Tacloban

Written by Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans, Sophie King, John Santos
18/08/2025
Tacloban, Leyte, Philippines.
Vyacheslav Argenberg, Wikimedia Commons

Tacloban offers a compelling blend of historical significance, particularly its role in World War II, and access to breathtaking natural landscapes. It serves as a gateway to explore both historical landmarks and the natural beauty of the Eastern Visayas region.

While Tacloban has a downtown area to explore, opportunities for socializing with other tourists or backpackers extend to local restaurants, bars, and hotel establishments, some of which feature rooftop bars. Engaging with local markets also provides a cultural interaction.

Top 5 Things to do in Tacloban

Visitors to Tacloban can engage in activities ranging from exploring historical landmarks and cultural sites to enjoying scenic views and embarking on nature adventures.

1. MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park

Standing at MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, one feels the profound historical significance of this site where General Douglas MacArthur fulfilled his promise to return to the Philippines during World War II. The larger-than-life bronze statues depicting the iconic landing invite reflection on the bravery and sacrifice of those involved. It is an integral part of understanding the region’s wartime history. Exploring the park allows one to walk along the beachfront, offering a serene backdrop to the solemn memorial.

Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park.

Transport: Located in Palo, Leyte, the park is approximately 12 kilometers from Tacloban City. A taxi ride from Tacloban Airport typically costs around PHP 126. From downtown Tacloban, one can take a jeepney or multicab marked 'St. Paul/Campetic' for approximately PHP 8, disembarking at Campetic Crossing, then taking a pedicab for about PHP 10 directly to the memorial. The journey usually takes around 20 minutes.

2. Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum

Stepping into the Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum offers a glimpse into a period of opulent history, showcasing the vast collection of the Marcos family. This dual-purpose site functions as both a shrine dedicated to the Santo Niño and a museum exhibiting a diverse array of antiques, artworks, and religious relics. Exploring its themed rooms, each uniquely designed with Filipino artistry blended with Asian and European influences, reveals intricate details and historical artifacts. It provides a rich cultural and historical journey.

Cost: An estimated entrance fee for the museum is PHP 200 for the first five persons, with an additional PHP 20 per person for groups larger than five. There is an extra charge of PHP 30 for still cameras and PHP 200 for video cameras. These fees are subject to change.

Transport: The Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum is centrally located on Real Street in Downtown Tacloban City, making it accessible by walking from many central points. For those coming from further parts of the city, a jeepney ride to the downtown area costs approximately PHP 8-15. Alternatively, a tricycle can be hired for an estimated PHP 50-150 within Tacloban City. Ride-hailing services like Grab are also available.

3. San Juanico Bridge

Driving or walking across the San Juanico Bridge is an impressive experience, as it stands as the longest bridge in the Philippines, connecting the islands of Leyte and Samar. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juanico Strait, with its numerous islets and the surrounding azure waters. The bridge is a testament to engineering resilience and is often seen as a symbol of unity for the region. Visiting at dusk allows for particularly stunning light and shadow play over the seascape.

Cost: There is no cost to traverse the San Juanico Bridge.

Transport: The San Juanico Bridge is readily accessible from Tacloban City. Public utility vehicles, such as vans and buses, regularly cross the bridge. As of late 2025, retrofitting works are ongoing to increase its load capacity, but it remains open for public use with limited capacity.

4. Madonna of Japan Park

A visit to the Madonna of Japan Park offers a tranquil moment of reflection within Tacloban City. This memorial park features a statue of Maria Kannon, also known as the Madonna of Japan, erected as a symbol of peace and friendship between the Philippines and Japan following World War II. The statue stands within a landscaped garden, providing a peaceful environment for visitors to sit, pray, or simply appreciate the monument's significance. It serves as a reminder of the soldiers who perished in the conflict.

Cost: Access to the Madonna of Japan Park is free of charge.

Transport: The park is conveniently located along Magsaysay Boulevard at Kanhuraw Hill, adjacent to the Tacloban City Hall. It is within walking distance of the city center. Alternatively, a short tricycle or jeepney ride from downtown Tacloban can reach the park, with fares estimated around PHP 8 and a travel time of about 3 minutes.

5. Red Beach, Palo

While primarily known as the location of the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, Red Beach in Palo offers a relaxed coastal experience. Its fine brown to dark grey sand provides a unique contrast to typical white sand beaches. It is a suitable spot for those looking to enjoy a peaceful beach environment, partake in beach fishing, or simply unwind by the water. Cottages are available for rent, making it a budget-friendly option for families.

Cost: While the beach itself is free to access, cottages for rent range from PHP 350 to PHP 500, depending on size. A small fee of PHP 5-10 is typically charged for restroom usage.

Transport: Red Beach is situated in Palo, Leyte, co-located with the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park. Transportation options and costs are similar to those for the memorial park, involving jeepneys/multicabs and pedicabs from Tacloban City, or a taxi from the airport.

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