Caramoan resorts – Tugawe Cove Resort
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JANUARY 2019
Hidden away in the Caminares Sur region of the Philippines is one of the most enchanting Caramoan resorts. The 4-star Tugawe Cove Resort is the ultimate island getaway in one of the country’s most immaculate peninsulas.
This luxury eco-resort resort isn’t the easiest place to reach, but worth the 5.5-hour trip from the nearest airport. With tranquil secret lakes, towering limestone formations, and remote beaches, relaxation is the keyword here.
Caramoan resorts – Tugawe Cove Resort
If you travel in November, which is typically typhoon season, you may be in store for a bumpy boat ride. That said, any rain storms don’t last long, and the Philippine sunshine outlasts any bad weather.
Your arrival at Tugawe Cove Resort is unlike any other. The boat docks right on the shore, with jaw-dropping scenery awaiting you. If I close my eyes, I can still feel the warm water bathing my feet, and the sand drying it thereafter. Jeeps, that remind me of golf caddies, though larger, wait to transport you up to the main reception. It’s a necessity there, given the scorching temperatures and the elevating walk to the top.
Along the way, look out for the wooden bungalow style rooms on either side of the path, complete with terraces. The view is unspoiled, spectacular and relaxes you in a second.
Tugawe Cove Resort rooms
The 32 ‘rooms’ at Tugawe Cove Resort more resemble mini bungalows. Guests can choose between a lakeside, hillside or hilltop cabana. Depending on who you travel with, there are views to accommodate everyone. Couples seeking a romantic retreat may prefer booking a Lakeside Casita King. Wake up to views of the lake right outside your window, and fall asleep on a king-sized bed.
Choose a lakeside room for easier access to the beach. Book the Hilltop or Hillside rooms for quicker access to the restaurant and infinity pool.
Hillside Cabana Double
The view outside
Enjoying the generous veranda
The Hilltop Casita King on the other hand is ideal for families, or even a group of friends. There are 2 king-beds, and stretching views of the surrounding greenery.
I stayed in a Hillside Cabana Double, which is far too big for 1 person! Inside are 2 double beds, with air conditioning, separate bathroom, desk and tv. They also provide complimentary bottles of water.
Admittedly, the bathroom’s more rustic than modern, but everything works fine. My favourite aspect of the room is definitely the veranda that embraces the entire width of the bungalow. As long as you’re beneath the shade, it’s a great place to get some work done, or simply to relax. The bungalows are also spaced out around the resort, meaning you can really get some alone time here. Do expect a short walk, however, if you travel as a group and want to visit friends/family in other bungalows!
A pool with the best views
Take an evening swim
The pool lit up at night
Caramoan resorts – Tugawe Cove Resort infinity pool
I go completely gaga when I see an infinity pool, and the one at Tugawe Cove Resort ticks every box. It’s large enough to have a decent swim, and with a view that’ll keep you there from sunrise to sunset. In fact, with balmy temperatures well into the night, it’s ideal if you want to have an evening swim too.
At night, a trio of colourful lights illuminate the pool giving it a totally different feel. Choose to relax on sun loungers in, or at the side of the pool. Alternatively, you may prefer to chill out in one of the 2 mini circular pools.
If you like your infinity pool with a drink on the side, you’ll need to order at the main bar. There’s no waiter service at the pool, but the staff do their best to accommodate your stay. Relaxation is the keyword at Tugawe Cove Resort.
“With tranquil secret lakes, towering limestone formations, and remote beaches, relaxation is the keyword here.”
Caramoan resorts – Tugawe Cove Resort activities
Walking
The surrounding gardens are serene, well maintained and make for a pleasant daily stroll around the resort. Without meaning to, you can get even get a decent workout here. There are enough steps around the resort that your legs will feel the burn after the first day. However, you can sort out any muscle pains or stress knots by booking a massage. Book to have it at the resort or, like me, in your room. I guarantee you’ll sleep like a baby afterwards.
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I always like to catch a sunset when traveling, and Tugawe Cove Resort has the perfect viewing spot. Book a time to make the trip to the location of an empty lighthouse. From here, you can admire the awe-inspiring scenery of the islands below, and watch the colours change with the sunset.
Walk around the gardens
Caramoan resorts – island hopping
Being in this part of the world, it’d be crazy to miss out on going island hopping. The Caramoan Islands are lesser known — and visited — than El Nido, but just as mesmerising. Staff at the resort will arrange everything for you, including a guide, and picnic lunch (if you request one).
We visited 3 islands during our visit: Pitogo Bay, and Katanhawan (big and small) island. There, we not only laid eyes on some of the most memorable landscapes, but also learned about sustainable tourism. At the time of visiting, the boat rental cost between PHP3,500 (£53/58/$67) to 5,000 (£75/83/$96). However, check the website for the most up-to-date details.
As well as the 3 islands we visited, you can also arrange trips to the following places. Here, you can engage in birdwatching activities, or even try your hand at fishing.
- Matukad Island. Hike on some of the island’s rock formations, and/or swim in the hidden lagoon.
- Sabitang Laya. Enjoy an unspoiled, and remote, island with sandy beaches all to yourself.
- Patag Bay. Get your rock on, and climb some of the impressive formations at this bay.
Additional places of interest worth visiting include the waterfalls at Layahan and Hugsad, and the caves at Manipis and Umang.
Get on a boat and island hop
Enjoy the beach to yourself
Caramoan resorts – beach life at Tugawe Cove Resort
Naturally, the beach is a popular feature of the resort. Here, you can discover marine life just a few feet away from the shore by snorkelling, paddle-boarding, and also kayaking. Best thing is, you can do this at no additional cost.
If you visit during the new moon (January), you may also be lucky to see some bioluminescent plankton floating around.
The final word
Of the many beach resorts I’ve been to, I’ll never forget Tugawe Cove Resort. From the excellent hospitality to the magical landscape, it’s somewhere everyone should see once in their lifetime.
What do you think of Tugawe Cove Resort? Would you like to check in here for some R&R? Leave me a comment in the section below!
Till next time, happy boutique travels x
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.
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I would absolutely want to stay at Tugawe Cove Resort! It’s hard to say what I like most about it, there is so much! I love the looks of the infinity pool and that the bungalows are spaced out for more privacy.
Trust me, after a few days here, you’ll feel like a new person!
This one goes on my list immediately! Your photos are just amazing and the place seems worth the detour. Thanks for all your tips as well!
That’s great to read, and thank you! It’s an incredible place 🙂
What a beautiful place! Sometimes the places that take some effort getting to are the ones that are just so breathtaking. I love the infinity pool, it’s one of my favorite features of hotels. And that water in the ocean looks so clear! What a fun trip.
It’s an awesome resort, and a family friendly one at that too! Definitely one to bookmark 😀
Tugawe Cove resort looks idyllic for a vacation. I think we would go for a lakeside room. Loved your video and arriving by boat into the resort, so pretty. I too love infinity pools and can imagine spending time just relaxing, swimming and enjoying the view. The bedrooms look very zen like.
It’s a very zen like resort Jane! I’d opt for a lakeside room too, it’s pretty romantic, and the infinity pool’s just perfect
I recently read about your Caramoan adventures and was looking forward to the blog on Tugawe Cove Resort as you had mentioned a bit of it in your earlier blogpost. I was expecting it to a great lavishing resort and yes, it is. I will totally keep it in mind for my Philippines plan this April.
Wonderful Shreya! I loved this place so much, and the journey’s worth every yawn!
oh wow! this resort looks so private! how did you find out about this resort? I’m from the PH and you just made me miss my homeland more! btw, how much is it per night for a room? (unless I was blind and I miss it…)
Aw it’s wonderful Justine, I urge you to visit when you return. The prices aren’t so bad, the links to the resort are in the piece. I prefer to direct readers there so they have the most up-to-date information 🙂
This looks so beautiful. I can totally picture myself relaxing here.. in fact, you have me wanting to pack my bags straight away!
It’s that kind of place! And you’ll have it all to yourself…
oh wow looks incredible! Love the sound of some island hopping – really looks like you had the best time!
Oh we did! And I’d return tomorrow if I could 😀
So awesome! Thanks for doing what you do!
Thanks!
I would love to visit Tugawe Cove resort for sure. It looks like such an amazing lace to detox and enjoy splendid views at the same time. Thanks for putting this on my radar.
You’re welcome, thanks for commenting!
Oh wow this would be the ultimate 3 day escape. I think that infinity pool is magical and the sound of the sea down below.
It’s fabulous and a resort everyone should try at least once!
It is so beautiful there! I would love to go, but I’m afraid I’d never leave!
I don’t blame you, it’s that kind of place!
That looks so secluded! The 5.5 hours from the nearest airport is a blessing and would be seriously annoying, definitely need a helicopter ride or some option to save on travel time. The infinity pools, beaches, and lush landscape look simply amazing!
There’s actually a helipad there, so it’s possible to fly in! But yes, it’s amazing there
This looks like the perfect place to relax while visiting the Philippines. I love the pool, especially the views and the way they have it lit up at night. I also could spend some quality time on that veranda!
It’s an amazing place to visit, and you’re guaranteed plenty of rest and relaxation
wow what a piece of paradise and I want my share of it. The landing itself on the island looks so beautiful and serene. The look of that light up pool at night just looks so inviting. I must say I would have never heard of this place unless you find out about it from people and travel channels like yours. Thanks for sharing yet another great destination.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate the feedback, it’s very encouraging 🙂
Fantastic gorgeous photographs! Any sane person would be drawn to the Togave cove resorts after seeing your photos. The infinity pool is surely a highlight. Island hopping seems to be an exciting opportunity.
Island hopping is a must there, and the resort is more beautiful than my photos!
The resort looks absolutely gorgeous! A perfect hiding place when you don’t want to see others during your holiday. The infinity pool surely is the best. Just look at the view from it. No wonder you went gaga over it!
It’s awesome, and we enjoyed every second of it! I was super gaga over the pool!
So beautiful! I use to live in the Philippines and I miss it. If I ever get the chance to go back I would love to visit Caminares Sur region and check out Tugawe Cove Resort. Gorgeous pictures!
Oh wow! You really must visit Tugawe if you ever return!
I never heard about this place but I’m glad I know about it now! It looks so surreal and calming. I love the little lanterns I saw in the tree in one of the photos!
It’s so pretty, and you feel calm the second you arrive. It’s wonderful 😀
Caramoan Resorts truly look like a hidden gem! I have been to El Nido Lisa but never even heard of Caramoan Islands but I am not surprised considering there are over 7,000 islands in the Philippines and the more remote you go, the prettier they are! It seems like the island has the perfect combination of everything you need – such a gorgeous resort, with amazing facilities and lovely staff, island hopping tours for the adventurous like me who don’t want to spend all their time in the resort and it’s not too crowded!
If you ever return Medha, you must add it to the itinerary! I loved every second, and the people, their attitude and hospitality will ensure you never want to leave!
Wow, this place looks incredible. There’s so much to do and see there! Looks like a brilliant place to take the whole family
It’s definitely that kind of place!
After reading this post, I would absolutely want to stay at Tugawe Cove Resort! I never heard about this place but I’m glad I know about it now. The infinity pool looks absolutely spectacular. I would love to visit if I ever get the chance.
You really must! It’s an amazing resort, and one not overly crowded either
What an amazing place, I would love to visit here one day. Thank you for sharing.
You’ll love every second!
The resort really looks fantastic, love the sun, the pool and vibes. Tugawe Cove Resort will be in my bucket list to get away.
Perfect! I’m happy to read that 🙂
That infinity pool is to die for! I’d love to spend hours in it, just watching the ocean. The location of the resort is also fantastic, so isolated from all the other distractions. It’s definitely a great place to relax or even spend some quality time with your other half.
It’s really that kind of place! I loved every second I stayed there
I am totally sold for this Tugawe Cove resort as it has wonderful views and surrounded by peace and tranquility. Those infinity pools with evening and morning views are very tempting. As hospitality of this resort is excellent, this is worth booking.
It really is. The price isn’t cheap, but the service and the landscape is totally worth it
I love how green the vegetation is there; just beautiful! The ocean looks so picturesque too.
It’s wonderful here, and a landscape truly unforgettable
The Tugawe Resort looks like an absolute dream destination! Your photos of the pools and beaches are absolutely stunning. I had never heard of this resort, but I will definitely keep it in mind for future vacations. I would love to go there with my husband!
Aw thank you! It’s really a place to go with your other half, as you can’t help but feel romantic there x
I am so jealous Tugawae Cave Resort looks amazing! I am dying to go to Japan and will definitely visit here when I do!
It’s really an incredible resort, and you’ll enjoy every second before seeing Japan!
This resort looks like such an amazing place to visit! You had gorgeous views everywhere you looked
Just stunning! I feel so lucky to have experienced it
This place looks beautiful and totally dunked in luxury. Your pictures are amazing and I can understand why it is worth making that 5.5 hour trip just to get here. I would do that too. I am a big fan of infinity pools and this one sounds just perfect. Looks like the perfect place to stay when in Caminares Sur.
It really is, and I highly recommend it for a slice of r&r!
My boyfriend and I have been planning to visit and explore the Caramoan Island and hopefully this year we can finally do it. There are many gorgeous islands in the country but this one is one of the top choice. I’ll take note of your recommended resort!
Aww I hope you enjoy it! I had a wonderful time there
This resort looks beautiful! I love when resorts think of every detail – like the complimentary bottle of water, which comes in handy after a day of flying! I love that you can explore the other islands too, and I would totally be up for that picnic!
Island hopping is a must here! And I now exactly what you mean about the water, it really came in handy at the end of the day 🙂
This place is heaven! The rooms are decorated super nicely and that infinite pool….wow!! I would love to have a nice, relaxing break in this beautiful resort! I also like the idea of doing some island hopping, sounds fantastic.
You really should consider visiting one day Val, it’s paradise x
Like whoa! Bucket list item for sure! This looks absolutely incredible!
It’s a wonderful resort, and a must if you ever visit the region
Stunning! I could see myself staying at every one of those places.
It’s that kind of place!
Tugawe Cove Resort looks so amazing! From the decoration in the room to the infinity pool, I love all of them. The pool has such a beautiful view, and it looks great in the evening as well. Although it takes 5.5 hours to reach here, I think it’s worth it. I will keep this place in mind when I visit the Philippines.
Perfect Ha! It’s incredibly beautiful and a must visit if you’re there
What a lovely, uber chic resort with exceptionally beautiful views! I too really don’t mind if the washrooms are a bit rustic provided they are spic and span. The video gives a wonderful insight into what the resort looks like and the infinity pool is amazing. Would love to catch a glimpse of the Bioluminescent plankton on the shores for sure!
If I return I hope to see it too! And yes, the bathroom was clean 🙂
Now this looks incredible. I wouldn’t midn travelling in November, I am keen on a bumpy journey. Looks like you had plenty of fun, I’m jealous!
I had an amazing time! And actually, the weather in November is perfect
This resort is stunning and particularly love the idea of arriving by boat! You could spend plenty of time just relaxing in the resort, the infinity pool looks amazing during the day and night. It’s good that you can also explore the local area, swimming in a secret lagoon sounds great.
It’s unlike anywhere I’ve been in the world. And you feel like it’s really just for you!
oh wow this looks absolutely amazing and so relaxing! Island hopping sounds like something that I would have to do when my kids are older haha– looks like you had the best time! These places are beautiful!
It’s very family friendly here, and consider it for the future!
Caramoan adventures…It’s simply wonderful. I like everything about the place. I love the photos you’ve posted too…Thank you so much
You’re welcome! Glad you enjoyed reading it 🙂
This eco-resort looks wonderful and I appreciate that it’s located so far away from the airport. That probably means there are fewer tourists to ruin the serene atmosphere. I love the style of these bungalows, it definitely encourages visitors to unwind and relax on their vacation in the Philippines. I stayed in a similarly styled bungalow in Belize and loved the unplugging vibe that the resort had. I think the infinity pool and the vistas seen at this resort are the selling points. I’m sure you had a hard time packing up and heading home!
It was incredibly hard! The resort takes a while to reach, but it’s really worth every second of the trip
Caramoan Resorts is a hidden piece. I suppose not many people are aware of it. The resort seems like full privacy gets maintained. I loved your photographs. A swim in the pool would be like treating your soul.
It definitely was that feeling!