Things To Do
in Allen
Allen is a small coastal municipality in Northern Samar, Philippines, perched along the San Bernardino Strait. It has a working fish port and a laid-back, sea-loving vibe that invites exploration at a relaxed pace. The town serves as a gateway to nearby islets, reefs, and simple island-hopping trips from the pier.
Visitors come for fresh seafood, friendly locals, and authentic rural Filipino coastal life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Allen and check into your chosen accommodation, settling into the warm, tropical ambiance of the Philippines. Take a leisurely stroll around the town, absorbing the local culture and savoring the sights and sounds. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, featuring fresh tropical fruits and local delicacies.
Visit the beautiful San Juanico Bridge, which connects Leyte and Samar, and offers stunning views over the San Juanico Strait. Spend some time at a local craft market, where you can pick up souvenirs and handmade goods. Don't forget to try some local snacks, like bibingka and other traditional treats.
Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can try fresh seafood while gazing at the sunset. Take a relaxing walk along the beach, immersing yourself in the peaceful sounds of the ocean. Conclude the evening with a nightcap at a local bar, sharing stories with friendly locals and travelers alike.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to the unspoiled beaches near Allen. Spend the morning swimming in crystal-clear waters or sunbathing on the soft, white sands. Engage in some beach games or simply relax with a good book.
After a beachside lunch, try your hand at water activities like snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding in the vibrant coral reefs. Explore nearby island options for a chance to see diverse marine life and stunning landscapes. Capture memorable moments with your camera as you explore this picturesque paradise.
Head back to Allen for dinner and indulge in traditional Filipino cuisine at one of the local restaurants. Post-meal, take a leisurely stroll through the town, experiencing the warm hospitality of Allen's residents. Wind down your day by participating in a cultural dance or music session if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or small snack | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal beauty and abundant seafood
- Warm, welcoming local people
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Smaller town infrastructure compared to major cities
- "Maupay nga adlaw" - Good day
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pila ini?" - How much is this?
- "Oo" - Yes
Places to Visit in Allen
Visit one of these nice places.
Harbor views at sunrise with fishing boats, nets drying, and reflections on calm water—the golden hour is especially photogenic.
Dramatic sea cliffs and waves provide strong silhouettes and expansive horizon lines for landscape photography.
Early morning light over the bay offers warm tones and quiet scenes ideal for coastal portraits.
Food in Allen
Allen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ceviche-style raw fish marinated in vinegar or citrus with chili, onions, and pepper; served as an appetizer along the coast.
Must-Try!
A coconut-taro dessert often enjoyed as a sweet treat, popular in Samar and nearby areas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, fish stalls, and ready-to-eat snacks; ideal for sampling daily catches and local fruits.
On-site grilling of the day’s catch, offering simple, flavorful seafood meals right by the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Warm welcomes are common; greet locals with a friendly smile and use polite phrases when asking for help.
Respect local norms in markets and religious sites; light, modest clothing is appropriate in most areas.
Safety
Tipping in Allen
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% in nicer places is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash in Philippine pesos is widely accepted; some establishments accept cards or mobile payments, especially in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season brings sunny days and calm seas; great for beach days, boat trips, and outdoor photography, though it can get hot—stay hydrated.
Northeast monsoon season with cooler temperatures and often clear skies; ideal for scenic coastal shots and comfortable exploration.
Frequent brief showers and higher humidity; plan indoor activities or quick beach trips between showers, and protect gear with waterproof covers.
Allen at Night
Hiking in Allen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hike with ocean views; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Nearby uplands offer short treks with rural scenery and distant sea glimpses within a day trip.
Airports
How to reach Allen by plane.
Major transport hub in nearby Tacloban City; accessible by land transfer from Allen.
Smaller regional airport serving Northern Samar; convenient for quick trips within the region.
Nearby regional airport offering connections to Manila and other destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language group; known for hospitality and close-knit family networks.
Communities centered around fishing, agriculture, and small-scale trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and community centers; informal games commonly held in town gyms.
Given the coastal setting, fishing and small-boat excursions are popular activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Allen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist around vegetables and coconut-based dishes; ask for vegetable stews or grilled vegetables without fish sauces, and request no meat stock when available.