Camotes Island Travel Guide
Last Updated on June 26, 2025 by Roxanne Tamayo
Camotes Island Travel Guide
Here’s an updated Camotes Island Travel Guide. Long-time ago back in 2012, I had the chance to go to Camotes island for an overnight stay with limited funds but a nice accommodation.
How to go to Camotes Island from Cebu City?
Searching for how to go to Camotes Island from Cebu? Now, there are three options to reach Camotes Island. One is to take the cheapest route of taking a bus to Danao City to Danao Port and catch a ferry to Consuelo Port. Second is taking the Oceanjet Fast Craft from Cebu City. The third is the Jomalia Fast Craft from Mactan Wharf.
First Option: from Cebu City to Danao Port – Jomalia Roro / Express
- In downtown Cebu, find a jeepney with route # 01K going to North Bus Terminal.
- Best time to leave at 7 AM from North Bus Terminal to Danao City (travel time is around 2 hours) in order to catch the ferry at 11 AM.
- Drop at Danao Port and catch the ferry to Consuelo Port with 2 hours travel time.
Port of Danao to Consuelo Schedule
5:30 AM
8:30 AM
11:00 AM
2:30 PM
5:30 PM
9:00 PM
Port of Consuelo to Danao Schedule
5:30 AM
8:30 AM
1:30 PM
3:30 PM
5:30 PM
Rates
Adults – P220 (Economy), P250 (Aircon)
Seniors/PWD – P157 (Economy), P179 (Aircon)
Students – P176 (Economy), P200 (Aircon)
Minors (3-10) – P110 (Economy), P125 (Aircon)
Danao Ticketing Office
+63 917 631 5931 (Globe/TM)
+63 921 555 9289 (Smart/TNT)
Consuelo Ticketing Office
+63 917 631 5951 (Globe/TM)
+63 939 602 1738 (Smart/TNT)
Second Option: from Cebu City via Pier 1 – Oceanjet Fast Craft
- Go to Cebu Port at Pier 1 in Cebu City and arrival is at Camotes Port in Poro.
- Travel time is 1 hour and 30 minutes, hassle-free but you have to pay more.
Cebu (Pier 1) to Camotes (Poro)
Schedule 1
ETA: 6:00 AM (Pier 1, Cebu)
ETD: 7:30 AM (Poro, Camotes)
P500 – Open Air
P800 – Business Class
Schedule 2
ETA: 3:00 PM (Pier 1, Cebu)
ETD: 4:30 PM (Poro, Camotes)
P500 – Open Air
P800 – Business Class
Camotes (Poro) to Cebu (Pier 1)
Schedule 1
ETA: 8:00 AM (Poro, Camotes)
ETD: 9:30 AM (Pier 1, Cebu)
P500 – Open Air
P800 – Business Class
Schedule 2
ETA: 5:00 PM (Poro, Camotes)
ETD: 6:30 PM (Pier 1, Cebu)
P500 – Open Air
P800 – Business Class
Oceanjet Contact Numbers: (032) 255 7560 / 255 0115 / 0917 638 0000
Third Option: from Mactan via Liloan or Mandaue – Jomalia Fast Craft
- Go to Mactan Wharf of Island Central Mactan Mall and you need to take a fast craft going to Camotes Port in Consuelo.
- Travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Mactan to Consuelo, Camotes Ferry Schedule (Fastcraft)
8:00 AM
12:00 PM
Consuelo, Camotes to Mactan (Fastcraft)
10:00 AM
4:00 PM
Rates
Adults – P500 (Economy and Aircon)
Senior/PWD – P360 (Economy and Aircon)
Student – P400 (Economy and Aircon)
Minors (3-10 years old) – P250 (Economy and Aircon)
Where to Stay in Camotes Island Travel Guide?
- Santiago Bay Garden & Resort
- Mangodlong Paradise Resort
- Ocean Heaven Resort
- Coco Grove Nature Resort and Spa
- Mangodlong Rock Resort
Where to Eat in Camotes Island
- Pito’s Sutukil – Fresh seafood by the beach.
- Santiago Bay Café – Best sunset dining spot.
- Borromeo’s Restaurant – Affordable Filipino food.
- Mangodlong Rock Resort Resto – Great for cocktails and seafood.
How to Get Around Camotes Island Tour?
The first time I was there, we rented a motorbike with a driver that cost P500 good for 2 people.
As a group, you can rent a multi-cab with a driver for an estimated price of P3,500. There’s also a van but I have no idea about the price.
Interested to travel in my country? Here’s what to pack in the Philippines.
Top Tourist Spots and Things To Do in Camotes Island Travel Guide
Nestled in the heart of Cebu province, the Camotes Islands are often called the “Lost Horizon of the South” — a hidden paradise with unspoiled beaches, mystical caves, crystal-clear lakes, and a laid-back island vibe. If you’re planning a trip to this underrated gem, here’s a full list of the best things to do in Camotes Islands.
White Sand Beaches
- Santiago Bay Beach – Best public beach, perfect for swimming.
- Mangodlong Beach – Great for snorkeling and island hopping.
- Tulang Diot Island – Secluded island getaway with powdery sand.
Caves & Water Attractions
- Bukilat Cave – A must-visit cave with crystal-clear waters.
- Timubo Cave – Underground swimming spot.
- Lake Danao – Kayaking and picnic by the largest lake in Cebu.
Adventure & Island Hopping
- Poro Church & Baywalk – Historical site with scenic views.
- Buho Rock – Cliff diving spot with panoramic ocean views.
- Paraiso Cave – Refreshing spring inside a cave.
Bask in the Sun at Santiago Bay Beach
Santiago Bay is famous for its wide stretch of white sand, calm waters, and stunning sunsets. It’s perfect for swimming, beach volleyball, or just chilling with a cold drink. Several seaside restaurants also serve fresh seafood with ocean views.
Related Article: Santiago Bay Garden and Resort
Dive into Lake Danao
Dubbed the “Lover’s Lake,” Lake Danao is the biggest lake in Cebu. You can go kayaking, pedal boating, or ride the iconic “Sakanaw” boat while soaking in the scenic surroundings. There’s also a park area perfect for picnics and photo ops.
Related Article: Lake Danao Park
Explore Timubo and Bukilat Cave
Located in Tudela, Bukilat Cave is a must-see natural wonder with stalactites, stalagmites, and a natural pool inside. The cave is partly lit by natural light from an opening in the ceiling, giving it a magical glow.
Related Article: Timubo Cave in Camotes Island, Cebu
Go on a Motorbike Island Tour
Rent a scooter or habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) and tour the islands at your own pace. Must-see spots include:
- Paraiso Cave
- Timubo Cave
- Buho Rock (cliff diving!)
- Bakhaw Beach
- Esperanza Beach
Try Cliff Jumping at Buho Rock
For adrenaline junkies, Buho Rock Resort offers a thrilling cliff jumping experience into the deep turquoise sea. It’s safe, fun, and Instagram-worthy.
Catch the Sunset at Mangodlong Rock Resort
This resort has an iconic rock formation and a gorgeous beachfront view. Even if you’re not checked in, you can pay a small entrance fee to enjoy the spot.
Related Article: Mangodlong Rock Resort in Camotes Island, Cebu
Taste Local Delicacies
Don’t miss out on trying Camotes-style lechon, fresh seafood, and local treats like cassava cake and seaweed salad (guso). Visit Santiago Bay’s food strip or Mangodlong area for beachfront dining.
Related Article: Food Trip in Camotes Island – this is the place to eat
Disconnect and Unwind
Camotes is a perfect place to unplug. Many resorts don’t have strong WiFi — and that’s a feature, not a flaw. Bring a book, listen to the waves, and live slow for a while.
Here are some of the places I personally visited in Camotes Island:
There are still many places to discover in Camotes Island so an overnight stay is not enough. But spending your weekend is really great here especially if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Camotes Island is a perfect weekend getaway. For an overnight stay, P2,000 is already enough per person while staying at Santiago Bay Garden and Resort.
3D2N Camotes Island Itinerary & Budget
First Day: Arrival & Beach Chill
- Arrive at Consuelo Port (₱220)
- Rent a motorbike (₱500/day) or tricycle (₱150)
- Relax at Santiago Bay Beach (Free)
- Dinner at Pito’s Sutukil (₱300)
Second Day: Island Adventure & Cave Hopping
- Visit Bukilat & Timubo Caves (₱20 entrance fee each)
- Kayak at Lake Danao (₱50 per hour)
- Snorkeling at Mangodlong Beach (₱150 rental)
- Lunch at Borromeo’s (₱250)
Third Day: Island Hopping & Departure
- Visit Tulang Diot Island (₱150 boat fee)
- Cliff jumping at Buho Rock (₱20)
- Enjoy lunch at Santiago Bay Café (₱300)
- Return to Cebu (₱220)
Total Budget Estimate: ₱3,000 – ₱5,000 per person
Travel Tips for Camotes Island Travel Guide
- Bring cash – ATMs are scarce on the island.
- Book accommodations early – Resorts fill up fast during peak season.
- Rent a motorbike – It’s the best way to explore.
- Check ferry schedules – Be early, especially on weekends.
- Respect the locals – Camotes is a peaceful community.
Is Camotes Island Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Camotes is a budget-friendly paradise, offering pristine beaches, caves, and adventure spots with fewer crowds than other Cebu destinations. Whether you’re a backpacker, family traveler, digital nomad, or beach lover, this island is the perfect getaway.
Photos of Camotes Island
Related Articles:
hello i am ALFRED… i have multicabs, aircon van and motorbike for camotes transportation… i have also extra services like reserving your tickets to the ferry in going back home… my transpo rates is very affordable… right now we have a promo… free pick up and drop off to port and resort to port… all you have to pay is the tour…. try to contact me this are my numbers…
GLOBE : 09265296337; SMART: 09108795577; SUN: 09339378870
Hi, would you the earliest trip of the bus going to Danao City from Cebu North Terminal. I’m planning to take the 5:30 am boat trip to Camotes. Hoping for your response! Thanks in advance!
Hi Jezamine, we tried taking the 5:30am boat trip to Camotes. We rented our own transportation we left Cebu City at 3:00AM.