Catanduanes Hotels

The unique topography of Catanduanes gives it many unique natural wonders like surf beaches, cliffs, mountains, hills, forests, waterfalls, caves, cold springs, and rock formations. If you’re the outdoorsy type looking for a one of a kind experience in the Philippines, Catanduanes is definitely a must visit.

 

At A Glance

Catanduanes is the 12th largest island in the country and offers adventure seekers with a New Zealand-like experience through its beautiful caves, cliffs, beaches, and rugged mountain terrain. The climate in the province is usually rainy due to its location on the Eastern edge of the Philippines, but it also has a pronounced dry season. Catanduanes is also known locally and internationally as a great spot for surfing, which is why surfers from all over the country and the rest of the world come to the island province.

 

How to Go

By plane

You can easily get to Catanduanes by booking a flight from Manila to Virac through airlines like Cebu Pacific or Philippine Airlines. They usually have specific days for flights to Virac. If you want to book on a day when there is no schedule, you can try booking a flight to Legaspi, Albay instead. When you get to  Once you arrive at Virac, you can opt to ride a tricycle or a jeepney going to your first destination in the province.

By boat/ferry

Usually, when you ride a bus going to Catanduanes, you will also be riding a ferry as well. From Tabaco City in Albay, the ferry will take you to Virac, Catanduanes. Also, ferries usually travel from Visayas and Mindanao to the Bicol region.

By land transportation

Several bus lines like Philtranco and Alps offer bus trips from Manila to Legaspi or Tabaco City. You can also try taking the PNR train from Manila to Naga then ride a bus from Naga going to Tabaco City. Once you’re in Albay, you can take a ferry from Legaspi or Tabaco City to Catanduanes.

 

Getting Around

The primary mode of transportation in Catanduanes is the tricycle. Jeepneys and buses are also available if you’re looking to travel to other municipalities. But if you want a unique experience, you can also try renting a motorcycle to move around the province.

 

Tourist Attractions

When you get to Catanduanes, one of the first places you must visit is Binurong Point. This hilltop is famous for its picturesque views of rugged hills and cliffs overlooking the Pacific ocean. If you’ve seen pictures of or have been to New Zealand, the views in Binurong Point will definitely remind you of them.

Puraran Beach is another top tourist destination in the province, especially for those who are into surfing. If you’re looking for a nice beach where you can relax and chill out, hidden gems that you can try to include in your itinerary are Igang Beach and Twin Rock Beach Resort.

Massive old churches and stone chapels are scattered around the province. Some of the churches you may want to check out while you’re in Catanduanes include Diocesan Shrine of the Holy Cross, Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church, Holy Cross of Batalay Shrine, and Our Lady of Sorrows Shrine.

 

Top Things to Do

During the peak months of August to September, try surfing the famous waves at Puraran Beach. If you’re a brave surfer and want to try something a bit more extreme, try surfing during the month of October when the waves are higher and choppier.

If you ever get tired of the beach, you can always go spelunking with your friends in Luyang Cave Park or go swimming under majestic waterfalls like Maribina Falls, Nahulugan Falls, and Hicming Falls.

 

Where to Eat

One great food spot in Catanduanes is Sea Breeze Restaurant, which you can find right beside the main port in Virac. Here, you can try guaranteed fresh seafood and enjoy the seaside ambiance. Kinilaw is one of their must-try dishes. Another great restaurant is Sunday Blossoms, which is known for their delicious Filipino meals.

Try going to the local public markets as well. Aside from their fresh mud crabs, you may also find famous local Pili Nut and Catanduanes cacao treats. You might also come across some of the local chili cupcakes, which taste like regular chocolate cupcakes but have a kick of spiciness.

 

Nightlife

Catanduanes is relatively a rural area without much of the city hustle. But if you’re looking for places to party the night away, the province still has numerous spots to offer. There are several bar and restaurants like The Fin Bar and Grill, Amigos Bar and Resto, Monte Karlo Bayview Bar & Hall, and Park N’ Grill Virac. Here you can choose from a menu of varied dishes plus you can also enjoy beer and other alcoholic drinks. Big Apple Music Bar is a go-to spot for those looking for some singing and dancing to accompany their drinks.

 

Where to Stay

Most of the hotels in Catanduanes aren’t too hard on the budget, which makes it convenient if you’re staying in the province for a longer period.

Some of the hotels you can check out include Catanduanes Midtown Inn, Moonwalk Villa Inn and Resto, Terrazas de Ponti Mansion, Ardci Corporate Inn, and Rakdell Inn. You can also try to book lodging options in resorts like Majestic Puraran Beach Resort, Catanduanes Twin Rock Beach Resort, Kemji Resort and Restaurant, and Puraran Surf Beach Resort.

 

Travel Tips

• Be careful when taking pictures or selfies when you’re near the cliffs in Binurong Point.

• If you’re a beginner surfer and want to try surfing in Catanduanes, try to avoid going during October because the waves might be too strong. But if you’re a pro looking for some big waves, this is definitely the best time to go.

• Try learning some words from the local dialect while you’re there.