CAMARINES SUR
Camarines Sur, in the Bicol Region, is a dual-destination province, fusing the stunning natural beauty of the Caramoan Islands with the historical and religious heart of Naga City.
This region offers a thrilling mix of adventure and spiritual exploration, from island-hopping through pristine archipelagos to climbing dormant volcanoes and celebrating a deep-rooted devotion to its patron saint.
Most Popular Attractions
Island-Hopping & Beach Destinations:
Matukad Island: Famous for its white sand beach and a hidden brackish lagoon where a legendary giant milkfish (or bangus) resides.
Lahos Island: A tiny island that seems to disappear at high tide, featuring two stunning white-sand coves connected by a narrow path.
Cagbalinad Island: Known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and cliff jumping.
Cotivas Island: Features a long, sprawling white-sand beach and sandbar, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Gota Beach: A crescent-shaped beach cove on the Caramoan mainland, well-known for hosting international editions of the TV show Survivor.
Manlawi Sandbar: A shifting white sandbar in the middle of the sea, often appearing with distinct patterns depending on the tide.
Bagead Beach: A secluded beach on the mainland with caves and rock formations, offering a tranquil escape.
Sabitang Laya: One of the most picturesque beaches, recognized for its twin stretch of powdery white sand and dramatic rock formations.
Natural & Hiking Sites:
Caramoan National Park: A vast protected area covering much of the peninsula, home to diverse flora and fauna, caves, and limestone mountains.
Omang Cave: A popular caving destination in the Caramoan area, offering an accessible subterranean adventure.
Mount Caglago: A smaller, accessible mountain on the Caramoan mainland with a towering cross and a staircase leading to a panoramic view of the islands.
Historical & Religious Core:
Naga Metropolitan Cathedral: The seat of the Archdiocese of Caceres and a significant historical structure in Bicol.
Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia: A major pilgrimage site for Catholics in the Philippines, housing the revered image of the Virgin of Peñafrancia.
Museo Conciliar de Naga: A museum that preserves the historical and cultural heritage of the Archdiocese of Caceres, located in the seminary compound.
San Francisco Church: One of the oldest churches in Naga City, founded by the Franciscans.
Quince Martires Plaza (15 Martyrs Plaza): A memorial dedicated to the 15 Bicolano martyrs executed by the Spanish during the Philippine Revolution.
Adventure & Modern Attractions:
CWC (Camarines Sur Wake Park): A world-class wakeboarding and waterskiing complex, a premier hub for extreme water sports in Asia.
Mount Isarog Natural Park: A dormant volcano and a protected natural area offering hiking trails, waterfalls, and a cooler climate.
Malabsay Falls: A beautiful, accessible waterfall located within the Mount Isarog Natural Park, popular for cooling dips.
Panicuason Hot Spring Resort: Natural hot springs fed by the geothermal activity of Mount Isarog, perfect for relaxation.
Naga City Ecology Park: A well-maintained park offering a quiet escape and a variety of trees and plants, ideal for families.
Naga City People’s Mall (NCPM): A major commercial center in the city, popular for shopping and local dining.
Activities & Experiences
Go Island Hopping in Caramoan: Take a boat tour to the famous islands featured in Survivor (US, France, etc.), such as Matukad Island (with its mystical lagoon and giant milkfish), Lahos Island (known for its disappearing beach), and Sabitang Laya (with its stunning rock formations).
Try Wakeboarding at CWC: Visit the Camarines Sur Watersports Complex (CWC) near Naga City for wakeboarding, wakeskating, and waterskiing in a world-class facility.
Climb the Mother of Peace Grotto: Ascend the over 500 steps up Caglago Mountain in Caramoan to the Shrine of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, one of the largest Marian statues in the Philippines, for panoramic views.
Rock Scramble on Matukad Island: For adventure seekers, climb the jagged limestone cliffs on Matukad Island for a breathtaking view of the enchanted lagoon below.
Explore Caves and Lagoons: Venture into the fascinating rock formations and bats of caves like Omang Cave or Manipis Cave in Caramoan, or paddle through the clear waters of Tayak Lake.
Hike to Waterfalls on Mt. Isarog: Go on a trek to the numerous waterfalls, like Twin Falls or Slide Falls, on the slopes of the majestic Mount Isarog National Park near Naga City.
Experience a Bicolano Food Trip: Go on an “extreme food trip” in Naga City. Sample local specialties like Bicol Express (pork stewed in coconut milk and chili), Pili Nut Ice Cream, or Kinalas (a noodle soup unique to Naga).
Visit the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral & Basilica: Explore the historic Naga Metropolitan Cathedral and the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, the focus of the region’s massive annual religious festival.
Canyoneering and Waterfalls Rappelling: For an extreme outdoor activity, join a tour to try canyoneering or rappelling down waterfalls like Nalalata Falls in Bula.
Relax on Manlawi Sandbar: Spend a day on the wide, shifting Manlawi Sandbar, which often features floating cottages for a unique, relaxing beach experience.
Explore Naga’s Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the local life by visiting the public markets in Naga City for fresh produce, local crafts, and the famous Pili Nuts.
Local Tips & Transport
Getting Between Naga City and Caramoan
Direct Bus: The most convenient option is the direct, air-conditioned bus service from Naga Central Bus Terminal to Caramoan mainland, which takes approximately 4-5 hours. This eliminates the need for a separate boat transfer.
Van/Boat Combination: A traditional route involves taking a van from Naga (from the terminal near SM Naga) to Sabang Port (1.5–2 hours), followed by a passenger ferry (‘pumpboat’) to Guijalo Port in Caramoan (1.5–2 hours). Be aware of the ferry’s limited schedule (often hourly from 5 AM to 11 AM).
Car Rental: A private vehicle offers the most flexibility for exploring the Naga area and the mainland route to Caramoan, which is now largely accessible by road.
Within Naga City
Tricycles: The main mode of short-distance transport in Naga City and the Caramoan town proper. Fares are usually negotiated or fixed for common routes. Always confirm the price before the ride.
Jeepneys & E-Jeepneys: These cover longer, fixed routes within the city and to nearby towns.
Within Caramoan
Motorbike Taxi (Habal-Habal): Often used for trips between the town center and jump-off points like Paniman Beach or Bikal Port.
Chartered Boat: Island Hopping is the primary way to see Caramoan and requires chartering a boat (or joining a group tour) from Paniman or Bikal Port. Prices vary based on the package (near vs. far islands) and boat size.
The Bicolano Flavor (Chili & Coconut Milk): Bicolano cuisine is famous for its generous use of coconut milk (gata) and chili (sili).
Bicol Express: The most famous dish is a creamy, spicy pork stew. Even non-spicy dishes often use coconut cream. If you are sensitive to heat, clearly ask for a “walang sili” (no chili) or “mild lang” (just mild) version.
Peñafrancia Festival (Naga City): If visiting in September, you will witness the largest Marian pilgrimage in Asia. The festival culminates in a spectacular fluvial (river) procession on the Naga River. Plan travel and accommodation well in advance, as the city becomes extremely crowded.
Tide and Weather Awareness (Caramoan): When island hopping, listen to your boatmen and local guides. They are the experts on navigating the tides, currents, and sudden weather changes in the open sea. Never attempt to swim or snorkel in areas they deem unsafe.
Cash is King: While major establishments in Naga City may accept cards, in the more remote Caramoan Islands and smaller Naga markets, cash (Philippine Peso) is the only accepted form of payment. Withdraw cash in Naga City before heading to Caramoan.
Language: The main local language is Bikol (Central Bikol in Naga). However, Tagalog/Filipino and English are widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among younger people. English is the official language of business and education.
Hidden Gems
Pili Nut Pasalubong: The region is famous for the Pili Nut. Buy processed nuts (caramelized, honey-roasted) as a souvenir or pasalubong (gift) for friends and family. Look for them in markets in Naga.
Magsaysay Avenue (Naga City): This is the bustling nightlife and dining hub of Naga. It offers a mix of local restaurants, coffee shops, and bars, and is a great place to people-watch in the evening.
Gota Beach View Deck: In the Caramoan area, find the elevated viewpoint near Gota Beach. It offers one of the most stunning vantage points for photographing the limestone karsts and turquoise waters of the peninsula.
The Original Bicol Express Stalls: In Naga City’s main market area, look for smaller, non-descript carinderias (local eateries) where the Bicol Express is cooked in the traditional, intensely spicy way. Ask a local where the “best” and most authentic one is.
Top Restaurants
Bob Marlin Restaurant and Grill [$15-$30] – A famous Naga institution known for its fantastic crispy pata (deep-fried pork hock) and a wide array of authentic Bicolano dishes like Bicol Express and Laing.
1st Colonial Grill [$10-$25] – A popular Bicol-wide chain, beloved for serving signature regional dishes, but most famously for pioneering the unique and surprisingly delicious Sili Ice Cream (Chili Ice Cream).
Chef Doy’s Gourmet Restaurant [$15-$30] – Offers a fusion of Bicolano and Filipino cuisine, with must-try items including their take on Kinalas (local noodle soup with cow’s head broth) and Kinunot na Pating (shark or stingray in coconut milk).
Red Platter [$15-$30] – A semi-fine dining spot favored by locals for family celebrations, offering Bicolano, Asian, and Western dishes with consistently high quality and a focus on Bicolano flavors.
Naga Garden Restaurant [$10-$20] – A classic, old-timer Chinese-Filipino restaurant known by locals as the home of the original Toasted Siopao (steamed bun) and their excellent asado mami.
Geewan [$5-$15] – A highly-recommended local eatery known for serving a variety of delicious, budget-friendly Bicolano comfort foods in a simple setting.
Tiya Kamot Kinalasan [$5-$10] – One of the popular, no-frills local spots famous for serving Kinalas, the signature beef bone marrow noodle soup of Naga City, a perfect stop for a quick, hearty meal.
Mang Cok’s Kinalas [$5-$10] – Another highly-recommended kinalasan (Kinalas eatery) in the Dayangdang area, a classic local experience for trying the famous Naga noodle dish.
AJL Chicken Bacolod [$10-$20] – A casual local spot known for its delicious Chicken Inasal (grilled marinated chicken) and other Filipino/Bicolano favorites.
Kambingan Resto Bar [$10-$20] – A local go-to spot for those craving Kambing (goat) dishes, like Caldereta (goat stew) and Papaitan (sour and bitter soup), a classic Filipino pulutan (bar snack) experience.
Biggs Diner [$5-$15] – A popular Bicol-based fast-casual chain known for American comfort food and some Filipino favorites, with locals often praising their fried chicken and huge portions.
Casa Soriano Family Heirloom Cuisine [$15-$35] – Set in a charming converted home, this restaurant features Filipino dishes with Spanish, French, and Italian influences, giving a unique, upscale-homey feel.
Pancho’s Kinalasan [$5-$10] – A simple, well-known kinalasan that focuses on serving this local favorite noodle soup with various toppings, often frequented by locals late at night.
WOK [$10-$20] – A reliable local choice for good Chinese-Filipino cuisine, a staple for families looking for classic Asian dishes in the city.
New China Restaurant [$10-$20] – Another classic, old-school Chinese restaurant in Naga, offering traditional dishes that have been a local favorite for generations.
La Herencia Comida [$5-$15] – A local food spot that offers a variety of Filipino and Bicolano dishes in a casual setting, often praised for its authentic home-cooked taste.
Mesa by the River [$15-$30] – Offers a relaxing dining experience with a view of the Naga River, serving Filipino dishes with a nice ambiance for a slightly more formal but still traditional meal.
The Coffee Table [$5-$15] – While also a café, this spot is known for some local specialties and comfort food, often a good place for a casual meal or snack.
Green Earth Cafe [$10-$20] – A good option for Asian cuisine in Naga, offering a different flavor profile from the predominantly Bicolano fare.
Fat Joe’s Burger (Molino Grill SM Naga) [$5-$15] – A popular local option for a satisfying American-style burger, often found within local mall food areas.
Kinalas Twins [$5-$10] – A well-known spot specializing in Kinalas, offering a simple and authentic taste of Naga’s signature noodle soup.
Kinalas sa Diversion [$5-$10] – Another dedicated Kinalas stall/eatery located along the Diversion area, sought after by locals for its flavor.
Face the Wall Karinderyas (San Francisco) [$3-$8] – A cluster of very simple, low-cost karinderyas (eateries) outside San Francisco Church that serve authentic Bicolano dishes like Bopis and Kinunot—a true local’s experience.
Naga Public Market Stalls [$3-$8] – The public market has numerous small turo-turo stalls for trying incredibly fresh, simple, and affordable Bicolano dishes and local snacks.
Eskinitang Kape [$5-$15] – A local café that often offers light meals or pastries, a good alternative for a quick coffee and simple meal.
Pandawan [$15-$30] – A local go-to for fresh seafood, serving simple grilled and cooked seafood dishes, which is a big part of the Bicolano diet.
PANATA Café (UMA Hotel) [$20-$40] – An elegant all-day dining restaurant offering a meticulously prepared selection of Western, Asian, and authentic Bicolano cuisine in a modern hotel setting.
Canarium [$25-$45] – Known for offering a modern take on Bicolano cuisine, often cited as a more contemporary dining experience than the traditional institutions.
Babà Social Dining (The Carmen Hotel) [$20-$40] – The flagship restaurant of The Carmen Hotel, offering a fusion of American, Filipino, and International cuisine in a buffet or à la carte format.
Ibalong Cafe (The Avenue Plaza Hotel) [$15-$30] – Located in a hotel, this café/restaurant often offers a mix of international and Filipino dishes in a comfortable, modern setting.
White Bean Cafe’ [$10-$25] – A cafe that serves more than just coffee, offering fusion dishes, pasta, and desserts, blending various cuisines in a stylish, contemporary space.
Bistro Roberto [$25-$45] – Offers an elevated take on Asian and Filipino cuisine, known for its pleasant ambiance suitable for a modern dinner.
Grissini Ristorante [$20-$40] – A Western-style restaurant offering Italian-inspired dishes and other international favorites, a popular option for modern comfort food.
Soledad Restaurant [$15-$35] – Offers a blend of Filipino and Spanish cuisine, providing a modern yet nostalgic ambiance with a focus on high-quality ingredients.
Km 11 by The Odd Duck [$20-$40] – Recommended for intimate celebrations, offering quality service and amazing food, hinting at a modern, high-quality bistro experience slightly outside the city center.
Arco Diez [$15-$30] – Recently renovated and known for a nice space, it serves good food, often drawing a crowd in the evenings despite being a bit further from the center.
Bella Ciao [$10-$25] – A favored spot for those looking for Italian cuisine, specializing in pasta and other Italian staples.
Don Augusto’s (Pamplona) [$15-$30] – Located outside Naga proper, this spot is worth the trip for its nature/ecological vibes and unique food creations like Beef Ranchero and a Pili smoothie.
House of Lechon Naga [$15-$30] – Although a classic Filipino dish, this place specializes in Lechon (roast pig), offering a focused and high-quality modern take on the national favorite.
Bikol Lokal [$10-$25] – A restaurant focused on showcasing local Bicolano ingredients and dishes but often in a more curated and modern presentation.
Patron [$15-$30] – Highly regarded by locals for its delicious and consistent food across the menu, suggesting a quality modern Filipino or fusion experience.
Antiguá Food | Art [$30-$50] – A hidden gem offering fine dining at reasonable prices. The restaurant has a luxurious, calm ambiance and is often recommended for special occasions and urban fine dining with a blend of Filipino heritage and modern flair.
Cellar Bar, Kitchen & Deli [$30-$50] – Situated on Magsaysay Avenue, this spot offers a fine-dining experience with a distinct European feel, boasting a cellar of premium wines and pairing them with premium international dishes.
The Crown Park Restaurant (Crown Hotel) [$25-$45] – Offers an elegant yet relaxed dining experience within the hotel, providing a variety of high-quality dishes for a special occasion.
Avenue Square Hotel Restaurant [$25-$45] – Known for its good ambiance, offering options like a nice afternoon tea set and a quality dinner, indicating a refined, hotel-based dining setting.
Summit Hotel Restaurant [$25-$45] – Provides a standard good ambiance and quality of food typical of a higher-end hotel restaurant, though noted by locals as being on the “pricier and just okay” side.
Litton Hotel Restaurant [$25-$45] – Similar to other hotel dining, it offers a pleasant ambiance and generally good but somewhat pricey food.
Tugawe Cove Resort Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located in a high-end resort in Caramoan, this restaurant offers excellent service and a focus on fresh, high-quality dishes, often with stunning views.
West Peninsula Villas Restaurant [$10-$25] – A restaurant connected to an accommodation in Caramoan, serving Filipino and Bicolano dishes, especially seafood, catering to tourists with good, consistent meals.
Floating Cottages/Boat Crew Lunch (Manlawi/Cotivas) [$10-$20] – While not a permanent restaurant, the experience of a freshly prepared seafood feast by your boat crew on a sandbar or floating cottage is the signature Caramoan dining experience. Expect incredibly fresh grilled fish, shrimp, and Bicolano favorites.
Local Turo-Turo Eateries (Caramoan Town Proper) [$5-$15] – Simple, homegrown turo-turo (point-point) restaurants that exist in the main town of Caramoan, where you can find very fresh and affordable Bicolano dishes and simple grilled seafood.
The Central Discovery Hotel Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers standard Filipino and local cuisine for guests and visitors, known for its proximity to the town market and easy access.
Caramoan Feast Stalls [$5-$15] – If timed with the local Caramoan Feast, numerous stalls will showcase the rich traditions and fresh local food of the community.
The Caramoan Island Diners [$5-$15] – Small, local diners (often unlisted online) near the main ports or market that offer simple, very fresh seafood and traditional Bicolano meals, a great low-key local option.
Caramoan Backpackers’ Inn/Resort Restaurants [$8-$20] – Many resorts or inns, like those in Brgy. Paniman, have in-house restaurants that serve the best of the day’s catch, prioritizing freshness and local Bicolano recipes.
Balay Buhay sa Uma Bee Farm & Resto (Pili) [$15-$30] – Located near Naga (in Pili), this eco-tourism farm often features a restaurant serving dishes using their fresh farm produce and honey, offering a unique, farm-to-table experience.
La Playa Restaurant (Caramoan Port Area) [$10-$20] – A casual place near the port where island hopping boats depart, offering a basic but reliable menu of Filipino and Bicolano food for travelers.
Coastal Grill and Seafood (Naga area) [$15-$30] – Known for specializing in grilled dishes and fresh seafood, giving a taste of the coastal diet in a relaxed setting.
The Avenue Pub (The Avenue Plaza Hotel) [$15-$30] – More of a bar, but offers an extensive menu of appetizers and main dishes, providing a lively atmosphere for a late-night meal.
The Garden Cafe (Garden Residences) [$15-$30] – Offers a good ambiance and quality food, popular with a steady stream of customers, indicating a reliable, pleasant dining spot.
Gubat sa Pulo [$10-$25] – A somewhat unique spot known for a more rustic, laid-back setting, focusing on traditional Bicolano cooking.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Padi’s Point Naga: Located near the central business district in Naga City, this spacious rooftop bar and restaurant is a popular spot for groups, offering a great view of the city skyline alongside classic and local cocktail mixes.
The Avenue Plaza Hotel Pool Bar: Situated in the upscale Avenue Plaza Hotel in Naga, this stylish pool bar provides a sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying premium cocktails after a long day of sightseeing.
Wally’s Bar (Villa Caceres Hotel): An elegant bar found within the Villa Caceres Hotel in Naga City, known for its extensive drinks menu and classic ambiance, ideal for a quiet, sophisticated evening.
Yellow Ribbon Bar and Restaurant: This spot in Naga City offers a laid-back, modern environment popular with students and young professionals, serving a variety of mixed drinks and local beverages alongside pub fare.
Bigg’s Diner Bar: While primarily a retro-themed diner, the bar section in their main Naga City branch (often on Magsaysay Ave.) serves a decent range of alcoholic beverages and cocktails in a fun, nostalgic setting.
The Peak Bar & Restaurant: Located on a hill just outside the main Naga City proper, this venue offers one of the best panoramic views of the entire city. It is a fantastic setting for enjoying a sunset cocktail or a nightcap.
Magsaysay Ave. Open-Air Bars: Along the famous Magsaysay Avenue in Naga City, numerous smaller, unnamed open-air establishments offer affordable local liquor and basic mixed drinks, providing a bustling street-side atmosphere.
Camsur Watersports Complex (CWC) Bar: Situated within the popular CWC in Pili, just outside Naga, this resort-style bar caters to wakeboarders and tourists, offering refreshing cocktails and beers in a lively, sporty environment.
Gota Beach Resort Bar (Caramoan): A simple, beachfront bar located on the secluded Gota Beach in the Caramoan Islands, perfect for sipping a tropical rum-based cocktail with your feet in the sand.
Tugawe Cove Resort Bar (Caramoan): This upscale resort bar, located in the isolated Tugawe Cove in Caramoan, offers premium cocktails and wines, often with a magnificent view of the cove and limestone cliffs.
The Porch Cafe & Bar: A cozy cafe that transitions into a bar in the evening, typically found in a quieter part of Naga City, offering specialty coffee-based cocktails and a relaxing vibe.
Shake Shack Bar: Not to be confused with the fast-food chain, this local Naga spot is a popular, unpretentious bar known for its cheap drinks and lively student crowd, often serving simple, strong cocktails.
Urban Grounds Cafe & Bar: A trendy spot in Naga City that combines a modern cafe aesthetic with a nighttime bar scene, often featuring a small list of signature cocktails and local craft beers.
Dayo’s Bar & Grill: A popular watering hole in Naga City that, while primarily a grill, serves a good selection of spirits and mixed drinks in a friendly, casual Filipino bar setting.
Rooftop 52: Located on the 5th floor of a building in Naga’s downtown area, this bar offers a modest rooftop view and a variety of cocktails, aiming for a slightly more chic and laid-back ambiance compared to the bustling clubs nearby.
Club ZZYZX: Located centrally on Magsaysay Avenue in Naga City, this is one of the premier and most popular nightclubs, known for its massive dance floor, VIP sections, and a mix of EDM, hip-hop, and commercial music.
Infinity Club: Another high-energy staple on the Naga City nightlife circuit, often hosting themed parties and featuring local DJs playing the latest commercial dance hits.
Club V: A trendy and modern nightclub in Naga City that draws a fashionable crowd with its state-of-the-art sound system and lighting. It’s known for playing mainstream and electronic dance music.
Metro Bar and Lounge: A popular venue in Naga City that serves as both a spacious bar and a late-night club, often featuring live bands before the DJ takes over to play dance music.
Fusion Bar & Disco: A long-standing entertainment venue in Naga City, this spot is known for its energetic atmosphere and playing a mix of retro dance hits and modern pop.
Club X.O.: A newer, stylish addition to the Naga City club scene, offering a more exclusive feel and playing a blend of house, techno, and commercial music with a focus on bottle service.
Chic-Boy Bar & Grill (with live band): While primarily a restaurant chain, the branch in Naga City often transforms into a lively venue late at night, featuring loud live bands followed by a DJ, making it a casual, high-volume club alternative.
The Clubhouse (CWC): Located within the CWC resort complex in Pili, this venue occasionally hosts larger-scale parties and events, turning the area into a temporary outdoor club, especially during holiday weekends.
Vibe Club: A smaller, more intimate club located in the Naga City downtown area, popular for its focused electronic music nights and a dedicated crowd of music enthusiasts.
Red Velvet Club: Often a pop-up or temporarily themed club space in Naga City during big events or weekends, known for its intense party atmosphere and catering to the younger student crowd.
Level Up Bar: A vibrant spot in Naga City that offers karaoke, pool tables, and transitions into a mini-club late at night, offering a diverse entertainment mix.
Skydeck Bar & Lounge: Located on a high floor in Naga City, this spot operates as a comfortable lounge early on, then cranks up the volume and transitions into a club environment with a DJ and dance floor later in the evening.