Samar Island

Raw, Rugged, and Remarkable

Cradled by the Pacific Ocean and the Leyte Gulf, Samar is the third largest island in the Philippines and a treasure trove of untouched landscapes, hidden caves, towering waterfalls, and historic missions. Composed of Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, and Samar Province, the island offers an off-the-beaten-path escape filled with cultural richness and natural marvels.

Mystique of the Underground

One of Samar’s greatest wonders is the Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park in Basey, Samar. Here, visitors can kayak through a serene river into a network of limestone formations, caves, and the famous natural stone bridge surrounded by lush forest. The Sohoton Cave glows with cathedral-like chambers, stalactites, and ancient rock formations. In Jiabong, the Lobo Cave System is another spelunking paradise with dramatic caverns and underground rivers. Guided tours take you through a labyrinth of tunnels for an adventure that is both thrilling and humbling.

Historical Roots and Spiritual Journeys

Samar’s towns are steeped in history and religious significance. The town of Calbayog, in the western province, is known for its heritage churches including the Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. In Borongan City, the capital of Eastern Samar, colonial-era churches and century-old traditions come to life especially during Semana Santa or Holy Week. The Balangiga Church, where the controversial Balangiga Bells once stood before their repatriation, is a powerful historical symbol. Nearby, local museums and memorials honor Samar’s role in resistance and resilience during the Spanish and American eras.

Pacific Waves and Sunrise Shores

Facing the Pacific, Eastern Samar is home to some of the most dramatic coastlines in the Visayas. In Guiuan, surfers and beach lovers flock to the scenic beaches of Calicoan Island, a rising destination known for its uncrowded waves and raw coastal beauty. Just off the coast, Homonhon Island is where Ferdinand Magellan first landed in the Philippines in 1521, making it a key marker of global exploration history. For sunrise seekers, Eastern Samar offers long stretches of golden beaches like Sulangan and Divinubo Island, with coral gardens and peaceful fishing villages to explore.

Caves, Cliffs, and Coastal Secrets

In Northern Samar, natural attractions blend with local legends. The Biri Rock Formations, carved by centuries of waves and wind, rise majestically off Biri Island and remain one of the most photographed geological wonders in the country. The Capul Lighthouse, overlooking the San Bernardino Strait, stands as a beacon of maritime history. Capul Island is also home to an ancient stone church and residents who still speak Inabaknon, a language unlike any other in the region. Another must-visit is Laoang, known for its islets and hidden coves, perfect for kayaking and quiet retreats.

Rivers, Waterfalls, and Wild Forests

Samar is filled with natural sanctuaries. The Calbayog area alone is dotted with more than a dozen waterfalls, including Tarangban, Bangon-Bugtong, and Pan-as Falls. The island’s vast forests form part of the Samar Island Natural Park, the largest terrestrial protected area in the Visayas. It is a haven for endemic wildlife, including rare birds, Philippine tarsiers, and flying lemurs.

A Taste of Samar

Local cuisine in Samar is rich in seafood, native rice cakes, and coconut-based dishes. Try tamalos, a pork and peanut stew wrapped in banana leaves, or kinilaw na saang, a ceviche-style dish made from sea conch. Visit the public markets and you’ll find delicacies made from pili nuts, cassava, and local chocolate.

Untamed and Unforgettable

Samar is not your typical tourist destination. It is wild, sincere, and breathtakingly beautiful. Whether you’re exploring underground rivers, surfing unspoiled waves, walking through centuries of history, or simply watching the sunrise from a quiet shore, Samar rewards those who seek something real. This island invites you to go deeper, wander farther, and experience the Philippines in its most raw and remarkable form.