The Camotes Island has been dubbed as the “Lost Horizon in the South” and “the “Island of Imagination” because of its abundance in natural attractions, far from the destructive touch of the modern living. It is a perfect getaway for people who wanted to escape from the hassles in the city. This is a popular vacation destination both for foreign and locals alike.
The place has been chosen by the Department of Tourism as the “new iconic product” in the Central Visayas. This means, Camotes Island will receive more promotional assistance from the government.
Aside from the popular scenic spots, Camotes Island’s one pride is their superb delicacy, the marinated Tilapia at its best. A glance is not enough to satisfy the graving. The smell itself is appetizing, how much more the bite of it.
Here are some of Camotes Island’s destinations:
Lake Danao
Flora and fauna thrive lavishly in the island. Lake Danao is a very proud natural tourist spot because of its unadulterated offering. It is christened as “the Lover’s Lake” because it is secluded and best for couple seeking for peace and serenity. The ambiance is incomparable.
Located in the center of Pacijan Island, it covered about 685 hectares of the total area. Two offshoot islets are situated in 8-form that makes Lake Danao unique. The bigger islet is dubbed as the “Snake Islet” while the smaller one is the “Crocodile Islet”. It offers a good place for biking and hiking for some adventurous trippers. Different species of birds are found living in the lake, making it very fascinating for the birdwatchers.
Lake Danao not only alleviates the economic glitches but also helped the livelihood of the residents. The lake is teeming with Tilapia, a delicious fish and Soli-Soli, a native reed grass which served as livelihood.
Bulikat Cave
Another must-visit attraction is the Bulikat Cave in Barangay McArthur, Tudela. Outside it is spooky and enchanting and according to some folklore, it is the dwelling place of some lost spirits and fairies and they should not be disturbed. However, stunning beauty is smiling inside the cave. The underground charm captured the real essence of a cave with its stalagmites and stalactites. Besides, a refreshing pool of waters inside the cave is visible especially when the tide is high. A dip for a while is a wise decision.
Timobo Cave
Another cave to be explored is the Timobo Cave. Located 300 meters away from the barangay proper of Sonog, the cave is famous for its unpolluted waters and become a famous tourist destination. Ever since, the waters were used by the locals as their drinking water until the establishment of water system in the place.
Guadalupe Cave
Also, Gaudalupe Cave is best for spelunkers, who loved roaming and discovering something new and fond of swimming in a clear waters while marveling the enchanting beauty of nature.
Busay Falls
One cannot miss that offer of Busay Falls in General, Tudela. Feel the coldness of the splashing waters and its therapeutic effect on your body. Just a 20-minute walk from the street, you will reach this charming waterfall.
Naukban Blue Lagoon
Another tourist destination is the enchanting Naukban Blue Lagoon. It is located in San Isidro, Pilar, Camotes. A story was believed to be the creation of the lagoon. Accordingly, a goblin from Pilar fell in love with a beautiful fairy in Merida, Leyte. Since the parents disapproved of such union but has nothing to do about it, they decided to put the goblin into test by bring a piece of land in Merida. The goblin transported almost 5-hectare piece of land and thus become the Lagoon. (That piece of land can also be found in Merida, Leyte at center of the rice field which looked like being artificially transported in ther)
Beaches and Resorts
Camotes Island is also popular because of its long stretches of white sandy beaches especially in San Francisco. Swimming in this enchanting place is so relaxing and soothing. Best beaches are found alongside barangays: Santiago, Himensulan and Esperanza.
One enchanting place is Boho resort. It is mostly composed of rocky cliffs. Many stories were sprouted about the place. They say it is really enchanted. People passing by will bow down to acknowledge the spirits living in the place. Many people have been drowned and died while some were lost and others are turned into stones. Whether these stories are true or just mere fantasies, it tells that Camotes Island abound in exciting cultures and worthy of visit.
Other notable beaches include: Mangodlong Beach Resort, Santiago White Beach, The Whitehouse Resort, Star Beach, Mactang Beach, Magagay-ay Beach, Cawit White Beach, Beach Resort (Lanao), Delio’s Beach Resort and Puri Beach.
Other Scenic Spots
- Gabi-gabihan Spring (Opao)
- The Old House (Pilar)
- Pilar Marine Sanctuary
- Giwanon Cave (Esperanza)
- Green Lake Park (San Francisco)
- Mt. Three Peaks
