CEBU, Philippines - Camiguin is, no doubt, becoming a significant tourist destination in the country – if it is not already. If a Camiguin-born like me does not get used to the beauty that suffuses the island. My homeplace still amazes me, every single time I come to visit.
Camiguin has earned the moniker as the “Island Born of Fire.” The ‘title’ springs from the great volcanic eruptions of old that seemed to obliterate the whole place. But it turns out that the devastation was actually nature’s way of reshaping the island, installing the great beauty that now characterizes it.
Natural attractions abound in Camiguin – tropical rain forest, majestic waterfalls, cold springs, hot springs, gleaming beach lines and so much more. My home island offers relief to the withered spirit of the work-worn city folks. Just a little looking around will unravel to any visitor a world that’s completely different… serene yet exciting, quiet yet explosive.
There’s one place at the island that’s my personal favorite – White Island, which is one of Camiguin’s premier tourist attractions. The spot draws a lot of tourists every year, both local and foreign. It is a long white sandbar located some two kilometers off the coast of Barangay Yumbing, Camiguin Island.
From a distance, White Island looks like just a thin strip of white sand, but once the visitors get there, breathtaking views begin to emerge. And it is a good venue for various adventure activities.
On my last visit to Camiguin, one weekend, I had a couple of friends who wanted to visit my place. We were all looking for a short respite from our fast-paced lives in the city. One of the highlights of our trip was to go to White Island, of course. Despite the fact that I had already visited this place maybe four or five times in the past, its beauty still struck me in a positive way.
From the capital town of Mambajao, we took an east-bound multicab to Barangay Yumbing, which is the jump off point. Upon arrival at the barangay, we hired an outrigger boat at P450, roundtrip for seven persons. It took around 15 minutes to reach the island. And fun immediately began.
Excitement exploded the moment we set foot in the island. The perfect weather (an answered prayer) and the good company of friends in a one-of-a-kind scenic spot was a perfect recipe for a great time. And the rest of the morning exactly unfolded that way for us.
White Island is shaped like a letter ‘C’, with a lagoon formed in the middle. The shape of the sandbar, according to the boat operator, constantly changes due to the movement of the tides. The spot is perfect for snorkeling, diving, sunbathing or simply strolling on the white sandy shoreline.
Before getting lost in the fun, there are important things to know. There are no natural shelters or cottages on White Island. But there are beach umbrellas for rent at P150 apiece. Just the same, putting on sunblock is a must.
From White Island one gets a majestic view of Camiguin or a perfect backdrop for taking pictures of oneself or with friends for remembrance. Lifeguards are assigned at the sandbar to watch over the swimmers. Visitors are advised to stay close to shore for safety when swimming since the sandbar is encircled by open sea where the water currents are quite strong.
We spent our time at white Island taking pictures, frolicking under the sun and taking a dip in the cool tranquil surrounding waters. Then, we realized it was almost noon when we could already feel that the sunlight was beginning to bite. It was time to leave. (FREEMAN)