ISLAND HOPPING À SAMAL

Samal boasts an interesting natural environment, so it's no surprise that island hopping is one of the main activities here.

Talikud Island. Adjacent to Samal Island, Talikud Island is one of the most popular in the area. A number of resorts have set up here, and you can also enjoy its long white sandy beach during the day. Its seabed is popular with snorkeling enthusiasts, as it is home to a coral garden covering several hectares. You can also camp on the beach.

Ligid Islands. These are two islets off the coast of Samal, the smaller of four hectares being home to the Buenavista resort. While both are superb islets, it's the seabed that attracts dive enthusiasts, with its abundance of big fish and coral.

Kaputian Beach. The waters are turquoise, the sand is white and the nearby coral is home to a large number of fish. Kaputian Beach is also renowned as a pleasant spot for camping and spending the night under the stars.

Sabang Cliff. A change from the usual white sandy beaches, here you'll find rocky cliffs of varying heights, perfect for jumping into the turquoise water.

Monfort Bat Sanctuary. This cave is home to hundreds and hundreds of bats. As the visit takes place during the day, there's no risk - they're asleep. But to see them all huddled together, clinging to the rock face, is a unique and impressive sight.