Sunken Cemetery and Reefs in Camiguin
Part of the Camiguin travel guide — see every topic in All Camiguin Guides.
Camiguin is not only volcanoes and springs. Around the island the sea is clear, and there are reefs, sea grass and many kinds of fish. Some of the best spots are easy to reach from the coast road. A morning of snorkelling here is a good balance to the hikes and waterfalls inland.
The sunken cemetery
Off the coast near Catarman, part of the land sank into the sea during the volcanic activity of the 1870s, when Mount Vulcan was formed. An old cemetery was among the areas covered by water. Today a large marker stands on a small platform in the sea to show the place. On shore there is a viewing area, popular at sunset. Small boats take visitors out to the marker, and the water around it has coral and fish for snorkelling and diving. Please behave quietly and with respect at the site.
Mantigue Island
Mantigue is a small island off the east coast, near Mahinog. It has white sand, a little forest and clear water. The sea around it is a marine sanctuary, and snorkellers can see coral, colourful fish and sometimes sea turtles. Boats leave from the shore on the main island, and the ride is short. There is usually an entry fee and a small fee for snorkelling, and rules can change, so ask on the day. The island has shade under the trees, which makes it more comfortable than White Island for a longer stay.
Giant clam sanctuary
On the south coast there is a giant clam sanctuary, where you can snorkel among several kinds of giant clams. Some are very large and very old. Staff usually give a short briefing and may require a guide in the water. Do not touch the clams or stand on the reef. The water is often calm and shallow, so it is a good stop for less confident swimmers. Ask your resort for the current location, hours and fees, and go in the morning when the light is best.
Snorkel and dive tips
Many resorts along the north and west coast rent masks and fins and can arrange boat trips. Dive centres offer trips to deeper reefs around the island. The sea is usually calmest from about March to June. Use reef-safe sunscreen or a rash guard, and do not take shells, coral or sand. Currents can be strong off points and in channels, so follow your boatman or guide. Wear water shoes when you walk over rocks and sea grass, where sea urchins can hide.
Sunken Cemetery and Reefs at a glance
| Getting there | Coast road to Catarman, Mahinog or the south coast |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daytime; sunset viewing at the sunken cemetery |
| Cost | Small entry and boat fees; guide or snorkel fees extra |
| Best time | Morning, calm months about March to June |
| Marine life | Coral, reef fish, giant clams, sometimes turtles |
| Bring | Mask, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes |