Mere Miles and Smiles Away: Calaguas Island
As an intern from PanahonTV, I never thought I would get to go on an awesome out-of-town trip. Thankfully, I found out the show tackled, not just all things about the weather, but a slew of other topics such as daily life hacks, the environment, and our culture.
This month, I found myself en route to Daet in Camarines Norte with the production crew to cover the Pinyasan Festival 2016. An annual event that highlights the “sweetest pineapple in the world,” the Queen Formosa variety, the festival includes various activities, such as the Kasalang Bayan, sportsfest, beauty pageant, and the Agricultural Night.
Throughout the years, the Camarines Norte province has gained recognition as housing some of the most beautiful spots in the Philippines. These include Bagasbas Beach, one of the country’s top surfing destinations; Apuao Grande Island; and the much talked-about Calaguas Group of Islands. With the islands’ pristine and powdery-white shores and crystal-clear blue waters, many have compared it to Boracay.
Aerial Shot by Kent Eribal
Fast Facts about Calaguas
- The Calaguas Group of Islands is composed of 21 islands and islets, only two of which are under the jurisdictions of the towns of Vinzon and Paracale.
- The islands’ names are the following: Tinaga, Balagbag Maliit, Balagbag Malaki, Sepia Maliit, Sepia Malaki, Bendita, Huag Maliit, Huag Malaki, Comalasag, Inggalan, Pinagcastillohan, Banocboc, Samung, Pinanakpan, Matandumatin Rock, and Kagtalisay. The other islands remain unnamed.
- Tinago island has a 1.27-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand called Mahabang Buhangin. There’s no phone signal in the area, but according to our travel guide, Infanta Quezon Councilor L.A. Ruanto, there’s a particular area on the hill, which can allow Smart subscribers to use their phones. Electricity is available from 10 PM to 6 AM.
taken by Kent Eribal
Tinago Island Activities
Hiking to Tinago Hill
To fully appreciate the island, a trek to the top of Tinago Hill is a must. Aside from catching that elusive Smart Signal, you’ll also be treated to a breathtaking view of the island. The hiking time will take about 20-30 minutes before you get to the top. Remember to bring water and to wear comfortable shoes, clothes and hats. Also, make sure you’re accompanied by a local guide.
Camping
We stayed at I Love Calaguas Resort, which offers group accommodations that range from P3,500 to P4,500. But if you want a more intimate experience with nature, try sleeping under the stars by renting a tent for only P350 (good for 2-3 persons).
Beach Volleyball
Play a round of beach volleyball to work up a sweat and an appetite. Volleyball is even more challenging when done on the beach, with your feet sinking into the sand. But it’s arguably safer because the soft sand can cushion your fall.
Island Hopping
Aside from the well-known Mahabang Buhangin in Tinago Island, there are other beaches and islands worth exploring.
- Maculabo Island – An unspoiled island that offers activities, such as scuba diving and fishing, which are part of the locals’ livelihood.
- Guintinua Island – also known for its long stretch of beach with powdery white sand and clear waters
How to get to Calaguas from Manila
Buses bound for Camarines Norte can be found at the Alimall Bus station in Cubao, Quezon City, and along the EDSA Highway. Look for a bus bound to Paracale or to Daet. You may find destinations at the Philtranco station in Pasay.
Air-conditioned bus fares range from P500-P600, while the regular ones range from P300-P400. Travel time is 8-9 hours.
The port at located at Minaoagan in Vinzons, Camarines Norte. According to Councilor Ruanto, the best time to travel to Tinago Island would be in the morning until 12 noon wherein the sea is at its calmest.
Because we arrived at the port at 1 pm, the waves were already high, prolonging our boat ride to 2 and half hours—30 minutes more than the usual duration. Boat fees are P3,000 (5-6 persons) and P4,000 (9 persons).
Photo taken by John Estrada
Touchdown at Tinago Island ; photo by George Gamayo
Photo by John Estrada
Photo by Kent Eribal
We stayed at I LOVE CALAGUAS resort, one of the seven resorts that offer accommodation in Tinago Island.
According to Bgy. Capt. Ariel Era, the sand darkens during the rainy season.
Sand Artist Ruel Santelices is at the Kagedama resort every weeken; Photo taken by (please put name of driver);
Photo by Ruel San Telices
Photo Taken by Kent Eribal
What to bring to Calaguas
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Camera (and waterproof bag)
- Slippers and shoes that are good for trekking
- Towel
- Cap
- Mosquito repellant
- Toiletries
- Plastic bags to waterproof your belongings
For more information and inquiries about expenses and details, visit these travel agency websites: www.northlinkph.net and www.calaguasadventure.net.
What I will always remember about my Calaguas Trip is that every moment was Instagram-worthy. It was as if everything was put in its proper place—the sand, the hills, the sea, the sky. And it got me thinking, that’s nature for you! That’s why it’s our duty to make sure that places like this maintain their natural beauty. I couldn’t bear thinking such magnificence falling to ruin just because of our negligence.
Photo of George Gamayo
Photo Taken by John Estrada
Photo Taken by Kuya Benjie
Sources:
Ruel San Telices – Sand Artist
Darius Mirasol – LGU officer
http://www.thepinaysolobackpacker.com/calaguas-island-travel-guide/
http://www.lakwatsero.com/spots/maculabo-island/
https://gelyks.wordpress.com/2015/11/17/maculabo-island-in-paracale-camarines-norte/
Here’s something you don’t hear about everyday: a TV host claiming that her wedding reservation at a private island resort in Quezon was bumped off in favor of another high-profile couple’s wedding date.
While these two concerned parties and the resort owner sort things out, most of us wonder why beach weddings are all the rage, not only among celebrities, but also among us common folk.
To this, we ask this question: why not? With our country’s numerous beautiful and pristine beaches, it only seems natural to hold one of life’s most momentous occasions in such gorgeous landscapes. Just think of it—the sun, sea and sand all working together to make your special moment memorable for you and your guests.
Convinced? If you’re planning your own wedding, then it’s time to check out our list of top beach wedding destinations.
Misibis Bay (Cagraray Island in Bacacay, Albay)
If private luxury is your thing, head on to this 5-hectare island getaway that offers loads of amenities. Its stretch of white sand is picture-perfect, along with its well-manicured gardens and tastefully designed villas. Aside from being only less than an hour’s flight away from Manila, this resort is equipped with an evacuation plan in case of a tsunami. The resort also offers an aerial view of the famous Mayon Volcano, our country’s most popular active volcano.
Celebrity Couple that Got Married Here: Real Estate Scion Victor Consunji and Beauty Queen/Actress Maggie Wilson
Nasugbu, Batangas
Via land, Batangas is only a few hours away from Manila, making it an ideal wedding spot, especially if the couple and guests are coming from the metro. In 2007, it was declared by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as a special tourism zone, in an effort to boost the promotion and development of its white-sand beaches.
Celebrity Couples that Got Married Here: Pastor Joseph Bonifacio and Actress Rica Peralejo; Singers Ogie Alcasid and Regine Velasquez
La Union, Ilocos
Dubbed as the surfing capital of the Northern Luzon, La Union is easily accessible via land and air from Manila. Its beaches are famous sites for water sports, particularly snorkeling and surfing.
Celebrity Couple that Got Married Here: Actor John Estrada and Brazilian Beauty Queen Priscilla Meirelles
Boracay Island, Aklan
When it’s beach wedding season, all roads seem to lead to the most popular destination of all, especially among celebrities—Boracay! Aside from its picturesque waters and shoreline, this island is chock-full of gimik spots that assure guests of unlimited party time after the ceremony.
Celebrity Couples that Got Married Here: Actor Jericho Rosales and Model/Host Kim Jones, Actor Oyo Boy Sotto and Actress Kristine Hermosa
Planning to get married on the beach? Here are some tips to make sure that it doesn’t rain on your wedding day:
Choose your wedding month well. According to PAGASA Weather Forecaster Chris Perez, it’s best to schedule your wedding between the months of November and February, which are usually characterized by cold and dry weather conditions associated with the “amihan” or Northeast Monsoon. He adds that at this time, “There will be a slim chance of afternoon or evening rain showers or thunderstorms, except for the month of November, where tropical cyclones are at a minimum—at least one or sometimes none at all under normal climate conditions.”
Opt for late afternoon weddings. This way, you and your guests don’t have to endure the harsh heat of the sun. If you want, you can even schedule the ceremony just so it ends while the sun sets, providing a picturesque background for those romantic photos.
Constantly monitor weather updates. Even if you scheduled your wedding during the summer months, it’s best to check on the weather. Anya Santos-Uy scheduled her beach wedding in March because of its “better chance of weather. Yet it drizzled about an hour before the ceremony!” Monitoring updates allows you to prepare back-up plans just in case a weather disturbance comes unexpectedly.