If you're craving an escape where history, nature, and adventure collide—Leyte should be on your travel bucket list. As someone who’s personally wandered through its scenic roads and stunning coastlines, I can honestly say: Leyte is an underrated gem in the Philippines that deserves the spotlight.
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| Kalanggaman Island |
From the turquoise waters of Kalanggaman Island to the iconic San Juanico Bridge, Leyte offers an unforgettable mix of postcard-worthy beaches, historical landmarks, and peaceful rural charm.
Here’s a guide to the top places to visit in Leyte that you shouldn't miss:
San Juanico Bridge – Tacloban & Samar
Connecting the islands of Leyte and Samar, San Juanico Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the Philippines. It’s not just an engineering marvel—it’s also an amazing spot, especially at night with its new LED lights.
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| San Juanico Bridge |
Kalanggaman Island – Palompon
A slice of paradise in the middle of the sea, Kalanggaman Island is Leyte’s crown jewel. It’s famous for its long white sandbar, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful, remote vibes. It is perfect for both chill beach days and content-worthy photos. Don’t miss the sunset—it’s magical.
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| Kalanggaman Island |
Travel Tip:
Only 500 tourists are allowed per day, so book ahead. Day tour and overnight stays available via boat from Palompon or Malapascua (Cebu).
Old Leyte Provincial Capitol – Tacloban City
The Old Leyte Provincial Capitol—a majestic neoclassical landmark along Magsaysay Boulevard in Tacloban—was constructed between 1917 and 1924 under American colonial rule, designed by architect Antonio Mañalac Toledo, and adorned with Ionic columns and ornate reliefs by sculptor Vidal Tampinco
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| Old Leyte Provincial Capitol |
MacArthur Landing Memorial Park – Palo
One of the most iconic World War II landmarks in the country. This is where Gen. Douglas MacArthur fulfilled his promise: "I shall return." It's rich in history and emotion—plus, it’s free to visit.
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| MacArthur Landing Memorial Park |
M/V Eva Jocelyn Shrine
A powerful symbol of tragedy and resilience, the M/V Eva Jocelyn Shrine, also known as the Yolanda Shipwreck Memorial Park, stands in Barangay Anibong, Tacloban. This poignant memorial preserves the bow of the cargo vessel that was washed ashore by the devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) on November 8, 2013.
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| M/V Eva Jocelyn Shrine, |
Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño
The Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño (commonly called Sto. Niño Church) in downtown Tacloban is a beloved landmark and spiritual home for Taclobanons and Leyteños. Founded in 1770 by Augustinians, it became a parish dedicated to the miraculous Santo Niño image—which is credited with ending a cholera outbreak in 1889.
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| Archdiocesan Shrine of Santo Niño |
Lintaon Peak and 16,000 Blossoms – Baybay City
Get a panoramic view of Baybay and experience the Instagrammable "16,000 blossoms"—LED-powered blooms that light up the night. I recommend to come before sunset for the golden hour glow, then stay to see the flowers light up after dark.
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| Lintaon Peak and 16,000 Blossoms |
IncreDable Café
Nestled atop Barangay Villa Solidaridad, IncreDable Café is a serene morning destination famed for its dreamy sea of clouds views over Baybay’s rolling hills. With opening hours from 4:30 AM to 9 AM, it's perfect for catching that magical sunrise moment. Arrive early (4:30–6 AM) during cooler months (Nov–Feb) to watch clouds creep through the valleys—creating a surreal, Instagram-worthy view.
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| IncreDable Café |
Binaybayon Boardwalk
The Binaybayon Boardwalk is a popular attraction in Baybay City, Leyte. It's known for its fresh sea breeze, beautiful sunsets, and views of the city, as well as the Pantalan Food Court, a popular spot for food and relaxation. You can find here Leyte's famous chicken barbecue.
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| Binaybayon Boardwalk |
The Farm at Guinciaman
The Farm at Guinciaman offers a wholesome, immersive countryside getaway. This scenic farm resort offers cozy farmstay lodging at Alqueria de San Miguel, with well-appointed deluxe and family rooms. You can enjoy here atv trails, forest bathing and interactive farming activities.
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| Farm at Guinciaman |
Where To stay
Fan’s Hotel (PALO)
It is newly opened, features diverse room types (Premier Queen, Family Suite, Executive Queen/Twin, etc.), and delivers free parking, Wi‑Fi, restaurant/café facilities suited for both leisure and business stays .
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| Fan’s Hotel |
L’Asunsion Hotel (Baybay City)
It offers an upscale experience with modern rooms (Standard Queen, Superior Twin/Queen, Deluxe Twin) priced from ₱4,500 to ₱6,500 per night.
For mote hotels in Tacloban, check AGODA for pricing and availability of rooms. You can also book rooms on KLOOK and use the promo code, PINOYTRAVELKLOOK to get a 5% discount.
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| L’Asunsion Hotel |
What to eat
Leyte offers a variety of delicious local delicacies that reflect the island's rich culinary heritage. Here are some must-try Leyteño treats and dishes when visiting:
Binagol - A sweet and sticky delicacy made from taro (gabi), coconut milk, condensed milk, sugar, and egg yolk, cooked in a coconut shell and wrapped in banana leaves.
Moron (or Chocolate Morón) - A sticky rice cake made from glutinous rice mixed with cocoa and coconut milk, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
How to Get to Leyte
By Air: The fastest way is to fly to Tacloban Airport (Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport). Flights are available daily from Manila and Cebu, with AirAsia. It offers daily affordable flights from Manila to Tacloban (Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport). The flight takes just about 1 hour and 20 minutes
By Sea: Ferries from Cebu and other Visayan ports also connect to Ormoc, Baybay, and other cities.
Whether you're a beach bum, a history geek, or just a curious traveler, Leyte has something for you. It's a place that may not be as hyped as other Philippine destinations, but that’s what makes it even more special. You come here for the calm, the culture, and the feeling of discovering something real.
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