Calaguas Islands
A long arc of powdery white sand on a Pacific island with no roads and few buildings.
Quick answer
- Where: a group of islands in the Pacific, part of Vinzons, Camarines Norte.
- The beach: Mahabang Buhangin (Long Beach) on Tinaga Island, over a kilometre of fine white sand.
- Getting there: about 1.5 hours by boat from Paracale, or about 2 hours from Vinzons.
- Staying: camping or simple cottages; bring water, food and cash.
- Best time: roughly March to May, when seas are calmer.
Why it is a wonder
Off the Pacific coast of Camarines Norte, the Calaguas Islands hold one of the finest beaches in Luzon. On Tinaga Island, the largest of the group, Mahabang Buhangin, meaning “long sand”, curves for more than a kilometre of soft, pale sand between green hills, facing water that shifts from turquoise to deep blue.
There are no roads and only simple cottages, so most visitors camp on the beach, watch the sunset, and climb a short hill trail at dawn for a view over the whole cove and the islands beyond.
Beat the crowds
- Avoid Holy Week and summer weekends, when the beach fills with campers.
- Go on weekdays for space on the sand.
Getting there
Travel to Daet, then take a van to Paracale (about 1.5 hours by boat) or a jeepney to Vinzons (about 2 hours by boat). Boats are hired at the fish port, and groups can share. Leave early, as seas tend to get rougher later in the day.
A perfect day
- Arrive by boat in the morning and pitch camp.
- Swim and snorkel off the long beach.
- Hike to the viewpoint for sunset.
- Rise early for sunrise over the Pacific.
Through the seasons
- About March to May: calmest seas and the most reliable weather.
- October to December: quieter, but monsoon waves can cancel trips.
- Typhoon season: check forecasts carefully from about July to November.
Respect the place
Bring all your rubbish back to the mainland, use the island’s limited fresh water sparingly, and support local boatmen and cottage owners.
Photo gallery
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Calaguas?
Travel to Daet, then by van to Paracale or by jeepney to Vinzons, and hire a boat to Mahabang Buhangin.
Is there electricity on the island?
Very limited. Some cottages run generators in the evening. Bring a power bank.
Can I camp on the beach?
Yes. Camping is the classic way to stay, with a small fee. Bring your own tent or rent one.
Is there mobile signal?
Only in a few spots on the island.
Caramoan
Jagged limestone islets and hidden white coves on a remote Bicol peninsula.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
