Southern Leyte is a province in the Philippines located in the Eastern Visayas region. Its capital is the city of Maasin. It is the second least populated province in Eastern Visayas Region but consists of beautiful tourist spots. It is bestowed with beautiful islands, white sand beaches and marine sanctuaries. There are just around 400,000+ people living in the province and people speak in Cebuano, Tagalog and English languages.
Maasin City is the capital city of the province where one can find different types of accommodation. Planning to go to the province soon? Check out these tourist spots in Southern Leyte you might want to pay a visit this year.
When it comes to tourism, Southern Leyte may not have been fully boomed yet. The good thing about this is that most of the scenic spots are not yet spoiled, thus, providing us a better experience – getting us closer to nature.
Top 10 Destination of Southern Leyte
1. Sun-ok Fish Sanctuary
Sun-ok Fish Sanctuary is one of the well-maintained and interesting fish haven in Southern Leyte. One of the best diving destinations in the province where variety of coral formations can be found from soft to hard corals along the cracks and crevices where schools of different kinds of fish can be found. Whale sharks can also be sighted especially during the months of November until May. Fishing and collection of shells are strictly prohibited. Since the fish sanctuary is just near a rocky hill, visitors tend to do rock climbing before leaving the place. Son-ok Fish Sanctuary is located in Pintuyan, Southern Leyte; situated below an imposing rock edifice, this sanctuary can be reached by motorized banca in about two hours from Maasin upon prior arrangement with private operators.
2. Tagbak Marine Park
Tagbak Marine Park is located in Sitio Tagbak, Tabugon, Liloan, Southern Leyte. It’s an emerging tourist destination in the province. Placed at the heart of Liloan Bay, Tagbak Marine Park offers a variety of activities that will surely suit the interests of local explorers and tourists! Shades of the sea come from hues of dark blue, lies between green and mauve. Small rock outcrops formed opposite the chalet and one could kayak around the area; surf around with a stand-up paddle; and discover marine life in their coastal habitats underwater by snorkelling and diving.
Activities:
Tagbak Marine Park Rules and Regulations/Prohibited Acts
3. Napantao Marine Sanctuary
Napantao Marine Sanctuary is one of the best tourist spots in Southern Leyte if you love diving and interested in marine lifeforms. It features a natural large wall underwater that drops around 50 meters coated with beautiful and colorful diverse corals where schools of fish can be found. Turtles and white tip reef sharks can also be sighted. The best time to go diving at Napantao Marine Sanctuary is on dry season (March to May) since visibility underwater is good during sunny days. The big corals are well preserved and have a variety of creatures. You can also dive in the months and dive between corals and sharks.
4. Tangkaan Beach
Tangkaan Beach is another beautiful tourist destination in Southern Leyte, perfect getaway for families and friends. The sand is white but it is not so fine since fragments of corals are mixed with the sand but the beautiful beach, relaxing environment, interesting rock formations, great view of the nearby islands and crystal clear waters are what makes it a favorite destination among the locals. Swimming and snorkeling are the best things to do here. On rare occasions, one can find dolphins, turtles and pelagic fishes when snorkeling. The best part is, going to the beach is very cheap with only Php. 5.00 for the entrance and cheap picnic tables. Make sure to bring your own food and utensils, no stores near the beach.
5. Molo Polo White Beach
Molo Polo White Beach is located in Barangay Molopolo, Liloan, Southern Leyte. It’s 100.6 km from Maasin City (Southern Leyte’s capital) via Bato-Bontoc Road. You have to pass the Liloan-St. Bernard crossing. It takes about 10 minutes to get to Barangay Molopolo from the national highway. You should take note that this barangay is just before the town proper; thus if you have passed through the Liloan bridge, you are lost. If you are riding a bus, ask the conductor you are going to Molopolo. The beach doesn’t have the finest white sand. What I love about it is that there are plenty of trees that provide shade from the scorching heat of the sun. The islets are perfect for cliff diving. You can also bring your snorkeling gear and see beautiful corals near the islets. Be careful in getting to the islets as the rocks are sharp.
6. Limasawa Island
Limasawa Island is one of the famous tourist spots in Southern Leyte where the first Catholic Mass in the Philippines took place on Easter Sunday of March 31, 1521. Limasawa is the smallest municipality in the province of Southern Leyte, both population and land area. The island is just approximately 10 kilometers long from north to south and there are only 6,000+ people living here but it is a lively and friendly community. Places to visit here includes the National Shrine of the First Catholic Mass in the Philippines, First Cross Monument, beaches, fish sanctuaries, dive sites and caves.
7. San Pedro Island
San Pedro Island is one of the twin set of islands off the coast of Hinunangan, Southern Leyte. Although not as famous as the other white-sand islands in Leyte like Kalanggaman and Canigao, San Pedro Island also has its fair share of a beautiful white pebble beach, crystal clear waters, rich marine life, and picturesque views of sunrise and sunsets.
San Pedro Island, or politically known as Barangay San Pedro, Hinunangan, has a sustainable community of less than five hundred (500) people. Because of the influx of tourists, visitors, and for the consumption of the locals, the island has small convenience stores (Sari-sari stores in Filipino), that sell items for immediate needs such as canned goods, liquor and beer, preserved food, rice, soap, shampoo, some other toiletries, and spices if you want to cook food yourself.
8. San Pablo Island
San Pablo Island, also called as Pong Gamay which means small. It wa named after their Patron Saint Paul. Compared to the other islands in Leyte, San Pablo is cheaper and less crowded. It's simple, beautiful and worth your time however, I recommend you visit this place on weekdays as it tends to get crowded with locals during the weekends.
Things you should know when planning to go to San Pablo Island:
1. Cottage fee ranges from Php200 to Php650.
2. It's better to bring your own food or buy food in Hinunangan market. They don't have restaurants or karenderyas but they have a sari-sari store.
3. You can grill meat as long as you bring your own utensils.
4. Activities include swimming, ramp diving, rope swinging (from a tree) and just relaxing.
5. I suggest you bring your own tent as they have limited cottages suitable for overnight stay in the public beach but if you explore the island a little more, you'll see resorts with concrete rooms.
9. Monte Cueva Shrine
Monte Cueva Shrine. A 30 foot Marian icon perches from a highland over the Via Crucis and Resurrection. A chapel within the cave is the coup-de-grace to the natural wonder, situated 2 kms. From the city proper.
Reaching the area is fairly easy and not far away. You just need to take a habal-habal and tell the driver that you want to go to Monte Cueva and they should know the place. It is about 5-10mins. motorcycle ride. You can as well walk, it is not that far and since there are a lot of trees the heat of the sun will not be that strong and there are many houses you will be passing and it is safe as well.
10. Canigao Island
Canigao Island, once known as the fishermen’s sanctuary in the municipality of Matalom, Canigao Island has become a major tourist destination in Eastern Visayas since 2005 and has gained overwhelming popularity recently. It is an islet located in the Philippines, near the municipality of Matalom, Leyte. The area is known for abundant fishing grounds and scenic coral reef areas suitable for diving.
Things To Do in Canigao Island
Believe it or not, there is so much you can do in Canigao Island that will truly test your love for travel. Are you a certified globetrotter?
Well, becoming a traveler is not just about setting foot in a new place and taking selfies, but discovering and experiencing the beauty of nature — the essence of traveling, as they say.
So when in Canigao, you can:
1. Set up a hammock in any of the sturdy trees. Once done, lay down, close your eyes, feel the cool sea breeze, listen to the soothing sound of ocean waves and chirping of migratory birds, and doze off to sleep for a few minutes to rejuvenate your senses. Alternatively, you can get your favorite book and read with the sea breeze on your face. Or, you can just lay down and look at the beautiful surrounding — different types of tree species, clear turquoise water, sparkling white sand, warm skies, rare cloud formation, and so much more.
2. Tour around barefoot. Canigao is one of the islands in the Philippines with the finest white sand. On the way, you’ll see awesome sand and rock formations, variety of plants (flowering or not), endangered tropical and subtropical trees (fruit-bearing or not), different types of shells, migratory birds, fisherfolk waving their hands to say hi, friendly and generous locals, and more.
3. Swim as long as you want. Actually, most of the tourists immediately go and take a swim once they arrive in the island. They just can’t resist the inviting sparkling crystal clear and cool water. It’s amazing because you can see the sun beating down hard but when you dip into its waters, it’s very cool. And when you come up, it’s very cold because of the strong sea breeze. Your eyes will be filled with excitement too as colorful fishes swim along.
4. Try sunbathing on the beach. From time to time, you can take a break from swimming and go sunbathing. It’s the perfect way to even out your skin tone.
5. Snorkel or dive outside the protected area. The north and west part of Canigao is a sanctuary. That is why the island has an abundant, rich marine life. Snorkeling or diving in the middle of a bright day, you will be mesmerized by the extensive number of tropical sea creatures and enchanting ocean floor with dramatic and lush coral gardens.
6. Come with some fisherfolk to catch fishes and get edible sea urchins, shells, and others. The locals in the island are one of the friendliest people on the planet. You can just approach the fisherfolk there or hire a pump boat especially for you. You can also try using a paddle boat for a more exciting adventure.
7. Go kayaking or ride a jet ski within the designated area. Although there is no kayak or jet ski available for rent in the island, the authorities allow anyone to bring their own watercraft and equipment.
8. Play beach volleyball or frisbee. There is a beach volleyball court for everyone and if it’s occupied, you can go somewhere where there is enough space. It is advised though that you bring your own ball and equipment just in case. There are regular tourists who play frisbee so you can join them too.
9. Join some foreign and local tourists playing instruments, singing songs, and having fun. Are you hesitant to approach them? No worries because it’s them who will invite you. The people there are the friendliest and most hospitable. Of course, prepare to sing along and show your talent. It’s fun! It’s one unique experience!
10. Visit the lighthouse and other landmarks. In the middle of the island, you can see one of the oldest lighthouses in Leyte. In the morning, they allow tourists to climb and have a panoramic view of the whole Eastern Visayas. You can also see the islands of Camotes, Cebu, Cagayan, Limasawa, and more. It’s gorgeous!
11. Go to the marketplace. Here, you can check out different souvenir items, including tee-shirts, bags, hats, mats, purses, pouches, accessories, home décors, and more (from P20 to P200). You can also buy something to eat as there are no restaurants, cafés or pubs in the island. When it comes to food, tourists are encouraged to bring their own provision, or buy seafood (starts at P50) in the island and have them cooked by some locals or cook the sea creatures themselves (there is a kitchen for everyone). The stores in the marketplace only sell snacks, drinks, and other necessities (soaps, shampoos, tissues, etc).
12. Stay in a tree house along the beach. Entrance is limited so be sure to ask permission from the management ahead of time. If there’s no one inside, you can bring your food there and eat while looking at the beautiful shimmering ocean, made more comfortable by the onshore breeze. You can also sleep here.
13. Watch the majestic sunset. By far, the island offers the best view of the sunset. At 5 in the afternoon, you are advised to find a place, prepare your camera, and wait for the spectacular natural scenery.
14. Pitch a tent (P100 – P200 per tent area). Although there are cottages (P500 to P700) and rooms (P1,500) for those who will be staying overnight, it is advised that you try camping, pitching a tent by the shore. Sleeping with the sand as your bed is certainly a must-try for first-timers. You’ll be surprised how comfortable and refreshing it is.
15. Watch shooting stars at night. In cities, it’s rare to see falling stars, even once. But in Canigao, you will lose count. It’s totally a mind-blowing experience! More stars, more wishes!
Experience the beautiful destination
SOUTHERNLEYTE has. There's more about Southern Leyte that you need to figure out, so what are waiting for? Try now! Explore the Leyte Del Sur.
Maasin City is the capital city of the province where one can find different types of accommodation. Planning to go to the province soon? Check out these tourist spots in Southern Leyte you might want to pay a visit this year.
When it comes to tourism, Southern Leyte may not have been fully boomed yet. The good thing about this is that most of the scenic spots are not yet spoiled, thus, providing us a better experience – getting us closer to nature.
Top 10 Destination of Southern Leyte
1. Sun-ok Fish Sanctuary
Sun-ok Fish Sanctuary is one of the well-maintained and interesting fish haven in Southern Leyte. One of the best diving destinations in the province where variety of coral formations can be found from soft to hard corals along the cracks and crevices where schools of different kinds of fish can be found. Whale sharks can also be sighted especially during the months of November until May. Fishing and collection of shells are strictly prohibited. Since the fish sanctuary is just near a rocky hill, visitors tend to do rock climbing before leaving the place. Son-ok Fish Sanctuary is located in Pintuyan, Southern Leyte; situated below an imposing rock edifice, this sanctuary can be reached by motorized banca in about two hours from Maasin upon prior arrangement with private operators.
2. Tagbak Marine Park
Tagbak Marine Park is located in Sitio Tagbak, Tabugon, Liloan, Southern Leyte. It’s an emerging tourist destination in the province. Placed at the heart of Liloan Bay, Tagbak Marine Park offers a variety of activities that will surely suit the interests of local explorers and tourists! Shades of the sea come from hues of dark blue, lies between green and mauve. Small rock outcrops formed opposite the chalet and one could kayak around the area; surf around with a stand-up paddle; and discover marine life in their coastal habitats underwater by snorkelling and diving.
Activities:
- Picnic
- Swimming
- Snorkeling
- Stand-up Paddle Boarding
- Wild Ducks watching
- Diving
- Boating
- Sea turtle watching
Tagbak Marine Park Rules and Regulations/Prohibited Acts
- Use of plastic bags especially the non-biodegradable materials is NOT allowed. Use eco-friendly reusable bags instead.
- Strictly prohibited: Throwing of any waste materials and garbage to the sea.
- Picking of marine species, stones, rocks and shells as souvenirs.
- Hunting and shooting of any wildlife species.
- Illegal fishing and commercial fishing.
3. Napantao Marine Sanctuary
Napantao Marine Sanctuary is one of the best tourist spots in Southern Leyte if you love diving and interested in marine lifeforms. It features a natural large wall underwater that drops around 50 meters coated with beautiful and colorful diverse corals where schools of fish can be found. Turtles and white tip reef sharks can also be sighted. The best time to go diving at Napantao Marine Sanctuary is on dry season (March to May) since visibility underwater is good during sunny days. The big corals are well preserved and have a variety of creatures. You can also dive in the months and dive between corals and sharks.
4. Tangkaan Beach
Tangkaan Beach is another beautiful tourist destination in Southern Leyte, perfect getaway for families and friends. The sand is white but it is not so fine since fragments of corals are mixed with the sand but the beautiful beach, relaxing environment, interesting rock formations, great view of the nearby islands and crystal clear waters are what makes it a favorite destination among the locals. Swimming and snorkeling are the best things to do here. On rare occasions, one can find dolphins, turtles and pelagic fishes when snorkeling. The best part is, going to the beach is very cheap with only Php. 5.00 for the entrance and cheap picnic tables. Make sure to bring your own food and utensils, no stores near the beach.
5. Molo Polo White Beach
6. Limasawa Island
Limasawa Island is one of the famous tourist spots in Southern Leyte where the first Catholic Mass in the Philippines took place on Easter Sunday of March 31, 1521. Limasawa is the smallest municipality in the province of Southern Leyte, both population and land area. The island is just approximately 10 kilometers long from north to south and there are only 6,000+ people living here but it is a lively and friendly community. Places to visit here includes the National Shrine of the First Catholic Mass in the Philippines, First Cross Monument, beaches, fish sanctuaries, dive sites and caves.
7. San Pedro Island
San Pedro Island is one of the twin set of islands off the coast of Hinunangan, Southern Leyte. Although not as famous as the other white-sand islands in Leyte like Kalanggaman and Canigao, San Pedro Island also has its fair share of a beautiful white pebble beach, crystal clear waters, rich marine life, and picturesque views of sunrise and sunsets.
San Pedro Island, or politically known as Barangay San Pedro, Hinunangan, has a sustainable community of less than five hundred (500) people. Because of the influx of tourists, visitors, and for the consumption of the locals, the island has small convenience stores (Sari-sari stores in Filipino), that sell items for immediate needs such as canned goods, liquor and beer, preserved food, rice, soap, shampoo, some other toiletries, and spices if you want to cook food yourself.
8. San Pablo Island
San Pablo Island, also called as Pong Gamay which means small. It wa named after their Patron Saint Paul. Compared to the other islands in Leyte, San Pablo is cheaper and less crowded. It's simple, beautiful and worth your time however, I recommend you visit this place on weekdays as it tends to get crowded with locals during the weekends.
Things you should know when planning to go to San Pablo Island:
1. Cottage fee ranges from Php200 to Php650.
2. It's better to bring your own food or buy food in Hinunangan market. They don't have restaurants or karenderyas but they have a sari-sari store.
3. You can grill meat as long as you bring your own utensils.
4. Activities include swimming, ramp diving, rope swinging (from a tree) and just relaxing.
5. I suggest you bring your own tent as they have limited cottages suitable for overnight stay in the public beach but if you explore the island a little more, you'll see resorts with concrete rooms.
9. Monte Cueva Shrine
Monte Cueva Shrine. A 30 foot Marian icon perches from a highland over the Via Crucis and Resurrection. A chapel within the cave is the coup-de-grace to the natural wonder, situated 2 kms. From the city proper.
Reaching the area is fairly easy and not far away. You just need to take a habal-habal and tell the driver that you want to go to Monte Cueva and they should know the place. It is about 5-10mins. motorcycle ride. You can as well walk, it is not that far and since there are a lot of trees the heat of the sun will not be that strong and there are many houses you will be passing and it is safe as well.
10. Canigao Island
Canigao Island, once known as the fishermen’s sanctuary in the municipality of Matalom, Canigao Island has become a major tourist destination in Eastern Visayas since 2005 and has gained overwhelming popularity recently. It is an islet located in the Philippines, near the municipality of Matalom, Leyte. The area is known for abundant fishing grounds and scenic coral reef areas suitable for diving.
Things To Do in Canigao Island
Believe it or not, there is so much you can do in Canigao Island that will truly test your love for travel. Are you a certified globetrotter?
Well, becoming a traveler is not just about setting foot in a new place and taking selfies, but discovering and experiencing the beauty of nature — the essence of traveling, as they say.
So when in Canigao, you can:
1. Set up a hammock in any of the sturdy trees. Once done, lay down, close your eyes, feel the cool sea breeze, listen to the soothing sound of ocean waves and chirping of migratory birds, and doze off to sleep for a few minutes to rejuvenate your senses. Alternatively, you can get your favorite book and read with the sea breeze on your face. Or, you can just lay down and look at the beautiful surrounding — different types of tree species, clear turquoise water, sparkling white sand, warm skies, rare cloud formation, and so much more.
2. Tour around barefoot. Canigao is one of the islands in the Philippines with the finest white sand. On the way, you’ll see awesome sand and rock formations, variety of plants (flowering or not), endangered tropical and subtropical trees (fruit-bearing or not), different types of shells, migratory birds, fisherfolk waving their hands to say hi, friendly and generous locals, and more.
3. Swim as long as you want. Actually, most of the tourists immediately go and take a swim once they arrive in the island. They just can’t resist the inviting sparkling crystal clear and cool water. It’s amazing because you can see the sun beating down hard but when you dip into its waters, it’s very cool. And when you come up, it’s very cold because of the strong sea breeze. Your eyes will be filled with excitement too as colorful fishes swim along.
4. Try sunbathing on the beach. From time to time, you can take a break from swimming and go sunbathing. It’s the perfect way to even out your skin tone.
5. Snorkel or dive outside the protected area. The north and west part of Canigao is a sanctuary. That is why the island has an abundant, rich marine life. Snorkeling or diving in the middle of a bright day, you will be mesmerized by the extensive number of tropical sea creatures and enchanting ocean floor with dramatic and lush coral gardens.
6. Come with some fisherfolk to catch fishes and get edible sea urchins, shells, and others. The locals in the island are one of the friendliest people on the planet. You can just approach the fisherfolk there or hire a pump boat especially for you. You can also try using a paddle boat for a more exciting adventure.
7. Go kayaking or ride a jet ski within the designated area. Although there is no kayak or jet ski available for rent in the island, the authorities allow anyone to bring their own watercraft and equipment.
8. Play beach volleyball or frisbee. There is a beach volleyball court for everyone and if it’s occupied, you can go somewhere where there is enough space. It is advised though that you bring your own ball and equipment just in case. There are regular tourists who play frisbee so you can join them too.
9. Join some foreign and local tourists playing instruments, singing songs, and having fun. Are you hesitant to approach them? No worries because it’s them who will invite you. The people there are the friendliest and most hospitable. Of course, prepare to sing along and show your talent. It’s fun! It’s one unique experience!
10. Visit the lighthouse and other landmarks. In the middle of the island, you can see one of the oldest lighthouses in Leyte. In the morning, they allow tourists to climb and have a panoramic view of the whole Eastern Visayas. You can also see the islands of Camotes, Cebu, Cagayan, Limasawa, and more. It’s gorgeous!
11. Go to the marketplace. Here, you can check out different souvenir items, including tee-shirts, bags, hats, mats, purses, pouches, accessories, home décors, and more (from P20 to P200). You can also buy something to eat as there are no restaurants, cafés or pubs in the island. When it comes to food, tourists are encouraged to bring their own provision, or buy seafood (starts at P50) in the island and have them cooked by some locals or cook the sea creatures themselves (there is a kitchen for everyone). The stores in the marketplace only sell snacks, drinks, and other necessities (soaps, shampoos, tissues, etc).
12. Stay in a tree house along the beach. Entrance is limited so be sure to ask permission from the management ahead of time. If there’s no one inside, you can bring your food there and eat while looking at the beautiful shimmering ocean, made more comfortable by the onshore breeze. You can also sleep here.
13. Watch the majestic sunset. By far, the island offers the best view of the sunset. At 5 in the afternoon, you are advised to find a place, prepare your camera, and wait for the spectacular natural scenery.
14. Pitch a tent (P100 – P200 per tent area). Although there are cottages (P500 to P700) and rooms (P1,500) for those who will be staying overnight, it is advised that you try camping, pitching a tent by the shore. Sleeping with the sand as your bed is certainly a must-try for first-timers. You’ll be surprised how comfortable and refreshing it is.
15. Watch shooting stars at night. In cities, it’s rare to see falling stars, even once. But in Canigao, you will lose count. It’s totally a mind-blowing experience! More stars, more wishes!
Experience the beautiful destination
SOUTHERNLEYTE has. There's more about Southern Leyte that you need to figure out, so what are waiting for? Try now! Explore the Leyte Del Sur.
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