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by Valerie Tort

When it comes to beaches and novelty adventure, an eight-hour journey by land taking you to the northeastern edge of the Philippines is an ideal vacation spot in the Bicol Region. Camarines Norte is one of the six provinces that comprise the Pili Region.

It is located in the southeastern part of Luzon and opens its doors to connect the entire Bicol Region to Manila’s highly urbanized districts. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean in the northern part of the island and the San Miguel Bay in the east, Camarines Norte offers travelers the chance to visit another site of ecological and cultural diversity for a unique weekend travel destination.

The Philippine archipelago does not only consist of Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao. There are other must-see places that will provide you with a luxurious rest and relaxation the whole day. Camarines Norte is not just where Paracale gold resides, being known as the ‘gold country’ in the Philippines. Surely, Camarines Norte may not be as popular as the “summer party place” Boracay or the “family outing place” Subic Bay, but it offers more than just a summer outing—it is a tropical paradise.

Packed with the local people’s warmth, exciting underwater world, and stunning visual sceneries, Camarines Norte is an escape from the city lights and fast-paced life in the metro. Bagasbas Beach is one of the most popular relaxing and breathtaking places to cleanse, rejuvenate, and free your mind and spirit with worries due to the stressful lifestyle in Manila. It is only a few minutes away from the town proper of Daet. Locals usually stroll along the coastal area waiting for the sun to glimpse over the island before starting their day.

Bagasbas Beach is also known for surfing. Though it was a bit difficult to find surfboards to be rented and instructors to teach you the basics of the water sport, local people were very accommodating in helping you find the local surfers who are willing to have their boards leased. Its refreshing seawater created waves as high as 5 feet so beginners will have a fun time in water rather than a scary one due to massive water surges.

About seven to 10 minutes away from the Bagasbas Beach is an isolated mini forest ideal for picnics, offshore sightseeing, and barkada camping. This is a perfect place for a group who likes to have a secluded tambayan away from the other tourists in the island. The place is undeveloped unlike the other parts of Camarines Norte.

An isolated Bagasbas Beach offers refuge from the stressful urban life

Calaguas Islands is a virgin paradise in which boats may be leased in order to reach the group of islands. Sea sickness is common before reaching Calaguas Islands. The two-hour trip going to the island is a chance to catch the sight of sea turtles floating on the sides of the boat. The cobalt blue seas, white sandy island, and the tropical deep green forests has a pollution-free and reserved environment which is not yet invaded by any bustling commercial and industrial developments.

Do not expect any convenient way of cooking and dining. Tents are also a must for people who would like to stay under the sun or who plan to have an overnight camping experience in Calaguas Islands.

Mahabang Buhangin is one of the most visited areas in Camarines Norte. It literally has a long stretch of a white sandy coastline that accentuates the picturesque mountains, rock formations, and greeneries. A typical activity in Mahabang Buhangin is lounging around with your cup of coffee in the mid-afternoon sun while grabbing your camera to take a shot of wonderful memories.

If your definition of paradise meets the hedonistic scene of Camarines Norte, then be one of the first few travelers to visit and uncover what it has to offer. Take advantage of the photo opportunities in the island while exploring the adjacent towns and majestic landscapes, so don’t forget your camera.

The Bicol peninsula is the home of beautiful sandy beaches extending farther than Boracay coastal region, world-class surfing spots, and the rich and diverse marine life in the central Philippines.

The Philippine Republic’s Department of Tourism continues to promote local tourist destinations around the globe despite the bad reputation it has gained from travel advisories against our country. Warnings varied from the numerous terrorist attacks to the clashes between the communist insurgencies and the armed forces and the coup attempts to destabilize the present administration.

Tourists must be aware that travel advisories are not as accurate in giving specific details since they do not have the real score of the ins and outs in the Philippines. Go ahead and direct the winds towards the Philippine Islands. It would surely be a once in a lifetime fun vacation experience you’ll never forget (minus the said terrorist attacks).

Tags: Camarines Norte, Philippine Travel Guide, Philippine Surfing Spot, Philippine White Beach