Our country is so rich in breathtaking natural attractions and indeed, Catanduanes is one of the scenic places to go on a trip to.
In the province’s highlands, which have picture-perfect scenery, surfing destinations, clean beaches, lagoons, islands, and rock formations, it qualifies as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Asia.
No wonder that it is regarded as an eco-tourism hotspot in Luzon because of its laid-back atmosphere and abundance of natural beauties that have not been spoiled.
So, let’s get the ball rolling and explore some of Catanduanes’s tourist spots!
1. Tuwad-Tuwadan Lagoon
Photo Credits: jinkyfab
Our first view here is located in the heart of a rock formation, Tuwad-Tuwadan Blue Lagoon which boasts crystal clear blue-green water packed with corals and fish, making it an ideal snorkeling destination. The lagoon was given its name because of the variety of seashells that can be found in abundance there.
Swimming, cliff diving, snorkeling, and watching the sunset are all popular activities at this Pandan Catanduanes tourist destination.
2. Balite Beach
Photo Credits: Oliver Bautista
Visit Balite Beach if you want to feel as though you have a whole stretch of untouched beach all to yourself.
Hidden away in a little fishing community between a mangrove forest, this idyllic stretch of sand is almost untouched by visitors.
When you are there, you might think that it has always dazzled visitors with its creamy white beaches and pristine, limitless waters that stretch up to the horizon. It is no surprise that the people of Catanduanes have always been proud of this natural treasure, and they have welcomed visitors from all over the world to come and enjoy themselves in this little piece of heaven.
The beach is surrounded by trees on either side, and you can thus enjoy the sights and sounds of the ocean while mingling with the people.
3. Binurong Point
Photo Credits: Jeth Regpala
Binurong Point in Baras town provides similarly breathtaking views of the vast ocean pounding against cliffs.
Expect a bit of a hike as you pass through forest trails, hike up former pasturelands, hop through stones, and stroll on minor routes. However, the view from the top of the cliff, especially at daybreak, will be worth the effort.
Balacay Point and the PAGASA Weather Radar Station are two other vistas near Virac worth a visit.
4. Sacahon Beach
Photo Credits: Frank Lopez
It is located in Brgy. Bote Municipality of Bato and, with its sugary-white sand, welcomes guests to experience a true-blue adventure. You may start your island-hopping experience here and explore the nearby islands, which are home to numerous rock formations, small caves, and rock circles that are a sight to behold.
The beach is an excellent starting place for an island-hopping excursion of any length. Mamonglo Point, Nagngangang Buaya Point, Tubig Manok, and Ipit-ipit Point are all nearby islets that face the Pacific Ocean and are all worth visiting.
The view surrounding the location will certainly take your breath away if you enjoy the beach, and this beach offers a spectacular view of Nagngangang Buaya Point, which may be reached by boat.
5. Balacay Point
Photo Credits: Marriott Bonvoy
Balacay Point is a popular tourist destination in Catanduanes.
Also known as Benticayan Point, Balacay Point is located near the town of Baras in Brgy. Benticayan.
These are photographic locations, so don’t forget to bring your camera and take selfies or groupies with your friends. Balacay Point is best visited around sunrise or sunset. It has become one of the many famous tourist destinations in Catanduanes, which is only an hour and a half from Virac.
Ascending the slopes has also grown easier in recent years. Motorbikes, four-wheelers, and even bicycles are all capable of reaching the summit.
If you choose to trek, it will take you around 10-15 minutes to reach the summit and begin to appreciate the expanse of the great Pacific Ocean and its cool, fresh, and salty breeze.
6. Saint John the Baptist Church
Photo Credits: Ferdz Decena
Saint John the Baptist Church, sometimes referred to as “Bato Church,” is one of Catanduanes’ historical sites. It is the province’s oldest church, having been constructed in 1830 and completed in 1883, which took 53 years. This immense Roman Catholic Church, whose patron saint is Saint John the Baptist, was constructed entirely of mortars and coral limestone to endure the province’s annual violent storms.
The front and walls are in good condition, even though the interior has been remodeled. It is a lovely historic church in a tranquil setting that tourists to the place should not miss.
7. Patag Island
Photo Credits: Expedia
Patag Island has some white sand beaches surrounding it and a crystal-clear lagoon, rock formations, and enormous flat rocks in the center of the island, which are home to some growing plants.
The island is primarily formed of flat stones of varying sizes and elevations that are not arranged in any way.
The word “Patag” literally translates as “flat” in the local dialect, from which the island’s name was originated. Visitors can safely ascend to a location near the cliffs for a panoramic view of the sea and the mainland.
Swimming along the low rocks or cliff jumping are popular activities for physically fit adventure seekers.
8. Maribina Falls
Photo Credits: Herald Presado
Maribina Falls, named after the Barangays Marinawa and Binanhuan in the municipality of Bato, is the most popular and well-publicized of the various waterfalls in Catanduanes. It is also the most accessible falls therein.
The cascading three-layer falls, overflowing with breath-taking rapids of crystal-clear water, are set in a rustic setting surrounded by lush greenery and dominated by rural surroundings.
In addition, Maribina Falls is one of the most famous and accessible waterfalls on the island, and it is also one of the most beautiful. The falls are around 5-6 meters high, with brilliant spouting torrents of absolutely transparent water erupting from the bottom.
9. Hiyop Highlands
Photo Credits: Bicol Tour
A complete “mountain-to-sea” environment, with its steep green mountains and breathtaking terrain stretching out to the great deep blue ocean, is a natural wonder.
It is an excellent location for photography sessions, and it has one of the most beautiful picture-perfect dawn and sunset views in the area, from where one can take in the panoramic view of the town and the huge Pacific Ocean on the horizon in the morning and evening.
As you go star gazing and overnight camping, you will be astounded by the constellations and the Milky Way galaxy that you will see at night. It is, without a doubt, an ideal location for outdoor activities, for families and friends.
10. Luyang Cave Park
Photo Credits: Aj Solero
The cave beneath the San Andres – Virac Highway has information on an important occurrence in the town’s history.
During the Moro Raid, which occurred in the early years of the 18th century, the historic cave functioned as a hiding spot for residents.
Also, stalactites and stalagmites of enormous size and other rock formations may be seen in this cave, with many bats hanging from the cave’s ceilings and walls since the cave extends the entire length.
12. Museo de Catanduanes
Photo Credits: Beng Goes Where
Aside from photographs of essential events in the province, the museum also exhibits native dress and form, religious materials, old Catandunganon family heirlooms, and several other forms of artifacts from the province’s illustrious history.
The historical center also acts as a promenade for locals to demonstrate their abilities and workmanship, which manifests the finest features of Catanduanes and contributes to the development of the island’s tourism industry.
Try to visit the museum, which is considered one of the best sites in Catanduanes, so that you may immerse yourself in the countless enthralling realities about the province’s rich history and society.
13. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
Photo Credits: Vigan Tourism
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, often known as the Virac Cathedral, boasts exquisite stained-glass windows surrounding its walls. The church is a physical representation of the province’s religious history. So, you may pray inside or take pictures of this historical church.
Patterned to seem like the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, the cathedral ceiling has been restored and modified. The Virac Cathedral is located near the heart of the city, on Rizal Avenue.
14. Mamangal Beach
Photo Credits: Pinterest
The breathtaking beauty of Mamangal Beach is matched only by its proximity to Catanduanes’ town center. The location is especially popular with local families and tourists over the summer.
On the shore, there is a long, excellent golden-sand beach that is bordered by crystal blue sea water and rock formations. The forest lay nearby, giving serene surroundings, and next to and under them were the secluded dwellings.
Snorkeling, scuba diving, skimboarding, beach volleyball, and a number of other activities are fun at the beach. For most types of travelers, this is the perfect beach.
15. Twin Rock Beach Resort
Photo Credits: themhayonnaise
The last on the list is the Twin Rock Beach Resort. It is one of the most prominent beach resorts on the island.
The resort is located on a magnificent cove situated on the sand with cream-colored and fine-grained shorelines surrounded by tall trees, small bamboo structures, and rolling hills, all bordered by lush foliage.
On an added note, the name for the Twin Rock Beach came from the neighboring “Igang” rocks; consequently, the Twin Rock Beach is a semi-circular beach with two prominent huge boulders nearby.
Any activity you might enjoy, including swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, zip-lining, wall climbing, and rappelling, are things to do under the best circumstances. Walk the shoreline and investigate the rocky outcroppings, as well.
Conclusion
You can have your adventure at any tourist destination in this bountiful province. From hills to ocean views, Catanduanes will surely be at your bucket list. Enjoy with your family and friends and make the most of your memories!
