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Catanduanes Uncovered

The Ultimate Island Guide

Explore the Majestic surf, emerald rolling hills, and secret coastal gems that make this the Philippines' most breathtaking frontier.

Puraran Surf Forecast & Seasonal Guide

Posted on January 12, 2026 by Alon Team

Welcome to the ultimate guide for surfing the "Majestic" waves of Puraran. Whether you are a seasoned pro chasing barrels or a beginner looking to catch your first green wave, understanding the seasons in Catanduanes is key to planning your perfect trip.

Surfer riding the Majestic wave at Puraran Puraran Beach golden sand and coastline The Majestic Waves welcome sign at Puraran Beach Puraran Beach with palm trees and rock formations

The Peak Season (September - October)

This is when Puraran lives up to its name. The "Majestic" break forms perfectly, offering hollow, powerful right-hand barrels that attract surfers from around the globe. The swell is consistent, and the vibes are electric. If you want to see the pros in action or test your limits, this is the time to visit.

The Amihan Season (November - March)

As the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) kicks in, the swell remains consistent but can get a bit chopped up by the wind. However, mornings are often glassy and beautiful. This season brings cooler air and massive swells, making it great for those who love raw ocean power. It's also the perfect time for kite surfing in nearby spots.

The Summer Season (April - June)

When the winds die down, the ocean calms. The waves become smaller and more manageable, making it the absolute best time for beginners and longboarders. The water is crystal clear, and the sun is blazing. It's the perfect season for a relaxed surf trip combined with island hopping to Binurong Point and other gems.

No matter when you visit, Alon Surf Stay provides the perfect base camp—check the forecast, grab your board, and we'll see you in the lineup!

Binurong Point - The Ultimate Sunrise Hike in Catanduanes

Posted on January 10, 2026 by Alon Team

They call it the "Batanes of the East," but Binurong Point has a soul entirely its own. Just a short drive and a scenic hike from Alon Surf Stay, this landscape feels like a different world—a place where the emerald earth crashes dramatically into the deep sapphire Pacific.

Binurong Point rolling hills at sunset Visitor at Binurong Point cliffs Scenic view from Binurong Point Binurong Point landscape

The Journey Up

The trek is mild, suitable for most fitness levels, winding through local farmland and canopy before opening up to the sky. As you crest the final hill, the wind hits you first—fresh, salt-laden, and invigorating.

Sunrise Magic

We always recommend our guests wake up early for this one. Watching the sun rise over the Pacific horizon from the cliffs of Binurong is a spiritual experience. The light hits the water, turning it gold, while the mist rolls off the green hills behind you. It is silence, beauty, and raw nature all at once.

Bring a camera, bring a friend, or just bring yourself. Binurong isn't just a view; it's a reminder of how beautiful the world remains. Ask our front desk about arranging a guided morning tour!

Tuwad Tuwad Lagoon - The Blue Lagoon of the North

Posted on January 8, 2026 by Alon Team

Hidden away in the northernmost town of Pandan, the Tuwad Tuwad Lagoon (often called the Blue Lagoon) is one of Catanduanes' best-kept secrets. Unlike the wide-open vistas of Puraran, this is an intimate sanctuary carved deep into the rugged coastline.

Tuwad Tuwad Lagoon crystal clear turquoise waters Aerial view of Tuwad Tuwad rock formations Tuwad Tuwad Lagoon natural pool Visitor enjoying Tuwad Tuwad Lagoon

The Experience

The name "Tuwad" roughly translates to "bend over," a playful nod to the short but steep hike required to reach the water, or perhaps the way you'll be craning your neck to see the towering rock formations surrounding you. Once you arrive, the world falls silent. The water is a stunning shade of turquoise, calm and protected from the open ocean swells.

Why Visit?

It is the perfect spot for swimming and cliff jumping. The water is crystal clear, revealing a vibrant underwater world just beneath the surface. It feels private, exclusive, and untouched. After a few days of surfing the heavy waves in Baras, a dip in the calm, cool waters of Tuwad Tuwad is the perfect reset.

Safety Tip: Visitors should bring aqua shoes because the rock formations leading down to the water can be sharp.

We can arrange a day trip for you that includes a stop here and maybe a fresh seafood lunch in Pandan. just ask us at the front desk!

The Peak & The Pour: A One-Day Journey from Cliffs to Cascades

Posted on January 13, 2026 by Alon Team

There is a specific rhythm to life in Catanduanes. Most people know us for the "Majestic" swell at our doorstep, but if you turn your back to the ocean and head toward the emerald horizon, you'll discover the island's true soul.

To help our guests experience the full spectrum of the island, we've curated the ultimate one-day itinerary: The Peak & The Pour. This journey takes you from the highest coastal cliffs to the deepest jungle basins.

Phase 1: The Sunrise Vigil at Binurong Point

The day begins at 4:30 AM. It sounds early, but the reward is a landscape that feels like it belongs in the Scottish Highlands rather than the tropics.

After a short 20-minute drive from Alon Surf Stay, you'll begin a gentle 30-minute trek through forest trails. As the canopy opens, you are greeted by the rolling green hills of Binurong Point. Stand on the edge of the jagged cliffs as the Pacific sun breaks over the horizon, turning the sapphire sea into liquid gold. It is the quietest, most powerful way to start an island day.

Phase 2: The Scenic Coastal Drive

By 8:30 AM, after a quick breakfast back at the resort or a local spot, we head north toward Gigmoto. This drive is a destination in itself. You'll wind through coastal roads where the mountains literally touch the sea, passing quiet fishing villages and "secret" coves that few tourists ever see.

Phase 3: The Jungle Immersion at Nahulugan Falls

By mid-morning, the air gets cooler and the greens get deeper. You've arrived at Nahulugan Falls.

Unlike the dry heat of the beach, the air here is heavy with the scent of moss and damp earth. Nahulugan is a three-tiered masterpiece. We recommend heading straight to the second tier, where a wide, natural pool awaits. The water is crisp, fresh, and the perfect "reset" for your skin after a morning of salt and sun. Spend your afternoon swimming in the shadow of the massive stone curtain as water thunders down from the jungle heights.

Phase 4: Golden Hour Return

We aim to have you back at Alon by 4:00 PM—just in time to watch the surfers from your balcony with a cold drink in hand. You've seen the highest cliffs and the hidden heart of the jungle, all before sunset.

Traveler's Checklist:

  • Footwear: Sturdy sandals or aqua shoes (the rocks at Nahulugan can be slippery!).
  • Pack: A dry bag for your camera and plenty of water.
  • Transport: Speak to our team at the front desk to book your private car or tricycle for this route.