ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE AND ITINERARY TO SAMAR ISLAND

ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE AND ITINERARY TO SAMAR ISLAND

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

 Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines

 It is located in the eastern Visayas, which are in the central Philippines. The island is divided into three provinces: Samar, Northern Samar, and Eastern Samar. – Wikipedia

It is home to the famous Sohoton Cave and Lake Danao.

Traveling to Samar Island for the first time? This detailed and curated travel guide will make it easy for you to plan a trip, save money and maximize your time. This guide will also make sure that you get the best out of your money while traveling to the Island.

Scroll down to read must-know travel tips before you go, followed by a sample itinerary + budget breakdown, recommended hotels/places to stay, things to do/places to visit, and lots of extra travel tips.

Get Started

How to get to Samar Island — By plane + Van, Samar Island can be reached on an hour flight + an hour van ride from Manila or Cebu. Samar Island has no airport so you need to travel by boat or airplane.

Always book your hotel early — Avail low rates and avoid fully-booked rooms by booking online as soon 2-3 months before your travel departure. Click below to compare discounts and read reviews by other travelers.

Check discounts and prices online  — Save money by checking discounts on tours & airport/hotel transfers. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

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Spend 2 days or more — While it’s possible to explore the highlights of the island in a day, consider planning at least 3 days to tour the beaches.

Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridges

Save More while Traveling — I’ve included a lot of money-saving tips in this guide. You can actually save more when you do not include attractions that have entrance fees. You can achieve cheaper expenses by knowing where to find and book the attractions.

Getting around Samar Island — There are a lot of transport and tour options available whether you want to go with a private tour or a do-it-yourself trip. You can even go full local and try the motorcycle/tricycle commute to get around or stick with packaged tours that can offer a hassle-free experience.
Grab is not offered in this area.

Pre-Travel Guide

How to get to Samar Island?
How to get around Samar Island?
Should I book my Samar Island hotel online?
What to prepare for a trip to Samar Island?
How to find cheap flights to visit Samar Island?
When is the best time to visit?
Travel Must-Haves
Money-saving tips

How to Get to Samar Island

OPTION 1 (BY VAN/BUS)

Entry Point is in ORMOC PORT.

CHECK FAST CRAFT SCHEDULE & FARE HERE

  • From the port, walk to Ormoc City Terminal near the Ormoc Public Market/2go Express ticketing.
  • Then, ride a VAN or Bus going to tacloban/samar. (Make sure to ask if there are trips to samar)
  • If you are riding transportation going to Tacloban, hop off at Tacloban New Bus Terminal.
  • At Tacloban New Bus Terminal, ride a jeep or van going to Samar Island. Travel time is almost 3 hours.
  • Tacloban to Samar Travel Time is almost 30mins but it depends on traffic.

OPTION 2 (BY PLANE W/ BUS/VAN)

Entry Point is in NAIA via CATBALOGAN AIRPORT.

CHECK FAST CRAFT SCHEDULE & FARE HERE

  • From Airport, board the plane going to catbalogan airport.
  • At Catbalogan Airport, hail a motorcycle, or tricycle, or just rent a ride for transportation to your destination.

OPTION 3 (BY PLANE W/ BUS/VAN)

Entry Point is in NAIA via TACLOBAN AIRPORT.

CHECK FAST CRAFT SCHEDULE & FARE HERE

  • From Airport, board the plane going to Catbalogan Airport.
  • At Tacloban Airport, ride a jeep going to Tacloban New Bus Terminal.
  • At Tacloban New Bus Terminal, ride a jeep or van going to Samar Island. Travel time is almost 3 hours.
  • Tacloban to Samar Travel Time is almost 30mins but it depends on traffic.

OPTION 4 (BY BOAT W/ BUS/VAN) (OCEANJET FAST CRAFT)

Entry Point is in CEBU PIER 1 VIA ORMOC PORT

CHECK FAST CRAFT SCHEDULE & FARE HERE

  • At Cebu Pier 1, ride a boat / fast craft going to Ormoc City.
  • From the port of Ormoc, walk to Ormoc City Terminal near the Ormoc Public Market/2go Express ticketing.
  • Then, ride a VAN or Bus going to tacloban/samar. (Make sure to ask if there are trips to samar)
  • If you are riding transportation going to Tacloban, hop off at Tacloban New Bus Terminal.
  • At Tacloban New Bus Terminal, ride a jeep or van going to Samar Island. Travel time is almost 3 hours.
  • Tacloban to Samar Travel Time is almost 30mins but it depends on traffic.
  • Just use the “WAZE” or “GOOGLE MAP” app to navigate your way to Samar Island.

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How to get around Samar Island

1.By Habal-Habal or known as Motorcycle

Good for couples. It is much better if you can drive it yourself.

2. By Van

It can accommodate up to 10-13 passengers. If you want to rent tour the island using the van, it will costs you around Php 2000-2500 or $40-50 per day.

3. By Multi-Cab

It can accommodate up to 8-10 passengers. If you want to rent tour the island using the multi-cab, it will costs you around Php 1500-1700 or $30-34 per day.

Should I book my Samar Island Hotel Online?

My answer will always be YES. You can save money by checking discounts online. Booking before you leave also saves you time & avoids the hassles of bringing large amounts of cash during your actual trip.

What to prepare for a trip to Samar Island?

Sunblock— If you don’t have a plan in getting yourself tan, then bring some sunblock to protect your skin from the suns UV rays.

Hats and Eye wear — Protect your eyes from the heat of the sun.

Cellphone Waterproof Case — You don’t want to drench your phone w/ saltwater.

Rent a GoPro – If you are in Cebu, my friend can rent you one here.

Food – Although there is a convenience store in the island, it is much better to bring your own foods and drinks.

Powerbank & Batteries – Electricity on the island only runs from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM

Tent – Even if you are not staying overnight, just bring. It can lessen your expenses.

Snorkel and Scuba diving gears – Bring your own.

How to find cheap flights to Samar Island or Leyte?

Start your search on Wego, Momondo, and Skyscanner.

Also, check Tacloban promo alerts several weeks or months ahead of your trip if you are planning your trip early. The cheapest promos are sold up to a year in advance of the travel/flight departure date & are often only available if you book directly with the airline.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

In my experience, March – June are the best months to visit Samar Island since rainfall is less in those months.

Travel Must-Haves

Google Map App – A life-saver for me because without it, I might get lost.

Google Translate – Super powerful app. Translate anything.

Gps-Guided App – Tour the city like a local with this app.

Sunscreen – Protect yourself from sunburn or much worse – Cancer.

Pocket Wifi or Sim Card – The convenient of searching anything is a go-to. Please don’t forget this baby. It is a life-saver for me though.

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Money Saving Tips

Get a good map and explore the city on your own tour — You can tour the city at your own pace plus you can choose from a variety of options. There are a lot of awesome things to do in Camotes Island that don’t cost a dime.

Drive a motorcycle — This is the cheapest way to get around.

Stay at hostels or airbnb — If you are travelling alone or by group of 3, hostels are best for you. But, if you are travelling in group of 4 or more, then airbnb is best for you. I have calculated the difference and airbnb ones are best for group of travellers.

Where to Stay on Samar Island?

TOP RATED PLACES TO STAY IN SAMAR ISLAND
Caluwayan Palm Island Resort & Restaurant
Splurge / Samar Island.

La Maria Hotel

Mid-Range / Samar Island.

Jupiter’s Garden Resort

Budget Hostel / Samar Island.
UnderPHP 2,000Best Samar Island Apartments — For 4 or more travelers looking for decent yet affordable accommodations and does not like crowded hostels.See rates & reviews
UnderPHP 1,000Best Samar Island hostels & budget hotels — affordable places to stay for backpackers/solo travelers.See rates & reviews

Where to book

Book your room through these trusted booking sites. I use them frequently to avail cheapest prices & enjoy convenient bookings. Click below to confirm the lowest prices:

Samar Island Itinerary

Guess what? I am such a joiner for this trip. Did not look it up online again.

We came from Ormoc so our route will be – Ormoc to Tacloban-Samar (obviously). Our Itinerary is only for 1 day but you can tailor this to your needs.

Day 1: En route to Basey, Samar Island via Private Vehicle from Ormoc

Time Activity
7:30 amEn route to Basey, Samar
11:00Arrival at St. Michael The Archangel Parish Church
11:20Coordinate with Basey Tourism Office
11:30Lunch at Basey Local Carinderia (Ask Tourism Office)

Day 1: Caving and Church + San Juanico 

Time Activity
12:00 pm En route to Sohoton Cave
1:00 pm Arrived at Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridges
3:45 pm En route to San Juanico Bridge
4:20 pm Arrived at San Juanico Bridge
5:00 pm Dinner at San Juan by the Bay Floating Cottages and Boardwalk
7:30 pmEn route to Home
08:00 pmFree Time

Our trip just took a day.

A Day – Samar Island Budget Expenses  (for 6 people)

Your travel expenses will largely depend on your traveling style and how much you plan to spend on activities, accommodations & food. To help you set your own budget, here are budget estimates if you follow the 1-Day itinerary posted above. Make sure to review all discounts & online booking prices.

Prices below are ‘per person’, calculated based on a group of 6 people sharing the travel expenses.

Transport expenses breakdown
PHP 667 Gas Fare
Activities/Attraction costs breakdown
PHP 475Sohoton Cave Fee
PHP 165San Juan By The Bay Fee
Budget Trip Expenses Summary
PHP 667 Transport 
N/A Accommodations — No accommodation
PHP 370 Food — Full meals x 3 days for 2 days
PHP 640 Activities — Admission tickets/entrance fees on selected activities above.
PHP 1,677 Total — Including all expenses above for 1 day
Other fees to take note of
PHP 50Motorbike Fare (one way)
PHP 1000 (one-way fare)Fast Craft Fare

* Prices subject to change without prior notice

What to do on Samar Island

Check out these Must-Do activities on Camotes Island.

1. Explore the Sohoton Cave

2. Kayak your way to Sohoton Natural Bridge

3. Visit the Oldest Church – St. Michael Archangel Church

4. Be Amaze by San Juanico Bridge Lights

5. Chase Sunset at San Juan by the Bay Floating Cottages and Boardwalk

6. See the wonders of Balantak Falls

7. Visit Pinipisakan Falls

8. Watch the Women Weavers at Saob, Cave

9. Swim at Ulot River

10. Caving at Langun-Gobingob Cave

11. Chase Sunset at Lulugayan Falls and Rapids

12. Explore Marabut Rock Formations

13. Immerse your Brain with History at Samar Archaeological Museum

14. Jump your Heart out at Tarangban Falls

15. Explore Biri Island

16. Unwind at Capul Lighthouse

17. Sight seeing at Biri Island Rock Formation

18. Swim at Onay/Unay Beach

19. Chill and Swim at Dalupiri Island

20. Beaching at Acapulco Beach

21. Swim and Chill at Bel-at Natural Pool

22. Experience Pink Beach

23. Enjoy Nature at Matikawol Falls

24. Majestic View at Ban-awan Falls

25. Another one for Cave Enthusiasts- Linao Cave

26. Try lagoons at Divinubo Island

27. Blue Water at Apiton Island

28. First Island Ferdinand Magellan Reach – Homonhon Island

29. Unwind at Calicoan Island & Beach

30. Enjoy Nature Canjuway Nature Park

31. Dive at Makati Island

32. Chill and Unwind at Minasangay Marine Eco-Park

33. Hike at Samar Island National Park

34. Enjoy Nature Belat Pool

35.  Spelunking at Lobo Cave

36. Swim at Calicoan Island

37. Little Palawan at Kandiwata island

1. Explore the Sohoton Cave

The Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge Park is an 841-hectare protected natural area and tourist attraction inside the Samar Island Natural Park. The natural park includes caverns, subterranean rivers, waterfalls, limestone structures, dense vegetation, and a natural stone bridge.

Read more: How to Get to Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridge Park

2. Kayak your way to Sohoton Natural Bridge

Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridges

Just a few meters from the Sohoton Cave, you can already reach the Sohoton River by kayaking. Talk about hitting two birds with one stone!

Read more: How to Get to Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridge Park

3. Visit the Oldest Church – St. Michael Archangel Church

St Michael The Archangel Parish Church, Basey

The centuries-old St. Michal the Arcangel Church, set on a hill, is one of Samar’s most beautifully maintained churches. The bell tower on the church’s left wing is one of its most notable features.

Read more:

4. Be Amaze by San Juanico Bridge Lights

San Juanico Bridge Lights

The San Juanico Bridge connecting the provinces of Samar and Leyte is one of the monumental projects under Former President Ferdinand Marcos’ administration. The bridge is an arch-shaped truss bridge,

It is known to be the longest bridge in the Philippines spanning a body of seawater with a length of 2.162 kilometers (1.34 mi) and a width of 10.620 meters supported by 43 spans.

Read more: How to Get to San Juanico Bridge and San Juanico Bridge Lights Schedule

5. Chase Sunset at San Juan by the Bay Floating Cottages and Boardwalk

San Juan by the Bay Floating Cottages and Boardwalk

The name of the attraction is taken from the San Juanico strait, where the San Juanico Bridge is located. San Juanico Bridge is the Philippines’ longest bridge, measuring approximately 2.16 kilometers in length, and connects two major islands, Samar and Leyte. The municipality of Sta. Cruz is located on the other side of the bridge, namely on the Samar side. Rita can be found.

Read more:

6. See the wonders of Balantak Falls

Balantak Falls in Rawis

Balantak Falls is located in Rawis, a barangay next to Sohoton. This waterfall is made up of three water falls. You may also hike to the falls. Its chilly and flowing waters are ideal for soothing and massaging fatigued muscles. Going to Balance Falls takes time, but when you see the water falls, you will realize that it was well worth the effort. You can also ride a habal-habal to Balantak.

Read more:

7. Visit Pinipisakan Falls

  • Location/Jump-off: Brgy Bai-ang, San Jorge
  • Trekking Time: 2 hours

Pinipisakan Falls, with its stunning and breathtaking scenery, is one of Samar’s most gorgeous tourist destinations. It is divided into four strata by refreshing rivers that emerge from lush jungles upstream.

The natural pool of the falls reflects the pale green hue of the forest, and one couldn’t help but jump from one of the rocks and have a refreshing dip.

Despite its remoteness, Pinipisakan Falls is one of Northern Samar’s most renowned tourist destinations.

8. Watch the Women Weavers at Saob, Cave

Women Weavers Saob Cave, Basey, Samar Island

Saob Cave in Basey, Samar, was formerly home to hundreds of banig weavers, known as paraglara in the local dialect. Weavers, primarily women, would throng the whole length of the cave’s vast chasm, and the walls would reverberate with laughing, loose conversation, and the rustle of dry grass under delicate fingers.

9. Swim at Ulot River

Ulot River Samar Island
Photo by Traveloka
  • Location/Jump-off: Brgy Tenani, Paranas
  • Fee: Php 1,800 a boat for five pax
  • Boating Time: 45 minutes

The Ulot River is the best place for anyone seeking a thrilling canoe trip known as the Ulot Torpedo Boat Extreme Ride.

Expect bumps and humps as the boat brings you to the river’s fierce rapids, which terminate at Deni’s Point. You may enjoy a picnic here and swim in the cold, clear water.

There are several large rocks, and you may attempt leaping or diving from one of them into a deep section of the river.

Read more:

10. Caving at Langun-Gobingob Cave

  • Location/Jump-off: Brgy Panayuran, Calbiga
  • Tour Packages: Php 3000/head for one day, Php 10 000/head for three days

Langun-Gobingob Cave has the greatest karst in the Philippines, and the cave system is one of the largest in Asia. However, it is only recently that both local and foreign visitors have begun to visit the aforementioned cave.

There are beautiful rock formations within, such as massive columns. Within are bats and other species.

Read more:

11. Chase Sunset at Lulugayan Falls and Rapids

Luluguyan Falls in Calbiga Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Brgy Literon, Calbiga
  • Trekking Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour

Lulugayan Falls, often known as the Philippines’ “Mini-Niagara Falls,” is one of Samar’s most famous tourist attractions. It looks like a massive curtain flowing over a window.

The waterfall is also surrounded by dense jungles. Its crystal-clear waves excavated deep pockets of the pool where you may relax and swim. Climb one of the boulders and leap into the pool’s deepest area.

But be sure you know how to swim. In the meanwhile, there are cabins where you may picnic and prepare your meals.

12. Explore Marabut Rock Formations

Marabut Rock Formations Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Brgy Osmena, Marabut

The Marabut Marine Park in San Pedro Bay is home to various limestone rock formations, some of which tower more than 30 meters high and have their own vegetation.

In contrast to the blue water, they resemble floating islands. If you’re an experienced diver and swimmer, you can attempt jumping from one of them. When you’re done with them, you may go to a 16th-century lighthouse on an islet.

You’ll get a beautiful glimpse of the surrounding seascapes as well as encounter several types of birds.

13. Immerse your Brain in History at Samar Archaeological Museum

  • Location/Jump-off: Calbayog City

The Samar Archaeological Museum is a well-known cultural tourism attraction in Samar. The museum, located among Samar’s best beaches, houses a diverse collection of historical and cultural objects such as burial jars, Chinese porcelains, religious figurines, and log coffins with skeleton remains.

14. Jump your Heart out at Tarangban Falls

Tarangban Falls Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Calbayog City
  • Trekking Time: 30-40 minutes

Tarangban Falls is one of Samar province’s lesser-known tourist attractions, although it deserves further research and recording. It has numerous layers that cascade on top of each other.

The waterfall is hundreds of feet tall, making it one of the tallest in Samar and the region.\

15. Explore Biri Island

biri_rock_formations_samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Lavezares, Biri
  • Boat Ride: 20 minutes

Biri Island is located in northern Samar. It has breathtaking rock formations such as Magasang, Bel-at, Magsapad, Caranas, Macadlaw, and Puhunan.

You can go exploring and take Instagrammable photos if you want. Other popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, surfing, and paddle-boarding.

16. Unwind at Capul Lighthouse

Capul-Lighthouse-in-Capul-Island-Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Capul Island

During the Spanish period, the Capul Lighthouse was erected to warn the residents of oncoming invasions by pirates or plunderers. It is a well-known historical tourist destination in Samar.

Apart from its historical significance, it provides a spectacular view of the seas and the cliff. A picnic area is available near the lighthouse for visitors.

17. Sightseeing at Biri Island Rock Formation

Tide-Pool-at-Biri-Rock-Formation-Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Biri Island
  • Boat Ride: 20 minutes

Biri Island Rock Formation is more than only its beautiful beaches and lovely bathing waters. It also has massive rock formations known locally as Magasang, Bel-at, Macadlaw, Magsapad, Pinanahawan, and Puhunan.

Because of the massive size of the rocks, the island is also known as the “battleground of the gods,” and it offers tourist activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.

18. Swim at Onay/Unay Beach

Onay Unay Beach Laoang Northern Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Laoang

Onay/Unay Beach is located on the northeastern coast of Northern Samar and is one of the more remote tourist destinations. Enjoy trailing on the golden beach sand while staring out at the sea’s beautiful and quiet ocean.

Two enormous boulders may be seen on one end of the beach. You may leap from one of them into a deep portion of the water for an exciting experience. Simply ensure that you know how to swim.

19. Chill and Swim at Dalupiri Island

Dalupiri Island Samar Island
  • Location/Jump-off: San Antonia & Victorina town
  • Boat Ride: 30 minutes

Dalupiri Island has a lengthy stretch of white beaches that compliment rows of palm trees. There are several lodging options available. Aside from swimming in the clear seas, visitors may go snorkeling.

A marine sanctuary on the other side of the island is home to a variety of animals. When you see these, you will be taken aback.

20. Beaching at Acapulco Beach

Acapulco Beach Capul Northern Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Capul Island

Acapulco Beach is one of Northern Samar’s burgeoning tourism destinations. Because of its immaculate condition, both locals and foreign tourists enjoy visiting here. Its coastline features both grayish and white beaches, and the sea is rich in marine life and coral reefs.

21. Swim and Chill at Bel-at Natural Pool

Bel-at Natural Pool
  • Location/Jump-off: Biri

Belat Pool is well-known in the area for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. It is appropriate for both diving and swimming. Because of the calm waters, even bachelors can learn to swim here. Just keep an expert swimmer on the lookout at all times.

22. Experience Pink Beach

Pink Beach Sila Island, San Vicente Island
  • Location/Jump-off: Sila Island, San Vicente Island

Pink Beach is a renowned tourist destination in Northern Samar. Unlike Boracay’s white, powdery dunes, the sands here are truly pink! Who wouldn’t be smitten by such an amazing landscape?

In addition to the pinkish sands, the seas here are crystal clear and teem with marine life, including coral reefs.

23. Enjoy Nature at Matikawol Falls

Matikawol Falls Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Gamay town

Swimming in Matikawol Falls’ wide pool will provide you with long-lasting refreshment due to its chilly and crystal-clear waters.

Locals report that because the waters are in such good condition, tourists may recover from common ailments, particularly colds. The waterfall is surrounded by lush woodlands, creating a spectacular scene.

24. Majestic View at Ban-awan Falls

Ban-awan-Falls-Lawaan-Eastern-Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Lawaan

Ban-awan Falls is one of the most distant tourist destinations in Eastern Samar. However, both residents and tourists continue to visit because of the breathtaking scenery provided by the tallest falls in the region.

It pours down a steep cliff surrounded by lush vegetation. Before reaching the waterfall, expect to go through forests and cross brooks.

25. Another one for Cave Enthusiasts – Linao Cave

Linao Cave Guiuan Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Sulangan Island, Guian

Linao Cave is one of Eastern Samar’s lesser-known tourist attractions. However, it is a prospective destination that might propel the local community into the spotlight of ecotourism.

If you’ve heard of the famed Enchanted River in Surigao, you’ll recognize Linao Cave. It is located deep in the bush, giving it a strange appearance. Linao Cave’s waters are similarly crystal clear and blue.

26. Try lagoons at Divinubo Island

Divinubo Island Eastern Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Brgy Lalawigan, Borongan City

With its pure white beaches, lush woods, and stunning rock formations, Divinubo Island is a promising ecotourism destination. A boat ride around the island will reveal various marine caves, tidal pools, and lagoons. A lighthouse perched on a mountaintop overlooks the wide Pacific Ocean.

27. Blue Water at Apiton Island

Apiton Island Eastern Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Apiton Island, San Policarpo

Apiton Island is one of Eastern Samar’s most potential tourism destinations. Beautiful blue lagoons, tidal pools, and beautiful rock formations may be seen here.

Some of the rock formations tower many meters above the ground. Experiment with leaping or diving from one of these into deep waters. Simply ensure that you know how to swim. If you have the time, hire a guide to explore the deep woodlands.

28. First Island Ferdinand Magellan Reach – Homonhon Island

Homonhon Island
  • Location/Jump-off: Guian

Homonhon Island is a well-known historical tourist destination in Eastern Samar. On March 16, 1521, Ferdinand Magellan arrived at the first island on his journey around the world.

More than that, Homonhon Island is a natural paradise with kilometers of white sand beaches.

29. Unwind at Calicoan Island & Beach

  • Location/Jump-off: Calicoan Island

Calicoan Island Beach, also known as ABCD Beach, is a popular tourist destination in Eastern Samar. The beach is located on the Pacific Ocean, which allows for larger waves.

As a result, the island is one of the top surfing spots in the Philippines. You may relax on the sandy beach or try jumping/diving from one of the cliffs into a deeper portion of the water.

30. Stroll around Canjuway Nature Park

Canjuway Nature Park Borongan Eastern Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Canjuway,  Borongan

Canjuway Nature Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and spiritual seekers alike. The park, tucked away in a distant location, gives you the impression that time has stopped.

Consider sitting on one of the many rock formations and staring out at the roaring waves and boundless ocean. That’s how it is around here.

31. Makati Island

Makati Island
  • Location/Jump-off: Sulat, Eastern Samar

Makati Island is known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear seas. The beach is lined by coconut palms. Makati Island, like many other islands in Eastern Samar, is less touristic, making it ideal for people seeking a rural escape.

32. Chill and Unwind at Minasangay Marine Eco-Park

Minasangay-Island-Eco-Park-and-Resort-Sama
  • Location/Jump-off: Balangkayan

Minasangay Marine Eco-Park is one of Eastern Samar’s burgeoning tourism destinations. Locals and international visitors alike enjoy the verdant woods, coconut plantations, mangrove forests, and rock formations on the shore.


33. Hike at Samar Island National Park

Samar Island National Park

The Philippines’ biggest contiguous stretch of old-growth rainforest is found at Samar Island National Park. The park, which spans over 333,300 hectares, is home to unique and endangered species, making it a biological hotspot.

Some of Samar’s most renowned sites, such as the Sohotan Natural Bridge National Park, are also included in the park. Much of the park has been logged over time.

Fortunately, more community-based initiatives are emerging to safeguard the park while advocating for community-based development through ecotourism.


34. Swim at Belat Pool

  • Location/Jump-off: Biri

Belat Pool is well-known in the area for its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations. It is appropriate for both diving and swimming. Because of the tranquil waters, even bachelors may learn to swim here. Just keep an adept swimmer on the alert at all times.

35. Spelunking at Lobo Cave

  • Location/Jump-off: Brgy Tagbayaon, Jiabong

Lobo Cave is a well-known tourist destination in Samar. Fairies (called enkanto in the local tongue) are said to inhabit the cave. When you arrive, ask a local tour guide about the cave, and you’ll learn a lot about it.

Inside, there’s a gigantic stalagmite structure that looks like a fabled angel. An subterranean river and cascading waterfalls may also be found in Lobo Cave.

36. Swim at Calicoan Island

Calicoan Island Eastern Samar
  • Location/Jump-off: Guiuan, Eastern Samar

Calicoan Island is located a few kilometers off the mainland of Samar. It is ideal for individuals who like less touristic areas. There’s nothing like it if you’re an introvert like me.

Imagine laying on the beach and staring out at the calm waters, waving palms, and unspoilt white beaches. You’ll also have a sense of belonging here because the people are nice and welcoming.

37. Little Palawan or Kandiwata island

  • Location/ Jump-off: Daram, Samar Province, Philippines.

Kandiwata Rock Formation, or Kandiwata, is a rock formation in the municipality of Daram, Samar Province, Philippines.

This tourist attraction is known as Samar’s “Small Palawan” because it features rock formations that will transport you to Palawan. Some people say it was named Kandiwata after the deities and spirits that formerly lived there.

TIPS, NOTES, AND REMINDERS

  • Bring extra clothes so that in every corner, the outfit is different.
  • Visit on weekdays to avoid the crowd.
  • Bring water so that you can’t be dehydrated.
  • Plan ahead and prepare.
  • Dispose of waste properly so bring a trash bag if possible.
  • Respect wildlife.
  • Be considerate of other visitors.

Read More: 101 Things to Do in Cebu

IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without Shellwander’s notice. Should you know the updated information, please message me on Facebook

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MAP TO HELP YOU LOCATE NEARBY ACTIVITIES

A budget of Php1700 for Samar! How’s that?

Always remember to “Develop your One Days to Day Ones!

XOXO,

shellwanders