A rock formation in Biri Island.

© Samuel De Leon/Shutterstock

Rock Formations

Top choice in Samar


Some of the most renowned rock formations are 2km to 3km from Biri town. Head to the northeast edge of the island, where two boardwalks take you halfway out to the offshore formations. Many Filipino film directors have used this location for location shoots. Continue to the rocks via a vast tidal area where some prime swimming holes have formed; a few are deep enough to snorkel in.

The cliff-like Magasang and Magsapad formations are our favourites. If the tide allows, walk behind them and observe the incredible power of the open ocean as it meets the land here. If it's calm you can jump in and snorkel off the west side of Magasang. Many reef fish, moray eels and even banded sea snakes are spotted here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Samar attractions

1. Bulusan Volcano National Park

18.75 MILES

About 16km southwest of Barcelona is Bulusan Volcano National Park. Just inside the park, Bulusan Lake is a popular picnic spot, and there’s a 1.8km…

2. Capul

23.31 MILES

The forested island of Capul, west of Dalupiri, has a delightfully easygoing pace of life. It was a galleon staging post during Spanish days – the name…