Acaban Cave also known as Lover's Cave has been considered one of the famous attraction in Biliran Island. It's just a 15 minute ride from home. It is located in Brgy. Acaban in the municipality of Culaba.
It is easily accessible to any type of transport. Some even come through motorboat. From the national road, you would just need to have a short walk on the downhill stairs, which is actually my favorite and when you reach the bottom you will sea the blue water. It offers an amazing view for the sky, the birds, the sea and even the sunset. It's actually best to come in the afternoon. Just be reminded that the water is quite deep and there are lots of jagged rocks. But the water is clear especially when the weather is good.
Though it is near home, yet I would say it has been a year since the last time I came. I just wanted to see how it looks now compared how it was years ago. Sadly, instead of seeing improvements, a lot of things present back then is now gone. There used to be cottages with tables where you could eat together and take shade from the sun. But now there is not even one cottage standing. It might be because of the strong typhoons we experienced before that the cottages were destroyed and had no longer been rebuilt. Weeds are also starting to grow. Nevertheless, many people still come here to swim and take pictures with the cave.
It was rumored that the cave is actually a result of dynamite blasts due to treasure hunting long time ago and were believed to hide chests of gold. However, no precious things are found until today.
It's other name, "Lover's Cave" is said to be inspired by a story where young lovers who went to the cave got swept by the sea. Others say that the cave offers a hiding spot for lovers and that is how it got its name. Whatever it is, the cave is a must to visit spot not just for lovers but for everyone.
But here is another interesting claim. There is a small spring trickles inside the cave that is said to have healing properties and is a healthy drink. That is why many visitors who knows about this usually bring and fill their water bottles from water spring. It's funny because I never tried drinking from it, so I don't really know how it tastes. and since I do not know how to swim, I was always left to look after the things and eat on the side. More than anything, I like taking pictures of every nook of the place. That is why it is advisable to bring a life jacket if you do not know how to swim or else you would just end up dipping your feet into the water.
I may not have been in the place often but I have visited the place many times before together with my family and friends. I spent a lot of good time and mem'ries in this beautiful spot which I will always treasure.
Photos are mine and edited with Canva.