Top 10 Tourist Spots in Northern Samar, Philippines: Islands, Rock Formations, and History

Northern Samar (Eastern Visayas) is a hidden gem of white-sand beaches, dramatic rock formations, and Spanish-era churches.

1. Biri Island – Biri Rock Formations

Sculpted limestone cliffs, arches, pools (Magasang, Magsapad, Bel-at). UNESCO tentative. Access: 1-hr boat from Lavezares.

2. Calicoan Island (Guiuan)

Surfing (ABCD Beach), white sand, coral reefs, ABCD Hotel. Part of Guiuan Marine Reserve.

3. Capul Island

Historic lighthouse (1896), San Luis Obispo Church (1781), forced resettlement history (Capul = Acapulco).

4. San Antonio de Padua Church (Pambujan)

16th-century Baroque, National Historical Landmark. Intact retablo, bell tower.

5. Catarman Cathedral (Our Lady of the Annunciation)

17th-century, rebuilt post-WWII. Seat of Diocese of Catarman. Colonial architecture.

6. Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church (Santo Tomas)

16th-century, NHCP marker. Fortress-like buttresses.

7. MacArthur Landing Memorial Park (Palapag)

Commemorates Gen. Douglas MacArthur's 1944 return. Museum, monuments, library.

8. Northern Samar Provincial Museum (Catarman)

Artifacts: pre-colonial pottery, Spanish-era relics, WWII, folk art.

9. Abellana Natural Bridge (San Jose)

Limestone arch spanning Abellana River. Swimming, picnicking.

10. Sohoton Natural Bridge (San Isidro)

Similar karst arch over Sohoton River. Caves, formations.

Bonus

• Lavezares Bay mangroves.
• Mondragon wetlands (birding).
• Silvino Lubos caves.

Travel Tips

• Fly to Catarman (CGM) from Manila (1 hr 20 min).
• Boats to islands from Lavezares, Allen, or Catarman.
• Best: Mar–May (dry). Typhoon season: Oct–Dec.
• Cash only; limited ATMs.

Northern Samar rewards the intrepid—raw beauty, deep history, few crowds.