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Where to Stay in Camiguin

Where to Stay in Camiguin

Camiguin Mindanao, Philippines Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Popular Choices

  • Resorts

    Common tourist lodging, beachfront or ocean views, amenities like pools, restaurants, and tour booking. A relaxed, vacation-like atmosphere.

  • Guesthouses/Homestays

    More affordable lodging, often family-run with basic rooms, sometimes shared bathrooms. A more authentic cultural experience, popular with backpackers and budget travelers.

  • Hostels

    Budget-oriented options, mostly in Mambajao and Agoho, with dormitory-style or private rooms. Good for meeting other travelers.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Limited availability, found on international booking platforms. Offer more space, privacy, and often kitchen facilities for longer stays or families.

Considerations

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Permitted in designated areas. Some resorts or nature parks might offer glamping or designated camping spots. General open camping is not a standard option for tourists. Inquire locally if you plan to camp.

  • Online Booking

    International online travel agencies are commonly used. They feature a wide range of accommodation types and allow for easy comparison. Some local resorts and guesthouses may also have their own websites for direct booking.

  • Direct Booking Incentives

    Check for direct booking incentives, as some properties offer favorable rates or inclusions when you book directly.

  • Walk-in Rate Negotiation

    For smaller guesthouses or homestays, especially during low season or for multi-night stays, negotiation on walk-in rates is sometimes possible. Larger resorts typically have fixed rates.

Neighborhood Guide

Camiguin’s relatively small size means that you are never far from an attraction. Each area has a different ambiance.

Mambajao

Positives
  • Island’s central location.
  • Access to ATMs, public market, local eateries, provincial hospital.
  • Good base for exploring the entire island.
  • Central position and transport connections.
Negatives
  • Can be busy.
  • Lacks a secluded "resort" feel.
  • Standard urban precautions apply for petty theft in crowded areas.

Agoho & Yumbing Western Coast

Positives
  • Beachfront resorts are plentiful.
  • Easy access to White Island boat tours.
  • Good selection of mid-range restaurants.
  • Quieter than Mambajao yet convenient.
Negatives
  • Accommodation can be more expensive.

Catarman Southwest Coast

Positives
  • Closer to historical sites and remote waterfalls.
  • More secluded and authentic feel.
  • Slower pace of life.
  • Safe and quiet.
Negatives
  • Fewer dining and accommodation options.
  • Further travel to other major island attractions.
  • Transport costs might be slightly higher from Mambajao/airport.

Mahinog Southeast Coast

Positives:

Convenient for early morning Mantigue Island tours or for travelers arriving late or departing early by ferry. Safe.

Negatives:

Limited amenities outside the immediate port area and fewer resort options compared to Agoho.

Booking Strategies

Plan your bookings according to the season for the best experience.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (February-May, peak holidays like Holy Week, Christmas, Lanzones Festival in October): Book at least 2-3 months in advance.
  • Shoulder Season (January, June, November, December): 1-2 months in advance is generally sufficient.
  • Low Season (July-October, outside of Lanzones Festival): 1 month or less in advance is usually acceptable.
  • Accommodation prices can rise by 20-50% during peak season and major festivals.

Important Policies

  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary widely by property. Always check these before confirming your booking.
  • Many properties request a deposit, often one night's stay, to confirm a reservation.
  • Understand cancellation terms to avoid unexpected charges.
  • Trusted international online travel agencies: Booking.com, Agoda, IHG Hotels, Hostelworld, Vrbo, TrustedHousesitters.

Consider Booking Direct

Local Reservation Systems
  • Some local resorts and guesthouses feature their own websites for direct booking.
  • Direct booking incentives are sometimes available, with properties offering better rates or inclusions.
Walk-in Rates
  • For smaller guesthouses or homestays, especially during the low season, a small room for negotiation on walk-in rates may exist.
  • This is especially true if you plan to stay for multiple nights.
  • Larger resorts typically have fixed rates and are less likely to negotiate.
  • Always be polite if you attempt to negotiate.

Important Note

Budgeting

Factor in seasonal price rises during peak times and major festivals (e.g., Lanzones Festival, Holy Week).

Booking Flexibility

During low season, there is more flexibility for walk-ins, and you might find discounts or special offers.

Confirmation

Always confirm specific deposit and cancellation policies before finalizing your booking.

Accommodation Recommendations

Choose your lodging based on your travel style and preferences.

Travel Style Picks

Budget Travel

Look for local guesthouses in Mambajao or simpler beachfront cottages in Agoho. These often foster a relaxed atmosphere.

  • Consider a lightweight, packable Travel padlock for shared lockers in hostels.
  • Price Range: 500 - 1,000 PHP/night.
  • Features: Fan room, shared bathroom, basic amenities. Some include communal kitchen.
Mid-Range Travel

Resorts along the western coast (Agoho, Yumbing) provide a good balance of comfort and value.

  • They often include amenities like swimming pools, in-house restaurants, and direct beach access.
  • Price Range: 1,500 - 3,500 PHP/night.
  • Features: Air-conditioned rooms, private bathroom, pool, restaurant, often beachfront.

Special Occasions

Luxury Travel

Camiguin has a limited selection of high-end options, but some boutique resorts offer secluded luxury.

  • Personalized service and well-appointed facilities are featured.
  • Price Range: 5,000 - 15,000+ PHP/night.
  • Features: High-end amenities, private villas, exclusive beach access, spa services.
Family-Friendly Options

Resorts with swimming pools, spacious rooms or bungalows, and easy access to beaches are ideal for families.

  • Many resorts arrange extra beds or accommodate families in larger units.
  • A Waterproof dry bag is valuable for family outings to beaches and waterfalls.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Community and Connections

    Guesthouses and hostels in Mambajao or Agoho present excellent opportunities to meet other travelers. These places often have communal areas.

  • Tour Arrangements

    These accommodations often assist with arranging shared tours.

  • Independent Exploration

    Scooter rental comes highly recommended for independent exploration. It offers the most freedom for solo travelers.

  • Travel Flexibility

    Solo travelers might find discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays, especially during the low season.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Discounted Rates

    Some guesthouses and resorts may offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays, especially during the low season.

  • Self-Catering Options

    For long stays, properties with kitchen access are a good choice for self-catering, which can save money on meals.

  • Organization

    An Expandable packing cube set helps organize clothes and essentials for longer trips.

  • Cultural Immersion

    For cultural immersion, focus on staying in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays. You interact directly with local families and experience their way of life.

Properties with Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance

Authentic Cultural Glimpse

Few specific properties in Camiguin are noteworthy for their historical significance as tourist accommodations.

  • For a cultural immersion, staying in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays is a valuable experience.
  • These often provide a more authentic glimpse into Camiguin culture than larger, more generic resorts.
Interaction with Locals

You can interact directly with local families and learn about their daily lives.

  • This approach often leads to a understanding of the island's heritage.

Considerations for Choosing Your Stay

Convenience for Amenities

Mambajao is ideal for those prioritizing access to essential services and transport connections.

Beach Access and Proximity to White Island

Agoho/Yumbing areas are a top choice for beach lovers and White Island excursions.

Historical Sites or Ferry Access

Catarman suits those interested in historical sites, while Mahinog is perfect for ferry arrivals/departures.