Riverback Sanctuary is a family-run eco-homestay on a small river island in Liwliwa, San Felipe, Zambales.
It is home to three cabins, handmade bamboo bridges, trees, birds, dogs, a garden and the river that gives the place its rhythm. The beach, surf spots, cafés and restaurants are only a short walk away, but the island feels like a world of its own.
We created Riverback for people who want to slow down, sleep close to nature and experience Liwliwa in a more personal way.
A place to slow down
Liwliwa has changed a lot over the years. It has become a favourite place for surfers, beach lovers, weekend travellers and people escaping Manila for a few days.
We love that energy, but we also wanted to create a quieter alternative: a place where guests can come back after the beach, cross the bamboo bridges and leave some of the noise behind.
At Riverback, mornings are slower. You may hear birds before you hear people. Afternoons can be spent reading in a hammock, working under the trees, swimming in the river or walking to the beach. Evenings are for conversation, food, stars and rest.
Our three cabins
Riverback has three cabins, each with a slightly different feel.
Acacia is our cabin with a river view, air-conditioning and a private tropical shower. Agoho has air-conditioning and a private backyard. Talisay is our simplest and most budget-friendly cabin, with a fan and shared bathroom.
The cabins are spaced apart to give each guest more privacy. We did not want to create a crowded resort. We wanted every stay to feel calm, personal and connected to the landscape.
Living with nature
Riverback is not a hotel designed to separate you from nature. You may see leaves on the path, hear insects at night, meet our dogs or wake up to birds in the trees.
That is part of the experience.
We try to reduce our impact where we can, through solar power, local materials, gardening, refilling drinking water and careful choices about how the place grows. We do not claim to be perfect, but we try to improve continuously and respect the island that makes Riverback possible.
Close to Liwliwa, away from the noise
Riverback is not isolated. The Liwliwa surf beach, cafés and restaurants are around a 5 to 10 minute walk away.
You can spend the day surfing, eating by the beach or exploring the area, then return to the river island for a quieter evening.
That balance is what many of our guests love most: close enough to enjoy Liwliwa, but peaceful enough to rest.
Meet your hosts
Riverback is run by Bibe and Sam, who live on site.
We are here to welcome you, help you settle in, share local recommendations and make sure your stay feels easy. We can help with surf lessons, local activities, food ideas and practical tips for exploring Liwliwa and Zambales.
We are not a large resort with a 24-hour reception desk. Riverback is personal, small and lived-in, and that is exactly how we like it.