White Island Sandbar in Camiguin

Part of the Camiguin travel guide — see every topic in All Camiguin Guides.

White Island is the most famous sight in Camiguin. It is not really an island but a sandbar, a long strip of pure white sand that sits in the sea about 5 kilometres west of Mambajao. There are no trees, no buildings and no shade. Around it the water is bright blue and clear, and behind it rise the green slopes of Mount Hibok-Hibok and the other volcanoes.

Getting to the sandbar

Small outrigger boats take visitors to White Island from the shore at Agoho and Yumbing, just west of Mambajao. The ride takes only about 10 to 15 minutes. You usually pay at a registration area on the beach for the boat and a small entry fee, and the boat waits for you or comes back at a set time. Ask your boatman to agree on the return time before you leave. Rules and fees can change, so check at the counter on the day. Most resorts on the north coast can also arrange the trip for you.

When to go

Go as early as you can, ideally around sunrise. The light is soft, the volcano is often clear of cloud, and the sand is still cool. By late morning the sun is very strong and the white sand reflects the heat, so the sandbar becomes hot and tiring. The shape and size of the sandbar change with the tide. At high tide it can become quite small. Calm seas are best, usually from about March to June. In rough weather the boats may not go out.

Swimming and snorkelling

The water around White Island is clear and good for swimming. Near the sand it is shallow, and further out you can snorkel over sea grass, coral and small fish. Currents can be strong at the ends of the sandbar, so stay close to the shore and never swim alone. Use reef-safe sunscreen and do not stand on coral. Bring your own mask and snorkel if you can, though some boatmen rent them. There are no toilets or shops on the sandbar, and some vendors may sell drinks or snacks.

What to bring

Because there is no shade at all, sun protection is the most important thing. Bring a hat, sunglasses, a long-sleeve rash guard and plenty of sunscreen. Some boatmen rent small umbrellas or shade covers, but do not count on it. Carry more water than you think you need. A dry bag keeps your phone and camera safe from splashes on the boat. Take all your rubbish back with you, because the sandbar is small and easy to spoil. Two hours is enough for most visitors.

White Island Sandbar at a glance

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