Samar is the Philippines’ third largest island and is often regarded as one of the country’s remaining ecological frontiers. Much of the island is covered in pristine rain forests, which provide a safe haven for various endemic wildlife species, including the critically endangered Philippine monkey-eating Eagle. In this article, You can learn about 3rd largest Island in the Philippines.
Until then, its wild jungles, clean rivers, unspoiled caverns, and stunning waterfalls remained largely unknown. There’s so much to discover here, and the current list is simply the tip of the iceberg in terms of what the island may potentially offer the booming ecotourism sector.
Sustainable and responsible management of these natural wonders could aid in community development.
If you’re planning a trip, these are a few places you shouldn’t miss. Take note of this. We also added tourism attractions from Northern and Eastern Samar. Of course, we included some of the top Catbalogan and Samar tourism attractions.
37 Best Things to Do in Samar Island
1. Pinipisakan Falls
Pinipisakan Falls, with its stunning and breathtaking scenery, is one of Samar’s most picturesque tourist destinations. It is divided into four strata by refreshing rivers that emerge from lush rainforests upstream.
The natural pool of the falls reflects the pale green color of the forest, and one couldn’t help but jump from one of the rocks and take a refreshing swim. Despite its remoteness, Pinipisakan Falls is one of Northern Samar’s most iconic tourist destinations.
2. Visit Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park
Some caves in Samar Province, such as Panhulugan Cave, can be located in this National Park. A recreational kayak excursion of 15 minutes can take you to limestone cliffs, rock formations, and virgin forests. If you take this ride, you will also get to see the natural bridge. This is referred to as a “hidden and secret paradise.”
3. Lulugayan Falls
Lulugayan, which originates near Calindongan Lake, is known as Samar’s “mini-Niagara Falls” because it is so beautiful. It is a river with multi-level falls that provides a great source of cool, pure water to swim in during the dry season.
The best method to reach Lulugayan Falls is by “habal-habal,” or motorcycle ride, and the entrance fee is roughly 10 USD per person.
4. Langun-Gobingob Caves
The most popular spelunking attraction in Samar is the Langan-Gobingob Caves, popularly known as the Calbiga Caves. It is the Philippines’ largest cave system and one of the largest in Southeast Asia.
The cave system stretches for 7 kilometers and covers an area of 900 square kilometers. Surreal stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and other types of speleothems can be found inside the cave. The cave’s most prominent features are “The Football Field” and “The Stage.” Exploring the cave is difficult because tourists must conduct rappelling, rock climbing, and extended walking, but it is an ideal site for those with a sense of adventure.
5. Orpedo Boat Adventure Ride in Ulot River
The TORPEDO Boat Extreme Ride travels 10.5 kilometers across rapids. You’ll be riding in a boat capable of handling the river’s rapids. Deni’s Point, near the end of the journey, boasts pleasant waters and boulders where you and your guests can enjoy a picnic. For a more adventurous trip, some guests jump into the water from the boulders.
6. Rapids
Falls, sometimes known as the Philippines’ “Mini-Niagara Falls,” is one of Samar’s most famous tourist attractions. It looks like a massive curtain cascading over a window.
The waterfall is also surrounded by dense jungles. Its crystal-clear waters excavated deep pockets of the pool where you can relax and swim. Climb one of the boulders and jump 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.
7. Calicoan Island
It is the ideal place to find the peace and quiet that comes with separation from the rush and bustle of daily existence without isolating yourself in a hotel room. Island is ideal for introverted outdoorsy types who enjoy the serenity of white-sand beaches and calm waterways. The island is undeveloped, with only a few resorts to select from. There’s no need to worry about getting lost because the locals are kind.
8. Malajog Beach
Major Beach, also known as Looc Beach, is one of Samar’s most accessible and popular tourist destinations. It is about a 30-minute journey from Catbalogan City (capital).
Although the beach’s black sand may turn off some people, it is a popular hangout for both locals and foreign tourists in the province. A lengthy stretch of black sand beach is lined by coconut trees, beneath which various bungalows have been built. The beach’s tranquil and pristine waters are ideal for swimming and kayaking. Because it is located on the western shores, it offers the best views of the sunset.
9. Visit Calbayog City Beaches
Calbayog lies in Samar Province, and it is teeming with marine life. Its coastline is home to various beach resorts where you may rest and relax while participating in aquatic sports such as snorkeling. Aside from having a beautiful beach, it is also home to the Samar Archeological Museum. Many burial jars, antiquities, Chinese porcelains, religious objects, and wood coffins with skeleton remains are on display at the museum.
10. Ulot River
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 end at Deni’s Point. You can have a picnic here and swim in the cold, clear water. There are numerous large rocks, and you can attempt jumping or diving from one of them into a deep section of the river.
11. Capul Lighthouse
Lighthouse is one of only a few spots in the world where you may have a picnic close to a lighthouse. One of the few remaining operational lights in the country established during the Spanish period, is famous for its historical and architectural value. Aside from that, the Capul offers a spectacular view from the cliff on which it stands, so make sure to go on a picture spree after that substantial meal!
12. Basey Church
Saint Michael the Archangel Church, also known as Basey Church, is a historic landmark in the province of Samar. It is a well-preserved 17th-century church built on elevated ground with a massive bell tower on the left side.
Inside the church, there is stunning stained glass, ceiling murals of biblical characters, and a lovely altar were the picture of Saint Michael the Archangel, the town’s patron saint, is resting. Every year on September 29th, a ceremony is held in honor of the town’s patron saint.
13. Boat Ride to Marabut Rock Formations
When you visit this marine park, you will observe several limestone rock formations. The limestone rocks are out on the sea and appear to float, creating a wonderful contrast with the blue sky. It’s in San Pedro Bay, which is said to have calm waters.
You can also visit the 16th-century San Pedro Bay Lighthouse, which is located on an islet and is visited by a variety of birds.
14. San Juanico Bridge
San Juanico Bridge, the longest bridge in the country, is undoubtedly one of the most immediately known tourist attractions in Samar province. It connects Samar to the adjacent island of Leyte.
Apart from its length, the bridge has an arch-shaped design and is 1.34 miles long. The spectacular views of the oceans and islands as you travel along the bridge are an added bonus.
15. Belat Pool
Get ready, swimmers: Belat Pool is your new heaven. Belat Pool is famous for two things: its stunning rock formations and its crystal clear water, which is just cool enough for divers and leisure swimmers. Belat Pool is without a doubt the ideal option for a stress-free dip in a pool of soothing water. The entrance cost is approximately 3 USD per person.
16. Bangon Falls
Bangon Falls is a popular site for both local and foreign adventure visitors in Samar. The waterfalls drop down the large and deep plunge pool, which is ideal for swimming and cliff diving. Tarangban Falls is a lovely 30-minute descending journey from Bagon Falls along a maintained trail.
It’s a lovely waterfall with crisscrossing rivers that cascades down a rocky granite ledge into a brook below. These locations can be reached by riding a motorcycle, known locally as a “habal-habal,” and then walking a few minutes to which waterfall you wish to visit first.
17. Swim
When you visit Falls, you can swim in the natural pools or walk along the banks and cascades. There are cottages in the region where you may take in the scenery. The falls’ distinctiveness stems from its cascading waters, which look like a gorgeous curtain from afar, as well as the sky and some trees as backdrops.
- Samar Archaeological Museum
- Tarangban Falls
- Biri Island
- Lobo Cave
- Minasangay Marine Eco-Park
- Makati Island
- Canjuway Nature Park
- Homonhon Island
- Apiton Island
- Divinubo Island
- Ban-away Falls
- Pink Beach
- Acapulco Beach
- Dalupiri Island
- Onay/Unay Beach
- Sohoton Cave
- Malajog
- St. Peter and Paul Cathedral
- St Bartholomew the Apostle Church
- Abak Beach
Final Words
So that concludes our look at the top ten largest islands in the Philippines. I hope you’ve learned enough about the island. Which island would you visit if you had the opportunity to visit the Philippines someday? Leave a comment below with your favorite island. Have a wonderful day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 3rd Largest Island in The Philippines
What are the 3 biggest islands of the Philippines?
Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao are the three (3) primary island groups that comprise the Philippines. The islands of Luzon and Mindanao are called the largest island in their respective groupings, whereas the Visayas (also known as the Visayan Islands) is an archipelago.
What is the 3rd largest island?
Borneo. Borneo Island is the world’s third biggest island and the only one that is home to three countries. The majority of this island is shared by Indonesia, with the remainder shared by Brunei and Malaysia. It also has the highest summit, Mount Kinabalu.
What is the largest province in the Philippines?
Palawan is a Philippine island province located in the MIMAROPA area. Its capital is Puerto Princesa City, and it is the country’s largest province in terms of overall authority. Palawan’s islands extend from Mindoro in the northeast to Borneo in the southwest.
Is Luzon the largest island in the Philippines?
The Philippines is divided into three major areas: The largest, northernmost island, which includes Manila; the Visayas (which includes the major islands Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar, and Masbate); and Mindanao, the second-largest island in the Philippines, located in the south.
What is the smallest province in the Philippines?
Batanes – The True Insulars’ Land Batanes is an archipelago province in the Philippines’ Cagayan Valley area. It is the Philippines’ northernmost province, as well as the smallest in terms of population and land area. The provincial capital is Basco on Batan Island
What are the 3 island groups in the Philippines?
The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,641 islands divided into three major geographical divisions from north to south: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
What is the youngest city in the Philippines?
Occidental Davao Davao Occidental is the Philippines’ 81st and newest province. It is located in Mindanao’s Davao Region and was previously a part of Davao del Sur before becoming a distinct province on October 28, 2013.
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