Borongan's setting on the Pacific coast defines what there is to do here. Cabong Beach has fine grey sand and calm enough water for swimming most of the year, while Rawis Beach a few kilometres away has a cluster of small resorts and bungalows. For surfers, the open Pacific coast north and south of Borongan offers consistent swells and almost no crowds — a genuine alternative to the overcrowded breaks of Siargao and Bohol.
Eastern Samar's interior holds a number of natural attractions reachable from Borongan. Borongan Cathedral, the city's main church, is the seat of the Diocese of Borongan and dominates the town plaza with its old stone construction. The rural barangays around town have waterfalls and cave systems used by local guides, though you will need a local contact to find the best of them.