Matnog, Sorsogon DIY Travel Guide 2024

As an avid backpacker and travel blogger, I’m always searching for off-the-beaten-path destinations in the Philippines that offer a unique local experience. On a recent trip, I uncovered the underrated gems of Bicol – specifically the provinces of Sorsogon and Albay.

In this DIY guide, I’ll walk you through how to spend 5 unforgettable days backpacking through these beautiful regions, including the top attractions, sample itineraries, budget tips, and more. Whether you’re a solo traveler, with friends, or traveling as a couple, this guide has everything you need to plan your next adventure in Bicol.

Day 1: Matnog, Sorsogon

Matnog is a municipality located in the southernmost part of the Bicol region. It is best known as a major hub for ferries bound for destinations in the Southern Philippines like Samar. But there is much more to Matnog than just being a functional, commercial seaport!

Matnog offers travelers the chance to experience island hopping like never before! You will be amazed by the beauty of Subic Pink Beach Island, Tikling Island, Calintaan Cave, and the Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary.

Fun Fact: The name “Matnog” sounds like the Tagalog word “Matunog/Matonog” which means audible. Locals say the place is named so because of the loud cacophonous sounds created by the waves.

Island Hopping Adventure

Here are our Travel stops-

1. Subic Beach (Pink Beach)

Our first stop was Subic Beach, also known as the Pink Beach in Sorsogon. The sand here is fine and takes on a pinkish color when directly hit by sunlight, making the island famous. We stayed here for about an hour enjoying the clear waters and white sand. There are no entrance fees to be paid.

2. Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary

Our next stop was the Juag Lagoon Fish Sanctuary. For me, this was the highlight of the island hopping tour as it offers you the chance to swim with fishes, feed them, and be amazed by their beauty. Some of the fishes here are pretty large as well. You can buy fish food for 100 pesos and feed them!

Fun Fact: There are at least 40 species of fish found in these waters.

3. Calintaan Cave

The third stop was Calintaan Cave. At first sight, it looks like any other ordinary cave, but once you swim inside you see its real beauty – it’s like entering your own secret sanctuary with crystal-clear blue waters.

4. Tikling Island

The last stop was Tikling Island, known for its clear waters and white sand. Travelers usually stay overnight on the islands. You can rent traditional native-style huts at reasonable prices. Fortunately, these huts complement the beauty of this pristine beach.

Fun Fact: Subic Beach is actually divided into Subic Laki (Big) beach and Subic Liit (Small) beach.

How to Get There?

By Land from Manila

• Take buses like PhilTranco, Raymond, or Isarog that offer direct routes to Matnog. Travel time is around 14 hours.

By Land from Legazpi

• Take a bus from the Legazpi Terminal to Bulan and get off at Trece. From there take buses or jeepneys to Matnog. Travel time from Legazpi to Sorsogon is 1 hour, and Sorsogon to Matnog is 3-4 hours.

By Air

• Fly to Legazpi Airport via Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, or PAL. From there take a trike to the bus terminal for buses to Sorsogon and then Matnog.

Upon arriving, coordinate with the Matnog Tourism Office. Boat rentals for island hopping are ₱1,600 for a day tour and ₱2,000 for overnight (good for 10 pax).

Where to Stay?

• You can camp out on Subic Beach for ₱50 or stay in resorts in Matnog town. Some budget-friendly accommodations in Sorsogon include:
• Ingko Hotel Gabao
• Bantigui Beach Resort
• Fernando’s Hotel
• Fritz Homestay

You can buy supplies from the market near the tourism office and have them cooked on the islands or cook them yourself. The boatmen are happy to help too.

I hope this travel guide gives you a clear picture of what to expect when visiting Matnog, Sorsogon for an island-hopping adventure! Let me know if you need any other details.