Top 10 Things to Do in Puerto Galera: White Beach, Waterfalls, & Diving

Because of its diverse underwater coral reefs, it is also a popular snorkeling and scuba diving site, and a top destination for serious enthusiasts.

Puerto Galera was named 2005’s Most Beautiful Bay in the world by the Paris-based club called Les Plus Belles Baies Du Monde.

It is the only bay in the Philippines to earn this distinction, which goes to show just how special it is to be included in such a noteworthy list.

You will never run out of things to do here. Puerto Galera activities are as diverse as its well renowned marine life. Here are some of the top things you shouldn’t miss in Puerto Galera.

1. Lounge at White Beach

White Beach is a popular tourist destination in Puerto Galera and many visitors come here every year. 

As the name suggests, it is a long stretch of white sand and crystal blue water that is great for swimming and other water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, and banana boat rides.

It has many resorts and accommodations that will fit your budget - from luxurious 5-star hotels to mid-range resorts up to simple budget accommodations that will give you value for money.

You will also find a multitude of bars, shops, and restaurants near the shoreline, so it can get pretty crowded especially during the months of April to June, where many Filipino schoolchildren go on summer vacation and travel here with their families.

2. Explore Talipanan Beach

Talipanan Beach is a secluded spot with powdery white sands and calm waters that make it the perfect place to stay for a quiet, relaxing time.

The best way to visit this beach is to ride the boat going to Puerto Galera that has a direct stopover to Talipanan. You may also visit this Talipanan Beach by joining a day tour so you can visit other beaches as well.

You may also visit Talipanan Falls, which will take you about 30 minutes of trekking. While on the way, you might be interested in visiting Mangyan Village, where you can buy cultural products and souvenirs to take home with you.

3. Visit Tamaraw Falls

If you’re the type of person who prefers hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the island, look no further than Tamaraw Falls. 

This twin waterfall is about 3 stories high and runs beneath a bridge and then flows towards two man-made swimming pools, where you can take a refreshing dip. 

Tamaraw Falls is said to have the cleanest body of water in the province, so don’t forget your swimming gear to really enjoy the experience.

There are nipa huts around where you can have a barbecue or eat your packed lunch against a refreshing, nature-filled backdrop. 

There are small stores that sell refreshments and beverages as well as snacks for those who did not bring their own.  

4. Go Island Hopping

Island or beach hopping destinations typically cover pocket beaches that include San Antonio Island (also known as Medio Island), Haligi beach and Sandbar Island (located in Boquete or Paniquian Island) and Bayanan beach.

San Antonio or Medio Island is well known for a stretch of white sand that the locals call Long Beach. 

If you’re looking for a less crowded beach where you can slow down and enjoy a quiet moment of peace and tranquility, this is the perfect spot to go to.

You can also visit the underwater cave and go snorkeling at Coral Garden to swim with colorful fishes and see large coral plates. 

You can also see giant clams in their natural habitat. When the waves are not too strong, you can also go visit an underwater cave in Long Beach, where you can swim in shallow crystal clear water and enjoy the beautiful rock formations.

Haligi beach in Boquete or Paniquian Island is another quiet island located on Muelle Bay where you can relax and enjoy the calm crystal blue water. 

Swim with the fishes and go snorkeling to have a closer look at the marine life there.

If you head south of the island you will find Sandbar Island, a small strip of land connecting Boquete Island to the mainland of Mindoro island. It is also sometimes called Elizabeth’s Hideaway.

Further west is Bayanan beach, which features a concave-shaped shoreline that gives it calm blue waters, creating the perfect conditions for leisurely swimming and snorkeling. It is located just beside the White Beach.

5. Relax at Aninuan Beach

If you venture west beyond White beach, you’ll find a less crowded hidden gem called Aninuan Beach.

With Mt. Malasimbo as its backdrop, this is a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic weekend getaway or families with little children in tow. 

Aninuan Beach is also the gateway to Talipanan beach and its beautiful falls.

6. Explore Aninuan Falls

Aninuan Falls is yet another natural wonder that you can explore. if you don’t mind hiking along the river and find satisfaction in finding a hidden gem in the middle of this island, then you’ll enjoy this trip. 

Just be mindful of the usual dangers that come with exploring natural structures like slippery boulders or steep rock formations, and you’ll have a memorable trip.

Aninuan Falls is located at the foot of Mt. Malasimbo, and there is an entrance fee.

7. Trek to Talipanan Falls

Similar to Aninuan Falls, Talipanan Falls is less touristy and more rugged than the more popular Tamaraw Falls, but it is a great place to visit if you happen to be at Talipanan Beach.

If you are planning to visit that Iraya-Mangyan Village, make sure to include Talipanan Falls as a side trip and hire a local guide. To get there, you’ll have to trek through the lush jungle for about 30 more minutes. There is an entrance fee to get to the Water sports part, and this includes a life vest.

Different Puerto Galera activities can be enjoyed here for a fee, which includes a water park, jet skiing, kayaking, snorkeling, banana boat ride, and others.

8. Discover Tukuran Falls

Another must-see natural wonder you should include in your list of Puerto Galera activities is a trip to the lesser-known but equally enchanting Tukuran Falls. 

It features charming rock formations and refreshing clear water that you can’t resist but dive into! 

When you swim underneath the falls and the water from above hits your shoulders, it’s like having a free back massage from Mother Nature.

One of the most unforgettable and unique experiences you should try here is the carabao (water buffalo) ride where a carabao pulls a wagon enough to fit 6 people. 

This will take you through the shallow river while you feast your eyes on the lush tropical paradise on your way to the falls.

9. Unwind at Sabang Beach

Sabang Beach is one of the first areas in Puerto Galera to transform into a major tourist attraction and is well-known to foreigners.

The Big La Laguna Beach and Small La Laguna Beach can be found in Sabang. Sabang Beach is more well-known for its diving sites, lively nightlife, and numerous shopping options.

10. Drink the Famous Mindoro Sling

If you’re looking for another tried and tested alcoholic drink aside from a bottle of local fave San Miguel Pale Pilsen, try the one that made White Beach famous - the Mindoro Sling.

It’s a cherry red cocktail of rum, grenadine syrup, sprite and fruit juices that can pack quite a punch, so be careful not to drink too much of it if you don’t want a hangover the next day.

You can order this at almost any bar along the beach, but the pitcher at Mikko’s Bar is said to be one of the best ones to try.

Discover the Sweet Beach Life in Puerto Galera

Indeed, for anyone looking for a quick weekend escape to the seaside, Puerto Galera beach has proven to be a tried and tested option. 

When it comes to accessibility, value for money, and sheer variety of things to do or places to see, there is nothing quite like Puerto Galera.

Whether you’re looking for a laidback weekend lounging by the shore, an action-packed activity to get your adrenaline pumping, or a wholesome activity with your family, there’s something you can truly enjoy.

Explore the various Puerto Galera tours and activities in the Philippines that you can add to your itinerary.