Top 14 Catanduanes Tourist Spots: Beaches & Stunning Views in Virac and Nearby

Here is a list of highly-recommended tourist spots and activities that you shouldn’t miss when in Virac, Catanduanes.

1. Fall in Love with Maribina Falls

Maribina Falls is the most popular and most accessible waterfall from Virac’s town proper. Its name is the combination of the two barangays where the waterfall is located: Barangays Marinawa and Binanwahan.

The falls is 10 kilometers from Virac town proper. The water from the falls cascades down the mountain into a series of pools that you can wade into. 

2. Hike Up to Binurong Point

Binurong Point in Baras town is a place that offers equally jaw-dropping views of the open ocean crashing against rocks. 

Be prepared for a bit of a hike as you will be passing forest trails, hiking up former pasturelands, skipping through boulders, and walking on narrow paths. But the view from the top of the cliff. especially during sunrise, will be worth the hike.

Other viewpoints near Virac that are also worth visiting are the Balacay Point, and the PAGASA Weather Radar Station.

3. Enjoy the White Sand at Marilima Beach

Marilima Beach, another beautiful stretch of creamy white sand beach in Virac, is lined with coconut trees and surrounded by clear blue waters.

Its simple beauty will seduce you into taking a dip in the water or lie down on the sand to get the perfect tan. On a clear day, you can even spot Mayon Volcano in Legazpi, Albay from Marilima Beach.

There is also a small fishing community near Marilima Beach, so expect to see small fishing boats dotting the coast.

4. Take a Break at Batag Beach

Right next to Marilima Beach is the small, but no less stunning Batag Beach. Its powdery white sand beach is bordered by coconut trees. Behind the trees are small hills that are similar to Bohol’s Chocolate Hills.

It is said that on a clear day, you can see Mayon Volcano in Albay and Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon from the shores of Batag. Lounge, swim, and have fun with your friends and family while in Batag Beach.

5. Contemplate at Bato Church

Standing tall since the 1800s, St. John the Baptist Church, more commonly known as the Bato Church, is the oldest church on the island. It’s one of the most preserved tourist spots in the province due to its cultural importance.

The church is a simple, freestanding two-story structure made from coral stones. To get to Bato Church, you can take a 20-minute jeepney or tricycle ride from Virac to Bato.

6. Marvel at the Beauty of Nahulugan Falls

According to local legend, Nahulugan Falls is named after a farmer and his carabao who fell while crossing the hilltop. Water then began to cascade from where the farmer and his loyal companion fell. 

No matter what its real origins are, the Nahulugan Falls is a majestic wonder of nature. Getting to the beautiful three-tiered Nahulugan Falls in Gigmoto is like unwrapping a precious present.

The falls are surrounded by lush forests that filter the sunlight, giving the whole area a secret, magical aura.

7. Swim in the Tranquil Waters of Mamangal Beach

Right within Virac is the equally beautiful Mamangal Beach. The beach is lined with trees where you can set up your sarong and lie down on the shaded sandy shore.

At low tide, you can easily see various seagrass in between wave-combed cream sand. Scuba divers can also take the plunge to see marine life off the coast of Mamangal Beach. It is just about 3 kilometers south of Amenia Beach.

8. Take a Leisurely Walk Along Amenia Beach

Located in the neighboring town of San Andres is Amenia Beach, a long stretch of cream-colored sand and shallow waters that is safe for kids to swim in. At low tide, you can see wave-combed sand that stretches for miles.

9. Find Solitude in Balite Beach

If you want to feel as if you have a whole stretch of unspoiled beach all to yourself, head over to Balite Beach. 

Locked in between a small fishing village and a mangrove forest, this beach is a hidden gem practically devoid of visitors.

It is also lined with trees along the shore, so you can watch the waves under the shade or while you mingle with the locals.

10. Pray at Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Also known as the Virac Cathedral, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception has beautiful stained-glass windows surrounding its walls. The church is a reminder of the religious heritage of the province.

Inside the cathedral, the ceiling has been remodeled and patterned to look like the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican.  Virac Cathedral is located along Rizal Avenue at the center of town.

11. See the Jesus’ Face Rock at Talisoy Beach

Located in a small cove a few minutes from Virac town proper is the clean and well-kept Talisoy Beach, also known to locals as Jesus’ Face Beach because of the unique rock formation that is said to look like the face of Jesus Christ.

Beyond this unique feature, you can also go sunbathing on the fine white sand beach or swim in the cove’s clear, calm waters. The seabed is a little rocky, so make sure you wear aqua shoes if you want to take a dip.

You can rent a nipa cottage near the beach if you plan to stay in the area for the day.

12. Indulge in Fun Activities at Igang Beach

Igang Beach is a popular spot for surf boarding and windsurfing. It’s also called the Twin Rock Beach because of the huge rock formations that are located on both ends of the beach. 

Because the waters of this beach run quite deep, swimming is prohibited in most areas, though there is a deep pool near the rock formations that has become a popular diving spot for tourists.

Located at Igang Beach is the Twin Rock Beach Resort, so you can book your accommodations there before you explore the other beaches around Virac.

13. Learn About History at Museo de Catanduanes

If you’re a fan of heritage, make sure to visit Museo de Catanduanes. The museum displays artifacts and memorabilia that tells the story of the province’s rich heritage and culture.

The museum is on the second and third floors of the old capitol building at Virac town proper and is open on weekdays. It is quite near food establishments too so you can grab a bite after visiting the museum.

14. Go Soul-Searching at Fiat House Cave-Inspired Chapel

A place for reverence and worship, this cave-inspired chapel at Cavinitan's Fiat House is a popular attraction not only for its devotees, but for travelers as well. Its floors and walls emulate the caves, with light from the altar illuminating the whole chapel. You'll feel the peace and quiet once you enter Fiat House.

Take a break from beach-hopping and spend a few minutes in quiet contemplation at this unique chapel that was made to look like a cave. Pray and contemplate while inside and enjoy the solemnity it brings.

Make Your Trip to Virac, Catanduanes Happen!

While Virac is not yet well-known to many travelers, it is home to a lot of natural wonders and is poised to become one of the most sought after travel spots in the Philippines.

Because of the wealth of natural attractions and tourist destinations within Virac and around the island, Catanduanes is now starting to be called the “Happy Island.” 

Its beautiful beaches, lush forests and green hills, and picturesque spots will definitely leave you very happy by the end of your trip.

Planning a trip to Virac, Catanduanes soon? Check out Bicol tours and activities so you can add it to your itinerary for the complete experience.