Welcome to Batanes: 8 Must-See Destinations for An Unforgettable Vacation
Enter the Home of the Winds
by Edgardo Toledo | June 09, 2022
Batanes may be the smallest province of the Philippines, but trust you won’t run out of exciting things to do here. Located in the vibrant region of Cagayan Valley, the archipelago province is blessed with rolling hills, unique culture, and a blustery climate that makes it a one-of-a-kind destination. Whether Batanes is just on your to-visit list or if you’ve actually got an upcoming trip, read on and discover incredible Batanes tourist spots in these windswept islands that deserve to be included in your itinerary.
Morong Beach (Sabtang Island)
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Calm waves and fine white sand epitomize the magnificence found in Morong Beach. Truth be told, you can just lay down on a mat anywhere, relax and call it a day. There’s something so comforting about hearing the ocean’s soft hums as the cooling breeze caresses your face. It’s the best place to be for some much-needed alone time.
Chawa View Deck (Mahatao)
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This view deck is one of the best vantage points to catch the riveting splendor of Batanes in full view. You can see the ferocious waves colliding against the big rocks — a dramatic sight that cameras just don’t do justice to. If you want to linger and take in the views, rest on the nearby benches and just enjoy the moment.
Naidi Hills (Basco)
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If peace were a place, it would be like Naidi Hills, with its seemingly endless slopes of lush greenery against the azure sky, and the beautiful Basco Lighthouse watching over the locals and tourists. Everything looks majestic from the top, and it would be a disservice not to take lots of photos for the ‘gram.
Valugan Boulder Beach (Basco)
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Valugan Boulder Beach is different from the usual sandy beaches you typically see. As its name suggests, it’s known for its rocky beach — a striking sight, whatever the weather. Watch your steps because going around the beach because it can get a little slippery.
Mt. Carmel Chapel (Sitio Tukon)
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The architecture of Mt. Carmel Chapel resembles a traditional Ivatan home dotted with stones. You can feel the cool summer breeze because the church rests on a hilltop, letting your eyes feast on the postcard-like beauty of your surroundings. Go here in the early morning and welcome the glorious sunrise — as if you’re telling the universe that you’re ready to take on whatever life throws at you!
Vayang Rolling Hills (Basco)
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There are so many reasons to love Vayang Rolling Hills, especially on clear yet blustery days. From afar, you can also watch cows and goats tranquilly going on with their day and the Basco Lighthouse. Put on your favorite travel playlist to feel like the main character in a movie.
Tayid Lighthouse (Batan Island)
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Batanes has several picture-perfect lighthouses, and Tayid Lighthouse is one of them. Looking onto the vast Pacific Ocean, it has a hexagonal tower where you get a picturesque vista of Mt. Iraya and the town of Mahatao. Due to its secluded location, visiting Tayid Lighthouse isn’t that easy, but it’s usually part of travel tours in the province.
Savidug Stone Houses (Sabtang)
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Savidug Stone Houses is a lovely village of stone houses made of white limestones. Their grayish color complements the teeming foliage found throughout the whole area. It feels so relaxing to take a quiet stroll here while appreciating the view of stone houses that play a huge part in the cultural heritage of Batanes.
What other Batanes tourist spots do you recommend? Tell us about them below!