The entire peninsula of Caramoan is a virtual tourism Eden. It is filled with marine life, exotic islets, dicing spots of diversified corals, pristine beaches, underground caves and rivers, lagoons, freshwater pools, and rock formations. Due to these natural and unique features of Caramoan, it has become a favorite location site of the producers of the highly-rated reality television series, Survivor.
source: Caramoan Tourism Website
Travel Story
In June 2016, it is my first time setting foot in the Bicol Region, specifically in Caramoan Islands, Camarines Sur. To note, this is an annual excursion and team-building with my employer (a Montessori school) back then. We used land transportation (van) for 12 hours. I was able to take a sight (afar) of the iconic Mount Apo for real though I missed capturing it for a photo remembrance.
Travel Highlights
Staying in La Playa Puerto Merced
We get to prepare and rest in this beach resort in Camarines Sur. The ambiance and style of the place are inspired by the Filipino’s famous “Bahay Kubo”. The quality food served for breakfast (Dried Bangus, fried egg, coffee) and the town’s best “Laing” are what I relish the best in the resort. The Bicol region is well known for serving spicy food. With that, the “Laing” is now on the list of my top favorite Filipino Food.
Cliff Jumping
I had to unleash my brave soul for this challenge. Back then, I was fearless and thirsty for adventures like this; so, I took the chance to experience jumping from the cliff. At first, you will feel nervous and doubtful but knowing that you’ll end up splashing with water, you just know it is fun and safe. Luckily, water is the element of a Piscean Mademoiselle like me.
Rock Formation and White Sand
Among the things on Caramoan Islands, the different rock formations and powdery white sand mesmerized my sight and sense of touch the best. The only exposure I had to beaches is in the province of Batangas where the beach’s side is rockier. Capturing it closely with the lens of the camera will make you notice how detailed the barnacles and fossil-like rock form. Yes, this is an island paradise!
Survivor Island
There is a specific island shown to us by the local guide. It is a bit more isolated than the others and still has some props from the American show “Survivor: Caramoan” filmed from 2011 to 2012. However, we were not able to set our feet on the island because it is prohibited, we just have a close look.
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Overall Travel Impression: 🌴🌴🌴🌴🌴
I give 5 perfect palms for Caramoan Island as one of the best tourist destinations for island hopping and beach lovers. Having an opportunity to visit a great island for the first time and for free is my one treasured experience.
As a seldom traveler, I rarely get the chance to see more white beaches and beautiful sea waters in my own country. Nevertheless, Caramoan is a place that I would love to visit again. No doubt!
Recommendation
If you are planning to visit this beach attraction in Bicol province, here are some websites that offer a comprehensive travel guide and itineraries:
Caramoan: Travel Guide to the Tourism Gem of Camarines Sur
CARAMOAN ISLANDS: 2D1N Budget Travel Guide + Itinerary To The Enchanting Islands Of Survivors
I always say every person should travel to see new places. Looking forward to traveling again now we are back to some kind of normal. The Caramoan Islands looks like a great place to visit very interesting story.
Yes, but I seldom travel because of some limitations esp. because of the pandemic. I look forward to traveling more.
Thanks for the comment. x
Ooh this looks absolutely amazing! The sand looks so pretty and survivor island looks gorgeous too. I’ve always wanted to go cliff jumping but I never have so perhaps I’ll have to take the plunge! Thank you so much for sharing x
Yes, you must visit the beach again soon. 🙂 Consider the Philippines if you want island hopping activity.
Thank you!x
Reading this lovely post has reminded me how important (safe) travel is and the wealth of incredible experiences it can bring. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Molly. Yes, I miss traveling to the beach.
Bigla kong namiss ang Pinas. =)
Iba pa rin talaga ang ganda ng Pinas, sir. 🙂