Calamian Group of Islands are dot-like figures in the Philippine map but these islands naturally and humbly flaunt their rich marine biodiversity and a history muted by time and political revenge.
The Calamian Group of Islands is surrounded by a group of islands and isles along Sulu and West Philippine Sea. Among its islands are the famed Coron Island, Busuanga Island, Calauit Island, Malcapuya Island, Banana Island, Pass Island and the historic Culion Island. There are a number of isles that is close to each other making it akin to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills.
CORON ISLAND
Coron’s famous Kayangan and Barracuda Lake are natural swimming pools nestled in Coron’s towering limestone formations. The waters are so clear that even without dipping, you can see what’s underneath. Along the deep and calm waters of Coron are shipwrecks (mostly from World War II). These wrecks are now enveloped by various species of fish and corals. Also in Coron are lagoons distinct from each other. These lagoons are good for kayaking.
The famous Kayangan Lake
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CALAUIT ISLAND
Get a taste of Kenya, Africa at Calauit Safari Park, home of lofty giraffes and zebras that will surely make your heart beat faster when you have a close encounter with them. Calamian deer, eagle, a phython, monkeys, tortoises, etc are some of the cute faces you’ll face in Calauit Safari. TIP: Try not to ride with that “vintage jeep” as it has been said to have a brake problem. Mere picture taking with it is okay. Okay?
The vintage jeep in Calauit Safari Park
Is there a thing sweeter than this two giraffes?
MALCAPUYA ISLAND
Been searching for that long stretch of fine white sand beach coupled by a serene ambiance in a secluded island? Worry no more! The more than an hour boat ride is worth it. Malcapuya Beach will vanish your worries away as you dip your tiny feet on the calm seas and fishes are ready to massage you. Feeling lazy? Not a problem. You can rest at the hammock and let the cool salty wind swing yourself. You can also just “sit still, look pretty” on the fine sand while the sun is kissing you hi and sipping your sweet “buko juice”. Let the sound of the waves and trees be the lullaby to your ears.
TIP: • Try to join the “snorkeling” activity commissioned by the island’s caretaker for only P 100. You will be hauled by a small outrigger to the coral garden where fishes, giant clams and distinct corals await you. • Try to walk around the island to get that best 360 views.
Giant Clam Garden
BANANA ISLAND Same with El Nido’s Papaya Beach, Banana Island don’t have a single banana tree, fyi. It is said that the island’s shape is akin to that of the shape of the banana leaf. Banana Island’s beach is a home for various species of giant clams of distinct sizes and hues.
PASS ISLAND
Another stretch of fine white sand with coral gardens sheltering distinct schools of fish coupled with Lusong Gunboat Shipwreck which is now enveloped by corals.
CULION ISLAND
Concurrent to Culion’s rich marine biodiversity is a history worthy to be praised and commemorated. Way back in 1904 when Culion become the country’s national dumping ground for leprosy patients. IF YOU’RE HAVING A BAD DAY, REMEMBER THIS: Leprosy was then a dreaded disease and lepers are compulsorily segregated and isolated in Culion. NO excuses, they have to leave their loved ones and start a new life in an isolated place. Salute is given to various groups of people who answer the call of duty when everyone declines. To those who prefer to serve their fellow Filipinos when opportunities outside the country have greater value. More of Culion on ….
Welcome to Culion with the then Philippine Health Services now Department of Health logo made by lepers.
La Inmaculada Church in Culion
One of the canyons positioned by Spaniards in Culion
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MT TAPYAS
At 210m after 721+ steps, Mt Tapyas is the second highest peak in the island of Busuanga. From the town proper of Coron, you could see Mt Tapyas’ giant cross and letters C O R O N. After enduring the 721+ steps in a man-made, cemented trail, you will be awe by the stunning sunset that makes the isles turn to gold. You can see tourist of different ages and races hiking up because of their passion of chasing sunsets.
Golden hour in Mt Tapyas
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Enveloped by islands and isles, island hopping in Calamian is a superb experience because the waves are so calm. The islands are a sight to behold. Every destination is not just worthy of your Instagram and Facebook hashtag but will surely make you fall inlove with nature over and over again. Breathtaking? Amazing? Nah… That and many more adjectives are just an understatement of Calamian’s beauty.
CORON- A SWEET ESCAPE Calamian Group of Islands are dot-like figures in the Philippine map but these islands naturally and humbly flaunt their rich marine biodiversity and a history muted by time and political revenge.