Things to Do in Camiguin

Camiguin might be the Philippines' second smallest province, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in natural drama. This teardrop-shaped island sits in the Bohol Sea between Bohol and Mindanao, and locals call it the 'Island Born of Fire' - a reference to the seven volcanoes that shaped its landscape. You'll find black sand beaches, natural hot springs, and waterfalls tucked into surprisingly lush terrain for such a geologically active place. The island has this laid-back vibe that feels authentically Filipino rather than resort-polished, probably because tourism here tends to be more domestic than international. Most visitors come for the natural attractions, but you'll also stumble across centuries-old churches, local festivals that haven't been sanitized for tourists, and some genuinely good seafood that doesn't cost a fortune.

The food scene here is refreshingly local rather than tourist-focused, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and traditional Filipino dishes. You'll find excellent grilled fish, particularly lapu-lapu and tuna, at beachfront restaurants that source directly from local fishermen. Kiping, a local delicacy made from ground cassava, shows up in various forms and is worth trying. Most restaurants are casual, family-run places where a full meal rarely costs more than 300-400 pesos. The pasalip (a local sweet made from cassava and coconut) makes for a good afternoon snack, and you can find it at small shops around the island. Don't expect fancy dining - the appeal here is honest, well-prepared food at very reasonable prices.

The dry season from March to May offers the most predictable weather, though it can get quite hot and humid. June through October brings more rain, but it's usually short, heavy downpours rather than all-day drizzle, and the island stays green and lush. November through February is probably the sweet spot - less rain than the wet season, cooler temperatures than the dry season, and generally calmer seas for island hopping. That said, Camiguin's weather can be unpredictable year-round due to its volcanic geography, so pack for both sun and rain regardless of when you visit. Typhoon season (July-September) can occasionally affect travel plans, so build some flexibility into your itinerary during these months.