Nine Andres
Calaguas Island Weekender Trip Guide
If you’re tired of your usual weekend chill routine, haul your Starbucks coffee-sipping, Uniqlo-wearing bums out to Calaguas for some much-deserved R&R.
By the Shore – winning entry by Ed Ong
FACT 1: Calaguas is a group of islands – 17 to be exact in Vinzons, but the most famous and beautiful is at Mahabang Buhangin, which is 1.27 km of powdery white sands on Tinaga Island, the biggest island. Vinzons, by the way, is the last name of Winceslao Vinzons, the first and youngest congressman of Indan, which is now known as Vinzons.
Also Read: Calaguas Travel Guide
FACT 2: It is still sparsely populated, reminiscent of Boracay’s younger days when it was not commercialized. No electricity, potable water, cellular and data signal, no problem!
Residents harness solar power for their generators to light up the area and pump potable water. There is no air-conditioning or fans, only power sockets in the huts, but there are clean restrooms.
It’s mandatory to disconnect as there’s no signal at the beach. You may get some phone service at the Calaguas campsite, about 30 minutes’ hike. The scenery there is equally breathtaking.
FACT 3: The commute is still a challenge. From Manila, it’s a zigzag and rough road ride for a grueling 7-8 hours by bus or van, 15 minutes on a jeepney to Vinzons (popular entry point) or Paracale port, then 2 hours of a rough water boat ride.
Waterproof everything and put your luggage in large plastic bags – you can buy these at Vinzons Port at P20 each.
Also, the bridge in Barangay Tabugon, Sta Elena Camarines Norte, was closed when we visited back in March. There’s a rough road diversion, about 10 minutes of hair-raising experience to pass through, especially at night.
Ready your meds or bring a sick bag. I don’t advise you to sleep through the gut-wrenching boat ride, as you may miss the beauty of the nearby islands.
FACT 4: Calaguas is more popular than you think. Many travel companies and groups offer different tour options to Calaguas. So if you don’t want crowds, go there on weekdays.
For a DIY adventure, I find the Travelling Panda’s post as an excellent guide or go with a group that costs less. I chose Travel Factor’s Calaguas SmartbroTrip with their all-in, no-fuss 2, two-day, 1-night itinerary. Food is included, plus lots of freebies and prizes! It’s possible to post your adventures in real-time in Bagasbas, thanks to #Smartbro.
FACT 5: Side trips abound after Calaguas! These include surfing in Bagasbas, visiting old churches in St Peter Apostle in Vinzons and St John the Baptist in Paracale, waterfalls viewing in Labo and spelunking in Mt. Cadig Cave.
So there you have it, 5 facts that can crunch more fun into your weekend stay in Calaguas Island. I’d definitely visit again. Till next time, and safe travels!
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