1 About Camotes Island
The Camotes Islands are a group of islands in the province of Cebu, Philippines, known for white-sand beaches, freshwater lakes, tidal caves and a laid-back island pace. They are made up of four municipalities: San Francisco, Poro, Tudela and Pilar.
Often called one of Cebu's best-kept secrets, Camotes is perfect for a weekend getaway — quieter than Bohol or Boracay, but with beaches, caves and lakes that are just as beautiful.
2 How to get to Camotes Island
The most common way is by ferry from mainland Cebu:
- From Danao City → Consuelo Port (San Francisco): roll-on/roll-off (RORO) and fast-craft ferries run daily; travel time is roughly 1.5–2 hours.
- From Cebu City (Pier): fast ferries also serve Poro and Consuelo ports on select schedules.
Schedules and fares change with the season and weather, so always check the latest trips before you travel. In the CamotesGO app you can check ferry schedules and plan your trip to and from Cebu.
3 Best things to do in Camotes
- Santiago Bay — a long stretch of soft white sand and shallow turquoise water, great for swimming and sunsets.
- Buho Rock Resort — cliff-diving platforms and viewpoints over the sea; a favourite for photos and a refreshing jump.
- Lake Danao — a large freshwater lake shaped like the number 8, perfect for kayaking, paddle boats and picnics.
- Bukilat Cave (Tudela) — a tidal cave with a natural swimming pool lit by sunlight from openings above.
- Timubo Cave — a cool underground cave pool with crystal-clear water for a quick dip.
- Mangodlong & Tulang Diot — more beaches and a small islet you can reach by short boat ride.
You can discover more spots, local tips and entrance fees right inside the app.
4 Getting around the island
Camotes is best explored by land, and there are a few easy options:
- Habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) — the quickest and cheapest way to hop between spots.
- Tricycle — good for short trips and small groups.
- Rented motorbike, car or van — the most flexible way to explore at your own pace.
With CamotesGO, you can book a ride or rent a vehicle in a few taps — no haggling, no waiting around.
5 Where to stay in Camotes
Camotes has everything from budget homestays to beachfront resorts, mostly around San Francisco (near Santiago Bay and Mangodlong) and Poro. Booking ahead is smart on weekends and holidays.
Browse and book homestays, rooms and resorts on the CamotesGO stays page or in the app.
6 Camotes travel tips
- Bring cash — ATMs are limited on the island, though GCash and Maya are widely accepted.
- Travel light and pack sunscreen, water shoes (for the caves) and a dry bag.
- Weekends and holidays get busy — book your stay and ferry early.
- Respect the environment: take your trash with you and follow local guidelines at each spot.
7 Plan your whole trip with CamotesGO
CamotesGO is the all-in-one app for Camotes Island — book rides, stays and vehicle rentals, check ferry schedules, order food and send errands, and discover the island's best spots, all in one place.