Biliran

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
A serene beach lined with palm trees, tents, and clear water.
aya agetro, Pexels

Biliran is an unspoiled island province in the Philippines, inviting visitors to experience its serene natural beauty without large crowds. It offers a diverse landscape of stunning white-sand beaches, numerous cascading waterfalls, and scenic rice terraces.

While Biliran does not feature prominent party or dedicated backpacking districts, opportunities for social interaction are found through engaging with local communities at vibrant markets, participating in cultural immersion programs, and staying at local accommodations like resorts which may have communal areas. Naval, as the capital, serves as a central point for exploring the island and offers local eateries.

Top 4 Things to do in Biliran

Activities in Biliran generally involve island hopping to pristine beaches, exploring numerous majestic waterfalls, and appreciating serene rice terraces.

1. Island Hopping to Sambawan Island

Embark on an island hopping adventure to Sambawan Island, a captivating destination known for its pristine white-pebble beaches and remarkably clear turquoise waters. From the island's hilly terrain, one can witness panoramic views of the surrounding seascape, especially breathtaking during sunrise or sunset. It is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling among vibrant marine life, and capturing stunning photographs. Cottages and tent pitching areas are available for those wishing to extend their stay overnight, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island's tranquility after day-trippers depart.

Cost: A day trip to Sambawan Island typically costs PHP 100 per person, while an overnight stay is PHP 200. Cottage rentals range from PHP 1,500 for up to 6 people to PHP 2,500 for up to 15 people. For transportation, chartering a boat directly from Kawayan Port in mainland Biliran may cost PHP 3,000 to PHP 3,500 for a group of up to 6. Alternatively, a direct boat charter from Naval to Sambawan can be arranged for around PHP 10,000 for 10-15 persons.

Transport: From Naval, take a public boat to Maripipi Island; this journey costs approximately PHP 100 and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, departing around 10:00 AM from Monday to Saturday. Upon reaching Maripipi, hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to Barangay Ol-og, from where you can charter a smaller boat to Sambawan. If departing directly from mainland Biliran, a jeepney ride from Naval to Kawayan costs PHP 35 (about 1 hour), a tricycle for four is PHP 250, and a habal-habal for two is PHP 120.

2. Waterfall Chasing (Tinago, Ulan-Ulan, Recoletos, Bagongbong Falls)

Explore Biliran's lush interior, which boasts an abundance of waterfalls. Tinago Falls, meaning 'hidden,' offers a serene retreat with its cascading waters forming a deep, inviting pool perfect for a refreshing swim, surrounded by verdant foliage. Ulan-Ulan Falls, a true hidden gem, delights with its unique pyramidal flow and misty atmosphere, creating a peaceful ambiance. Recoletos Falls provides a refreshing natural pool to relax in after a moderate trek, known for its tranquil setting. Bagongbong Falls, less frequented, offers a raw and majestic experience with its powerful cascades within a cavernous setting. Visiting these waterfalls often involves scenic rides through rural landscapes and rice paddies.

Cost: Entrance fees for waterfalls like Tinago Falls are typically minimal, around PHP 20-30 per person. Many other falls have no direct entrance fee. The primary cost is hiring a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) for a day tour, which can range from PHP 700 to PHP 1,000 for the entire day (including fuel) for 2-3 passengers, allowing access to multiple waterfalls and nearby rice terraces.

Transport: To access these waterfalls, it is most practical to hire a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) from Naval. Public transport routes directly to the waterfall jump-off points are limited, making habal-hababs the most convenient and common mode for touring the sites. Drivers can often be found in Naval or arranged through your accommodation.

3. Visit the Almeria Rice Terraces

Discover the scenic Almeria Rice Terraces, particularly in the areas of Sampao and Iyusan. While they may not be as extensive as some more famous counterparts, these terraced fields offer a beautiful and tranquil view, especially when glistening in the sunlight. They provide a glimpse into the local agricultural practices and offer a serene backdrop for photographs, highlighting the province's rural charm.

Cost: There is typically no separate entrance fee to view the Almeria Rice Terraces. This activity is often included as a scenic stop within a habal-habal tour that also covers nearby waterfalls.

Transport: The rice terraces are best visited as part of a habal-habal tour originating from Naval, often combined with a trip to the waterfalls in the Almeria area, as public transport options to these specific sites are limited.

4. Relax at Mainit Hot Spring

Indulge in a calming experience at Mainit Hot Spring, a favored spot located in Caibiran. The spring features warm, naturally sourced water channeled into a man-made pool basin, offering a soothing and therapeutic soak. Locals often visit, believing in its healing properties, making it a place to unwind and experience a slice of local relaxation.

Cost: While specific costs are not widely reported in recent reviews, hot springs in the Philippines typically have a minimal entrance fee, often under PHP 50-100.

Transport: Mainit Hot Spring is situated in Barangay Villa Vicenta, Caibiran. Access is most convenient by hiring a habal-habal from Naval, which can take you directly to the hot spring.

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