On our 2nd day in Virac, we were fetched in our hotel by Kuya Chris, the owner/driver of the car we rented for a whole day tour around the island. Our first destination is Puraran beach, a “world renowned surfing site” located in the town of Baras in Catanduanes. Facing the pacific ocean it is home to the so-called Majestic waves.
From the provincial capital in the south, we headed eastwards to the town of Baras where Puraran Beach is located. It only took us one hour to reach the beach. Entrance fee is 10 pesos each.
Stunning landscape of cream/golden sand beach, clean and clear waters, marvelous rock formations and views of mountains and the bay welcomed us. It’s quite hot during that time as the sun rose higher but the strong wind blowing from the ocean kept us cool.
We settled in one of the nipa hut cottages along the beach and changed to our swimming attire. We didn’t waste any time, we explored the place walking barefoot in it’s fine cream sand to take photos.
As we wander around, we climbed the rock formation jutting out just off the shores and observed the strong waves crashing on it. What’s interesting about this rock formation is that a mini lagoon is formed inside it during high tide. We joined other tourists swimming at the mini lagoon.
We sat by the beach, savored the serene awesome view and enjoyed a good swim. It was a perfect example of chill, laid back vacation in a beach paradise.
There are 2 resorts in the area (Puting Baybay and Majestic Puraran Beach Resorts) where you can have food and drinks. You may order set meals for 150 pesos with 2 viands and rice. Nipa hut cottage rental along the beach is at Php 150 for the day.
Puraran beach has no high-end, fancy and sophisticated amenities, but there are several cottage style huts available if you want to stay overnight. Accommodations are reasonably priced at around 300 to 500 pesos per night.