If you're craving a blend of history, breathtaking views, and underrated charm, pack your bags and head to Leyte and Samar in the Philippines. Here's a personal rundown of places I explored—complete with tips, quirks, and hidden details you won't find on most travel guides.
1. San Juanico Bridge
They say it’s just a bridge. I say it’s an architectural
beauty.
🛤️
At 2.16 km long, this is the longest bridge in the Philippines, and it's
stunning to see, especially during sunset when it glows against the strait.
Built in just 4 years (faster than the road project in my barangay that took a
decade 🙄), it connects Leyte and Samar seamlessly.
📍Tip:
The best photo spot? Right in the middle—just make sure you’re on the sidewalk!
2. San Juanico Strait
A strait might not sound exciting—until you realize it’s the
narrowest navigable one in the world, with scattered islets, mesmerizing
whirlpools, and emerald waters.
🚣♂️ Ideal for kayaking
or just soaking in the view from above the bridge.
📍Bring
your drone if you have one. The aerial shots are chef’s kiss.
3. Rafael Farm & Restaurant
I went for the food and stayed for the serenity.
🌿
A local favorite with a man-made lake, a mini-version of San Juanico
Bridge, and a calm park setting.
🍛
The food? Authentic, affordable, and lutong-bahay level good.
📍Tip:
There’s a ₱20 entrance fee
if you’re just there
for pics—but trust
me, eat. You’ll want
to.
4. Gen. Douglas MacArthur Landing Memorial Park
🇺🇸 “I shall
return.” And he did.
A historic landmark commemorating MacArthur’s 1944 landing, this place hits
different if you’re into WWII history.
📍Come
around golden hour for dramatic shadows and great photos.
5. Sto. Niño Shrine & Heritage Museum
Not to be confused with the church! This museum offers a peek
into the Marcos-era opulence, with imported furniture and décor from all
over the world.
💰
Entrance fee: ₱290 for 4
people (₱60 if you bring an
extra camera).
📍Bring
socks or indoor slippers—it’s a bit chilly inside.
6. People's Library and Convention Center
This place had potential—dioramas, cultural displays,
history. Sadly, it’s now half-bazaar, half-neglected.
😔
Let’s hope it gets restored someday.
📍Still
worth a quick look if you’re already visiting the shrine next door.
7. Leyte Provincial Capitol
If buildings could talk, this one would have decades
of stories.
💡
It was once the seat of the Philippine Commonwealth Government. The murals
outside? Beautiful and underrated.
📍Best
viewed at night when it’s all lit up.
8. CAP Building (Formerly Price Mansion)
MacArthur’s wartime HQ. Still standing strong—with minimal
renovations to preserve its authenticity.
📍Free
to enter. History buffs, this one’s for you.

9. Crucified Christ and Leyte Map Monument
Not your average religious statue—it’s Christ on one
side, the map of Leyte on the other.
📍Located
on Kanruhaw Hill. Pair this visit with the shrine just below.
10. Maria Kanon Madonna of Peace Shrine
A beautiful symbol of peace and reconciliation from Japan
to the Philippines. Serene, solemn, and spiritually uplifting.
📍Often
overlooked, but well worth the visit.
11. Sto. Niño Church
The heart of Tacloban’s faith.
⛪
Big, majestic, and meaningful—it
houses the miraculous image of the Sto. Niño.
📍Just
a ₱8 tricycle ride
from Hotel Alejandro (or walk if you're up for it).
12. Leyte Park
We were told it’s the nightlife spot... maybe for early
birds.
🍽️
Tried the floating restaurant, but by 10 PM, it was a ghost town. Maybe we’re
just old. 😅
📍Still
a great spot to chill, eat, or unwind by the water.
13. Caluwayan Beach Resort, Samar
If you’re craving white sand and crystal-clear waters, Caluwayan Beach Resort in Samar is a tropical paradise waiting to be discovered.
🏖️ The beach is pristine, with powdery white sand and calm, inviting waters—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing under the coconut trees.
📍Tip: Bring your snorkeling gear to explore nearby coral reefs or just enjoy fresh seafood from the local vendors around. Entrance fees are affordable, and there are cottages and huts if you want to stay overnight.
Address: Caluwayan, Basey, Samar, Philippines
💭Leyte and Samar surprised me in the best way. Whether it’s the mix of history and heritage, the warm locals, or the scenic routes, this trip was one for the books. If you're heading that way—don’t rush it. Take your time, talk to locals, and taste everything.
Want a guide or sample itinerary? Let me know!
#LeyteTravel #SamarWonders #PhilippinesHeritage #SanJuanicoBridge #MacArthurLandedHere
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