7 MUST EXPERIENCE THINGS AT BIRI ISLAND | NORTHERN SAMAR
Biri Island is one of my most favorite visited place in the Philippines. Of the thousands of reasons why one must visit the Island, I have listed seven (7) must experience things at Biri Rock Formation.
- MAGNIFICENT ROCK FORMATION
The fantastic Biri Island takes pride in its natural scenic spots, at the forefront are the beautiful rock formations of Magasang and Bel-at. These Two beautifully carved rocks, each about the size of a three-story building, stand separately on a broad flat rock on one of the islets called Magasang. A prominent rock formation with a bat cave underneath can be found in Bel-at. By the looks of these massive rock formations, one can tell that they were carved through thousands of years as waves lap the eastern portion of its shores.
Biri island has been visited by local and foreign tourists, not only by its impressive rock formations but it’s blue turquoise waters which are great for various fun activities.
- ENJOY THE SPECTACLE
The Biri Island Rock Formation was listed in the Top 10 Philippine Gems by Isla Lipana & Co., with 15 million online votes from travel bloggers. Being the only tourist destination in Eastern Visayas to make it to the list, Biri Island shared the honor with Apo Island, Batanes, Calaguas Islands, Caramoan, Danjugan, Lake Sebu, Mt. Kanlaon, Panglao Island and Tubbataha. The spectacular view of the place is more than enough reason to visit the area.
- GREAT FOR PHOTO SHOOT
The island town has been a favorite place for photography enthusiasts and picnickers, especially during summer when the weather is excellent, and the sea is calm. Visitors spend the day relishing the site and taking a dip in the calm turquoise blue water. It has also attracted surfers during October to January, with its perfect surging waves. It nice to know that Biri Island became popular when actors Dawn Zulueta and Richard Gomez shoot their sizzling scenes in the picturesque rock formations for their movie “Iisa Pa Lamang” in the ‘90s and another film by Vhong Navarro.
- GO DIVING
Many divers claimed that one of the best things about diving in Biri Island is that many areas are yet to be discovered. There are some diving shops in Biri Island which renting out diving equipment. Most diving shops offer different diving packages. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional diver, I’m sure there’s a diving package that would suit your needs.
- GO SURFING
Few surfers go there yet, so its new to many.
- NATURAL POOL
One need not go to the ocean to swim. But on the substantial portion of the rock formation, there were several natural pools where guests can take a dip.
- ROCK CLIMBING
Biri Island’ rocky landscape leaves the vast potential for exploration. There are hundreds of sites and thousands of routes waiting for the intrepid climber.
How to Get There:
From Catarman, take the Jeepney to Lavesarez (Php 50).
Lavesarez goes to the wharf near the public market, and you will find boats going to Biri (Php 50). Passenger boats are available from 7:00-11: 00 am (unless you want to rent the whole boat for Php 1,500).
From Biri, you get a Habal habal to bring you to the Rock Formation. They would charge from 150-200.
- Since you’d have to ride a boat from Lavezares to Biri Island, waterproof your gadget so they don’t get wet. The waves can be quite loud even on a hot day.
- Tourism in the island is quite new, so there are no set standards for tourist guide fees. Before agreeing to a verbal agreement with a guide, make sure that you decided on a price first. Remember that these guides rely on the island’s tourism for their livelihood so please set a price that you think will be fair for them.
