Padre Burgos, a municipality in the province of Southern Leyte, Philippines, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a serene and budget-friendly vacation. The town boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery. There are plenty of things to do in Padre Burgos, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an adventure-filled trip.
One of the most popular activities in Padre Burgos is island hopping. Visitors can explore nearby islands, such as Borawan Island, Dampalitan Island, and Puting Buhangin Island, and enjoy the stunning views and crystal-clear waters. Another must-visit destination is Tangkaan Beach, known for its white sand, clear waters, and stunning rock formations. Travelers can also visit Napantao Marine Sanctuary, a protected area that is home to diverse marine life and is perfect for snorkeling and diving. With so many things to do in Padre Burgos, it’s no wonder that the town has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique and budget-friendly vacation in the Philippines.
Top Attractions in Padre Burgos
Padre Burgos is a hidden gem in the Philippines that offers a wide range of attractions for tourists. Here are some of the top attractions in Padre Burgos that you should not miss.
Peter’s Dive Resort
Peter’s Dive Resort is a popular attraction in Padre Burgos that offers scuba diving and snorkeling activities. The resort is known for its excellent diving spots that are perfect for both beginners and experienced divers. The resort also offers diving courses for those who want to learn how to dive.
Tangkaan Beach
Tangkaan Beach is a beautiful beach in Padre Burgos that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. It is also a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Limasawa Island
Limasawa Island is a small island near Padre Burgos that is known for its historical significance. It is believed to be the site of the first Christian mass in the Philippines, which was held by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
Kalanggaman Island
Image Credit: _sewex / InstagramKalanggaman Island is a stunning island in the Philippines that is located near Padre Burgos. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand, and beautiful coral reefs. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
These attractions are traveler favorites and are highly recommended by many tourists visiting Padre Burgos. To learn more about these attractions and other things to do in Padre Burgos, visit Trip.com where you can find more information about the attractions, their popularity, and reviews from other travelers. All rights reserved.
Outdoor Activities
Padre Burgos is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities to explore the natural beauty of the area. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to try in Padre Burgos.
Diving and Snorkelling
Padre Burgos is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling due to its clear waters and diverse marine life. The area is home to several dive sites that cater to both beginners and experienced divers. Some of the popular dive sites include Napantao, Padre Burgos Castle, and Limasawa Island. Snorkeling is also a great way to explore the underwater world, and there are several spots around Padre Burgos that offer excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Whale Watching
Oslob, located just a short distance from Padre Burgos, is famous for its whale shark-watching tours. Visitors can get up close and personal with these gentle giants and swim alongside them in their natural habitat. Whale shark-watching tours are available throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between November and May.
Exploring Danao Forest Park
Danao Forest Park is a beautiful nature reserve located just a short drive from Padre Burgos. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several species of birds and butterflies. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike and enjoy the stunning scenery. There are also several picnic areas and campsites within the park, making it a great place to spend a day or two in nature.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Our Lady of the Assumption
Our Lady of the Assumption is a beautiful church located in Padre Burgos, Philippines. The church is known for its stunning architecture, which is a mix of Spanish and Filipino styles. It was built in the 17th century and has been an important part of the community ever since. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the church’s facade and interior, including the impressive altar and stained glass windows.
San Juanico Bridge
San Juanico Bridge, longest bridge in the Philippines.The San Juanico Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the Philippines and connects the islands of Samar and Leyte. The bridge is a symbol of unity and cooperation between the two provinces. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and take memorable photos while crossing the bridge.
Monuments
Padre Burgos is home to several monuments that commemorate important events and figures in Philippine history. One of the most notable is the Agas-Agas Bridge, which was built in 2009 and is the highest bridge in the country. It is named after the nearby Agas-Agas mountain range and is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Another important monument is the Mystical Island of Lamanoc, which is believed to be a sacred site for the ancient Tagbanua people. Visitors can explore the island’s caves and rock formations, as well as learn about the local folklore and traditions.
Overall, Padre Burgos offers a rich cultural and historical experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in churches, cathedrals, monuments, or history in general, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful coastal town.
Local Cuisine
Padre Burgos is a small town in the Philippines that offers a variety of local cuisine. Visitors can find a range of dishes that are both delicious and affordable. Here are some of the local delicacies that tourists should try when visiting Padre Burgos:
- Seafood: As a coastal town, Padre Burgos is known for its fresh seafood. Visitors can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes such as grilled fish, shrimp, squid, and crab. Some popular seafood restaurants in the area include Tangkaan Beach Resort Michael’s Resort and Dive.
- Adobo: Adobo is a popular Filipino dish that consists of meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices. It is then cooked until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened. Adobo is a must-try dish for those who want to experience authentic Filipino cuisine.
- Lechon Kawali: Lechon Kawali is a Filipino dish with crispy fried pork belly. It is usually served with rice and a dipping sauce made of vinegar, soy sauce, and chili peppers. This dish is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Sinigang: Sinigang is a popular Filipino soup that is sour and savory. It is made with meat (usually pork or fish), vegetables, and tamarind broth. The sourness of the soup is balanced by the sweetness of the vegetables, making it a refreshing and comforting dish.
- Halo-Halo: Halo-Halo is a popular Filipino dessert that consists of shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and milk. It is a refreshing treat that is perfect for hot summer days. Visitors can find Halo-Halo at most local eateries and restaurants in Padre Burgos.
Travel Information
Getting to Padre Burgos
Padre Burgos is a town in Southern Leyte, Philippines, located approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Cebu City. The nearest airport is Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB), about 3 hours away by car. From Cebu City, visitors can take a bus or van to Padre Burgos. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours and costs around PHP 250-350 per person.
Another option is to fly to Tacloban City, which is approximately 4 hours away by car. From Tacloban, visitors can take a bus or van to Padre Burgos. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours and costs around PHP 200-300 per person.
Distance from Major Cities
Here is a table showing the approximate distance and travel time from major cities to Padre Burgos:
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
| Manila | 1,000 km | 25 hours |
| Singapore | 2,300 km | 5 hours |
| Cebu | 200 km | 5-6 hours |
| Bohol | 120 km | 4 hours |
