When I hear the word Camarines Norte, I always think of Calaguas Island. That’s actually one of my top destinations to visit here in the Philippines but I can’t always find a perfect time and sched. But last November, I got a chance to visit Camarines Norte and explore the underrated cities there…including Jose Panganiban and Capalonga.
ABOUT CAMARINES NORTE
It’s a province located in Bicol region in Luzon. Daet is the capital of Camarines Norte. The province borders Quezon to the west, Camarines Sur to the south, and the Philippine Sea to the north. If you’re coming from Manila, it’s only 6 hours away. You can ride a bus in Cubao or Pasay terminals.
Now, let’s go over to the places we visited during our Camarines Norte trip. Jose Panganiban is a 2nd-class municipality while Capalonga is a 3rd-class mucipality in the said province.
ABOUT JOSE PANGANIBAN
This is formerly known as Mambulao, it came from the word “mambulawan“, that means bountiful in gold. It became Jose Panganiban to honor Jose Maria Panganiban on December 1, 1934.
1. JSMS FARM
It is a diversified-integrated farm that is owned by Mr. Jose S. Maligat, Sr. They offer eco-tours. Just a disclaimer: This farm isn’t finished yet so don’t expect a fully-finished eco-farm already. But it is said to be a promising eco-tourism farm in the near future.
We had sugarcane drinks with passionfruit as our welcome drinks. After that, our guide roamed us around the area.
2. PAROLA ISLAND
Parola Island is said to be Camarines Norte’s pink beach. At first, I’m quite confused how it became a pink beach until I realized that the sand will only become pink when it is wet.
The island’s name came from Parola or the lighthouse that can be found in the island.
During our stay here, the weather was not good. Just look at the last two photos. You can see the dark clouds all over. We supposed to have our lunch in the island but because of the rain, we had our lunch inside our boat. HUHU.
Meet my fellow bloggers! Jan of Kapampangan Traveller, Bobby of Travel Tayo PH, and Kath of Tara Let’s Anywhere.
After we had our lunch, the rain stopped at last. We had a chance to enjoy the island. YEY!
3. CALALANAY ISLAND
This island is an hour away from Parola Island. This is a private island so guests need a permit before going here. Our travel agency is fortunately allowed to go here. YEY!
I’m suprised and happy when we arrived the island. Look who greeted us…
We enjoyed swimming here rather than in Parola Island because of its calm water here. Maybe because it’s almost sunset when we went here.
ABOUT CAPALONGA
Its name came from the word “Apalong” who believed the first inhabitants of the city. This name came from the wild plant called “Palong Manok” that looks like a rooster’s comb.
1. SELFIE BEACH RESORT
After our island hopping, we went straight to Capalonga and spent our night at this newly-opened beach resort. Capalonga is two hours away from Jose Panganiban.
The sand here is not that inviting but its ambiance is really relaxing. You can just chill here the whole day, just like what we did. Take note that they are still under construction as they are still adding rooms and facilities in the resort.
2. CAPALONGA CITY TOUR
The next day, we decided to have a mini city tour in Capalonga. With the help of our guides from our travel agency, we got a chance to visit these places.
Shrine of the Black Nazarene
This is one of the famous tourist attractions here in the city. All devotees and pilgrims of different nationalities flock to pay homage to the miraculous image of the Black Nazarene, whose shrine is right in the town proper of Capalonga.
Capalonga Baywalk
View deck of Capalonga
This tour was made possible by our chosen travel agency, Efrelinda Travel & Tours. If you’re looking for travel agency, just contact them as they offer local and international trips.
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