Isabela is the second largest province in the Philippines and is located in the Cagayan Valley region in Luzon. Its capital is the city of Ilagan. Here we explore the best places in Isabela Philippines.

It is known for its urban attractions such as historical churches and amusement parks. It hides numerous ecotourism wonders such as cascading waterfalls, pristine forests and mighty rivers. It comes with countless natural attractions.

Best Places in Isabela Philippines and Top Tourist Attractions

1. Aguinaldo Shrine

Aguinaldo Shrine – this shrine commemorates the capture of General Emilio Aguinaldo by the invading American forces on March 23, 1901 making it one of the historical tourist spots in Isabela.

It is in this province where the general surrendered to the Americans that ends the Filipino-American War. It offers breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes of mountains and verdant rice fields.

An ideal spot for unwinding and relishing the surrounding sights.

2. Isabela Bonsai Forest

Bonsai Forest – one of the most pristine tourist spots in Isabela. It is an enchanting beauty to behold and it covers more than 5000 hectares with plants ranging from one foot to 7 feet. You’ll literally feel like a giant as you walk through this bizarre ecosystem.

The forest hosts a pletora of flora and fauna species. It’s best to glimpse of the forest while riding a boat towards its narroways.

Hiking to these rich mountains will make one experience that time is standing still and the amazing encounters that will diverse ecosystems just how pristine the place is.

3. Camp Samal

Camp Samal – this historic camp was the site of the National Jamboree 1977 and it is the home of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines.

Spanning at 23.50 hectares, elevated mass of rolling hills 500 feet above sea level overlooks the mighty Cagayan River, the Pinacanauan River, the town of Tumauini itself, the municipality of Delfin Albano, the Sierra Mountain ranges and forest including nearby towns and municipalities.

It is endowed with natural spring, evergreen grasses, trees and shrubs.

4. San Mariano Crocodile Sanctuary

San Mariano Crocodile Sanctuary – is another best places in Isabela Philippines. San Mariano is the home of the critically endangered Philippine crocodile and also to protect the species from extinction that is why the Mabuwaya Foundation and the local authorities created a santuary.

There are only dozens of Philippine Crocodile left in the wild but because of this sanctuary and community-based efforts these gentle creatures are slowly recovering.

5. Dibulo Falls

Dibulo Falls – is the tallest waterfalls and located in the little town of Dinapague. It is one of the remotest tourist spots in Isabela and a must see destination for extreme adventurers, hikers and nature lovers.

This waterfall has three layers and it’s drop measures more than 100 meters. It carved a small pool with crystal clear and icy-cold waters which come from dense forests upstream.

Try jumping from one of the surrounding rocks and experience a rejuvinating swim. It is one of the most notable throughout the Sierra Madre mountain range.

6. Dicotcotan Beach

Dicotcotan Beach – features a three-kilometer long pristine beach and a perfect getaway for those who prefer less touristy destinations. It is located in Palanan, Isabela.

There are coral reefs, dense forest, sea grass beds that adds beauty to the beach and sandy shoreline that is fringed with a coastal forest and a village. Tourist can glimpse of pointed nose dolphins and hump back whales from time to time.

An ideal gateway from the bustle and hustle of urban living and few tourist and locals came here because of the beach lies on a remote destinations.

It is a playground for beach volleyball or for those who want to be less energetic, there’s plenty of space to relax on a sun bed and take in the rays or just relax in the shade where you can hang out. Sandwiched by the Sierra Madre mountain range and the rough fingers of the Pacific Ocean.

7. Fuyot Springs National Park

Fuyot Springs National Park – is one of the natural-based Ilagan, Isabela tourist spots that is lying on the foot of the great Sierra Madre wilderness. Among the sights to see here are the Sta. Victoria Caves that is composed of 12 caves with stunning lattices, stalactites and stalagmites.

There is also the charming Pinzal Falls with its elegant cascade and catchbasin. It offers various activities like the hanging bridge, cable car, zipline, caves, swimming pools and an animal kingdom.

The park is popular draw for hikers, mountaineers, spelunkers, and birdwatchers who come to explore its mountain trails, caves, add rock formations and aviary.

8. Giant Butaka

Giant Butaka – Butaka means a chair with a long arm rest which is not used for the arms but for the legs and it was recorded as the biggest armchair in the Guinness Book of the World’s Record.

It was dubbed as the furniture capital of the province, Ilagan houses the world’s largest butaka, towering at 11 feet, 4 inches high, 20 feet 8 inches long and 9 feet 7 inches wide, weighing at a massive 2,368 kilos. Its wide arms represents the genuine hospitality of the locals and one of the iconic tourist spots in Ilagan, Isabela.

It was built in April 2003 by 25 craftsmen in 29 days, christened as the “Butaka ni Goliath” It is made of premium narra woods and rattan. It can be found in Barangay Alinguigan, along National Highway, beside Bonifacio Park.

9. Honeymoon Island

Honeymoon Island – one of the iconic tourist attractions in Isabela, renowed internationally for its white beaches, coastal forests and rich marine life. It is located in a secluded part of the Pacific Ocean which makes is top tourist attractions in Isabela Philippines.

The island is a favorite gateway for those who wanting to experience a rustic ambiance and a perfect side trip when visiting Cauyan, Isabela tourist spots. It is famous for its pristine beauty that will definitely make a tourist visit the place especially to newlyweds who want to spend their honeymoon at an isolated area.

It served as a sacred ground for the Agta tribe matrimonial rites. It has also a natural forest and a surrounding coral reefs which is appropriate for diving with romantic sceneries and perfect for lovers and travelers who wanted to seek a quiet paradise

10. Our Lady of Atocha Church

Our Lady of Atocha Church – is one of the best known historical spots in Isabela that boasts of a Castilian architecture. It is also known for having an old Spanish church and considered as one of the best churches to visit for a pilgrimage during Holy Week.

The church was declared by the Department of Tourism as one of the national religious tourist attraction in the country. The church was originally built by the Spaniards in the 18^th century.

The church was dedicated to the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, more popularly known today as Our Lady of Atocha and can be found along the Maharlika Highway.

If you are heading to the northern part of the country, check out the best places and top sights in Isabela Philippines.