
Introduction:
This island is one of the must-visit gems of Northern Samar. This island municipality can bring you back because of the famous century-old lighthouse and church. If you’re into outdoors, you can explore the hidden and majestic caves or hop on and off the rock formations by the shore; it’s your choice. If you just want to relax, no worries. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and the continuously blowing cool fresh air. The coconut and other trees create an amazing backdrop by the shore, which is highlighted by the white sand beaches.
Tourist spots in Capul Island:
- Capul Church
- Capul Lighthouse
- Tanga Cave
- Magloyuan Beach
- Abak Beach
How to Get to Capul Island:
- By Air: Book a flight to Tacloban Airport (TAC). Take a Taxi or Jeepney to their Integrated Bus Terminal. Ride a UV Express Van to Calbayog City or Allen. Or, book a flight to Catarman National Airport (CRM). Lastly, book a flight to Calbayor Airport (CYP).
- By Bus: At the DLTB Terminal in Quezon City, ride in a bus bound for Rawis or Turbanada Palapag Terminal, Northern Samar.
My Day 2 started at the Grand Tour Terminal in Catbalogan City. Since there was no available direct route to Allen, I made a cutting trip. I rode in a van bound for Calbayog City and another van bound for the Municipality of Allen, Northern Samar. At the Grand Tour Terminal in Allen, I rode in a trike to Looc Port. Waited for more than an hour. At 12 noon, a boat ride to the island.
Photo of the historical walls of Capul Island. |
The History of Capul:
The Jesuits established the Capul Church, or Fuerza de Capul (San Ignacio de Loyola Parish), in 1596. The original structure was erected using wood and nipa roofs, but it was destroyed by the Moros. It was then repaired in 1781 using stone to fortify against Moro attacks, similar to Fort Santiago in Manila and Fort San Pedro in Cebu. The restoration was led by Fr. Mariano Valero.
Our next destination was the Capul Lighthouse in San Luis, the island's Northern tip. This is designed with a cylindrical lighthouse, a pavilion, and machinery. Its structural design was started in 1892 by Guillermo Brockman; however, the construction started in 1893 under Francisco Perez Munoz. The construction was suspended during the Philippine Revolution but was first lit in December of 1896, while not yet completed. Brockman also designed the prominent Burgos Lighthouse in Ilocos Norte, Cape EngaƱo Lighthouse in Palaui, Cagayan, and Capones Lighthouse in Zambales.
An amazing photo of Capul Lighthouse. |
Like the other lighthouses in the Philippines, this lighthouse was built at a higher elevation on the island. This structure witnessed many historical events by the water as it guided mariners passing by San Bernardino Strait during the Spanish and American colonial periods. This lighthouse still guides all types of sea vessels passing by the island and Matnog, Sorsogon.
Where to Stay in Capul Island:
Hotels and resorts on the island are simple. There are no gigantic commercial structures, and the people live simply. I stayed at Jadil’s Pension House. They have a Facebook page where you can make reservations. Expenses are in the last two photos below.
Going back to Allen, Northern Samar: From Jadil’s, I rode on a motorcycle to the Port of San Luis. Travel Time: 10 to 15 minutes. Please note that there is only 1 scheduled trip from Capul to Allen, and it is at 6 AM. If you miss the trip, you will have to spend another night on the island. Below is my list of Expenses during solo backpacking in Region 8. Click the images to enlarge.
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