2019 • 02 • 19

Catanduanes has many beautiful attractions, which have yet to become popular. One of the places to add to your off-the-beaten-track adventures in this province is the Palumbanes Islands. This group of islands, located north of Caramoran, has an idyllic atmosphere, rolling hills, soft sand beach, and picturesque seascapes and landscapes.

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Virac Airport (Catanduanes)

By Air

1. There are flights from Manila to Virac, Catanduanes your jump-off point to Palumbanes Island.
2. Once in Virac, there is a bus or a van that travels to Pandan at the town center; alight at Caramoran and go to Brgy. Baybay.
3. Look for boatmen that will agree to take you to the island.

By Land

1. Board a bus traveling to Legazpi or Tabaco, the fare costs around P750 to P850.
2. Ideally, you would want to get to Tabaco, since the boats and ferries going to Catanduanes are there. The ticket costs approximately P150 to P300 for the ROROs and the fast crafts cost P450.
3. Once in Virac, there is a bus or a van that travels to Pandan at the town center; alight at Caramoran and go to Brgy. Baybay.
4. Look for boatmen that will agree to take you to the island.

 

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Entrance Fee and Other Charges

• Entrance Fee: It depends on where you choose to go and stay.
• Camping Fee: It depends on the resort.
• Cottage Rental Fee: Rates vary from one resort to another.
• Boat Rental Rates: P1000 – P1500 (small boat); P3000 (big boat)

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Don’t Miss

• The islands of Palumbanes are picturesque, raw, and beautiful; very few tourists go here and there are hardly any commercial establishments. The beaches of note during your trip include Bitaog, and Calabagio and Tignob Island.
• The cream-like soft sand and the clear cool waters are ideal for beach bumming, swimming and snorkeling.
• The rock formations jut out of the water, and merge perfectly with the cove, creating a picturesque view.
• Before you leave, visit the Parongpong Lighthouse to get a bird’s eye view of the island and the surroundings.

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Don’t Forget

• Before you go to the island, make sure to withdraw money and bring enough cash for transactions. Have small bills and coins ready as well.
• Bring a power bank or extra batteries for your gadgets as electricity isn’t 24 hours on Palumbanes Island.
• Bring your own gear if you want to go snorkeling.
• Bring a dry bag and plastic Ziplocs or bags to keep your things dry, the boat ride may be rough and bumpy.
• Bring snacks and water as the stores on the island have limited choices and items are more expensive.
• Leave only footprints and memories, not trash.

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If You Have More Time and Budget

• After exploring Palumbanes Islands, you can discover the other attractions of Catanduanes. You can visit and go surfing at Puraran Beach, laze around the beaches near Virac such as those in Mamangal and Marilima.

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Where to Stay

There are decent accommodations on the islands, but if you are planning to visit other places in Catanduanes, here are some of the recommended accommodations according to Agoda users, in no particular order.

• Ardci Corporate Inn. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Catanduanes Midtown Inn. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Marem Pension House. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Puraran Surf Beach Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

For more options, search here: Catanduanes Hotels