Things To Do
in Balasan
Balasan is a coastal municipality located in the province of Iloilo, Philippines. It is known for its picturesque beaches, lush greenery, and serene atmosphere. The town is famous for its seafood, particularly its fresh oysters and crabs.
Balasan is also a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts due to its diverse marine life and clear waters.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at the beautiful Balasan Beach. Enjoy the calming sounds of the waves as you relax on the shore.
Grab lunch at a local seafood restaurant and indulge in fresh catches of the day. Spend your afternoon playing beach volleyball or exploring the nearby coves.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the beach. Enjoy dinner at a seaside café while marveling at the vibrant sunset.
Begin with a hike in the nearby hills to soak in panoramic views of Balasan. The cool morning air makes it a perfect time to connect with nature.
Visit a local nature park where you can picnic and observe wildlife. Take photographs of the diverse flora and fauna.
Wind down with a guided night walk to witness nocturnal creatures in their habitat. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a rustic restaurant nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local community.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and exploring marine biodiversity.
- Affordable cost of living and travel.
- Limited infrastructure and facilities for tourists.
- Access to healthcare may be inadequate for serious medical needs.
- Natural disasters like typhoons can affect the region.
- Limited job opportunities for expatriates.
- Potential issues with waste management and environmental sustainability.
Best Activities in Balasan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Batbatan Island and its surrounding islands through a guided island hopping tour.
Enjoy a serene beach camping experience at Lakawon Island, known for its white sand beaches and clear waters.
Discover the vibrant marine life and coral reefs by engaging in snorkeling activities at Gigantes Islands.
Tours
Uncover the best of Balasan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Balasan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes, great for photography.
Ideal for capturing the bustling activity of boats and ships, with a backdrop of the sea and sky.
Features picturesque coastal scenery and clear waters, perfect for capturing natural beauty.
Food in Balasan
Balasan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty chicken soup cooked with local spices and a hint of sourness from tamarind. Best enjoyed at local eateries like Lurlyn's Kitchen.
Must-Try!
A savory stew made of pork, vinegar, and pig blood, often paired with puto (steamed rice cake). Look for this dish at Nanay's Carinderia for an authentic taste.
A traditional Ilonggo dish featuring chicken or seafood simmered in lemongrass-infused broth, available at Manong's Seafood Grill.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Balasan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and street food like grilled skewers, bibingka (rice cakes), and balut (fertilized duck egg).
A popular spot for sampling a variety of local street food, such as the crispy and flavorful chicharon (pork cracklings) and fish balls served with spicy vinegar dip.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Balasan, it is important to show respect for elders, whether through addressing them using respectful titles or gestures of deference.
Greeting others with a smile and a polite
When visiting Balasan, it's important to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing, especially when visiting religious sites or local communities.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Balasan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Balasan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Balasan, Philippines. It is not expected in most establishments or for most services.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Balasan, Philippines. Credit card acceptance is limited to larger establishments. It is advisable to carry enough cash for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Balasan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Balasan, Philippines is during the dry season from November to April. During this time, you can expect sunny weather with little to no rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
The wet season in Balasan, Philippines occurs from May to October. During this time, you can expect frequent rainfall and potential typhoons. It is advisable to be prepared for wet weather and possible travel disruptions if visiting during this season.
Balasan at Night
Hiking in Balasan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque mountain offering a thrilling hike with beautiful views and a serene lake at the summit.
Located in the nearby province, this mountain features lush greenery and challenging trails with rewarding panoramas.
A lesser-known hiking spot known for its gentle slopes and scenic vistas, perfect for beginners and families.
A prominent volcano in Negros, providing adventurous trails and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
An enjoyable hiking route alongside the river, leading to beautiful natural pools and scenic landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Balasan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Balasan by plane.
Located in Kalibo, Aklan, approximately 68 kilometers from Balasan, this airport serves various domestic and international flights, primarily catering to tourists heading to Boracay.
Situated in Cabatuan, Iloilo, about 90 kilometers from Balasan, this airport offers flights to Manila, Cebu, and several regional destinations, as well as limited international services.
Also known as Godofredo P. Ramos Airport, it is located in Caticlan, Aklan, approximately 75 kilometers from Balasan. This airport primarily serves tourists traveling to Boracay Island, providing flights to Manila and other domestic destinations.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, roughly 170 kilometers from Balasan, this is the second largest airport in the Philippines and serves both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cebuano is the dominant ethnic group in Balasan, known for their rich cultural heritage and language.
The Ilocano people are one of the prominent groups, recognized for their agriculture and traditional practices.
The Visayan group includes various sub-ethnicities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Balasan.
The Tagalog demographic is present, with influences from their language and culture.
A small but significant Chinese minority is involved in business and trade within the municipality.
There are Indigenous groups in the area who maintain their traditional ways of life.
The Soul of Balasan
Discover the essence of Balasan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Balasan, with a strong community culture and numerous local tournaments.
Volleyball enjoys considerable popularity among both men and women in Balasan, often played in schools and local leagues.
Billiards is a favored pastime in Balasan, with many local establishments offering tables for casual play and competitions.
Football is increasingly gaining popularity, with local clubs and events attracting participation from the youth.
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular in Balasan, showcasing local athleticism.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balasan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Balasan's traditional cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, some restaurants and eateries are willing to prepare meatless versions of local dishes or offer vegetable-based options upon request.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can savor dishes like fresh seafood, grilled vegetables, and tropical fruits, and might find cafes and bakeries serving gluten-free rice cakes and snacks.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Balasan with these cultural adventures.
