Camiguin is one of the hidden gems of the Philippines. Here you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, relax on white sand beaches, hike over volcanic landscapes, and even get face-to-face with giant clams.
I visited Camiguin for 8 days in 2024 and found that there are so many things to do in Camiguin – and you definitely can’t do everything the island has to offer in 3 days!
In this 3 Day Camiguin itinerary, I’ll dive into exactly how I would spend 3 days in Camiguin on my first visit. I’ll go over where to stay, how to get around, and exactly what to do each day!
If you only have 3 days in Camiguin, this itinerary hits all of the highlights of the island to ensure you can make the most of your adventure in Camiguin!
How to Spend 3 Awesome Days Camiguin: A First-Timers Guide and Itinerary
If this is your first visit to Camiguin, you’re probably wondering where to stay! Camiguin is a tiny island so you can reasonably go anywhere on the island no matter where you stay, but some places are better than others.
Where to Stay in Camiguin
I recommend staying in Mambajao for your first time in Camiguin. Most accommodations are located near Mambajao, and many of the best things to do in Camiguin are a short ride away from Mambajao.
Mambajao also has Camiguin’s only airport, making getting from the airport to your accommodation simple.
In terms of accommodation options in Camiguin, most are small hotels and homestays. There are no large chain hotels in Camiguin, but the island does have a few small resorts if you’re looking for a place to get away from it all.
How to Get Around Camiguin
The best way to get around Camiguin is by motorbike. It gives you the most freedom to explore the island at your own pace, and since Camiguin isn’t that big, you can easily reach almost any destination. You can rent a motorbike in Mambajao for 300 to 500 pesos per day for your adventures around the island.
Another option is to use local transportation such as jeepneys, tricycles, or tuk-tuks. However, you’ll be limited by their schedules. And since Camiguin is quite rural, there aren’t many of them driving around.
Read our full blog post: Renting a Motorbike in the Philippines: Complete Guide
What to Pack for Camiguin
I won’t go over my whole packing list since that’s not necessary! Instead, I’ll share some of my must-have items you might not have thought of when packing for a trip to Camiguin.
- Crocs: During our time in Camiguin, I was so glad to have Crocs to protect my feet when exploring rocky terrain and chasing waterfalls. They are the ultimate shoe in the Philippines for a reason – many Filipinos wear them too!
- Snorkel: With all the amazing snorkeling spots in Camiguin, it helps to have your own snorkel set like this one if you plan to do some underwater activities! Plus, you won’t need to worry about renting a snorkel, which may be of… questionable quality.
- Sunscreen: For some reason, sunscreen is expensive in the Philippines and I’ve even encountered places selling fake sunscreen that doesn’t work! So I recommend bringing your own sunscreen to Camiguin.
- Dry Bag: With all the sand, salt, and water flying everywhere during our adventures, I was so glad to have a dry bag to keep all my things safe from the elements!
- Travel Towel: In my opinion, a travel towel like this one is super necessary for a trip to Camiguin! It packs down nicely and was there for me anytime I went swimming, or just needed to brush sand or dirt off.
Camiguin Day 1: Brunch, Sunken Cemetery, Old Church Ruins, and Cold Springs
It’s the first day of your 3-day adventure in Camiguin – welcome! Whether you flew in from Cebu or another island, you might be a little tired so we’re going to keep it simple and hit all the main attractions that are easy to get to.
Brunch at Hayahay Cafe
It’s day 1 in Camiguin, and there’s no better way to kick off the day than with a healthy and delicious meal! Hayahay Cafe is the perfect spot for that. This health-conscious restaurant with menu items like shakshuka, fresh salads, smoothie bowls, banana pancakes, and omelettes.
We ended up eating here most mornings because the prices were reasonable, the portions were generous, and the meals kept us full for hours. Plus, they also have vegan and vegetarian options, which was a pleasant surprise on such a small island!
Trey and I also found that sharing one meal and one coffee was enough for us, thanks to Hayahay’s large portion sizes!
Snorkel at the Sunken Cemetery
After fueling up on a good meal, it’s time to grab your swimsuits and get ready for today’s adventure! Our first stop is the famous Sunken Cemetery.
Most people visit the Sunken Cemetery to admire the views of its monument and don’t even think about getting in the water. But I’m here to convince you why you should!
Did you know you can also snorkel at the Sunken Cemetery? Honestly, we didn’t know either until we did some research.
When we finally snorkeled here, it turned out to be an incredible experience! We saw giant clams—something I didn’t even know existed before going to Camiguin. It was mind-blowing.
The best part about snorkeling at the Sunken Cemetery is that you’ll find things you won’t see anywhere else. The Sunken Cemetery has an old cross tombstone and stone head statue sitting beneath the ocean’s surface. Unfortunately, our guide wasn’t willing to take us to the tombstones (even though we asked). Hopefully you’ll have a friendlier guide!
Still, the Sunken Cemetery was my FAVORITE place to snorkel in Camiguin. The coral was abundant, the reef stretched far, and the giant clams were unforgettable.
The snorkel lasted about an hour and was worth every peso!
PRO TIP: Try to time your Sunken Cemetery snorkel for low tide. You’ll have an easier time seeing the giant clams underwater!
Even if snorkeling isn’t your thing, don’t worry—the Sunken Cemetery is still worth a visit!
The cliff viewpoint is free to visit and offers a fantastic view of the cross monument rising from the ocean. While it may not be much of an adventure, it’s a perfectly acceptable way to see the site. Best of all, it’s completely free to go to the Sunken Cemetery viewpoint.
Another option is to ride a boat to the Sunken Cemetery.
You can hire a boat at the Municipal Tourism Center, which is across the street from the viewpoint. The ride lasts just a couple of minutes, dropping you off directly at the Sunken Cemetery platform for an up-close view of the monument.
A boat ride to the Sunken Cemetery costs 150 pesos and the boat fits up to 4 people.
BONUS: On your way to the Sunken Cemetery, I recommend stopping at Tongatok View Deck (Chan Lookout). This popular spot is perfect to capture a memory of your time in Camiguin. It’s a quick and free stop that’s right on the side of the road!
Visit the Old Church Ruins
Now, it’s time to head to the Old Church Ruins, just a short walk from the Sunken Cemetery. These ruins are the remnants of Guiob Church, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Hibok-Hibok in 1871.
This church was once a central part of the town of Cotta Bato. But after the volcanic eruption, the entire town was wiped off the map. All that remains today are ruins of the old church, set under a canopy of massive trees.
You can explore the ruins of the church, the convent, and the bell tower base. They are all built out of coral, and if you look closely you’ll see fossilized shapes embedded within the walls.
When we visited, the ruins were a peaceful place as sunlight peeked through the old church’s pillars. It was seriously such a vibe.
Depending on your travel style, you could spend anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes at the Old Church Ruins.
The entrance fee for the Old Church Ruins is just 50 pesos per person, and there are local sari-sari stores just outside the gate if you’re in the mood for a snack.
Swim at Sto Niño Cold Spring
After exploring the Old Spanish Church Ruins, it’s time to head over to the popular Sto. Nino Cold Spring. It’s just a 20-minute drive around the Camiguin Circumferential Highway. After visiting various hot and cold springs across Camiguin, Sto Nino was my favorite!
What makes Sto Nino Cold Spring stand out is its size—it’s massive! There are two swimming areas to choose from, a shallow one for children, and a massive one for everyone else! The cold spring also has plenty of huts surrounding it where you can hang out and enjoy snacks.
Like most cold springs in the Philippines, this place is a bit of a party! We found groups of both locals and vacationers jumping in and having fun in its clear waters.
PRO TIP: If you have a bit of extra time, also check out the nearby Bura Soda Water Pool. It’s a smaller, less crowded spot where you can taste natural soda water!
Eat Dinner in Mambajao
For your first night in Camiguin, we’re having dinner in Mambajao! Seeing that we’re on a small island, don’t expect world-class cuisine, but there are still plenty of places in Camiguin to get good food. Here are the restaurants in Mambajao that we ate at and recommend:
- La Dolce Vita: We had dinner at La Dolce Vita twice during our stay in Camiguin and it was wonderful both times. They use quality ingredients in their pizza and their spaghetti ragu was delicious!
- Guerrera Restaurant: If you are looking for something different, Guerrera Restaurant serves Thai food and has a nice atmosphere but is a bit on the pricier side for the Philippines.
- Hayahay Cafe: Serving Western-style cafe food, Hayahay Cafe was our favorite restaurant in Camiguin, and we ate here almost every day for breakfast. Their portions are huge, so we split an entree and a coffee between the two of us. It also has vegan and vegetarian options.
- Sapore Ristorante Camiguin: We ate dinner here on our last night in Camiguin and would have gone more if we had known about it sooner! They serve authentic Italian food, with homemade bread and pasta.
- Jollibee: Jollibee is always a solid bet for Filipino fast food. Some places close early, but Jollibee stayed open decently late and the food is cheap!
Free Camiguin Google Maps Locations
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Camiguin Day 2: White Island, Tuasan Falls, and Ardent Hot Spring
It’s day 2 in Camiguin and it’s going to be a big day. We’re starting with an early morning adventure to the famous White Island!
Explore White Island
White Island is one of Camiguin’s most iconic spots, and for good reason! This crescent-shaped sandbar offers stunning views, clear waters, and of course white sand. Despite its name, White Island is not a true island, but rather a sandbar that shifts and changes shape over time.
When going to White Island, timing is key.
To experience White Island at its fullest, visit during low tide when the sandbar is completely exposed. During high tide, much of the island becomes submerged. So plan your visit by checking Mambajao’s tide charts and allow some flexibility in your schedule to ensure you catch it at its best time.
The boat ride from the White Island Ferry Terminal is quick, taking only about 10-15 minutes. When you step foot on White Island, you’ll be greeted by its long stretch of white sand and breathtaking views of Mount Hibok-Hibok in the distance.
White Island is popular with tourists, but it’s very spacious. You’ll be able to enjoy some solitude and find a quiet spot to swim or relax.
PRO TIP: Bring your own snacks, drinks, and sunscreen, as there are no shops on White Island. The only snack available for purchase on White Island is fresh sea urchins from local fishermen, which I totally recommend you try!
Lunch near the Ferry Terminal
The area around the White Island Ferry Terminal is quite built up, so there are plenty of places to grab lunch here! One spot we recommend is Guerrera Restaurant for Thai food!
Swim at Tuasan Falls
If you’re not too tired from your White Island adventure, I recommend making an adventure up to Tuasan Falls next!
In my opinion, Tuasan Falls is the best waterfall in Camiguin and without a doubt one of the top things to do on the island. We ended up visiting Tuasan Falls twice during our adventures in Camiguin!
Getting to Tuasan Falls is an adventure in itself, and there are two routes you can take. Check out our Complete Guide to Tuasan Falls for details of both routes. But no matter which way you go, you’ll pass through quiet country roads.
Once you arrive at Tuasan Falls, its parking lot has snack stands and restrooms so you can get ready. Grab a fresh coconut or a quick snack before heading through the gate!
From the gate, a wide pathway leads you to the waterfall. Tuasan Falls has a single cascade 20 meters tall, falling over a rock face into a clear pool of water below. As you swim around the pool, look through its crystal-clear water!
Tuasan Falls also has a lifeguard for added safety. The powerful rush of water creates a strong current, so keep a safe distance from the falls!
Relax at Ardent Hot Spring
As the sun begins to set, make your way to Ardent Hot Spring. This hot spring is popular in the evening when the cooler weather makes its warm waters more comfortable.
Ardent Hot Spring is a short drive from Mambajao along a scenic forest road. Entrance is 75 pesos per person, and there’s free motorbike parking right outside the gate.
The setting is simple yet charming, with moss-covered rocks, towering trees, and mist rising up from the water.
The area has four levels of pools, with the water temperature slightly cooler as it flows from the upper levels down. Although the water is more lukewarm than “hot” due to a past earthquake altering the spring’s flow, it’s still worth the visit.
Camiguin Day 3: Mantigue Island and Katibawasan Falls
It’s your final day in Camiguin, and we’re wrapping up your adventure with two of the island’s best spots! It’s going to be a packed day, but it’s the perfect way to create lasting memories before you say goodbye to this beautiful island.
Swim and Snorkel at Mantigue Island
Kick off your last day in Camiguin with a visit to Mantigue Island! Known for its pristine white sand and thriving marine life, this island is the perfect spot for snorkeling, swimming, or simply chilling out on its white sandy beach.
Though Mantigue Island takes some effort to reach, it’s the kind of adventure that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
Boats to Mantigue Island leave from the Mantigue Island Departure Area in Mahinog. The departure area is about 30 minutes from Mambajao and the boat ride to the island is about 20 minutes.
The ferry terminal is simple and organized—purchase your boat ticket (750 pesos for up to six people) and pay the 75 peso environmental fee per person before hopping aboard.
PRO TIP: Facilities on Mantigue Island are minimal, so make sure to pack everything you need for a day at the beach, including water, snacks, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear.
Once you arrive at Mantigue Island, you’ll be greeted by the island’s dazzling white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters. Start your adventure with a swim or a stroll along the shore to take in the views.
For snorkeling, head to the south side of Mantigue Island, where a steep underwater drop-off reveals some of the healthiest coral reefs around Camiguin. This snorkeling area is far from boat traffic and has vibrant coral and colorful schools of fish.
If you’re feeling adventurous or missed the chance at White Island, you can also try fresh sea urchins at Mantigue Island! Local divers gather sea urchins from the waters around the island and sell them right on the beach. With a splash of chili water, they taste better than you’d expect!
When you’re done beaching it at Mantigue Island, take the boat back to Mahinog and prepare for your next stop—Katibawasan Falls.
Visit Katibawasan Falls
After getting back from Mantigue Island, make your way to Katibawasan Falls, Camiguin’s tallest waterfall. This 70-meter waterfall is a picture-perfect single-drop cascade into an emerald pool of water below. It’s a beautiful place to relax or go for a swim.
The area around Katibawasan Falls is built up and there are multiple souvenir and snack shops at its entrance.
After you go through the gate you’ll pass a few huts and benches, then walk a long staircase to get to the bottom of the waterfall.
Once at the waterfall, you can swim in the pool of water below the falls or just hang out and snap some photos.
Hotels We Recommend in Camiguin
Our recommendation for a place to stay is Nypa Style Resort. We found this place because we had dinner at their restaurant one night, and their staff was kind enough to give us a tour of some of their vacant rooms. This place is set near Mambajao, with beautifully kept grounds and immaculately clean rooms.
If you prefer to find your own place to stay in Camiguin, you can check out all your options on booking.com.
Our Camiguin Google Maps Locations
Want a free map of all our favorite spots in Camiguin? Sign up in the box below and we’ll deliver one right to your inbox, plus our top tips to help you plan your Camiguin trip!
Are You Following Our Camiguin Blog Series?
We spent 8 days in Camiguin and found so many things to do there—from waterfalls to beaches, cold springs, and coral reefs. To help fellow adventurers, we’ve put together guides to the best places we found. You can check them out by clicking the links below.
- Start planning your trip here: Camiguin Travel Guide
- Our Ultimate Guide to Camiguin: 16 Awesome Things to Do in Camiguin
- How to plan your Camiguin trip: 3 Days in Camiguin: The Perfect Camiguin Itinerary
- Our favorite place to snorkel in Camiguin is The Sunken Cemetery
- Our favorite day trip in Camiguin is Mantigue Island which is just a short boat ride away
- Camiguin’s best beach is at White Island
- Our favorite waterfall in Camiguin is Tuasan Falls
- If you want to walk through the mangroves on a web of boardwalks check out Katunggan Park
- How to rent a motorbike in the Philippines
I hope you enjoyed our Camiguin 3-Day Itinerary! Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions 🐸
Hello. Do you have a contact for a guide? If not, is it fairly easy to hire one on the island when you get there? Thanks in advance!
Did you see or have been to any party place in Camiguin where there is live band and you get a beer or two? Thanks!
Hi Jewel, we didn’t really do much partying in Camiguin. We did go to a barangay’s fiesta one night but I think that was a yearly type of thing. Overall Camiguin seems like a chilled back kind of place.
thanks for sharing!
loved the 3 day itinerary, perfect mix of relax and active activities!
PS. we are a big group and discovered a hotel (not sure if you would consider as ‘large’) and we found it more than enough to fit our group! ~ Nouveau https://nouveauresort.com/
Yay! I’m glad you found our Camiguin Itinerary helpful. That hotel looks awesome and very comfortable, thanks for sharing. 🙂