to get there?

Holy Crystal is very near Consuelo Wharf and Lake Danao. It is located in Brgy. Union, San Francisco. By taking a motorcycle, you will arrive at the cave in less than 20 minutes.

10. Mangodlong Rock

mangodlong-rock-beach-camotescebu — Annventurey

A combination of intimate moments and laid-back times. This rock is a part of Mangodlong Beach Resort. It is quite small but breathtaking in its own.

With a sandbar linking it to the beach, the rock formations that seems to float on the clear green sea is a sight to behold across the beach itself. Tropical open huts decorate the surface of this rocks where you can get the full blast of sea breeze.

Mangodlong Rock Resort is a few minutes from the town and ports of San Francisco and Poro.

Entrance fee: ₱20 per head
Water activities: Snorkel, kayak, wind sail, diving

How to get there?

Another one near the Consuelo Wharf. Approximately 8 minutes away if you have a ride or a motorcycle which is abundant in the port, you just have to get a right deal.

How to go to Camotes Islands?

You have three (3) options going to/from Camotes Islands:

OPTION 1: OCEANJET FAST CRAFT
– Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
– Cebu Port: Pier 1, Cebu City
– Camotes Port: Poro, Camotes
– Advantages: Take this option if you want to arrive faster, and you live/stay near Pier 1 or SM City Cebu or you’re from Southern Cebu.
OPTION 2: JOMALIA RORO/EXPRESS
– Travel Time: 2 hours
– Cebu Port: Danao City Port
– Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
– Advantages: Take this option if you want to save 50% on transportation, if you’re willing to travel or you’re from/near Danao City.
OPTION 3: JOMALIA FAST CRAFT
– Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
– Cebu Port: MACTAN WHARF of Island Central Mactan Mall
– Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
– Advantages: Take this option if you want to arrive faster, and you live/stay near Mactan.

Option 1: OCEANJET FAST CRAFT

Travel Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Cebu Port: Pier 1, Cebu City
Camotes Port: Poro, Camotes
OceanJet Contact Numbers: (032) 255 7560 / 255 0115 / 0917 638 0000 (Inquiries only / No online or phone bookings)

OCEANJET FAST CRAFT – 1.5 HOUR TRAVEL TIME
CEBU (Pier 1) to CAMOTES (Poro)	CAMOTES (Poro) to CEBU (Pier 1)
Schedule 1: – ETA: 6:00 AM (Pier 1 CEBU) – ETD: 7:30 AM (Poro, CAMOTES) – Open Air: PHP 500 – Business Class: PHP 800 Schedule 2: – ETA: 3:00 PM (Pier 1 CEBU) – ETD: 4:30 PM (Poro, CAMOTES) – Open Air: PHP 500 – Business Class: PHP 800	Schedule 1: – ETA: 8:00 AM (Poro, CAMOTES) – ETD: 9:30 AM (Pier 1 CEBU) – Open Air: PHP 500 – Business Class: PHP 800 Schedule 2: – ETA: 5:00 PM (Poro, CAMOTES) – ETD: 6:30 PM (Pier 1 CEBU) – Open Air: PHP 500 – Business Class: PHP 800

Option 2: JOMALIA RORO / EXPRESS

Travel Time: 2 hours
Cebu Port: Danao City Port
Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
Jomalia Contact Numbers: (032) 346-0421 / 0949 163 0892 / 0995 107 1720 (Inquiries only / No online or phone bookings)

Rates:

For adults, Economy: ₱220 (₱250 for aircon)
For Seniors/PWD, Economy: ₱157 (₱179 for aircon)
For Students, Economy: ₱176 (₱200 for aircon)
For Minors (3-10), Economy: ₱110 (₱125 for aircon)

Option 3: JOMALIA FAST CRAFT

Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cebu Port: MACTAN WHARF of Island Central Mactan Mall
Camotes Port: Consuelo, Camotes
Jomalia Contact Numbers: 0949-163-0892 / 0995-107-1720 (advance booking is allowed, but should be at least 2 days prior)

Route 1: Mactan to Consuelo, Camotes (FASTCRAFT)

Departure: 8:00 AM & 12:00 PM, Daily
Rates:
– For Adults: ₱500/person (Economy and Aircon)
– For Senior/PWD: ₱360/person (Economy and Aircon)
– For Student: ₱400/person (Economy and Aircon)
– For Minors (ages 3-10): ₱250/person (Economy and Aircon)
Travel time: ~ 1 hour and 15 minutes

Route 2: Consuelo, Camotes to Mactan (FASTCRAFT)

Departure: 10:00 AM & 4:00 PM, Daily
Rates:
– For Adults: ₱500/person (Economy and Aircon)
– For Senior/PWD: ₱360/person (Economy and Aircon)
– For Student: ₱400/person (Economy and Aircon)
– For Minors (ages 3-10): ₱250/person (Economy and Aircon)
Travel time: ~ 1 hour and 15 minutes

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VEHICLES FOR RENT / TOUR AGENCIES

These services are often found in front of known resorts and hotels

Rent Motorbikes: ₱400-P500 (1day/exclusive of gas)
– 0906-799-5939 (Anthonie Pagobo); 0948-054-2491 (Thommarg Ottoquez‎)
Multicab w/ driver: Estimated is ₱3,500 (inclusive of gas, up to 17pax)
– Try contacting these multicab for hires: 0912-764-3936 (Belinda Peroso), 0919-808-6661 (Ann Impas), 0912-764-3936 (multicab for hire), 0938-425-2821, 0905-658-1074 (John Alvin Senior)
DISCLAIMER: We are NOT connected nor affiliated to any of these tour agencies / vehicle rentals. The numbers are found on Facebook. Usually these contacts also offer day tour packages in Camotes Islands.

Where to stay in Camotes Island?

Sunset Vista Sea Front Guest House
San Francisco, Camotes
Starts at 2,000 PHP

CHECK RATES

Camotes Flying Fish Resort
Poro, Camotes
Starts at 1,500 PHP

CHECK RATES

Mangodlong Rock Resort
San Francisco, Camotes
Starts at 1,700 PHP

CHECK RATES

Coco Grove Nature Resort and Spa
San Francisco, Camotes
Starts at 1,500 PHP

CHECK RATES

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Agwas Cafe: Bamboo Concept Cafe in Alhibe in Carmen

Sugbo.ph Contributor

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January 24, 2023

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Agwas Cafe: Bamboo Concept Cafe in Alhibe in Carmen

This is what dining in an enchanted forest feels and looks like!

Agwas Cafe is absolutely one of the most unique cafes here in Cebu. The place lets you appreciate the beauty of golden-colored bamboo. The cafe is located in Alhibe Farm in Carmen and it offers a refreshing dining experience.

Walk Through Golden Bamboos

The whole area is covered with bamboo with the golden color of the sun. The whole cafe makes you feel warm with the visually stunning bamboo concept. From the ceiling to the walls, the cafe is covered with Bamboo and beautiful green plants that let you be closer to nature.

There is even a bamboo mini bridge you can cross as you stroll through the forest-like vicinity. Because of Agwas Cafe’s al fresco concept, patrons are able to enjoy good food with beautiful scenery.

The lighting is exceptionally gorgeous as well which allows you to have naturally-lit photos. The cafe is stunning by day but wait until the evening settles in. You will be welcomed by a magical scene as the cafe lights up.

Good Food for a Good Price

Agwas Cafe offers delicious and filling meals that everyone will surely love. Their menu is perfect for those on a budget but are still looking for a quality taste. The cafe has a variety of dishes to choose from such as Pan Grilled Pork Belly and Pan Grilled Chicken. If you want a more native approach, they have Native Chicken Soup that’s good for 4 people.

One of the highlights of Agwas Cafe is their unique take on traditional Biko. Instead of the traditional brown Biko, they have Blue Biko Bowl. The Blue Biko Bowl is sticky rice infused with Blue Pea Blossom which gives it a blue color.

Of course, Filipinos love Mango Float but Agwas Cafe has their own take and twist. Try out their Nangka Float which uses Jack Fruit instead of mangoes.

Agwas Cafe also offers fresh juices such as fresh mango juice, coconut water lemonade, calamansi juice, and more. Other must-try drinks are from their Tisanes collection such as the Blue Pea Blossom and mint which is a Blue pea blossom infusion with mint and honey.

Relaxing amidst beautiful golden bamboo should definitely be on top of your adventure list. You can enjoy great quality food without making your wallets cry. And on top of that, you will be given a stunning view of beautiful bamboo. Take the day off and dine at Agwas Cafe in Alhibe Farm.

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

Best-sellers: N/A

Other Information:

Opening hours: 9 AM – 6 PM Tuesdays to Sundays
Contact number: N/A
Email address: [email protected]
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/agwascafe

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Sito Baucan, Brgy. Sac-on, Carmen, Northern Cebu

BY BUS: From the North Bus Terminal. Ride a bus going to Carmen and ask to be dropped off at Carmen Public Market. The farm where the cafe is located in Barangay Sac-on. There is no public transit, your best option is riding a “habal-habal” to the location. Just tell the driver to drop you off at Alhibe Farm

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Alhibe Farm” in Carmen. Parking space is available.

Have a coffee break with nature at Kahoy Cafe in Consolacion

Sugbo.ph Contributor

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January 24, 2023

1

Have a coffee break with nature at Kahoy Cafe in Consolacion

If Tarzan is the absolute foodie, this cafe would definitely be his go-to.

Kahoy Cafe by the Greenland Cabins officially launched their soft opening last January 20, 2023, and people cannot get enough of this aesthetically pleasing cafe. The cafe is located 5 minutes away from SM Consolacion which makes it very accessible to the public.

Let’s take a look at what this treehouse cafe has to offer.

Cafe in the Woods Experience

The cafe is surrounded by lush greenery and plants that give off the ultimate Cafe in the woods vibe. The lighting is absolutely incredible because of its outdoor location and everything is just picture-perfect.

The cafe’s interior and exterior give off a cozy, boho, island cafe-like vibe. There’s also an upper floor where you can see the whole area. Kahoy Cafe is complete with wooden tables and chairs. They even have bean bag-inspired seats. There are inside and outside seating, depending on your preference.

All Day Breakfast

Kahoy Cafe serves All Day Breakfast foods that appeal to Filipino taste buds. For an affordable price, you can get a breakfast plate with either of the following:

Tocino
Spam
Bacon
Chorizo
Corned Beef

These dishes come with 2 eggs, pickled vegetables, and rice.

Aside from the All Day Breakfast, they also have rice bowls such as Pork Sisig, Humba, Chicken Strips, and Hungarian Sausage. If you don’t want a heavy meal they also have snacks such as hamburgers, Tuna sandwiches, and Chicken nuggets.

All-Time Favorite Drinks

Drown everything down by taking a sip of their drinks. Kahoy Cafe has a variety of drinks from coffee to smoothies. You have to try their signature Kahoy Coffee made from their house blend pressed coffee over milk and Vanilla ice cream.

If you do not particularly like coffee you can try their Strawberry Smoothie and Cookies and Cream Smoothie.

Good Friends, Good Food, and Good Ambiance

Kahoy Cafe is the new cafe spot that you can visit with your friends and family. Nothing beats a cozy day, munching on Filipino food at an aesthetically pleasing food spot. Get a whiff of fresh air and be closer to the woods. Don’t waste a second and try out Kahoy Cafe today.