Contrary to common impression, the coastline of the main island of Camiguin is mostly cliff, rocky and black. The island is an outcome of series of volcanic eruptions long time ago that volcanic rocks and sand make up its coast. The picture of the white beach we usually see in postcards is the so called White Island, a sandbar approximately fifteen minutes by boat.

Situated off the coast of the town of Mambajao, northwest of mainland Camiguin, the uninhabited White Island offers imposing beauty with its white sand, surrounding emerald water, and the towering Old Vulcan and Mt. Hibok-Hibok on the backdrop. It is generally flat, shadeless and submerges substantially during high tide. Its shape and size constantly change due to sea current and tidal movements. Needless to say, it is one of the most photographed spots in all of Camiguin.

But the postcard perfect beauty of White Island is not only above the surface because beneath its waters is a colorful world teeming with marine life. Divers and snorkelers frequent the site to witness the variety of soft and hard corals that carpet the seabed and the busy underwater traffic of tropical fishes. The site is generally unspoiled and unexploited, and diveable all year round.

Although the island is frequented by tourists during broad daylight, it is also great to see during sunrise and sunset. Note that it has no shade, so get ready to be soaked in direct sunlight when going there specially at midday but you can rent an umbrella for P450. Small outrigger boats that can fit up to four persons can be chartered to get to the sandbar for fixed rate of P450 round trip, the boats are docked in the port in Barangay Yumbing.

Cliche as it is, but you have never been to Camiguin if you have not visited the White Island, so make sure not to miss this spot. For more information about Camiguin, check out Camiguin Travel Guide.

*First published: 19-May-2014 | Updates: 8-Aug-2018; 25-Jul-2019