DiscoverBaras
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Baras.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Baras
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Baras
- When you are planning to go on a holidays to Baras, Catanduanes, you will immediately notice that the municipality is located at the eastern end of the Catanduanes Island, in the Bicol Region, and is a quiet yet active holiday resort to the noise and pollution of Manila.
- The town is known to have Puraran Surf Beach which is a sea where the strong waves of the Pacific crash on a rough reef forming a show of such spectacular sites that attract surfers and photographers worldwide.
- The topography behind the beach becomes very sharp to the mountains which are forested thus forming a dramatic backdrop as one strolls along the narrow coastal plain.
- The community surrounding the sea is closely knit together and families are engaged in the fields of coconut palm and the fishing spots that have been the same as long as the families have existed.
- Although you are not a surfer, the sheer size of the waves rolling in the distance gives you a certain awe feeling that any visit makes you feel as though you have entered a living movie.
- You can make bookings and watch out before you step on the sand by making arrangements with world pinoy flights so that you can enjoy a smooth, low cost ride that will directly take you to the Bicol provinces around.
- Capital (of the province): Virac
- International airport: None in Baras
- Nearest commonly used airports:
- Bicol International Airport (Daraga, Albay) – main domestic airport for the Bicol Region (~6–7 hours by land and ferry)
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Manila) – primary international gateway (~12–14 hours by land and ferry)
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official / local languages: Bikolano (Catanduanes dialect), Filipino, English
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic
Reason 02
Highlights
- Puraran Surf Beach is the treasure of the holidays to Baras, Catanduanes, its Legendary, majestics reef break that is a long and barreling wave that is a playground to high-level surfers.
- This coastline of the Pacific is jagged, and the land is facing the untamed, turquoise sea, and this makes a dramatic seascape that is ideal in dramatic photography.
- Within a few kilometres distance to the inland areas, there are natural coves and large rock formations that predetermine the memorable sunrise or sunset scenes.
- Fishing and copra are the main economic activities of the town and you can observe small fishing vessels coming back to town with fresh tuna and crabs in the morning.
- It is full of stalls of seafood, tropical fruits, and homemade Bicolano delicacies, which makes local markets a taste that provides the authentic flavour of the island culture.
- During the evenings the whole of the municipality is lit in the annual Surfing Festival where the wail of the surfboards striking the waves is punctuated by the local music and dance.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- Surfing is considered prime in the so-called, the Majestics season, during July-November, when the largest and most steady pacific swells occur due to the Southwest and passing Monsoon winds.
- The months between December and June have fewer waves or gentler waves that are favourable to beginners and the weather is more predictable.
- The region is warm and humid throughout the year due to the tropical climate, though the region may be particularly humid during the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) that is experienced starting in December.
- Local people recommend coming in the season earlier to find a place to stay because the number of surfers fills up hotels and resorts that are situated close to Puraran Beach.
- The most appropriate time to see the wildlife is early morning when the animals in the jungle are most active before the heat of the day subdues them.
- To the traveller of the Baras, Catanduanes, holidaying will be a good experience in the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) where the weather will be nice but there will not be many people around.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Puraran Beach
- With surfing classes that are of world standard, the beach also provides the opportunity to ride the famous wave called the majestics with the help of a professional.
- The shore is also perfect even when surfing is not happening with a blend of smooth white sand and clear turquoise water that are perfect in swimming and sunbathing.
- Other local restaurants are close by and offer fresh seafood dishes that go hand in hand with the seashores and offer a taste of the local flavour.
- At the weekend, informal sandcastle contests are conducted in the area, which reflects the fun element of this surfing centre.
- The Sunset at Puraran Beach is a place cannot be missed as the sun is setting behind the Pacific horizon and it casts the sky with the colour of orange, pink, and violet.
- When you are tired of the water, you can relax in a beachfront cabana with yoga classes and guided meditations.
Majestics Viewpoint
- This is perched at a minimal distance of a walk form the beach and provides a bird-eye view of the “Majestics” wave in full glory.
- The perspective is particularly common with photographers seeking to take the expansive curve of the reef break without the blemishes of crowds.
- During sunny days, it is possible to take a glass of local coconut water and a simple snack and watch a surf in real-time.
- The formation of seasonal clouds in the photos also contributes to drama and hence the location is a favourite to an imaginative traveller.
- The natural shade of the view is a relief on the midday sun, and it is ideal to take a quick rest or a quick nap under a palm tree.
- The quiet atmosphere of the viewpoint attracts couples to have a romantic walk along the waves at night for holidays to Baras.
Baras Town Proper
- The central square of the town has a municipal hall of a colonial style, which reflects the local architecture and history of the administration.
- Tourists have a chance to walk along the promenade where street vendors offer hand- made pieces of arts and roasted coconut chips.
- There are small cafes all around the plaza that sells the Bicol Express and the kinilaw, which allows one to sample the special dishes of the region.
- The locals usually come to this place to talk about the community events, which provides tourists with an overview of the life.
- One can take a stroll out of the plaza, which will take one to a small museum, where photos of early settlers and surf pioneers can be found.
- During the evenings, there is the performance of open music in the plaza by the local bands and the traditional Bicolano musical instruments.
St. Joseph the Worker Parish Church
- It is a building of a religious nature, constructed in the $1950s$, and which functions as a spiritual light to the community due to being a catholic church, symbolising the religious culture of the area.
- It has a white face and plain altar that is decorated with floral designs every Sunday forming a peaceful atmosphere to meditate on.
- Tourists can attend the daily Mass or just sit in the courtyard of the church in order to experience the atmosphere of peace.
- The tower of the church provides a $360$ degree panorama of the surrounding sea and mountains, and therefore a secret attraction to the visitors.
- The garden outside the church is planted with herbs and local flowers which are pronounced during rituals.
- The yearly feast day of the church in March attracts thousands of pilgrims and the town is a rich place of faith and togetherness.
Reason 05
Discover More
Rock Formations
- To the south of Puraran there is a row of dramatic limestone cliffs which naturally form arches and tide pools that may be waded or climbed.
- These structures are home to different types of marine organisms such as colourful fishes and sea anemones, which is ideal to snorkelling lovers.
- The rock faces also present some geological aspects that are of interest to both earth science and geological students.
- Local guides offer safety measures and tell how the rocks were created in millions of years.
- When the tide is low, the tide pools turn into little aquariums and visitors can see small crustaceans in their close-up.
- The space is also an idyllic location to meditate or sketch, which artists and yogis can use to get inspired for holidays to Baras.
Coconut Plantations
- The greater part of the coastal plain is covered with rolling green areas, and the rows of coconut palms are as tall as small houses.
- The tourists will be provided with guided tours that will explain how copra is harvested and its significance to the local economy.
- The plantations also emit warm sweet scent of ripe coconuts that fill the atmosphere and form a relaxing odour.
- Visitors even have an opportunity to taste freshly squeezed coconut water direct out of the tree in certain farms and this is refreshing.
- Small community events e.g. dance performances or local feasts take place in many plantations during harvest seasons.
- The greeneries offer an ideal setting in which to take up family pictures or have a serene break in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.
Local Market (Public Market)
- Each day the market opens in the morning with shiny stalls which present the catch of the day, tuna, mackerel and some shellfish.
- The vendors welcome the visitors with pleasant smiles and give minor samples of laing and Bicol Express prepared with fresh ingredients.
- The vibrant nature of the market is a mixture of conversations, music and clink of coconut shells which are utilised as cups.
- Buy local handicrafts, e.g. woven mats or embroidered T-shirts, and buy it directly at the craftsmen who respect their professions.
- The local dialect can be learned and phrases of use learnt in the market better than in any other situation.
- There is a more laid back atmosphere in the evenings as families sit together and talk about the day and about tomorrow.
Resort Cuisine
- In and around resorts, there are restaurants with exquisite versions of Bicolano cuisine, which utilises local seafood and organic herbs.
- Most resorts have a signature dish, which is the kinilaw that is served on shaved ice, a combination of tropical flavours and a cool version.
- After-dark packaging Sunset dinner can also be found in many resorts, where the diner has meals on the beach as the sun sets behind the horizon.
- The menu is accompanied by live entertainment of traditional Bicolano music, which adds to the sensual experience.
- Seasonal menus are updated every week, which is why the freshest catch is reflected, and repeat customers are not bored.
- Cooking classes are also available in some resorts where the visitors are taught how to make Bicolano dishes, which helps in the exchange of cultures.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- The Bicolano is a native language used in the island of Catanduanes, and in the case of holidays to Baras, it will make the conversations more exciting with new expressions and idioms.
- Surfing has become a part of the local identity, whereby families of the locals name their children after waves, surfboards, or beach features.
- The community strongly depends on the sea, and fishing, copra processing, and tourism have the symbiotic relationship.
- Street parades, traditional dances, and community feasts are also part of the festivities like the Baras Town Fiesta that celebrate the heritage of the area.
- The local young people demonstrate their abilities in friendly contests during the annual Surfing Festival and this event instils a sense of pride and brotherhood.
- The local craftsmen, particularly those who make coconut products maintain old methods that have been in existence throughout centuries.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- Kinilaw is a cool raw fish salad that has been flavoured with vinegar, onions, and spices that give it a tangy kick and, therefore, suits the tropical climate.
- Bicol express is made of sweet pork, cooked in creamy coconut milk and hot siling labuyo, which makes a unanimity between spiciness and richness.
- Laing is taro leaf simmersed in coconut milk, a hearty and meatless meal rich in vegetables, but also nutritious.
- The fish, crabs, and shrimps are fresh and daily meals, which are simply grilled or steamed with the local herbs.
- Coconut water, which is directly drained out of young palms, is a naturally refreshing beverage that keeps the traveller cool in the hot afternoons.
- Local delicacies sold on the local market also include: tuhok (fried dough) and puto (steamed rice cakes) which are ideal as a quick bite when sightseeing.
Fun
- At the Puraran Beach, surfing lovers have the opportunity of riding or getting some lessons on how to ride the huge waves of the Pacific Ocean.
- The subjects available to the photography enthusiasts will be endless: the dramatic cliffs, reef breaks, and colourful ocean sunsets.
- Another major attraction is beach relaxation, whereby there are peaceful stretches of sand, which are hardly ever crowded, and where one can relax.
- The adventurers will get the chance to visit the rocky coves, and cliff-side trails that are both trekking and cliff-diving.
- The cultural tours around the town starting at the plaza and church give a clearer insight into the history and the traditions of the community.
- Night owls are given a vibrant, but relaxed scene in evenings like acoustic concerts and beach bonfires.
Fashion
- Cotton and linen are lightweight materials that are vital in ensuring that one is comfortable in the hot and humid weather.
- Board shorts, surf shorts and rash guards are typical clothes worn by the locals and visitors alike and the beach lifestyle.
- Reef booties or sandals are used to prevent scrapes on the feet against rocks or coral in the course of walking up and down the coast.
- A large hat or a baseball cap can be used to protect the skin against the severe tropical sun.
- High SPF sunblock, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle would be useful accessories to increase safety and hydration.
- Simple but elegant clothes like kaftans or loose dresses are popular in the evenings when people want to go to dinner or attend cultural events.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- The Pacific ocean is large giving the possibilities of limitless swimming, snorkelling and even diving amid coral reefs.
- The coral reefs also provide the popular Majestics surf break besides support a plethora of sea life such as colourful fish and sea turtles.
- The green coconut trees that cover the interiors offer shade and cool breeze to the inland landscape giving a cool respite to the heat of the sea.
- The coast is surrounded by mountainous ridges that have concealed waterfalls that can be approached through hiking, which provide an environment that is cool and misty.
- Seabirds like terns and seagulls can be seen flying over the waves and that gives a dynamic touch to the scenic tableau.
- The biodiversity of the island is also rich consisting of endemic insects and plants, which makes it a very interesting place to visit by eco-tourists and scientists alike.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- The Catanduanes Surfing Festival is a more significant yearly occasion that aims at the professional surfer, amateur, and spectators to participate in a sequence of races and exhibitions.
- The timing of the festival is well synchronised with the biggest waves, and the waves are in their best condition to be as exciting as possible.
- Local sellers establish booths that sell Bicolano foods, souvenirs, and crafts to provide tourists with a flavour of local food and customs.
- Cultural performances include traditional dances, acoustic music that are also a part of the event and reveal the spirit of arts on the island.
- Baras Town Fiesta on March 19 th (in the honour of Saint Joseph the Worker) is a celebration marked by a mass, a street carnival and communal feasts that reflect the unity of the community.
- The lanterns and floats are established all over the streets of the town and fireworks are used to light up the night sky during the fiesta, making it an unforgettable experience to people of all ages for holidays to Baras.