15 Tourist Spots in Eastern Samar [And How To Get There]

This is our list of the best tourist spots in Eastern Samar, home to the historical Balangiga Church and Bells.

An island-province in the Philippines blessed with promising eco-tourism, Eastern Samar deserves to be in your bucket list. It is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, majestic waterfalls, enchanting caves, and pristine islands you need to experience.

With rich marine life and spectacular rock formations, these tourist spots in Eastern Samar will make your vacation even more memorable and exciting:

7 Best Tourist Spots in Eastern Samar, Philippines

Calicoan Island

Home to the famous ABCD Beach, Calicoan Island offers a great view of the Pacific Ocean. Surfers gather here because of the huge waves, while the long stretch of powdery white sand makes it a perfect place for lounging. There are surfing competitions held in Calicoan if you want to join one.

Sulangan Church

Also known as Saint Anthony of Padua Church, the Sulangan Church is a popular church in the province. This sacred place is home to believers and locals who pray for healing and success. You can come here to give thanks for the blessings you receive every day.

Homonhon Island

The historical background of Homonhon Island makes it an interesting spot for tourists. With virgin coastlines and lush greenery, this tropical paradise is a real beauty. The pristine beaches are ideal for boating and swimming.

Linao Cave

If you seek adventures, the Linao Cave is the best site to explore. It’s hidden in the forested lands of the island with beautiful flora and fauna. When you get here, you will be awed by the natural pool filled with extra clean azure waters.

Ban-awan Falls

Right in the middle of the jungle is a hidden gem called Ban-awan Falls. It’s one of the most impressive waterfalls in Eastern Samar you have to see. The surrounding lush greens and wild species make it a rare adventure travel enthusiasts exactly need.

Balangiga Church

Also called San Lorenzo de Martir Parish Church, the Balangiga Church is a popular place of worship in the province. Just recently, the Balangiga Bells returned home after the US army took it for decades. Now, more people are visiting the church to personally witness the historically famous bells.

Amandaraga Falls

If trekking and walking a little bit longer is not an issue for you, then you can go check out Amandaraga Falls. This is perfect for picnics and swimming in the plunge pool at the bottom of the falls. You’ll find peace and serenity here while relaxing with the enchanting sounds of nature.

8 Notable Eastern Samar Tourist Spots

Pearl Island
Guiuan, Eastern Samar

Divinubo Island
Borongan City, Eastern Samar

Minasangay Island Marine Ecological Park and Resort
Balangkayan, Eastern Samar

Canhugas Nature Park
Hernani, Eastern Samar

Ginduyanan Cove
Hernani, Eastern Samar

Ando Island Bantayan Cliff
Borongan, Eastern Samar

Hilangagan Beach
Punta Maria, Borongan, Eastern Samar

Apiton Island
San Policarpo, Eastern Samar

Festivals in Eastern Samar

Homonhon Landing in Homonhon Island, Eastern Samar
Karayapan Festival in Guiuan, Eastern Samar
Padul-ong Festival in Borongan City
Balangiga Incident in Balangiga, Eastern Samar

Must-Try Food in Eastern Samar

Fresh Seafood at Tanghay View Lodge Restaurant in Guiuan, Eastern Samar
Bakintol – ground sticky rice suman at Borongan Public Market
Salukara – brown rice pan cake at Borongan Public Market

Where to Stay in Eastern Samar

Depending on where you plan to go in Eastern Samar, the province has many hotels and hostels to accommodate every guest. The majority of the accommodations are located in Borongan City. Check out these hotels and hostels in Eastern Samar or you may also consider staying at these Airbnb units in Eastern Samar.

How to get to Eastern Samar

There are two common ways in getting to Eastern Samar: via Calbayog or Catbalogan and via Tacloban. From Calbayog or Catbalogan, you can take a van or bus to Borongan, Eastern Samar. If you want to check out the waves in Guiuan, you can take another van to Guiuan from Borongan.

If you are going to Eastern Samar via Tacloban, there are vans that go directly to Guiuan which will pass by Balangiga.

Check out our comprehensive GUIUAN TRAVEL GUIDE