The unique and captivating beauty of Camiguin Island in the Philippines has been spotlighted as one of The New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2026, recognized for its breathtaking natural attractions and growing global appeal.
This volcanic island—known for having no traffic lights but an abundance of lush mountain peaks, black-sand beaches, and towering coconut palms—is truly a paradise for water lovers. It features pristine white sandbars, hot and cold springs, waterfalls perfect for bathing, vibrant neon clams, and thriving sea turtle populations.
Recent developments, including the widening of the scenic 40-mile circumferential road and the opening of the island’s first beach boardwalk in Mambajao, have significantly enhanced the visitor experience. Camiguin also boasts a rich cultural heritage, highlighted by the Sunken Cemetery, eco-farm tours, the Lanzones Festival, and emerging sports tourism events such as triathlons.
Camiguin ranks No. 37 on the list of 52 must-see global destinations for 2026. Other notable locations include Revolutionary America (No. 1), Warsaw, Poland (No. 2), Bangkok (No. 3), Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica (No. 4), Bandhavgarh, India (No. 5), Dallas (No. 6), Saba in the Caribbean (No. 9), Poblenou in Barcelona (No. 10), Vietnam (No. 34), Melbourne, Australia (No. 49), and Big Sur, California (No. 51), among others.
Best eco-tourism hub
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) views Camiguin as a model of “limitless adventure” and sustainable island management. The agency highlights the island’s transformation into a world-class eco-tourism hub through strategic infrastructure development and community-driven initiatives.
“Isle Visit Camiguin 2026” campaign
A play on the phrase “I’ll visit,” this campaign underscores the island’s readiness to welcome global travelers. Major upgrades include the widening of the 40-mile circumferential road and the opening of the first beach boardwalk in Mambajao.
The “Island Born of Fire” legacy
The DOT emphasizes Camiguin’s extraordinary volcanic geography—seven volcanoes within a small province—which has created rare natural contrasts such as Ardent Hot Springs and Sto. Niño Cold Springs.
A “Smart Island” vision
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Governor Xavier Jesus Romualdo have promoted the island’s digital transformation initiatives. These include an e-ticketing system for sites like Mantigue Island and QR-coded entry systems designed to manage tourist flow sustainably.
Niche tourism growth
The DOT is also advancing Dive Tourism by mapping new dive sites and installing a hyperbaric chamber. Sports Tourism is expanding as well, highlighted by the upcoming Ironman 5150 Camiguin scheduled for May 2026.
Water lover’s paradise
According to The New York Times, Camiguin has earned the description “water lover’s paradise.” Ranking No. 37 on its 52 Places to Go in 2026 list, the publication presents the island as an idyllic, low-impact destination that preserves its charm while embracing modernization.
No traffic light charm
The feature emphasizes the island’s tranquility, describing it as a volcanic sanctuary “without a single traffic light,” surrounded by lush peaks and towering coconut palms.
Water-centric wonders
The publication highlights Camiguin’s marine treasures, including “treasure-chest-size” neon clams and abundant sea turtles thriving around its pristine white-sandbar islets.
Cultural and culinary intimacy
The article also mentions the island’s Lanzones Festival, celebrating the sweet lanzones fruit, along with historic landmarks such as the hauntingly beautiful Sunken Cemetery.
Selective accessibility
While acknowledging infrastructure improvements such as upgraded roads and the new boardwalk, The New York Times positions Camiguin as an off-the-beaten-path alternative to more commercialized Southeast Asian destinations like Bangkok and Vietnam.
Camiguin’s unique selling points
Camiguin stands as the only Philippine destination included in the 2026 list. The island is home to more volcanoes (seven) than municipalities (five), underscoring its dramatic geological identity.
Recently, the Department of Tourism also recognized Camiguin for its eco-leadership, awarding Mantigue Island as the Best Eco-Tourism Destination. Strategic infrastructure completion, upgraded visitor centers, and tourism-ready facilities are expected to support the anticipated surge of travelers in 2026.
