Magkawas Falls

Lanuza is a small but lovely town in the province of Surigao Del Sur.  It is bestowed with a wide range of awe-inspiring tourist destinations that have been given much significance by the local government in accordance with its vision statement as a major component of community development.  That is why the people of Lanuza have been warm and enthusiastic in showing the world the best the town has to offer. 

Surfing Grounds

Within the town proper, specifically located at Doot Poktoy, Zone I Lanuza and also in Punta and Sitio Badiang, the Lanuza surfing grounds definitely possess world-class waves comparable to that of Cloud 9 in Siargao. These beach and reef breaks became famous among tourists, particularly surfers, for its eye-catching and roaring waves, a must-see spot for all surfers both local and foreign who are enjoined to compete in the Lanuza Surfing Festival held during the highest eve of tide, usually in the third week of November.

Lanuza Bay

Prospero Pichay, Sr. Boulevard

Ideal for quiet moments alone or conversation with family and friends, a half-kilometer, brick-tiled boulevard  constructed along the sea wall features picturesque views where one can observe the overwhelming afternoon sunset and witness new and professional surfers enjoy a free ride with the waves. It overlooks the purely sand-bottom Doot Poktoy surf spot facing the Pacific Ocean.

Magkawas Falls and Green Paradise

A lush 55-hectare forest full of fascinating endemic species of flora and fauna is certainly a sight to behold. Magkawas Falls and Green Paradise in Sitio Cagmino, Barangay Sibahay offers exciting recreational activities as tourists take pleasure in the 430-meter hike from the National Highway to reach the enthralling 18-meter falls symmetrically surrounded with a luxuriant green environment, flaunting forest trees of different types.

Marine Park and Sanctuary

Located in Sitio Cagmino Barangay Sibahay nine kilometers away from the town proper, this 111-hectare marine protected area has been made as a habitat to different aquatic species. Along that guard house is the famous Sanctuary Café which sells hot and cold concoctions and native food of the town. People will certainly enjoy their stay at this community-based project which exudes fresh air and displays verdant canopies in this pleasantly tranquil environment.

Campamento Cave Park and Silop Spring

An exciting adventure awaits at Barangay Agsam, 5 kilometers away from the town proper. Full of mysterious and bewildering stalactites and stalagmites, the cave is home to various wild animals like bats, snakes and the famous “sajaw” bird whose nests are used for soup and fertilizer. Stalactite pillars, rock formations and arched ground are outstanding features of the park.  Camp “mento” (Camp Bell), the original version of the cave’s name, was formerly a Japanese refuge during the Japanese-American war in 1942. Alongside the area is a cool spring that comes from the bottom of the cave, an additional unique selling point of this tourist destination.

Mangrove Forest

Lanuza also boasts of its rich mangrove forest that serves as the breeding ground of various fish. This natural ecosystem features 177 hectares of navigable estuarine that winds through a scenic view of thick, green vegetation and emptying out into the Doot Poktoy surf spot. The local community also takes full obligation in protecting and preserving this promising site, viewed as a great way to increase fish productivity.

Century-old Ancestral House

The Herrera Ancestral House was built on May 28, 1898 for business purposes.  This 112–year-old “White House,” is situated at the heart of the town, just a block away from the Prospero B. Pichay Sr. Boulevard.  It showcases varied antiques and relics, and it serves as the museum of the municipality. This is currently managed by the heirs of the late Don Gabriel Uriarte Herrera, the first mayor of Cantilan, who owned this historical house.

Surf Camp and Boulevard Café
Intentionally established as a surfer rendezvous, this native structure accepts overnight and long stays for tourists at reasonable rates. It offers various forms of services like free wi-fi internet, cable ready TV, and a 24-hour canteen that sells affordable yet delicious food and other concoctions.

 

How to get there
By air: Lanuza is accessible by air through Bancasi Domestic Airport in Butuan City and Surigao Domestic Airport in Surigao City. Two of the major airlines in the country (Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific Airlines) have regular flight schedules every day.
By sea: Through the ports of Surigao City and Nasipit in Agusan del Norte, Lanuza can be reached by sea through a number of regularly scheduled sea trips by different shipping lines (Cokaliong, Cebu Ferries, WG&A, etc.)
By Land: Lanuza can as well be accessed by land through public utility vehicles such as buses, jeepneys and van-for-hire. They travel in a regular schedule from any point of Caraga Region and its neighboring places as far as Davao City and Cagayan de Oro City.

Accommodations
•    Muyco's Resort by the Bay - Tandag City, Surigao del Sur
•    Shacene Pension House, Restaurant and KTV - Tandag City, Surigao del Sur
•    Zyphora Garden Hotel - Cantilan, Surigao del Sur
•    Playa Pacifico Beach Resort - Tandag City, Surigao del Sur
•    TJ Oasis Beachview Resort - Cantilan, Surigao del Sur