Caramoan Peninsula Travel Guide
This unspoiled travel destination is slowly making its way onto the radars of international tourists, but for the time being it is a tranquil, beautiful destination in the Philippines that offers beaches, mountains and seclusion.
Caramoan Peninsula was able to dodge the development that took hold in other parts of the Philippines for a long time. Without roads and bridges, the only way in was by sea, so tourists were few and far between. In fact, the selection committee for the show, Survivor, nearly chose this as their setting in recent years but backed out at the last minute.
Ironically, the remote character that lured _Survivor _began to erode after the shows executives came and went. Tourists are starting to take note of the region’s spectacular scenery and attractions.
The beaches are draped in powdery white sand and are often compared to those at Boracay or Phuket. Matukad Beach, backed by mountains with great lookout points, and Gota Beach are the best known stretches of sand. Caving, sea kayaking and island-hopping are favorite activities.
Accommodation is hard to come by in some places, though the biggest towns like Bikal and Centro have a few hotels. Camping is permitted in certain parts, and those who don’t mind roughing it can stake out a spot on land that would surely be consumed by resorts in a more developed region.
Getting There & Away
Part of the reason why Caramoan Peninsula is so secluded is because it is difficult to get to. The nearest airport is Naga Domestic Airport in Pili, with flights operated from Manila (less than 1 hour) by Asian Spirit and Philippine Airlines. From here you can catch a bus or charter a minivan to the coast. The other option is to take a bus from Manila, which requires at least 10 hours of travel time.