Nestled just over an hour from Tacloban via the iconic San Juanico Bridge, Marabut is Samar’s rising star of eco‑adventure and coastal charm (philatlas.com). This coastal municipality, home to 24 barangays and less than 30m above sea level, blends rugged limestone formations with powdery sand and vibrant marine life.
Limestone Isles & Secluded Coves
Marabut is best known for its dramatic karst rock islands—think Halong Bay vibes—with impressive formations like Tooth Islet, Madung‑Badong, the Kapuruan cluster, and Marakitdakit (the historic lighthouse islet) (epifaniabeach.com). These formations rise straight from San Pedro Bay, carving out hidden lagoons and swim-ready beaches that you can only appreciate up close. The municipal marine park spans roughly 15 of these islets, complete with coral gardens, caves, and snorkeling opportunities .
Island‑Hopping & Kayaking Adventures
For water-lovers, Marabut offers immersive adventure:
- Kayak tours through limestone clusters and the enchanting Tinago Lagoon—an emerald-hidden gem behind cliff walls.
- Boat-snorkeling trips, visiting vibrant reefs and crystal beaches like Kapuruan and Tooth Islet.
- Aging back to tradition with pump‑boat rentals to explore less-traveled coves — a full group day trip runs around ₱6,000 for 15 people.
Resorts & Rock‑Garden Retreats
Marabut Extreme Resort (formerly Marine Park Resort) places you amid cliffs and cottages, offering kayaks, swimming, cliff‑treks, and obstacle activities — perfect for team‑builds .
On the flip side, Caluwayan Palm Island Resort in Barangay Caluwayan offers island‑style villas, a pool, cultural nights, seaside dining, and gear rentals—kayak ₱250/h, pump boat ₱500/h—with cottages from ₱1,300 to ₱5,900.
Another inspiring venture is Cuatro Marias Rock Garden, an agri‑tourism site blending landscaped retreats, educational gardens, and cliff‑side views developed since 2021.
Beyond the Beach: Eco‑Circuit & Culture
Marabut is featured in the Tandaya Trail I—a full‑day that strings together Sohoton Caves, mat weaving in Basey, rock‑pool kayaking in Marabut, and sunset dining under San Juanico’s glow.
Nearby natural gems include Kadongos Falls and Amambucale Reef for freshwater swims and rich marine biodiversity. Plus, the expansive Samar Island Natural Park connects via rugged forested worlds and birdlife like the Philippine eagle‑owl and tarsier (en.wikipedia.org).
Tips & Traveler Must‑Knows
Tip Details
- Getting There Buses/vans run from Tacloban via San Juanico. Marabut drop‑off is quick (~45 min–1 hr).
- Entrance Fees: 20–25 PHP per head; pump‑boat tours and gear rental extra .
- Best Season: Dry season (Mar–Jun) offers calm waters. Low season brings fewer crowds—and possibly lower resort rates.
- Bring Water shoes (rocky shores), reef‑safe sunscreen, light snacks if camping on islets.
- Respect: These marine sanctuaries are community‑protected—avoid littering and anchor carefully.
Why Visit Marabut?
Marabut marries off‑grid, Philippines‑at‑its‑finest: soaring karst towers, hidden sea caves, deserted white‑sand coves, and eco-conscious retreats. Whether you’re gliding through limestone channels by kayak, snorkeling over reef gardens, or enjoying fresh seafood at sunset, this is where raw beauty meets genuine warmth and rural charm.
Suggested Itinerary – 2 Days/1 Night
Day 1
- Early arrival via Tacloban → resort check‑in & beach time.
- Afternoon kayak tour: Tooth, Tinago Lagoon, hidden pools.
- Sunset dinner at resort bar by the cliffs.
Day 2
- Boat trip to Kapuruan or Marakitdakit islet + snorkeling.
- Return to explore Cuatro Marias Rock Garden or jungle trek.
- Late lunch + cultural stops (mat weaving) before heading back.
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