It's the time of the year again when the hot summer sun is bothering each and every moving body in the world. We are not complaining, not at all. For this is also the time when friends come together and go on a summer getaway to welcome the summer heat.

View from the top

This year, the gang's destinations were Sambawan Island and Tinago Falls--both found in Biliran Province. Biliran is a small island-province located in the northern part of the region. It is connected by a short bridge to the island of Leyte.

Sambawan Island is a small white sand island located at the north-western area of Maripipi, Biliran.

I really love this photo. And it's worth sharing.

From Tacloban, we reached Kawayan Wharf at 10:30am. We booked a pump-boat a week before our trip to avoid the hassle of waiting for the next available boat. From a distance, the seas seemed so calm. But after 15-20 minutes, the waves started to get bigger--but not to worry, the pump-boat driver navigates with care and caution.

After an hour, we finally reached the island. I knew that Sambawan Island is famous locally, but I never thought it would be this charming.

view from the dock. Majestic, eh?!

Entrance fee to the resort is 100pesos/head. Cottage costs 500-1000pesos depending on the size. They also have overnight accommodations that costs 3,500 pesos, inclusive of meals.  If you prefer to put up a tent, you can do so.Water costs 25 pesos per jug. We didn't drink the water we bought there because we were not sure if it's safe for drinking. Better ask the staff before deciding to drink it.

Pay all fees here. Located at the entrance, right next to the docks.

Bridge leading to the beach and cottage area.

Cottages on the left cost 1,500pesos. Lots of camper too.

Smaller cottages for 500 pesos only.

Water is so clean and so pristine that you won't be able to stop yourself from immediately take a dip upon arrival. But please swim with caution. The beach is rocky. Better to wear aqua shoes or slippers. It might be difficult to swim in but it will definitely keep your feet safe.

to the left...

Now, to the right....

Now let me name some of the existing amenities as of my last visit to the island. They have separate toilets, changing rooms, and shower room for the ladies and gents. They also have a canteen if you wish to buy hot and cold drinks, chips, toiletries, among others. At night, they have genset-operated lighting. When we were there, the generator set broke down causing a 4-hour blackout. If you're fond of diving, they also offer diving services.

Toilets, showers, and changing rooms are available for everyone.

Canteen/Convenience Store

Be clean. So the future generations can enjoy what we are enjoying now.