What’s in a name? Well, a name gives identification or face to a person, a place or thing. It can also associate experience and even feelings, ‘no? That’s how important a name is.

When I first heard about Lake Carolina, I thought of something placid and tranquil. More so when I saw in pictures its lush scenery – greenish waters brimming with coconut trees, I wanted to make sure it would be a part of our itinerary when we visit Baganga in Davao Oriental.  And the afternoon we got into town, we immediately visited it!

Riding the tricycle of our guide/service in town, Kuya Bebe, we immediately went here after setting down our things in House of Jehkoy, our accommodation in Baganga. It took us about 20 to 30 minutes from the town proper to reach Bgy. Salingcomot, where Lake Carolina is located.

And wow, it was indeed beautiful! The green waters reminded me of Loboc River in Bohol – mystifying and alluring in its own right. The place wasn’t exactly quiet when we went here, though. As it turns out, Lake Carolina was recently renamed as Resort Cartagena, and it became a place for group gatherings, excursions and even events. It was late in the afternoon when we visited, that’s why people staying in the resort were expected to head out to enjoy its cool waters. I’m not complaining, though! That’s definitely the prerogative of the owner of the place. I actually like it when a lot more people would get to appreciate this natural wonder. I’m just hoping, though, that they don’t make it too commercial, which may directly or indirectly affect the beautiful work of nature that is Lake Carolina.

Going back to its name, I have found out that Lake Carolina isn’t the lake I thought it was: it’s not a lake surrounded by land. A Rappler article claims it’s a tidal creek (a small waterway that contains mixed water origin), though I am more convinced it is an open lake. An open lake is a lake where water constantly flows out; it may drain into an ocean or a river. The flow of water from Lake Carolina doesn’t behave like a river flow. Its waters may be flowing to tidal creeks, before it eventually connects to the larger body of the Pacific Ocean.

Reminders:

1. The resort has guidelines when you decide to visit here. Here are some of them:
   1. Wear your face masks. You may take them off when swimming and eating.
   1. Children must be accompanied by their parent or caregiver when swimming.
   1. Life jackets are recommended when swimming/ riding the boat (yes, they have boat!)
   1. Be careful when walking along the side of the lake. It may get wet and slippery.
   1. Pay attention to warning signs around the lake.
2. Here’s how you can contact Resort Cartagena (Carolina Lake Resort):
   1. Contact numbers: 0905-155-6783, 0929-929-5300
   1. Facebook Page: Resort Cartagena
3. Here are their fees:
   1. Entrance fee: P50 per pax (7 years old and up)
   1. Their cottages range from P350 up to P1,000 depending on size and number of visitors
   1. Room accommodations: Rooms 1 – 4 (P3,000 good for 6 to 8 pax); Indian houses (P2,000 good for 4 pax)
   1. Others: float or salbabida (P30 each); life jacket (P50 each); raft (P200/hr, good for 10 pax); boat (P100/hr)

Here are some more of the pictures we’ve taken while in Lake Carolina. I hope I get to convince you to visit it when you go to Baganga, Davao Oriental!

As I have said in my travel guide to Baganga, Lake Carolina is just one of the many beautiful places you can visit in this town of Davao Oriental. Check it out to learn more of your options when you go here!