Pagudpud Off The Beaten Path

The best-kept secret of Pagudpud is Mayra-ira Cove. Three years ago, only a few knows about the beauty of this place but the last time we were there, the 3-kilometer access road from the national highway is now being cemented (I smell development here - a fast one).

Located about 10 km farther east of the famous Saud Beach, Mayra-ira is a deep Cove with the sea being tamed by a number of islets off the coast. The sandy beach of the coast extends to more than a kilometer and the water is torquoise blue and shallow making it a very tempting swimming and snorkeling place.

No resorts here though, only makeshifts T&B but expect in a year time for resorts to sprout here. (The only picture I got of the place shows rough seas taken when weather was bad; but believe me, on summer months, the water is very calm)

From Saud Beach, rent a jeep that will take you there - recommended. Very frequent public transport trips to this place. Overnight camping would be excellent - bring your provisions.

Built on the slope of a mountain, the Patapat Viaduct provides an unobscured view of the South China Sea. It may seem to be another long bridge, but try to find a good spot to park along the road to appreciate the length of the viaduct. It looks like a long, white snake.

It is located on the outskirt of Pagudpud and can be reached if you are travelling to or coming from Cagayan.

The shoreline is rugged and rocky, with patches of whitish-gray sand. The outstanding feature is the Patapat Viaduct, an elevated concrete roadway, which winds around the rocky headlands and looks strong enough to withstand the mightiest typhoon.

The Panghan Pesort would be a good spot for a quiet, rock-fishing holiday.

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It's a 30-min "rough" trek from the main road, so wear rubber shoes, sandals or slippers (anything for hiking). Mind you, its worth every step. :)