The province of Negros Oriental is truly a lovely and gentle place, because it is mostly about nature and people. With a land area of 5,402.30 square kilometers, of which 60% of these make up Region 7’s total forest cover, the province is a paradise for nature lover’s. But, apart from its lush forests, the province also has its share of world class and breathtaking beaches and dive spots. Here’s a look at a few of the finest beaches and dive spots of Negros Oriental.
Apo Island
Located 30 km south of the capital, Dumaguete City, Apo Island is considered as one of the world’s best dive spots. Also, it is one of the best places to spend your Philippine beach holidays. The place offers visitors an exhilarating diving, sunbathing and snorkeling experience that’s unrivaled by only a few other places on earth.
Further, it is home to one of the best community-managed marine sanctuaries in the country, if not in the whole of Asia. And apart from the fine white sand beaches and lovely coral formations, visitors can likewise explore the island’s hiking trails. There, you can get breathtaking views of the sea, and the island as well.
Siaton
Siaton, is another destination blessed with rich, fertile agricultural land, verdant forests, and lovely beaches. Here, you can visit Antulang Beach, Bonobo Point and Lagoon, and Tambobo Beach.
At Antulang Beach, holiday makers can revel in its white sand and pebble beaches that are located between Siaton and Zamboanguita. Marveling in its mighty rock formations, spectacular underwater scenery and crystal-clear waters is a leisurely delight, too.
At Bonobon Point, ride a motorboat and see the spectacular coastline, where hundreds of yachts and motorboats owned by foreign retirees and expats are moored. At Tambobo Beach, activities preferred by water adventure lovers are include windsurfing, sailing and scuba diving, as well as snorkeling. Cottages are available for day trips, and there are restaurants that serve delicious local culinary treats.
Bais City
Located 45 minutes away from Dumaguete City, Bais City is famous for dolphin and whale-watching activities and more. For the uninformed, at least 9 out of 23 marine mammal species have been found thriving in the waters around Bais Bay and Tañon Strait. The good thing – the city government offers tourists a whale and dolphin-watching cruise service.
Apart from whale-watching, visitors can go to Lag-it Beach, White SandBar Reef, Talabong Mangrove Park, and many more. At Lag-it Beach, a pristine 7-kilometer stretch of powdery white sand beach suddenly disappears during high tide, which is the same experience swimmers will feel when at the White SandBar Reef.
The Talabong Mangrove Park is a 400-hectare protected mangrove forest that is definitely a lovely nesting ground of birds and other wildlife. It is accessible by boat during high tide and tourists need to walk along a bamboo boardwalk before reaching the park.
The next time you plan for your vacation, don’t forget to include Negros Oriental in your list of places to spend the best beach holidays Philippines! Give us a call if you need help.