Carrascal, Surigao: The Perfect Destination for Nature Lovers

Carrascal is a Class 4 coastal municipality in the Province of Surigao del Sur in the Caraga Region of the Philippines. Located on the eastern coast of Mindanao, it borders the cities of Lianga to the north, Kantilan to the east, and Lanuza to the south. 

The city was founded in his 1953 and named after the word "caresa", a horse-drawn carriage that served as the main means of transportation during the Spanish colonial period. Carrascal was originally a Llanga barangay before becoming a municipality of its own. 

Carrascal's economy is primarily based on fishing and agriculture, with coconuts, corn, and rice being the main crops. The town also has a small gold and copper mining operation. 

Carrascal's population, as of the 2020 census, lives in 7,747 households with 25,408 people. The city is made up of 18 barangays, each with its own culture and traditions. The main language of Carrascal is Surigaonon, but Tagalog and English are also widely spoken.

Tourism is also a growing industry in Carrascal, with picturesque beaches, waterfalls, and natural attractions attracting visitors from different parts of the country. Its proximity to Siargao Island, a popular tourist destination,  also contributes to the growth of the tourism sector. 

Here are some of the things to do and see in Carrascal

•  Gacab Falls: This beautiful waterfall is located in the nearby town of Cantilan, but is easily accessible from Carrascal. It is a popular spot for trekking and swimming. 

• Llanga Bay: Known for its abundance of marine life, this bay is a great place for fishing, boating, and diving.  

•  Mabua Pebble Beach: This unique beach is made of pebbles instead of sand and is a popular spot for photography and relaxation. 

•  Carrascal Promenade: The town has a beautiful promenade that offers beautiful views of the coast and is perfect for an evening stroll.  Siargao Island - Carrascal is the gateway to Siargao Island,  known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines". You can take a ferry from Carrascal to Siargao and enjoy activities like surfing and island hopping. 

•  Fishing Villages: Carrascal is a  fishing area and you can visit the local fishing villages to see the daily activities of the fishermen and purchase fresh seafood. 

•  Local Festivals: Carrascal hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the town festival commemorating St. Francis Xavier, Carrascal's Founding Day, and the Caritone Festival accompanied by decorated carts and street dances. 

Overall, Carrascal is a great destination for nature lovers, beach lovers, and anyone wanting to experience the local culture and way of life in a seaside town.