San Francisco, Camotes: Lake Danao, White Beaches and the Soli-Soli Festival
Travel and Community
San Francisco is the commercial and tourism center of the Camotes Islands, home to Lake Danao and long white-sand shores. Here is a practical visitor guide.
Most visitors arrive in the Camotes through San Francisco, since its port at Consuelo is the landing point for ferries from Danao. Many then stay, for good reason: there is a freshwater lake, long white beaches and the island group's widest range of places to stay.
About San Francisco
The Cebu Provincial Government describes San Francisco, on Pacijan Island, as the commercial and tourism capital of the Camotes group. It has the group's most extensive tourism infrastructure, powdery white-sand shorelines and Lake Danao, described as the largest natural lake in Cebu Province.
The tourism page also notes the town's commitment to environmental preservation and multiple awards for cleanliness.
The Soli-Soli Festival
The town's heritage is celebrated during the Soli-Soli Festival. Soli-soli is a tall, sturdy grass that grows around Lake Danao. For generations, locals have woven it into mats, bags and handicrafts as a supplementary livelihood.
Places to visit
- Tulang Diot Island
- Santiago Bay Beach
- Lake Danao Park
The tourism office recommends February to May for Santiago White Beach.
How to get there
- Go to the Cebu North Bus Terminal and take a bus to Danao City Port.
- Board a ferry (the tourism page names Jomalia Shipping) bound for Consuelo Port in San Francisco.
- If driving, load your vehicle onto the RoRo ferry to Consuelo Port.
Ferry schedules and fares change, so check with operators before you travel.
What to eat
The specialty listed is sinuglaw, a mix of grilled pork belly and fresh fish ceviche marinated in vinegar and spices.
The municipal tourism office can be reached at +63 946-389-8267.