Dinagat Islands is a hidden paradise of crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and untouched adventures. Curious what makes it a must-visit? Read my blog to find out!

Disclaimer: All views expressed on this blog are my own based on my own experiences and do not represent of any entity with which I have been, are now or will be affiliated

October 31, 2024
Batangas, Philippines

October 12-13 2024
Dinagat Islands, Mindanao, Philippines

Ever since I traveled to Sulu and struck up a conversation with a fellow traveler, a warm and insightful mom I couldn’t shake off her words about Dinagat Island. She painted a vivid picture of its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, igniting a spark of curiosity within me. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and after that day, Dinagat Island lingered in my thoughts like a beautiful melody.

Originally, I had planned a straightforward Northern Mindanao trip, but the allure of Dinagat was too strong to resist. A week before my flight to Cagayan de Oro, I made a spontaneous decision: I had to make this trip happen.

Where is Dinigat Islands?

Dinagat Islands is a province located in the Caraga region of the Philippines, occupying the northeastern part of Mindanao. The capital is the Municipality of San Jose, which serves as the hub for local government and commerce.

Dinagat Islands History

Long before the arrival of the Spaniards, the islands now known as Dinagat were sparsely populated by migrants from mainland Surigao and nearby Visayan islands like Leyte, Bohol, Samar, and Cebu. Legend has it that a stranger came seeking fertile land and asked a local about their way of life. When the native replied that they farmed and fished, the stranger, intrigued by fishing, inquired where they fished. The local pointed and said, “dinhi niini na dagat” (here in this sea), and thus the area became known as Dinagat.

Dinagat Island was originally part of Surigao del Norte until it became an independent province on February 13, 2006. This transition was formalized through Republic Act No. 9350, which created the Province of Dinagat Islands, recognizing its unique cultural and geographic identity.

Dinagat Island was once home to Ruben Edera Ecleo Sr., the controversial leader who founded the Philippine Benevolent Missionaries Association (PBMA) in 1965. Known for his claims of divine healing and charismatic leadership, Ecleo attracted a large following throughout the Philippines. Despite his popularity, his teachings sparked significant controversy, as Dinagat became associated with both Ecleo’s healing practices and darker tales, including the murder of his wife. The island has a rich history of healers, making it a complex and intriguing part of Philippine culture.

How to go to Dinagat Islands from Manila?

Since I’m based in Manila, the easiest way to get there is by air. I booked a flight with Cebu Pacific to Cagayan de Oro. However, it’s actually better to fly directly to Surigao City instead of CDO. I chose Cagayan de Oro for this trip simply because this trip was a last-minute decision.

If you’re arriving from Cagayan de Oro, once you land at Laguindingan Airport, you’ll find vans waiting outside. The time it takes to fill the vans can vary, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. The ride to Agora terminal takes about an hour, where you can catch a bus to Surigao City. The fare anount is PHP199.

It’s advisable to stay close to Surigao Pier, where you’ll catch the ferry to San Jose Dinagat. The first trip departs at 5:30 AM and last trip is at 6:00pm and costs PHP200. The boat is not air-conditioned and the ride takes about an hour from Surigao Pier to the San Jose Dinagat islands. Once you arrive, guides from Azonta will be there to meet you.

Buses from CDO to Surigao City – Agora Bus Terminal

The Agora Bus Terminal is bustling, but there are several fast food and convenience stores to choose from. I also found a fantastic hostel there that I really enjoyed during my stay in Cagayan De Oro.

Things to Note:
Restrooms at Agora Terminal (CDO): Each use of the toilet costs PHP4.
Facility Fee: There’s a PHP5 fee at the Agora Bus Terminal.
The only bus service running from Cagayan De Oro City is Bachelor Express (let me know if you have other options).
Bus Fee: PHP770
Travel Time from CDO to Surigao City: I was surprised to learn that Bachelor Express has both non-stop and multiple-stop buses. Unlike other bus lines in Luzon that usually have just two stops, Bachelor Express makes 12 stops, while non-stop buses have only 1 or 2 stops. What should have been a 6-hour trip ended up taking 12 hours because I boarded a bus with 12 stops, regardless of how many passengers were on board they make each stops happen. Please make sure to board only non-stop buses. To avoid delays, check with the driver first to confirm it’s a non-stop service.

Arrival at Surigao City and Pier

From Surigao City bus terminal, you can take a tricycle to the port where you’ll catch a ferry to San Jose, Dinagat. When purchasing your ticket at the port, be sure to specify that you’re headed to San Jose, as there are different ferry routes to various locations in Dinagat.

From the bus terminal, I hailed a tricyle and paid PHP200 late in the evening, but I suspect I was scammed. It’s only about 20 minutes from the Surigao City bus terminal to the hostels near the port. You could also take a multi-cab if it’s not late in the evening for just PHP30-50 to get to the port.

Note: There were internet connection issues throughout the trip from CDO to Surigao City due to problems with Globe, one of the mobile providers in the Philippines.I spent 12 hours traveling without any connection, which made the trip quite miserable.

Surigao City

Finally, I arrived in Surigao City and checked into my hotel around 11 PM. The first place I tried was Boulevard Tourist Inn, which charged PHP850 per night along with a PHP500 deposit. However, when I checked the room, I found it infested with small cockroaches, and I really didn’t like it at all. The first thought that crossed my mind was that I couldn’t possibly sleep there, I don’t recommend this hostel. I was relieved to find another hotel closer to the port.

Accommodation

Bay View Inn – I stayed at Bay View Inn for a night before heading to Dinagat. It’s located on the second floor above a 711 store, just a few steps from a 24-hour bakery. It’s also a 5-10 minute walk to Surigao City Boulevard and the port, where I needed to catch the ferry to Dinagat at 5 AM. I really enjoyed my stay and highly recommend it—it’s clean, offers toiletries, has hot and cold showers, a comfortable bed, and a 24-hour receptionist. The only downside is the lack of an elevator, but the staff is very accommodating and helps with your luggage.
Price: PHP1,400 per night, with a PHP500 security deposit that will be returned to you at checkout.

Restaurant Tried in Surigao City

EJ’s Garden Cafe
PHP300-PHP1000

This restaurant is just a 10-minute walk from my hostel, so after checking in and freshening up, I made my way there for my first meal of the day. I love this place because it’s cozy, features a live band every night, and the staff are incredibly accommodating. I ordered the beef steak and a mango shake. The steak was tender, affordable, and absolutely delicious, while the mango shake was creamy and refreshing. I definitely want to return and try more dishes!

Return Flight Amount (MNL to CDO)- PHP5,132.44 inclusive of 20kg check in baggage
More details below

Day1 October 11 (Friday)

I arrived at NAIA Terminal about an hour before my 6 AM flight. After catching some sleep in the office, it took just 20 minutes by Grab to get to the airport. Everything went smoothly since I had checked in online. There was also a kiosk available to print my checked bag tags, and staff were on hand to assist.

After checking my bag, I proceeded to the second inspection, where they verified my boarding pass and ID. Everything went well, and I decided to grab an iced Americano at Coffee Highlands, which I wouldn’t recommend—it felt like a waste of money. I wasn’t impressed with the other food and coffee options at NAIA Terminal 3 either.

The airport bus arrived on schedule to take us to our plane. The aircraft had a 3×3 seating arrangement. Our flight to Cagayan De Oro took 1 hour and 40 minutes, and there were no delays.

Laguindingan International Airport

The airport in CDO is small, but that’s fine since I wouldn’t be there for long. Outside, there are vans ready to take you into the city or to your next destination. Just keep in mind that it can take a while for the van to leave, so if you’re in a hurry, it’s best to choose one that’s nearly full.

The ride from the airport to Agora Terminal takes about an hour. I stopped for an early lunch at Jollibee before embarking on a grueling 12-hour land trip to Surigao City.

Day02 October 12 (Saturday)

I took a ferry from Surigao Pier to Dinagat Islands from 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM. Upon arrival, I met my guide from Azonta, who took me to my accommodation. After enjoying breakfast and getting acquainted with the other tourists, we set out for our first tour.

Dinagat Island is incredibly serene and beautiful, with limited development and fewer tourists and restaurants scattered around. Many locals run their own small cafeterias, adding to the island’s charm.

Things to Bring/Note in Dinagat Islands

Cash: While there are ATMs in the province, it’s advisable to carry cash for island hopping.
Internet Access: Most islands do not have internet connectivity.

Restaurants: There are only a few small cafeterias in Dinagat, and you shouldn’t expect to find stores on the islands during your island-hopping trip—there are very few, if any. I was even craving a fruit shake while relaxing on the beach, but there was none to be found!
Swimwear and Sunblock: Don’t forget to pack these essentials!
Hiking or Swim Sandals: You’ll need sturdy footwear, especially for the extensive hiking at Dinagat Lake.
Power Bank: Keep your devices charged for all those memorable moments.
Waterproof Bag: Protect your belongings from water.
Towels and Water: Stay refreshed and dry during your adventures.
Budget: Approximately PHP 5,000, which includes the cost of the tour I booked.
Weather: tropical and has two distinct seasons: the dry season, which runs from April to October and the wet season, which runs from November to March.
Language: Tagalog and English can be understood by some residents. But locals speak Bisaya.
Porters: In Surigao City and Cagayan De Oro, you’ll find plenty of porters available to carry your luggage, and you can tip them any amount you choose.
Motor Rentals: I don’t ride motorcycles, but many islands in the Philippines offer motor rentals. However, in Dinagat, this option isn’t available yet, making it challenging to travel around the island by land. Your best bet is to rent a tricycle along with a driver.

Accommodation -I stayed at JK Tourist Inn as part of the 2D1N package I booked. The room was spacious, equipped with its own bathroom and air conditioning, making for a comfortable night’s stay.

Tour – I booked my package for Dinagat Islands through Dinagat Islands Tour Deals – Azonta Travel and Tours for PHP 2,998 per person, which included meals and accommodation on the islands. I opted for a private room, adding PHP 400 to my total, bringing it to PHP 3,398.
I discovered this group while looking for tour guides on Facebook, and I’m so glad I did! They were incredibly accommodating, and the entire tour went smoothly. My guide was especially helpful throughout the trip. I would definitely return to Dinagat Islands and highly recommend it to others!

Tour in Dinagat Island October 12 (Saturday)

Hagakhak Rock Formations

30 minutes away by boat, we headed to our first tour destination in Basilisa, Dinagat Islands. The Hagakhak Formation in Dinagat Island is a stunning geological feature characterized by its unique limestone cliffs and rugged rock formations. This area is known for its breathtaking landscapes and natural arches.

The formations are believed to have been created over years through processes like erosion and sedimentation, which have shaped the limestone into intricate patterns. The Hagakhak Formation is visually striking.
*Please note to be careful when walking because it’s slippery

Miracle Pool Cave

I’ve never encountered water as vibrant and blue as that in the caves of Dinagat Island. When I explored the cave, I was captivated by the stunning blue hues of the water, and I even had the chance to swim in it all by myself. It was truly enchanting, and I loved every moment!

Panambangan Island

Pangabangan Island is only an hour away by boat, and I was immediately enchanted by the mesmerizing blue lagoon where I swam—truly breathtaking! The island features gorgeous white sand beaches that are perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun. With its soft sand and clear waters, the setting feels like paradise. I even hiked just 5 minutes to a viewpoint, and the sight of the blue lagoon from there was absolutely stunning!

We had lunch in this island prepared by our guides.

Genie’s Ridge
PHP200-1000

After a lovely afternoon, I overheard two friends discussing a spot where they wanted to catch the sunset, boasting a stunning view of Dinagat Islands, though it required quite a journey. I decided to ask my guide to pick me up from the hostel and take me there, and I’m so glad I did! The drive to Genies Ridge took about 45 minutes. I had expected a city view, but instead, it revealed a breathtaking island panorama—ideal for sunset. Unfortunately, we arrived at night, so there was no view to enjoy. The cooler temperatures were refreshing, being higher up than the town. I also savored a delicious meal, ordering bulalo and halo-halo, which turned out to be the best halo-halo I’ve ever tasted!

There was a little hiccup on the way back to the hostel because my guide’s motorcycle had a flat tire, and he had to fix it. However, everything went smoothly after that.

October 13 (Day 3) Sunday

On the final day of the tour, after a refreshing night’s sleep, I made sure to pack everything I needed for this last leg of the journey. I also had to check out early with my luggage to catch the last ferry from Dinagat to Surigao City at 4:30 PM.

Lake Bababu

Lake Bababu is a stunning freshwater lake framed by lush vegetation and towering limestone cliffs, creating a truly picturesque scene. Nestled in a valley, the lake is partially surrounded by steep cliffs, enhancing its dramatic beauty and offering a sense of seclusion. The waters are exceptionally clear, providing fantastic visibility for those who explore the underwater cave, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving.

To reach the lake, you need to embark on a trek that takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. While the hike can be challenging, I appreciated the presence of a rope that made the journey easier. The underwater cave is a highlight of Lake Bababu, featuring a series of chambers and tunnels that experienced divers can explore.

I loved the adventure here and enjoyed swimming in the lake. Although I didn’t dive into the cave due to not having a diving license, I found the water pleasantly warm. This experience is definitely one for the books, and I loved every moment of it!

We had fulfilling lunch here after, I loved our lunch as well.

Duyos Beach

Duyos Beach boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, framed by lush greenery and striking rock formations, creating a stunning backdrop for relaxation and photography. Unlike more well-known beaches, Duyos Beach remains relatively uncrowded, offering a tranquil setting perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. We made a quick stop here to capture some beautiful photos.

Bitaog Beach

Bitaog Beach is a tranquil and picturesque destination that beautifully combines natural beauty with serenity. Located just 5 minutes from Duyos Beach, I had a wonderful time swimming in its crystal-clear waters. It’s often compared to Boracay for its powdery white sand, and I couldn’t agree more! The soft sand and calm waters make it perfect for swimming, and the lack of crowds adds to its charm. I absolutely love swimming in the Dinagat Islands!

Jelmar’s Resort

We took a quick 30-minute stop here, and even though I didn’t swim, I really enjoyed using the 1-hour piso Wi-Fi. You just insert a 5-peso coin into a machine, and you get a limited time to browse. While I didn’t take a dip, there are cozy huts where you can relax and snack while passing the time. The weather during this time is it’s gloomy but it becomes sunny afterwards.

We reached the port just in time to catch the ferry from Dinagat Islands to Surigao City, taking a tricycle for 20 PHP to get there. I arrived at Surigao Port around 5:30 PM and then hopped on another tricycle to the Surigao terminal. The locals recommended taking a van to Butuan for a non-stop trip, which I opted for. The van ride cost 300 PHP and took only 2 hours from Surigao City to Butuan. Once in Butuan, I grabbed a tricycle for 100 PHP to Gaisano Mall, where I boarded a non-stop bus to CDO. The entire journey lasted just 6-7 hours, which was fantastic!

I love exploring lesser-known destinations where I can enjoy peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and Dinagat Islands truly embodies that charm. It’s now at the top of my list of favorite islands in the Philippines. I cherished every adventure, from meeting the friendly locals to discovering stunning beaches, lakes, and caves. I hope Dinagat gains more recognition over time, but I’m grateful to have discovered it before the crowds arrive, as it retains its unique charm. I found Dinagat to be absolutely breathtaking!

Love,
Maria, sometimes, Niskie