Tucked away on Leyte's coastline, Tanauan is a secret paradise for adventure lovers and water sports fans. Besides its beauty and history, this town is famous as the Skimboarding Capital of the Philippines, attracting thrill-seekers from all around.
Tanauan's claim to skimboarding fame comes from its great location. The long sandy beaches and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced skimboarders. The warm tropical climate means you can enjoy the sport all year.
Champions from Tanauan
What makes Tanauan special is not just its beautiful setting but also its role in developing local talent. The town has produced some of the country's best skimboarding champions, who learned their skills on Tanauan's waves. The community's support has turned Tanauan into a hotspot for skilled athletes, confirming its status as the Skimboarding Central.
Competitions and Celebrations
The Tanauan local government successfully resurrected the skimboarding competition in December 2023, following a nine-year hiatus. The event garnered enthusiastic participation from over 70 skimboarding enthusiasts during the three-day spectacle. Mayor Gina Merilo expressed her motivation for reviving the competition, citing its roots in their town and emphasizing its potential to attract tourists to the municipality. As the birthplace of skimboarding in the Philippines, Tanauan proudly hosted the inaugural event in 1999 and continued until 2012.
The competition has become a significant platform to showcase Tanauan's rich cultural heritage alongside the thrilling display of skimboarding skills. Beyond the sporting aspect, the event has evolved into a celebration of local culture, promising a delightful and engaging experience for participants and spectators alike. Tanauan's commitment to revitalizing this event underscores its dedication to fostering community spirit and drawing attention to the unique charm of their municipality.
Protecting Nature and Being Responsible
As Tanauan gains attention for skimboarding, there's a growing focus on taking care of the environment. Local efforts aim to preserve the natural beauty of the coastline and protect marine life, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy skimboarding in this lovely part of the Philippines.
Exploring Tanauan's History and Culture
Tanauan is not just known for skimboarding – it's a beautiful coastal spot with interesting places to explore. Check out landmarks like Santo Niño Church and Leyte Landing Memorial to learn about Tanauan's history.
Besides the scenic views, Tanauan is a food lover's paradise. Try local treats like "binagol," a sweet dish made with taro and coconut milk, or enjoy the savory "batil patong" with flat noodles and minced meat.
Experience Tanauan's hospitality by chatting with the friendly locals, who can share stories and suggest hidden gems. With exciting activities, cultural experiences, and delicious food, Tanauan offers a well-rounded destination for every visitor.
