Caohagan Island

Philippines , Philippines

---

Caohagan Island, sometimes spelled Cawhagan, is a small tropical island located in the Cebu Strait as part of the Olango Island Group off the coast of Mactan Island in Cebu, Philippines.

Covering just 0.05 km², this serene paradise under Lapu-Lapu City's jurisdiction has a population of 694 residents who primarily rely on fishing and tourism. The island is famous for its wide stretch of white powdered sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters that border excellent snorkeling and diving spots rich in colorful marine life and coral reefs.

Visitors can enjoy underwater diving, snorkeling in the marine sanctuary, swimming, and shopping for fresh seafood at the island's local seafood market known for its high-quality sea produce. Caohagan is about an hour away from Mactan Island and can be reached by chartered motorized bangkas from ports in Cordova, Angasil, and Marigondon since there are no scheduled boat trips.

The island features beach resorts, food stalls, and locals who sell merchandise and provide island-hopping tours, showcasing the hospitable Cebuano culture. Households use solar panels for electricity due to the island's distance from the mainland, with the local government providing panels to indigent residents.