Discover Cagwait White Beach | Surigao del Sur

Blessed with verdant forests, pristine beaches, and exquisite flora and fauna, Surigao del Sur is truly a potential tourism hub in the Philippines. A number of breathtaking places is yet to be explored, discovered and experienced in the said province – giving avenues for explorers and travelers to find out these gems of nature.

Being born in Surigao del Sur is a wonderful opportunity for me to visit the gifts of nature but I must admit that I have only visited few. “Huwag maging dayuhan sa sariling bayan!” is a challenge that I face and will conquer soon… Starting off in my hometown, the Municipality of Cagwait.

This is one of the million reasons why IT'S MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES

Brief History

Cagwait is a coastal town located in the central part of the province of Surigao del Sur. It straddles along the coast of Pacific Ocean and Mount Diwata. It has a total land area of 21,410 hectares and a population of 19,899 (NSO, 2007) scattered among its eleven (11) barangays.

Historical Origin of Cagwait

Young sailors from Leyte, who escaped from enslaving hands of Spaniards, sailed southward in 1840 in a boat called “veloz” and noticed they were passing  into a bay resembling a human mouth, which in vernacular, it is called “mao rag wait.” The bay looked like an open mouth and the peninsula resembling the esophagus. The settlers later on called the place “Cagwait.”

Thus in July 1840, when Father Juan Engrova first baptized the people in the new settlement, wrote the name Cagwait in his record entitled, “Libros de Bautismos,” 1845-1860.

The diversity of the marine and forest ecosystem facing the bay and the land along it are fertile. It favors for growing crops that attracted more and more settlers from other and nearby places.

The ever-charming Cagwait Beach

The Municipality of Cagwait houses the ever-charming Cagwait White Beach.

Once named as Waikiki Beach by an aviator Charles Lindbergh because of its resemblance to the famous beach in Hawaii, Cagwait Beach is a long stretch of white powdery sand forming a C-shape. An aerial view shows a clamshell-like formation, truly a scene to behold. The picturesque view of the beach from different angles makes it more attractive to tourists and locals alike.

The clear turquoise water of the beach is simply irresistible, captivating and inviting –just so perfect for everyone to enjoy swimming. One can even think of taking a plunge instantly because of its charm. Big waves for surfing and skimboarding are readily available for the enthusiasts, truly a beach for the adventurous visitors and the ordinary beach lovers.

The long shoreline welcomes everyone for a barefoot-walk and even sprint. The considerable width as well allows people to play volleyball, parlor games and the like.

The continuous development in Cagwait White Beach pave way for a vibrant local tourism whereby beach goers and potential tourists can enjoy. First is the mushrooming of private-owned resorts with affordable accommodations. These establishments have upgraded a beach bumming experience by offering among others, sea sports adventure such as riding a banana boat, kayaking and jet skiing. These are really great options for the locals and tourists alike. 

Second on the list is the annual celebration of Kaliguan Festival held every 3^rd week of June in honor of St. John the Baptist. This gala has attracted people from neighboring places and even across the globe to witness the colorful celebration of great harvest. Beach dancing competition is the most unique cultural dance contest there is in the country where the performers literally present their number along the shorelines of the beach. Another highlight of the festival is the Perlas ng Kaliguan where lovely candidates show wit and grace during the entire competition. The other activities include boat racing, fluvial parade, sand art competition, pinoy games, agri-trade fair, beach volleyball, beach party and many many more. 

Third is the media presence of Cagwait Beach; that would mean being featured in Living Asia, TV Patrol Weekend, GMA 7 and a number of blogs. Thanks to all for promoting Cagwait in your most creative way.   

The Cagwait White Beach is truly a blessing for the locals who never fail to appreciate its beauty and its contribution to the tourism development. A place for respite, batch reunion and family gatherings, Cagwait Beach will always have a welcoming gesture to everyone. For me, I have never missed and would never miss an opportunity to go there everytime I am home. Oh, mentioning of going home makes me ecstatic. See you again my beloved Cagwait Beach.

Getting There:

From Butuan City, Bislig City and Davao City

Ride a bus going to Tandag City and tell the bus conductor that you are going to Cagwait. Alight at the junction area where you can see the welcome landmark. The bus driver and the conductor usually announce that you have arrived in Cagwait. From there, you can hire a motorized tricycle and tell the driver that you are heading to the Cagwait White Beach. There are resorts along the beach for you to choose from. You can ask some questions from the driver so you would be guided. Fare is Php 15 –Php 20.

From Tandag City

You can ride a bus heading to Butuan, Davao or Bislig City and tell the bus conductor that you will alight at the intersection of Cagwait There are also jeepneys and vans from Tandag as options for you to reach Cagwait.

Where to stay

If you are planning to stay overnight, here are your options to stay at:

Tourism Inn

Lizville

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Xtreme Beach Resort

Lolenghayaw

Cottages are also available along the beach.

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, I GLADLY WELCOME YOU ALL TO THE MUNICIPALITY OF CAGWAIT AND TO THE EVER CHARMING CAGWAIT WHITE BEACH. MAY YOU ENJOY YOUR STAY!!! GOD BLESS!!!

Photo Credits:

Asterio Ugat, Jr.

Almer Casio 

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Information Credit: 

Municipality of Cagwait