DiscoverPasacao
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Pasacao.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Pasacao
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Pasacao
- Imagine yourself having landed on a long and powder soft beach, which is particularly kilometre-long, where the sun has tinted the sky in shades of orange and pink, and soft waves are smacking on the shore - this is the first arresting view that greets you on holidays to Pasacao, Camarines Sur.
- The small port of the town, with its ecstatic fishing boats playing about in the harbour, is a living connection between the mainland and the islands adjacent to it, and it is a bustling scene of everyday life that has the essence of this seaside people.
- The coastline is interspersed with coves and outcrops, providing secluded spots where an individual kayak rafter can hear the beat of the sea, and the cry of sea birds in the distance.
- During the evenings, the boats of fresh seafood just off the grill are served to the family and friends seated on the seaside boulevard because they come to watch the sunset and narrate some stories that have been lost in the memories of the family and friends.
- Although the area does not have any spectacular resorts, the local inns and beachfront cottages offer the specific comfort that is simple and rustic due to which the visitors feel as one of the community and not as a tourist.
- The slow life in this area is interrupted by the sound of wooden planks creaking and smell of salt and fish, which makes the atmosphere so welcoming and genuine that every moment spent here is a part of the unforgettable holidays to Pasacao, Camarines Sur.
- Capital (of the province): Pili
- International airport: No international airport in Pasacao
- Nearest commonly used: Naga Airport (Pili)
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official / local languages: Bikol, Filipino, English
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Reason 02
Highlights
- With a palm bordered 15 kilometres long shore line on which children form their sand castles and couples walk hand in hand reveal the natural beauty that keeps drawing tourists year after year.
- The nearby hills are formed by smooth hikes of the shore, and form a landscape of the fertile vegetation attracting to wander the hikers into their paths, which loop through the traditional fishing villages.
- The sheltered coves like those found around Barangay Sta. Rosa provide the calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling where one can find a rich underwater world of colourful fish and coral.
- The local markets are full of colourful stalls of fresh fruits, local delicacies and handcrafted artefacts giving tourists an idea of the rich culture of the area.
- A festival of sea-going and customs, known as Pamalayag Festival, brings the town to life with processions of decorated boats in the yearly event, traditional music, and folk dances that follow the history of seafaring.
- Daruanak and a network of the surrounding islands welcome day-trippers to jump into a little boat and explore a perfect set of coral reefs, hidden beaches, and a sea turtle in clear turquoise water here and there.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- The dry season, which lasts between December and May, offers clear skies and consistent warm weather that does not get interrupted by rains and is perfect for lounging on the beaches, island hopping, and adventure outings.
- The town is full of activity during the high summer seasons namely between March and May when locals as well as the tourists would enjoy festivals, water activities as well as community feasts, during which they would display their region pride.
- The cold months of January and February are very comfortable and can easily hike the hills and also take the opportunity to lead a slow lifestyle, which makes it an ideal getaway for people who do not like heat.
- Though it is a short period, the rainy season offers the lush and green sceneries that turn the coast into a green heaven among the photographers and those who love nature and want to see the coast in a new perspective.
- The end of winter and the onset of the rainy season is a good season that combines sunny days and the first few showers to make the environment fresh and bright.
- To plan your trip in the shoulder seasons might also imply a reduced number of crowds, reduced hotel costs and being able to enjoy local traditions with a more close and community-focused vibe.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Balogo Beach
- This large area of fine and white sand has well-structured family friendly resorts that can receive groups of all sizes and allow all people to find a comfortable area to suntan or to walk without disturbance.
- The crystal-clear waters of the beach allow small children to paddle, and at the same time deep enough to offer a challenge to the adventurous swimmers.
- It is a daily show and the sky here is on fire with colours of crimson and gold that reflect in water making it an unforgettable scene in the photos.
- Local sellers also establish stalls along the beach, selling fresh coconut water up to homemade ice cream, so that visitors do not have to step out of the sand to enjoy the local taste.
- The surrounding promenade is full of joggers and yoga groups that practice their routines every morning and they are united by how the quiet setting Balogo Beach offers.
- Lastly, the sound of far-off drums as the evening breeze blows in suggests the cultural festivities that normally take place in the central square of this town by night.
Daruanak Island
- This island is a haven of adventure as it is accessible by a short boat ride from the port of the town and has rocky cliffs with clean beaches that have not been affected by massive tourism therefore, making it an adventure destination.
- The reefs of the island provide one of the best snorkelling experiences in which a curious tourist can view a variety of tropical fish, sea anemones and in some cases a curious octopus.
- The underdeveloped infrastructure of Daruanak Island makes it easier to self-sustain and promotes a feeling of independence that enhances the attachment to the natural environment.
- There is a little hiking path that leads through the mangrove forests which offers a peaceful getaway into the wilderness where all one can hear is the birds and the waves lapping on the shore.
- The serene coves of the island are perfect to do quiet meditation or relaxing picnic and it is a great place to be with the family or a couple together.
- During the later afternoon, the setting sun illuminates the sky with violet and amber and makes the island a living canvas that makes every visitor awe-struck.
Pasacao Port & Seaside Boulevard
- It is the continuum of the town, and fishermen put up their daily haul, and tourists observe the flow and swing of boat traffic, as the scent of freshly cooked fish fills the air.
- The surrounding beach board is constituted by cafes, souvenirs and art stands, and this forms a lively promenade which is inviting to walk up and down, as well as taking a panoramic view of the port.
- The boulevard is a portal to the island adventures of the small-motorised boats that visitors may rent and explore the concealed coves.
- In the evening, the lamps illuminate the boulevard with lanterns and vibrant conversations of the locals that make it a cosy welcoming experience as though everyone is celebrating.
- Cultural value of the port is emphasised in the annual boat parades where the vessels with richly decorated boats display the art and craftsmanship of the maritime artists of the area.
- In addition, local musicians are also available on weekends where they hold impromptu performances and the boulevard transforms into an open concert hall where the traditional Bicolano music is played.
Mount Asog Range Viewpoints (Mount Bernacci)
- A brief journey out of the town brings one to the hilly range of Mount Bernacci, where one has views of the coast and the islands that enclose it spread under the clouds.
- The path leading to the peak is well maintained but difficult enough to make the hikers feel their achievement as there are steps made of stones and small wooden bridges which cross the streams.
- As a perspective, one can see the spectacular sunrise scenery on the sunward side, and an unbelievable moonlit sky full of stars that appear to be caressing the ground.
- The region hosts a wide range of plants, such as rare orchids and native shrubs, which is why it is a paradise for plant lovers and photographers.
- There are local guides who can tell the stories of the legends of the mountain and how it has been of importance to the indigenous communities who have resided in the mountain over the centuries.
- Lastly, a natural clearing with pine trees is one of the most appropriate places to have a quiet meditation or a contemplative walk, as the trees offer a relaxing scenery to one exercising his or her own thoughts.
Reason 05
Discover More
Fishing Villages (Barangays Sta. Rosa, Caranan, etc.)
- These villages can be considered as the real insights into the life of local fishermen, who use traditional nets and wooden boats to earn money every morning.
- Tourists can join a morning fishing excursion whereby they learn how to cast the lines and also the type of fish that flourishes in the warm waters of the area.
- The seafood that is freshly caught is usually sold at the docks, and the traveller gets to sample the dishes that are prepared right at the docks with a pinch of local spice and splash of lime.
- The folk dances common in cultural performances in these villages are a tribute to the sea, which demonstrates how the sea influences the economy and arts of the village.
- The colourful night markets which open after the fall of the sun sell the woven baskets, shell jewellery, and other crafts which clearly show the artistic talent of fishermen families.
- By spending a day or two in these villages, the visitors will be able to taste the relaxed pace of life that seems to be the living museum of maritime heritage.
Secret Coves and Smaller Beaches
- Some of the barangays along the shoreline have isolated coves, which have never been overrun by the normal tourist traffic and this provides a feeling of privacy and quiet that is very difficult to find elsewhere.
- These beaches are also reached in short walks through mangrove forests or a short boat ride which offers a discovery feeling to the travellers as they reach their destination.
- The sand is nice and cooler and water mostly calm, so the place offers the best opportunity to have a private swim or have a quiet sun-bathing time.
- The numerous coves have small wooden piers where locals fish either in the morning or evening which give a close up view of how the community carries its daily activities.
- There are also a few waterfalls in the cliffs within the area that sometimes trickle into crystal clear pools and provide some refreshing nature to the beach experience.
- There is no commercialization of the scenery and the only music to be found is that of the wind and the rhythmic waves.
Inland Rivers & Picnic Spots
- In the backcountry of Pasacao lies a labyrinth of clear rivers which wander through green mangrove swamps, a quiet retreating spot away from the coast.
- These streams offer a great deal of kayaking or canoeing opportunities as the flowing of the water is slow with filtering sunlight forming a relaxing atmosphere to meditate.
- Benches of wood and shade trees are provided at the picnic spots along the river and these make the place ideal for taking a family lunch in the shade of the tropical foliage.
- An array of bird species, such as the colourful Kingfisher, breed around the riverbanks and one can easily spot it at a secluded spot on the banks.
- Small boat trips can be organised with the help of local guides, where ecological importance of mangrove ecosystem is explained, as may be seen to support wildlife and local fishery.
- As the sun reaches its setting, the water surface of the river shines gold, and the whole space becomes a natural stage to enjoy the memorable and peaceful evening.
Local Beachfront Cottages and Resorts
- These accommodations are both simple beachfront huts, and more luxurious resorts, all of which have a very strong sense of location by way of architecture and decor.
- A lot of the cottages are made using woven bamboo and thatched roofs, which provide a guest with a comfortable home away from home.
- The resorts tend to offer community-based services like community kitchens, whereby the visitors may be taught on how to prepare the traditional Bicolano foods in the presence of local chefs.
- Food choices usually involve fresh seafood platters with banana leaves, a cultural aspect that gives the restaurant a local flavour to the food.
- There are also evening cultural performances in some of the resorts including the dance shows which offers visitors an opportunity to experience the art of the area.
- All these facilities are usually near the beach where people can easily access swimming, sunbathing and even morning fishing with the local guides.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- There is clear Catholic heritage in the town with a great number of churches and the vibrant processions during Holy Week when believers parade the streets with the fantastic statues of saints.
- Every barangay has its fiesta, with colourful parades in which local dancers are dressed in bright colourful traditional costumes and accompanied by the rhythm of the beat played on the drums and the native flutes.
- Holidays to Pasacao Pamalayag Festival is an annual event that commemorates the sea heritage of Pasacao where people come for a procession where beautifully adorned boats are displayed to honour the bounty of the sea.
- The communities are usually seen to hold feasts whereby people within their families share homemade meals and hold storytelling sessions that give legacies of heroic fishermen and the mythical sea animals.
- Local artisans still carry out such traditional crafts as basket weaving and shell carving, which they do on display in the markets and small galleries where the visitors can buy them.
- The social structure of the town is interwoven with the traditions which hold the quality of respect toward the sea in a form of blessing before going out fishing, guaranteeing the safety and wealth.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- The seaside position ensures the availability of fresh seafood and daily supply of crabs, shrimps, prawns and an assortment of fish which is grilled or fried to the last bite.
- One of the most common local meals is a spicy coconut soup, known as kinunot, which traditionally has stingray, though shark or other firm-fleshed fish can also be used, and gives it a piquant aromatic taste.
- In numerous local restaurants, classic Bicolano dishes like laing and pinangat are available where pork or fish is cooked in coconut milk and chilli to provide a warm experience in taste.
- The beachfront has street vendors that are selling fish that is baked using a mixture of some local herbs, and then served with a fresh coconut water as an invigorating contrast.
- The carinderias of the town which are plain, serve good large bowls of sinigang (sour soup) and adobo that is stewed over hours to become rich and deep.
- To top it off, passengers must have halo-halo, a sweet treat of shaved ice, sweet beans, jello and a touch of condensed milk to cool the palate after a day in the sun.
Fun
- The serene gulfs are ideal where one can swim, spend hours splashing in shallow water as children create elaborate sand castles.
- The Daruanak Island day-outs should be included in the list of things to do since the waters of the reef are clear and may enable snorkelers to experience a variety of colourful marine life, such as the colourful reef fish and graceful sea turtles.
- Beach camping is an option that can be easily considered by people who are willing to spend the night under the stars and hear the waves as the lullaby.
- Local fishermen offer tourists to go fishing with them and learn more about the traditional ways of doing it and how to enjoy the process of catching and getting a fresh meal.
- The golden light that spreads all over the waters makes sunset photography in the boulevard one of the most popular hobbies as people capture the most memorable photographs.
- Minor elevations around the coastal hills particularly at the lookout points of Mount Bernacci, give scenic views that reward the visitors with panoramic views of the whole coastal strip.
Fashion
- Lightweight but breathable clothes like cotton or linen that keep you cool in the tropical heat and can be washed after spending a day at the beach easily.
- The aqua shoes or the tough sandals are needed at the rocky parts of the beach so that you should not fall and your feet do not get hurt from the sharp pebbles.
- A high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are also a must since the sun is sometimes fierce even in the early morning.
- It is best to carry money in small amounts, as not all the local shops and markets take credit cards, and ATMs can be in short supply in the further barangays.
- You should be able to make your bookings via World Pinoy Flights to make sure that you get the best routes and prices especially when you are travelling during the peak season.
- Show respect to the local laws and culture by dressing decently when attending churches or fiestas and do not take photographs of locals or their houses without seeking their permission.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- The marine biodiversity is swarming around the coral reefs surrounding the Daruanak Island and are characterised by a variety of tropical fishes, sea anemones and the occasional seahorse that dances under the sea.
- The mangrove ecosystems along the coast will be a delight to the birdwatchers as they witness the kingfisher, heron and the nesting and feeding of other species of terns in the calm waters.
- Holidays to Pasacao snorkelling activities in the serene seas of the coves are welcome, as well as offer a risk-free space suitable for teaching the children simple skills of breathing underwater in the presence of adults.
- Hills close to Pasacao are clothed with rich plants, such as rare orchids, ferns, and all types of cycads that can survive in this microclimate many thousands of years.
- The lullaby of insects appear in the night accompanied by the moonlight on the sea, which gives the atmosphere of calm serenity and is ideal to meditate and stare at the stars.
- Local NGOs are working towards conservation of these delicate ecosystems giving the visitors opportunity to volunteer or engage in clean up activities that can enable sustainable tourism.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- In August is the Holidays to Pasacao town Fiesta that turns the whole town into a colourful festival of parades of dancers in colourful costumes, live music, and a fireworks show making the sky of the night light.
- Maritime tradition The Pamalayag Festival, an annual event in summer, celebrates the sea culture of the town by boat processions, cultural shows, and a community dinner featuring the best seafood that the area can provide.
- The Holy Week parades in the streets go in solemn procession, with believers holding the festival religious icons and the inhabitants of the town praying and singing in their favour.
- The fiestas of Barangays are intimate events when the neighbours share homemade snacks, traditional games, local music and dance that represent the community they belong to.
- In summer the town also has a fishing competition where some of the nearby provinces come in celebration of the prowess and the fellowship of the local fishermen.
- These festivals are usually accompanied with cultural workshops and art exhibition where visitors can learn about the traditional crafts like basket weaving, shell carving and preparation of kinunot and other Bicolano dishes.