Sunken Cemetery Camiguin
A submerged 19th-century cemetery marked by a cross, now a vibrant underwater haven for marine life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To see the cross above water
Sunken Cemetery Camiguin
Best Time
To see the cross above water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A submerged 19th-century cemetery marked by a cross, now a vibrant underwater haven for marine life.
"Eerie and breathtaking, this underwater cemetery is a must-see for its history and vibrant marine life."
Check the Tides First! :ocean:
Plan your visit around low tide to see the iconic cross emerge from the sea .
Mandatory Snorkel Guide :diver:
A guide is required for snorkeling; they're essential for finding the cross and marine life .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Sunken Cross
Off the coast of Catarman
A poignant reminder of history, this submerged cross emerges during low tide, a unique sight against the ocean.
Vibrant Underwater World
Around the submerged cemetery
Snorkel or dive among colorful coral reefs, abundant marine life, and impressive giant clams .
Sunset Spectacle
Viewing deck overlooking the cemetery
Witness a magical sunset painting the sky with vibrant colors, creating an unforgettable backdrop .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Sunken Cemetery
Snorkeling & Guides: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Tides First! :ocean:
Plan your visit around low tide to see the iconic cross emerge from the sea.
Mandatory Snorkel Guide :diver:
A guide is required for snorkeling; they're essential for finding the cross and marine life.
Bring or Rent Fins :swimmer:
Strong currents are common; fins make snorkeling easier and help keep up with your guide.
Sunset Views are Epic :city_sunset:
The cemetery offers a stunning backdrop for sunset photos and a magical end to the day.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Tides First! :ocean:
Plan your visit around low tide to see the iconic cross emerge from the sea.
Mandatory Snorkel Guide :diver:
A guide is required for snorkeling; they're essential for finding the cross and marine life.
Bring or Rent Fins :swimmer:
Strong currents are common; fins make snorkeling easier and help keep up with your guide.
Sunset Views are Epic :city_sunset:
The cemetery offers a stunning backdrop for sunset photos and a magical end to the day.
Register Before You Go :clipboard:
You need to register across the road before heading down to the cemetery site.
Souvenir Shopping Nearby :shopping_bags:
Local souvenir shops are available along the roadside for mementos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Sunken Cemetery's unique historical significance and eerie beauty, especially when the cross emerges at low tide. The snorkeling experience, with its vibrant marine life and giant clams, is a major draw, though guides are mandatory and can move quickly. Sunset views are consistently praised as breathtaking.
"Went a couple of times. First for a look. You need to register across the road before heading down. We then went back to snorkeling around the cross. You have to have a guide but they show you everything. We then went for a sunset, and the last day a boat ride over."
Raylene Perry
"Good spot for snorkelling. Guide compulsory, 150 per person in addition to local fees.
The whole area is covered with tabletop coral, not in great condition. Abundant marine life and giant clams. Unexperienced snorkelers should not go at low tide. The guide moves pretty quickly and can be reminded of slowing down. The experience takes about 40’ to an hour. You can leave your belongings at the office and take a shower."
Philippe Laval
"Entrance is free but in order to go to the Cross, there's 150 for boat. The boatman take human drone videos and they're amazing. The view is nice and the corals seems to be well preserved."
JP J (PJ)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Mambajao, you can take a multicab or tricycle direct to the Sunken Cemetery in Catarman. If coming from Naasag, a motorela, tricycle, or multicab jeep will take you directly there.
Yes, local transportation like tricycles and multicabs are readily available on Camiguin Island and can take you directly to the site.
Yes, you can drive your own vehicle. There is parking available near the registration area.
For exploring multiple spots like the Sunken Cemetery, Old Spanish Church Ruins, and waterfalls, hiring a multicab or tricycle for a day tour is a popular and convenient option.
The Sunken Cemetery is located on the northwest coast of Catarman. Look for signs indicating the 'Sunken Cemetery' or 'Camiguin Cross'.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance to the Sunken Cemetery area itself is free. However, there are fees for boat rides and mandatory guides for snorkeling.
A guide is compulsory if you plan to snorkel around the submerged cross and marine life. The guide fee is typically around 150 PHP per person.
The Sunken Cemetery is generally accessible during daylight hours. For the best experience, aim for low tide to see the cross and sunset for beautiful views.
Yes, you can rent snorkeling gear on-site if you don't have your own. This is recommended if you plan to explore the underwater attractions.
There is no specific fee for taking photos, but boat rides and guide services for snorkeling will incur charges.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Snorkeling around the submerged cross and exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life is the most popular activity.
Expect to see a submerged cross, colorful corals, abundant fish, and giant clams. Be prepared for strong currents and a guide who moves quickly.
Yes, you can visit during high tide, but the iconic cross will be completely submerged. Snorkeling might still be possible, but visibility could be affected.
Yes, there are facilities available, including a place to leave your belongings and shower after snorkeling.
Beginners might find the strong currents challenging. It's advisable to use fins and stay close to your guide, or attach to their life ring if needed.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers a dramatic and beautiful backdrop for photos.
The viewing deck offers a vantage point, but it can get crowded. Taking photos from the water while snorkeling or from a boat provides unique perspectives.
You can capture stunning shots of the submerged cross, vibrant marine life, colorful corals, and breathtaking sunsets.
Some boatmen offer drone videography services, suggesting it's possible, but it's always best to check local regulations regarding drone usage.
A waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for capturing underwater shots. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and sunsets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during low tide when the cross is visible, which is less intimidating than a fully submerged site. The nearby souvenir shops offer a chance for kids to pick up a memento. If snorkeling is an option, ensure your children are comfortable swimmers and accompanied by a guide who can assist them.
💰 Budget Travelers
Transportation via multicab or tricycle is also affordable. Consider joining a group tour if available, as this can sometimes reduce individual costs for boat rides or guides. The historical significance and unique visual appeal make it a high-value experience without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Underwater photography enthusiasts will find plenty to capture, from the vibrant coral reefs to the diverse marine life. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscape shots and a macro lens for detailed shots of marine creatures. Exploring different times of day, from the soft light of morning to the dramatic hues of sunset, will yield a variety of stunning images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Sunken Cemetery
This dramatic event transformed a resting place for the departed into a unique underwater landscape.Centuries later, the submerged tombstones and structures have become an integral part of the marine ecosystem. Coral reefs have grown over the remnants, creating a vibrant habitat for diverse marine life. The most iconic feature is the large cross that marks the center of the cemetery, which is often visible during low tide, offering a surreal and moving sight for visitors.
Today, the Sunken Cemetery is a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors who are fascinated by its history and natural beauty. It serves as a powerful reminder of nature's force and the resilience of life, as the underwater ruins now teem with colorful fish and corals, offering a unique snorkeling and diving experience.
Snorkeling and Diving Experience
Be prepared for potentially strong currents, which make fins highly advisable for a more comfortable and efficient snorkeling experience. Guides often move at a brisk pace, so if you're not a strong swimmer, you can hold onto the life ring they provide for assistance.
While the entrance is free, expect to pay for the boat ride to the cross and the guide's services. Many visitors find the experience to be well worth the cost, describing it as both eerie and breathtaking. The opportunity to swim among historical remnants and vibrant sea creatures makes it a truly unique adventure.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
While the viewing deck provides a good vantage point, it can become crowded, making it challenging to get unobstructed shots. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or exploring different angles from the water.For underwater photography, a waterproof camera or an action camera is essential. Capturing the vibrant marine life, the coral formations, and the eerie beauty of the submerged cross requires good lighting. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, while midday sun can be harsh but may highlight the colors of the reef.
Many visitors also opt for drone videography to capture the expansive view of the cemetery and its surroundings from above. While not explicitly stated as prohibited, it's always wise to inquire about local regulations regarding drone usage before flying. The combination of historical significance and natural beauty makes the Sunken Cemetery a visually rewarding location for photographers of all levels.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit