Hello, Hive!
It's been a while — 16 days to be exact. How are you doing these hot, summer days? Yes, yesterday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) officially announced the start of the country's warm and dry season or as what most Filipinos call "our summer season".
Warmer and drier days are to be expected in the coming weeks but, weirdly enough, the news did not come as a surprise to us here in Cebu. Even with Amihan (North East Monsoon), we've been subjected to several days of warm and dry spells. In fact, in only two months, there have been 51 fire incidents (forest fires included) recorded in City City alone. And most, recently, reports of Cebu's Buhisan Dam has reached critical water level is also making waves on social media. One's joy is another's sorrow, indeed.
Anyway, for today's post, I'm taking you to one of the pride of my home province. With the summer season finally upon us, let's get our dose of vitamin SEA!
White sandy beach and cool ocean breeze? Canigao Island is your place!
The Philippines is blessed with natural landscapes that can compete at international level in terms of beauty. With its 7,641 islands, there is no short of adventure for every wild at heart. One of these islands is Leyte, home to the famous Kalanggaman Island, Alto Peak, Agas-agas Bridge, Mt. Pangasugan, Cuatro Islas, Hindang Caves and Wild Monkeys, Montecueva Shrine and — today's highlight — Canigao Island.
Canigao Island is an islet just five kilometers off the shores of Matalom and would only take at least 15 to 20 minutes of boat ride. For many years, it has been a favorite inexpensive weekend getaway among locals. A former fishermen’s sanctuary, this little paradise has become a tourist destination sometime in 2005.
After paying 120 pesos (80 pesos for roundtrip fare and 40 pesos for entrance fee) at the Santa Fe port, James, my sister and I boarded the ferryboat that would take us to the island. There was no specific time when the boat will depart but as long as the minimum number of passengers has been reached, we were allowed to sail. Big outrigger boats can transport up to 60 passengers.
Canigao Island is known for its white sands, turquoise seas, extensive coral reef ground and diverse marine life. The place is suitable for swimming and diving. An overnight stay will also give you the chance to experience the beautiful colors of sunset and sunrise, and the star-speckled sky at night.
As for us three, we decided to stay just for the afternoon. When the sun’s heat is at its height. But what is a sun-kissed skin to a fun experience right?
Upon arriving we simply looked for a shaded area to laze around. The islet is surrounded by white, powdery sand which you won't mind sleeping on. It's clear blue water is also very alluring that you'd want to take a dip even before stepping on land.
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Canigao island is very small that you can go around the area in a matter of few minutes. In fact, you can even see the other side of the beach on some spots without coconut trees.
The northwestern side of the island has less white sand but more coral reef. Because of this, it has been considered a sanctuary for its rich marine biodiversity. During off-season, Matalom LGU and Canigao management temporarily close this section for rehabilitation.
Except for swimming, snorkeling, beach camping, and enjoying the view, there is not much activity in the island — not that I mind. I actually prefer it this way. Peaceful and quiet. You can't find 5-star hotels here too but there are basic amenities such as toilet and shower areas.
James, my sister and I spent the rest of the afternoon enjoying the water and taking in the beautiful day.
By 3 PM, we decided to leave the island since we still have to travel to the next town, Hilongos. For those interested to visit, LGU Matalom and Marina Coast Guard has a policy not to allow boat trips to Canigao Island beyond 5 PM for safety and security reasons. Tourists who intend to stay for an overnight must cross to the island before the mentioned time, while those who opt for day use must sail back to Santa Fe port before 4 PM. Hope to you get to see Canigao's beauty in person too!
There is more to Leyte than this island. There are untamed mountains, hidden waterfalls and streams, isolated beaches that remain far beyond the reach of social media. Next time, I'll share with you some of them. 🫰
Maria is a hopeless romantic who travels in pages and places. She is an INFP who loves sunrises and moonlight nights and reading books in between. On weekdays, she works for a self-publishing company as a copywriter. On weekends, she lives her life as a poet or hiker. She hopes to share her love for words and the world with you here on HIVE.
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