Sorsogon is the southernmost province in Luzon in the Bicol Region. It is a lesser known tourist destination unlike its neighboring province of Albay. Sorsogon is mostly surrounded by water which is why it is home to beaches, coves, lagoons, and rich marine resources.
This place deserves to be explored. You’ll definitely enjoy its historic and panoramic spots, natural attractions, and laid back vibe. Let’s discover the must-visit tourist attractions in Sorsogon!
Subic Beach
Nope, this isn’t in Zambales. Subic Beach is located at Matnog, Sorsogon, which is the southernmost tip of Bicol.
Subic Beach is a drop-dead gorgeous and unspoiled beach that makes it one of the tourist attractions in Sorsogon. Get ready to fall in love with its clear turquoise water and pinkish powdery white sand. Because of the sand’s color, the locals call it La Playa Rosa. Thanks to the presence of tiny red corals in the shoreline that complements well with the white sand, hence giving off the rare color.
Before you ride a boat to Subic Beach, it’s a good idea to drop by at Matnog public market and buy fresh seafood. Also, you have the choice to directly go to Subic Beach or do island hopping. Watch for those huge starfishes that you might pass by on your way. They are incredibly beautiful!
Rent an open cottage or a treehouse on the beach, and grill those seafood you bought. After a refreshing swim, enjoy the delicious food as you bask yourself with nature’s beauty.
Tikling Island
Another notable spot in Sorsogon is Tikling Island which you can visit as part of the island hopping tour. It is a privately owned unspoiled island. No commercial structures like cottages or resorts are present on the island.
The pristine island features a long stretch of pinkish powdery sand, aquamarine water, and lush greenery. On the other end of the island, you’ll see rock formations that scream the raw beauty of the whole island.
If you wish for a calm surrounding, Tikling Island is one of the perfect places to be.
Juag Fish Sanctuary
One of the usual parts of the itinerary in an island hopping tour is Juag Fish Sanctuary. It is a privately owned sanctuary that is open to the public, making it one of tue must-visit tourist attractions in Sorsogon.
Juag Fish Sanctuary is the perfect place for marine wildlife lovers. You can swim or snorkel in the sanctuary and be surrounded by different sea creatures like different species of fish, giant clams, marine turtles, lobsters, sea cucumbers, and oysters. But if you’re not fond of being with them, you could simply feed and watch them. At least you get to experience having a little interaction with them.
It isn’t everyday that you get the chance to see wonderful aquatic creatures. So we say, make the most of it!
Paguriran Island and Lagoon
One of the natural wonders of Sorsogon is the Paguriran Island and Lagoon. Just to be clear, it isn’t really an island. Instead, it is a huge rocky formation in the sea.
Paguriran Island and Lagoon could be walked from the shore during low tide. But during high tide, you could choose to get into a boat ride to reach the rocky islet.
The hollow middle portion of the island is occupied by the lagoon. Its clear aquamarine water is enticing to take a dip. Also, there is a few greenery on the islet and a short sandy beach. But be careful with the sharp rocks. We don’t want you to go home with scarred feet.
Aside from swimming at the lagoon, you could also ride a boat around the island. The experience gets better if there are big waves! You might think you’re on one of the rides in a theme park. So, make sure you have this on your list of tourist attractions in Sorsogon.
Donsol
The once sleepy seaside village of Donsol has turned into a hub of tourism today. It is a well-known home to whale sharks. The months of November to June are the whale shark season in Donsol.
Donsol offers an adventure of a lifetime to tourists ‒a close interaction with the whale sharks. Never miss this chance to swim with the gentle giants!
If you’re up for this wild experience, make sure to arrive at the whale shark interaction center between 7 AM to 2 PM. They only offer three swimming sessions a day. From there, you will get into a boat that can hold six people. Make the most of the three-hour boat trip by swimming with the whale sharks. But of course, that is if you could keep up with those gentle giants.
Also, there are rules that tourists must follow when interacting with the whale sharks. Donsol ensures the safety and avoids making a negative impact on the whale sharks.
Other things you can do at Donsol:
- Scuba Diving. Donsol has great dive spots where you can find various sea creatures. Some say there’s a chance you can spot Manta rays. If you’re one who enjoys the underwater world, this is definitely for you!
- Kayaking. Isn’t it nice to spend some time appreciating the beauty of nature while you’re in it? Join a local tour to experience a lazy yet calming kayaking on the river.
Firefly Tour. This is an enchanting experience you should not miss! Hop on to a riverboat tour that lasts an hour long. You’ll witness the fireflies in their full glory as they light up the trees you’ll pass by. Nope, this isn’t Disney, but you’ll get the vibe!
Bulusan Volcano Natural Park
Bulusan Volcano Natural Park is a protected rainforest that cradles various animal and plant species. The natural park lies at the foot of Mt. Bulusan, the highest peak in Sorsogon, surrounding the mountain.
Bulusan Lake is the main attraction at the natural park. It’s a beautiful sight to behold with lush greenery, rainforest, and the stunning view of the Bulusan Volcano. Definitely, one of the tourist attractions in Sorsogon that you shouldn’t miss!
Activities to do at Bulusan Volcano Natural Park:
- Trekking. From Bulusan Lake, tourists can start trekking to Mt. Bulusan. But, wait! Before you decide on doing this, you should know that it is a 14-hour trek going to and from Mt. Bulusan. Also, you have to prepare your things because you’ll surely camp in the forest. If you don’t want this exhausting activity, you could just walk around the lake and cross the canopy walkway.
- Kayaking. Aside from simply admiring the Bulusan Lake, why not experience it first hand? Go kayaking across the lake! You could also go on a boat ride with family and friends.
- Stand-up Paddling. Another fun way to play at the lake is stand-up paddling. Challenge yourself in this physical activity.
- Explore the well-preserved nature. There are different species of flora and fauna that can be found in the natural park. Some of the protected animals can be seen like the Potted Wood Kingfisher, Luzon Hornbill, South Luzon Cloud Rat, Philippine Warty Pig, Philippine Frogmouth, and Philippine Fairy Bluebird.
You can also visit our Top 6 Best Tourist Spots in the Philippines | Alternative Places aside from the Beach or the Most Underrated Destinations in the Philippines.
