Indeed, beautiful things can come out of tragic stories. That’s the story of Yolanda Beach located in Barangay Jagnaya, Salcedo, Eastern Samar.
Prior to Typhoon Yolanda in 2013, the beach did not really attract that much attention. But after being hit by the strongest typhoon in recent history, the storm surge and strong winds has dramatically transformed the landscape of the beach and widened the coastline.
Today, Yolanda Beach is the most visited tourist spot in Salcedo, and slowly gaining popularity from tourists and locals around the neighboring towns and provinces.
The first part of the beach is hidden from view by large rocks, which also provides shade to the tourists. Aside from the vast stretch of white sand, Yolanda Beach is popular for its natural lagoon, receiving water from the waves constantly slapping into the shores.
This lagoon is located at the entrance of a small cave that gives shades to swimmers, and a portion of the lagoon extends into the interior of the cave. You can also stay here if ever the cottages near the entrance are fully occupied. Overnight camping is also allowed. The sun rise here truly is mesmerizing.
If you can’t stay overnight, at least try coming early in the morning to witness this magic unfold before you. There are cottages around the area, but there are no stores nearby so make sure to bring with you foods and drinks.
For now, Yolanda Beach still remains open to the public with minimal developments, although a resort is already being constructed within the vicinity. So if you’re yearning for some world-class beach experience that will not drain your budget, you really need to visit Yolanda Beach.
RATES & OTHER INFORMATION
Fees:
- Entrance fee: P10 per head
- Cottage fee: P300-P400
Other information:
- Open: 24/7
- Cellphone signal around the area is weak.
- Prepare and bring your own foods and drinks because there are no stores around.
HOW TO GET THERE?
Exact location: Barangay Jagnaya, Salcedo, Eastern Samar, Eastern Visayas
By van: If you’re coming from Tacloban City, ride a van bound for Guiuan, Eastern Samar. Van terminal options include Van-Van’s and Duptours in Tacloban’s downtown area. Fare is around P250-P300 one-way and travel time is 3-3.5 hours. Instruct the driver to drop you off at Salcedo’s market located in the town proper.
From there, you can ride a tricycle going to Yolanda Beach. Fare is at P250 for the whole tricycle (one way) and travel time is around 10-15 minutes. We recommend that you arrange with the driver to pick you up at a certain time because there are no tricycles or jeepney that passes through the beach.
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