Both Puerto Galera and Dumaguete are home to natural wonders and idyllic escapes under the Filipino sun. Whilst Puerto Galera is known for its beaches, Dumaguete is a dazzling cultural blast. Apo Island is a great destination off the shores of Dumaguete for an island getaway. Experience the distinct cultures of the two beautiful locations alongside nature’s most striking forms and locals passionate about their heritage.
3 Stunning Spots to Visit in Puerto Galera
1. Aninuan Beach
With a magnificent backdrop of Mount Malasimbo, Aninuan Beach is a seamless blend of both nature and water experiences. Enjoy some quiet time away from the city and dip yourself in the crystal clear waters. We recommend snorkeling here as the reef is teeming with marine life; keep an eye out for sea turtles!
How to get there: From Manila, ride a bus bound for Batangas Pier, which will take around 2–3 hours. From there, board a ferry towards Puerto Galera, with the ride lasting 60–75 minutes. From Balatero Port, ride a tricycle or Jeepney for a short 12-minute ride to Aninuan Beach.
2. Tamaraw Falls
Explore the natural beauty of the island at the glorious Tamaraw Falls. This waterfall is about 423 feet and is covered with lush greens facing the mountains. You can take a dip in one of the cleanest bodies of water in the province before enjoying a hearty snack by the pool.
How to get there: From the ferry piers of Puerto Galera or Calapan, there are jeepneys and vans to drop you off at the falls. The drive from Calapan to Tamaraw falls is about 45 minutes.
3. Mangrove Conservation and Ecotourism Park
Puerto Galera’s mangrove conservation area launched in 2015 and has since been a marine protected area (MPA) or primarily mangrove forests and reefs. The long and serene broadwalk is a perfect getaway for tourist where one can catch some peace away from the city’s rush.
How to get there: The park is located a short 11-minute drive from the pier. Visitors can take a jeepney or tricycle here.
3 Stunning Spots to Visit in Dumaguete
1. Twin Lake
Visit the Twin Lakes of Sibulan that looks like something out of a fairytale! Surrounded by mountains and lush greens, Twin Lakes make up two lakes called Lake Balinsasayao and Lake Danao. The lake offers breathtaking views and activities such as boat riding, kayaking, trekking, and camping.
How to get there: From Dumaguete City, visitors can head out to San Jose via public transportation for around 30–45 minutes.
2. Pulangbato Falls
Pulangbato, which is directly translated to ‘red rocks’, perfectly describes the bright and colourful visual of this waterfall. A resort is carefully built around the waterfall, retaining its natural beauty. Trek slightly higher up the climb to explore Upper Pulangbato Falls.
How to get there: Pulangbato Falls is less than a 30-minute drive away from Dumaguete’s centre. You can rent a scooter or car or ride a jeepney to get there.
3. Dumaguete Belfry
Constructed in 1811, the bell tower of St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral is a prominent landmark of Dumaguete. It served as a watchtower for pirate attacks and alerted the villagers on oncoming aggressors. A garden surrounds the tower and a grotto of the Virgin Mary lies at the bottom.
How to get there: Visitors will easily find the belfry in the heart of Dumaguete’s city, standing high from the rest of the city. You can travel to the tower on your own or book a guided tour to learn more about its history.
To read more about Puerto Galera and Dumaguete, do check out our Discover the Philippines e-Newsletter series! Both destinations have plenty to offer for all travellers, so do consider them as your next travel destinations to fully immerse yourselves in the tropics and experience all that the Philippines has to offer to you!
