I have to say I was skeptical when I heard them (HB and my nieces) planning to go to Biri Island to see the Rock Formations. Riding on a motorcycle locally named "Habal habal" is one thing, but a 45-minute  traveling by a pump boat is a big concern to me. Because I feel like I am suffocating when there's a strong gust of wind.  Needless to say, I was obviously under stressed and sadly been forced to withdraw from joining them. Believe me, strong and lashing wind scares me more than height. (Just to let you know I did survive the Skywalk Extreme in Cebu.) I'm pretty sure most of you don't have to deal with this kind of problem, but for me, it's a tension hard to deal with. Anyway, I apologize that I've started this post with my worries.

On to Biri Island, I was so envious when I saw HB's beautiful photographs. Views of different impressive gigantic rock formations sculpted through time by the savage waves of the Pacific Ocean and massive currents of San Bernardo Strait, and the ocean views are just breathtaking.

Be warned though, there is a gazillion of photos to admire and delight your senses. :)

the pump boat port in Lavezares town taking visitors to Biri Island

Nuestra Señora de Salvacion sculpture positioned 3 km from the shoreline

inside the pump boat

passengers already get to bask the magnificent view

The island of Biri is located in the northernmost tip of the province of Northern Samar, facing the blue sea of the Pacific Ocean to the East and the famous San Bernardino Strait to the West. There are seven impressive rock formations in Biri Island namely Magasang, Magsapad, Macadlaw, Puhunan, Bel-at, Caranas, and Pinahahawan.

start of the trek in Biri island

this dog in Biri Island would follow them wherever they go

Start to embark on a pump boat ride very early in the morning to avoid relentless big waves. I advise visitors to wear sunglasses and rash guards for sun protection. It was a scorching hot summer day when HB and my nieces visit Biri Island. When they came back late in the afternoon, I was really shocked to see them all super tanned. It was like they stayed there for a month. hahaha!

It is also advisable to bring sunblock, sturdy footwear, a fully-charged digital camera, a hat, towel or sarong (to dry with if you want to swim in the saltwater pool). Wear shorts and sandals, since you'll be wading in up to thigh-high water to get to some of the rock formations.

After admiring the impressive rock formations, you may want to visit the Biri church sanctuary named Saint Vincent Ferrer Church, which is located in the town proper. According to provincial tourism, this well-crafted and meticulously sculpted altar depicts Hispanic culture for a typical place of worship.  It was built through the consolidated effort of some kind-hearted locals, foreign nationals and donors from nearby towns. It has now become of the tourist attractions of the island because of its grandeur and spectacular craftsmanship

Saint Vincent Ferrer Church in Biri Island

inside Biri Church

How to get to Biri Island by air, Cebu Pacific Airlines have daily flights to Catarman, capital of Northern Samar. From Catarman, take a 30-minute jeepney ride to Lavezares, and from there, a 45-minute motorboat ride to Biri Island. Then take the Habal-habal (motorcycle). The Habal-habal driver acts also as a tourist guide.

If you're taking a land trip from Manila, air-conditioned buses are available daily to Allen, Catarman and Calbayog. Aircon vans and ordinary buses ply from Tacloban to Catarman route. Get off at the municipality of Lavezares, the jump-off point, and take pump boats going to Biri Island.

If you're coming from Cebu, one can take a boat or vessel bound for Calbayog City or Ormoc City in Leyte. From Manila, passenger boats travel via Tacloban or Calbayog City.

If you're planning your vacation in Calbayog City, I'd recommend staying at S&R Bed and Breakfast. Please do not hesitate to contact them.