Discover Northern Samar

A stay of 3 to 4 days in Northern Samar allows you to explore its key attractions and enjoy its natural beauty. Start with a visit to Biri Island, known for its unique rock formations and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Spend a day at Capul Island to explore its historic lighthouse and church. Allocate time for local beaches such as Dalupiri Island, which offers pristine sands and clear waters.

For transportation, local buses and jeepneys are common for getting around, but renting a motorbike provides more flexibility. Dining options include local eateries where you can try traditional Waray dishes, such as laing and kinilaw.

Tap water in the area is not recommended for drinking, so it's advisable to use bottled water. Beaches and swimming areas generally maintain good water quality, making them suitable for swimming.

Driving around Northern Samar is possible and can be an effective way to explore the region. The main roads connecting towns are generally paved, but some areas, especially more remote locations, may have rough or narrow roads. A reliable vehicle with good ground clearance is advisable.

Car Rentals and Costs: Car rental services are available, often starting at around PHP 2,000-3,500 per day ($35-60). It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Traffic and Driving Tips: Traffic is typically light in Northern Samar, but be prepared for occasional roadblocks, especially in rural areas. Local driving customs include frequent use of horns, and it’s common to share the road with motorcycles and tricycles.

Fuel Availability: Gas stations are located in larger towns and along main highways. Plan your fuel stops carefully if exploring more isolated areas.

License Requirements: An international driving permit (IDP) is recommended, alongside your home country’s driver's license, for convenience and compliance with local regulations.

Northern Samar is not typically known as a party destination. It is more recognized for its natural attractions and serene environments, such as beaches, waterfalls, and caves. The nightlife in Northern Samar is relatively quiet compared to urban centers. Travelers can enjoy local festivals and community events, where traditional music and dances are often featured, but these are not frequent.

Activities and Attractions
Explore places like Biri Island, famous for its rock formations, or enjoy the beaches at Palapag and Bobon. For a cultural experience, visit local markets and try traditional Filipino cuisine.

Transportation and Accommodation
Travel within Northern Samar mainly involves buses, jeepneys, and tricycles. Accommodation ranges from modest hotels to guesthouses, with prices typically between PHP 1,000-2,500 ($18-45) per night.

Water Safety
Tap water is generally not safe to drink; it’s advisable to use bottled water. Beaches, such as those on Biri Island, have clean water suitable for swimming, monitored for safety and cleanliness.

In Northern Samar, most restaurants typically close around 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM. However, hours can vary depending on the location and type of establishment. In smaller towns, eateries might close earlier, around 8:00 PM. In Catarman, the provincial capital, some restaurants may stay open later, especially on weekends. It's advisable to check specific restaurant hours in advance, especially during holidays when hours may change. Always consider local customs, as dining out is generally more popular during lunch and early dinner hours.

When traveling to Northern Samar, it’s advisable to carry some cash. While larger towns may have ATMs and businesses that accept credit cards, smaller towns and rural areas often rely on cash transactions. The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP), and it’s wise to carry small denominations for convenience. ATMs are available in towns like Catarman and Calbayog, but they might not always be reliable due to connectivity issues. Therefore, it is practical to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand.

When exchanging currency, major airports in the Philippines offer exchange services, and banks in larger towns can also assist. For safety, keep cash secure and split it between different carrying methods (wallet, money belt, etc.).