There are many hidden gems in the 7000+ islands of the Philippines and uncovering them is no easy task, but the rewards reaped at the end and the journey of discovering them are satisfying and irreplaceable. Tinago Holiday Resort, which in vernacular literally means “hidden”, is one of those priceless treasures that give its visitors a unique experience.

Tinago Holiday Resort is an up-and-coming resort and a famous hidden gem in Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte. This private resort was developed into one of the province’s most prominent destinations by 3 licensed tour guides who call themselves the AJJM Brotherhood. It is also part of a larger protected marine sanctuary in a group of islands in Barangay Tinago.  

Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda

The forefront of this resort is the crystal clear Lapsay Lagoon, a shallow body of water formed by the surrounding rock islands with low-lying rocks and corals separating it from the open sea. The waters of the lagoon are so tranquil that the verdant rock islets are reflected in the water.

The lagoon is also very clean and pristine that when the waters are still, the basin looks like a transparent glass. There are areas with a shade of teal that are deep enough for those who want to dive into the refreshing blue. Aside from the lagoon, there are also more hidden caves and islets that can be explored using a small boat.

Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda

Although the resort does not allow overnight stays to preserve the natural surroundings, there are various activities that can be done that all revolve around the lagoon and exploring the other wonders of the place. There are also cottages available which are reserved upon payment of the entrance fee. The cottages get fully-booked quickly especially on weekends and holidays since they are only lent at a “first come, first serve” basis.

Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda
Photo by Kent Kyushiro Cotanda

RATES & OTHER INFORMATION

DAY USE:

  • Entrance fee: ₱100 per person, includes cottages

NOTE: Cottages are quickly fully-booked on holidays and weekends

OTHER INFORMATION:

HOW TO GET THERE?

Exact location: Barangay Tinago, Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte

BY CAR: Navigate with Waze or Google Maps and set your destination to “Tagana-an Municipal Hall” in Tagana-an, Surigao del Norte. Ask the locals for directions to Ban Ban Wharf, the jump-off point to Tinago Holiday Resort. Parking space is available near the wharf. From there, take a motorboat to the resort.


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