Stress from work?
We don’t need therapy — we just need to go to the beach. 🌊
Cebu is world-famous for its beaches. Tourists from all over the globe fly in to soak up the endless summer vibes. Mactan Island is home to luxurious 5-star resorts, perfect if you're after comfort and convenience.
But as a local Cebuano, I’d say: there are way better (and cheaper!) beaches outside the tourist trail — places that will make you seriously question going back to your rat-race life.
🐠 Crowded or Overpriced Beaches? No, Thanks.
- Sure, there's Moalboal — just 2 hours from the city by bus — with activities like swimming with whale sharks. But it's become a bit too popular. You’ll often wait 2 hours just to get in the water.
- The there's Bantayan Island — accessible via a 1-hour plane ride or a 4-hour van ride. It’s quieter and more laid-back, but still surprisingly pricey and doesn’t offer a lot of things to do.
🌴 Camotes Island — My Top Pick
Camotes Island is my personal recommendation.
It’s known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and peaceful vibe — yet it remains surprisingly underdeveloped and affordable. ✨
Getting there is a bit of a challenge, but that’s part of the adventure. And once you’re there, time slows down. No stress. Just sea, sand, and serenity.
📅 2 Days in Camotes? Perfect.
You need at least two days to fully enjoy what Camotes has to offer — beautiful beaches, island hopping, cave pools, and chill local vibes.
☀️ Best Time to Visit Camotes
The Philippines has only two seasons: dry and wet. March to May is the best time to go — hot weather, blue skies, and very little rain.
🚢 How to Get from Cebu City to Camotes
Camotes isn’t connected by land, so the only way to get there is by ferry or boat. Here are your options:
🛳️ From Danao Port
- Travel from Cebu City to Danao (2 hours by bus or van).
- Ferry departures: 5:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:30 PM.
- Travel time: approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
🛥️ From Liloan Port
- A newer route I haven’t tried yet.
- There’s a ferry that departs daily at 9:00 AM from Liloan to Consuelo.
⛴️ From Mactan (Recommended!)
- Fastest option.
- Ferry leaves daily at 8:00 AM from Mactan Port.
- Downside: You might miss your hotel breakfast!
🛏️ Top Places to Stay in Camotes
🚐 Getting Around Camotes
Once you arrive at Consuelo Port, you’ll find plenty of multicabs, motorcycles and vans for rent. You can hire one for the whole day to explore the island with ease.
🧭 Is Camotes Safe?
Absolutely!
It’s much less touristy than other spots. Most people you’ll meet are friendly locals, and it’s easy to strike up conversations.
🗺️ Itinerary
Day 1
- Morning arrival at Consuelo Port
- Morning swim at Lake Danao
Plunge at Buho Rock
Taking the plunge at Buho Rock — no better way to cool off! 🌊💦 Visit Caves
exploring hidden wonders beneath the surface. 🕯️🗺️ 
Swimming in nature’s hidden wonder 🌊🕯️ Shopping
Getting the essentials (and maybe a few treats I didn’t plan for 😅). 🍫🛍️ Check-in at resort
Even on sunny days, it’s never crowded — the perfect peaceful escape. 🌤️🌴 - Dinner at a local seaside eatery
Day 2
Beach time at Santiago Bay
Where the sea meets the sky and worries fade away. 🌊☁️ - Island hopping (Tulang Diot or nearby beaches)
Late afternoon ferry back to Cebu
adventure ends, memories stay. 🎒🚢
Maps
Camotes isn’t for luxury seekers. It’s for travelers who want a simple escape — slow life, beautiful nature, and a break from the chaos.
If you're tired of your routine and need to hit the reset button, pack your bags. Camotes is waiting.
