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Picture-perfect Biri: A ‘Biyahe ni Drew’ itinerary to Biri Island, Samar


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Going to Biri Island? Make sure your camera has extra batteries and memory space!

Located at the edge of Northern Samar, Biri is home to the most spectacular rock formations in the Philippines, ones that will certainly drain the life out of your camera's batteries. Some say that Biri is one of the top hidden destinations in the country. The place is so beautiful that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources declared it as a protected seascape and landscape area in 2000.

Drew Arellano and the "Biyahe ni Drew" crew wasted no time in exploring this secret gem. Here's the itinerary that we used:

How to get there



You can reach Biri Island by plane. Northern Samar's Catarman National Airport is just an hour away from Manila. From the airport, head straight to the town of Lavezares. This is where you will find boats that will take you to Biri. The twenty-minute boat ride to the island could be rough so brace yourselves for big waves.

What to see

Bel-at rock formation



As Drew says, you can search for photos of the Bel-at rock formation all you want. None of them will give justice to the beauty of the place.



To get to the Bel-at rock formation, Drew and the "Biyahe ni Drew" team had to cross a long wooden bridge built on top of shallow waters and surrounded by hundreds of mangroves. Drew likens the bridge to a portal to another world. Selfie lover or not, the picturesque view on the bridge alone will surely take a considerable amount of space in your camera's memory card. We are not exaggerating!



Large waves and a rocky shore greeted the team as soon as they got to the actual rock formation. Like photos, words are not enough to describe the breathtaking view. Drew exclaims, "Grabe ito. Very romantic… napakaganda!"



A trip to and from Bel-at rock formation could cost P100 to P200 depending on the availability of the habal-habal. To see the place at its most beautiful, schedule your visit during mornings, late afternoons or when the tide is low.

Magasang rock formation



If Drew had to choose which rock formation in Biri Island is his favorite, he'd choose Magasang. Magasang rock formation is accessible to Biyaheros by habal-habal but you have to wade through knee-deep saltwater before you reach your final destination.





The long walk does not much matter because everything in sight is picture-perfect. Other than the crystal clear waters and the giant slabs of rock formations, there is also a natural salt water pool in Magasang where you can swim to your heart's content. Just be mindful of your steps because the stones are slippery and sharp.

What to do

Volunteer and BiyaHERO!



Biyaheros are free to dive in the waters of Biri Island but if you want to make your diving experience more meaningful, you can also be a volunteer. At Biri, divers are encouraged to join the Biri Initiative, a non-government organization that aims to protect the marine life found in the island.

During our visit, Drew met foreign volunteers who dive to remove harmful sea pests that feed on corals. According to them, preserving the natural resources of Biri is important as fishing and tourism are the main sources of income of the locals. By volunteering, you can have the chance to help the environment and work with the local communities at the same time.

Where to eat and stay

Biri Resort and Dive Center
Room rates start at P1,500
Meal prices start at P90


There are only two registered hotels in Biri Island so it is advisable to book your rooms in advance. Biri Resort and Dive Center offers penthouses right in front of the beach. Rooms come with a king-sized bed, a lanai, and a kitchen.



Drew and the "Biyahe ni Drew" team also ate their meals at the resort. Lobsters, crabs, and tuna? Everything on the menu is guaranteed fresh and delicious!

Cafe Eusebio
Catarman, Northern Samar
Room rates start at P1,500


Some travelers prefer to visit Biri's rock formations during the day and return to Catarman to spend the night. Cafe Eusebio is one of the newest hotels and cafes in the capital of Northern Samar. Rooms in the area are quaint with romantic lighting and wooden furniture. Food, coffee, and free wi-fi are available in the coffee shop.


The Philippines is home to thousands of islands. Some are well-visited by tourists from all over the world, while others are less popular but just as beautiful. If you want to discover more about our country's hidden treasures, Biri Island is a good place to start. Not only will you have a memorable trip, you will also help the local tourism thrive. Be a hero, Biyaheros! —Lara Gonzales/BMS