Puerto Galera

This coastal town is famed among tourists for its abundant pocket beaches and numerous snorkeling spots. The area was selected as a Man and Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1973 and has some of the most diverse coral reefs in Asia. The influx of tourist dollars in recent years has greatly benefited the marine environment because of the huge reduction in fishing, as fishermen gain higher revenue from tourists. Puerto Galera is also A-listed by the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays of the World, the only one in the Philippines to be listed there.

Famous beaches in Puerto Galera are Sabang Beach and White Beach, which have a lively nightlife with copious bars and restaurants. They also have an assortment of first and economy class accommodations.

White Beach remains very popular with local travelers, especially during Holy Week. A particular local attraction is the nine-hole golf course perched on the hillside above White Beach, which commands spectacular views over Puerto Galera’s natural harbor, and the Verde Island Passage. In recent years White Beach has undergone uncontrolled development. New restaurants and places to stay are rapidly encroaching on the beach itself. Little remains of the once charming beach. Puerto Galera town is a pleasant but sleepy Philippine town with few attractions.

 

Big La Laguna Beach is popular for local swimmers and snorkelers. Puerto Galera is among the top diving destination in the Philippines. Renowned for its current rips, diving commonly concentrates around Escarceo Point. Because of the strong currents in Puerto Galera, it is best to hire the services of a skilled local guide or dive center. More than thirty dive sites are within a 5-10 minute boat ride from Sabang Beach. Marine life is highly diverse, with more than 180 species of nudibranch and many species of fish.

The town itself has a number of business and commercial establishments. It has a large central catholic church and a Pier area, with a selection of bistros and cafes.