Things To Do
in Cagwait
Cagwait is a coastal municipality located in the province of Surigao del Sur in the Philippines. It is known for its beautiful beach with fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and tourists. The town is also famous for its annual Kaliguan Festival, a celebration of thanksgiving and showcasing the vibrant culture and traditions of the community.
Cagwait offers a serene and idyllic atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the pristine Cagwait Beach, enjoying the calm morning waters. Relax on the fine white sand and take in the stunning coastal views.
Enjoy a local seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Spend the afternoon snorkeling or swimming in the clear blue waters.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the beach. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and gather some memories for the night.
Head to Cagwait White Beach for a morning swim in its crystal-clear waters. The early sun makes for perfect beach photos.
Join a guided tour to explore the nearby islands or go kayaking. Experience the vibrant marine life and stunning rock formations.
Wind down with a beach bonfire while enjoying some local snacks. The sound of the waves will make for a peaceful evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local community.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and water sports like snorkeling and diving.
- Relatively less commercialized compared to other tourist destinations, providing a more authentic experience.
- Affordable cost of living and travel.
- Limited access to modern amenities and infrastructure.
- Transportation can be challenging, especially for tourists.
- During the rainy season, there may be issues with flooding and travel disruptions.
- Limited healthcare facilities and services, which may be a concern for some visitors.
- Potential for natural disasters, such as typhoons, which can affect safety and travel plans.
Best Activities in Cagwait
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax and enjoy the beautiful white sand beach and clear blue waters of Cagwait.
Experience surfing in the waves of Cagwait Beach, known for its consistent swell.
Enjoy fishing and boating activities in the scenic Sikecogon Bay in Cagwait.
Discover the natural beauty and biodiversity of Mount Tres Marias through hiking and nature exploration.
Places to Visit in Cagwait
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the ocean and is perfect for sunset photography.
Provides a picturesque backdrop for photography with its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters.
Presents stunning natural scenery and is ideal for waterfall photography.
Food in Cagwait
Cagwait Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kinilaw is a popular dish in Cagwait made from raw fish marinated in vinegar, lime juice, and spices, often served with coconut milk. You can try authentic Kinilaw at local eateries like Kinilaw Corner near the beachfront.
Must-Try!
Grilled Pusit (squid) is a local favorite, often seasoned with local herbs and spices before being grilled to perfection. Visit the seaside stalls or Beachside Grilling Station for a taste of this mouthwatering delicacy.
Ginataang Kuhol, or snails cooked in rich coconut milk and spices, offers a unique and flavorful experience. Look for this dish at Ester's Seafood Restaurant known for their traditional preparation.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Cagwait Public Market for an authentic culinary adventure with an abundance of fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls offering local snacks like fried bananas, fish balls, and sweet rice cakes.
Along the beachfront, you'll find a vibrant array of street food vendors offering freshly grilled seafood, skewers, and traditional snacks like bibingka (rice cake) and puto bumbong (purple sticky rice).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cagwait, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language, addressing them with proper titles, and deferring to their wisdom and experience.
It is appreciated to dress modestly and conservatively in Cagwait, especially when visiting religious sites or attending social gatherings. Revealing clothing may be considered disrespectful.
Hospitality is highly valued in Cagwait. Visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity, and it is customary to reciprocate this hospitality when hosting or visiting others.
Safety
Tipping in Cagwait
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cagwait, Philippines, tipping is not widely practiced. However, in some tourist areas or upscale establishments, a small tip of around 5-10% may be appreciated for exceptional service.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Cagwait, Philippines. Credit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting the area.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Cagwait is during the dry season from January to May when the weather is warm and sunny. This period is ideal for enjoying the beautiful beaches and participating in outdoor activities.
During the rainy season from June to December, Cagwait experiences frequent rainfall and occasional typhoons. Travelers should expect more limited outdoor activities during this time, but it can also be a quieter and less crowded period for those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Cagwait at Night
Hiking in Cagwait
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
While primarily known for its beautiful beach, Cagwait Beach also offers trails that provide scenic views and is a great starting point for local hikes.
Located a short distance from Cagwait, Buhisan Hills offers hiking trails that lead to amazing viewpoints overlooking the surrounding landscapes.
Not far from Cagwait, Aliwagwag Falls features a series of cascading waterfalls. The area provides hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the falls.
This mountain offers more challenging trails suited for experienced hikers, with rewarding views at the summit. It's situated close to the Cagwait area.
A short drive from Cagwait, Lanuza Bay has trekking paths with stunning coastal views, ideal for both hiking and exploring the beach.
Aiports
How to reach Cagwait by plane.
Located in Davao City, approximately 134 kilometers from Cagwait, this international airport serves the Davao Region and offers flights to various domestic and international destinations.
Situated about 170 kilometers from Cagwait, General Santos International Airport serves the Soccsksargen region and connects to various international hubs.
Located in Cagayan de Oro, approximately 250 kilometers from Cagwait, Lagindangan Airport serves as a regional gateway with domestic flights and limited international connections.
Also known as Davao International Airport, it is about 134 kilometers from Cagwait and is the main airport serving Davao City, with numerous domestic and international flights.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City near Cebu, approximately 490 kilometers from Cagwait, it is the second busiest airport in the Philippines and serves both domestic and international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the residents in Cagwait belong to various Christian denominations, predominantly Roman Catholic.
Includes various indigenous groups locally known as 'Lumad' who have distinct cultural practices and languages.
A smaller demographic in Cagwait comprising Muslims who contribute to the cultural diversity of the area.
A significant portion of the population, often engaged in education and local initiatives.
Elderly residents who have different needs and contribute to the community's social fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Cagwait, played in local courts and during community events.
Volleyball enjoys popularity among both men and women, with friendly matches held in schools and community centers.
Football is gaining traction in Cagwait, with local teams forming and participating in friendly competitions.
A traditional sport in the Philippines, Sepak Takraw is played widely in Cagwait, combining elements of soccer and volleyball.
Cagwait is known for its beautiful beaches and surf spots, making surfing a popular water sport among locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cagwait.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine is meat-centric, many local eateries are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Visitors can enjoy vegetable-based dishes like Pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and Ginataang Langka (jackfruit in coconut milk) at establishments like Kinilaw Corner and Palutoan sa Baybay.
For gluten-free options, fresh seafood, fruits, and rice-based dishes are prevalent in Cagwait's culinary scene. Visitors with gluten restrictions can savor dishes like Grilled Pusit and Kinilaw without worry, as these are naturally gluten-free.