Catanduanes Island — Puraran Surf & Falls Circuit

Catanduanes, the rugged island province off Bicol's eastern coast, is one of the Philippines' last under-the-radar adventure destinations, and this two-day circuit captures its best. The star is Puraran Beach in Baras, home to the world-class wave known as Majestic, a fast, hollow, right-hand barrel that draws serious surfers during the typhoon and northeast monsoon seasons. The golden-sand bay also has gentler shoulder waves and a coral reef for swimming and snorkeling when the swell is mellow, so it suits both surfers and beachgoers.

Beyond the surf, the circuit weaves in Catanduanes' dramatic scenery. A short ride away lies Binurong Point, where sloping green hills and sea-carved rock formations make for an unforgettable sunrise hike along cliff-edge trails. The route also visits the island's lush waterfalls and river spots, such as the cascades and pools fed by the surrounding rainforest, giving you a freshwater counterpoint to the wild Pacific coast. With two days you get enough time to surf, hike and chase falls across one of the country's most scenic and least crowded islands.