Things To Do
in Binalonan
Binalonan is a small agricultural municipality in southern Pangasinan known for its rice paddies, friendly communities and relaxed provincial pace. The town center features a compact municipal plaza, a parish church and a bustling public market where locals gather each morning. Surrounding landscapes include flat farmland, scattered barangay hills and short drives to natural attractions such as Balungao hot springs and nearby lakes.
Binalonan is a practical base for experiencing rural Pangasinan life while still being within a couple of hours’ drive of larger cities like Urdaneta and Dagupan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Binalonan and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the town plaza, where you can soak in the beautiful sights and the vibrant local atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty Filipino breakfast at a local eatery to kickstart your adventure.
Visit the stunning San Isidro Labrador Church, known for its unique architecture and rich history. Spend the afternoon exploring local markets, interacting with friendly locals, and sampling regional snacks. Don't forget to capture some photos of the quaint streets filled with local art and culture.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying traditional dishes that Binalonan is celebrated for. Take a calming evening walk around the plaza, enjoying the cool breeze and pretty lights. Wind down with a soothing cup of local coffee at a café, reflecting on your first day.
Participate in a guided tour where you can learn more about the rich cultural heritage of Binalonan. Visit local artisan studios and see traditional crafts being made first-hand. Indulge in a breakfast featuring local delicacies and fresh produce.
Take part in a workshop where you can try your hand at traditional crafts such as weaving or pottery. Engage with local artists who are passionate about preserving their culture. Spend time at the nearby rice fields, experiencing the heartbeat of rural life.
Join a community event or gathering if available, where you can enjoy traditional performances and local cuisine. Share stories and connect with residents over dinner, offering a taste of home-cooked meals. End the day with stargazing in the serene countryside.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee or snack | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛺Tricycle ride (short) | $0.20-0.80 |
| 🚍Bus to nearby city (one-way) | $1.50-3.00 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse / room | $10-25 per night |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Philippine experience with friendly locals
- Affordable food and accommodation
- Easy access to nearby natural attractions (hot springs, beaches and hiking within a few hours)
- Compact town center that’s simple to navigate
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist amenities compared with bigger cities
- Public transport and payment options can be limited—cash needed
- Potential travel disruption during the rainy/typhoon season
- Medical facilities are basic; major hospitals are in nearby cities
- "Kumusta?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang palengke?" - Where is the market?
- "Pwede bang magtanong?" - May I ask something?
Places to Visit in Binalonan
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant morning scenes of vendors, colorful produce and everyday life—excellent for candid street photography and capturing local routines.
Architectural shots of the parish church, plaza activities and community gatherings—good for both detail shots and wider compositions at golden hour.
Expansive landscapes with rice paddies, farmers at work and narrow rural roads—best at sunrise or sunset when light is soft and directional.
Natural pools, park facilities and surrounding hills offer varied subjects from landscape to recreational portraits; steam and reflections can be photogenic early morning.
Food in Binalonan
Binalonan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled fish seasoned simply with salt, calamansi and soy—commonly available at local eateries and market stalls; best tried in small family restaurants or during local gatherings.
Must-Try!
Sour soups made with local vegetables and either fish or pork—comfort food in many homes and carinderias, perfect after long travel or on rainy days.
Sticky rice-based sweets and grilled treats sold at markets or during fiestas; tupig (coconut and rice in banana leaf) is a Pangasinan specialty often found at local bakeries or stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning hub for fresh produce, fish, meat and cheap ready-to-eat snacks—sample local fruit, buy fresh bangus from traders who source from nearby coastal towns, and try small breakfast stalls.
Evening street vendors sell grilled meat skewers, fried snacks and sweet rice cakes—ideal for casual late-afternoon bites and people-watching.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to older people—use polite greetings, offer a handshake or nod and avoid raising your voice in public spaces.
Dress conservatively when visiting churches or chapels—cover shoulders and avoid revealing clothing, especially during services.
Many locals are friendly but may prefer permission before photos; respect privacy especially in markets, homes and religious events.
It’s common to take off shoes before entering private homes—follow the host’s lead and ask if unsure.
Safety
Tipping in Binalonan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest and not mandatory—rounding up bills or leaving small change for helpful drivers, porters and servers is appreciated. For exceptional service in restaurants or guides, 5–10% is a generous gesture.
Cash in Philippine pesos is king, especially in markets, tricycles and small eateries. Larger shops or hotels in nearby cities may accept credit cards; mobile wallets (GCash, PayMaya) are increasingly used but coverage is spotty in rural outlets—carry cash for small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Most comfortable time to visit: cooler temperatures, lower humidity and less rain—ideal for outdoor activities, walking and photography. Evenings can be pleasantly cool compared with summer. Popular time for fiestas and town events, so expect local celebrations.
Temperatures rise and days become hot and humid—bring sun protection, light clothing and stay hydrated. Midday outdoor activities can be uncomfortable; plan activities for morning and late afternoon.
Frequent heavy rains and occasional typhoons can cause flash floods and road disruptions—carry rain gear, monitor local weather and allow extra travel time. Some rural roads may become muddy or impassable after storms.
Binalonan at Night
Hiking in Binalonan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes and gentle trails around the Balungao Hot and Cold Springs resort area—good for light trekking, sunrise views and family-friendly walks.
Local village trails and narrow footpaths through rice paddies and small hills—ideal for casual hiking, photography and experiencing rural landscapes; trails are generally easy but can be muddy after rain.
Within a 1–3 hour drive are more challenging hikes and mountains in Pangasinan and adjacent provinces; useful for travelers looking to combine a Binalonan stay with longer treks—plan logistics and guide services from larger towns.
Airports
How to reach Binalonan by plane.
Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours by car depending on traffic—offers domestic and some international flights; good option for arrivals to central Luzon with connections by bus or private transfer to Pangasinan.
About 3–4 hours by road depending on traffic—major international gateway with many domestic connections; buses and private transfers connect Manila to Pangasinan towns.
Smaller airfields or charter options may be available regionally, but commercial service is limited—ground transport from major airports is the usual route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnolinguistic group in the area, speaking Pangasinan language and Filipino; many families have deep agricultural roots.
Significant Ilocano-speaking population in parts of southern Pangasinan, contributing to the linguistic and cultural mix.
Tagalog and other Filipino language speakers are present, including seasonal or permanent migrants and families with members working in urban centers or abroad (OFWs).
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport locally—many barangays have courts and pickup games are common in the afternoons and evenings.
Widely played at schools and community events, especially among women and mixed groups during fiestas and gatherings.
Part of traditional rural culture in some areas; typically regulated but may be controversial—observe local laws and customs if encountered.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Binalonan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited—look for vegetable stews, egg dishes, grilled corn and fruit. Ask for dishes without fish sauce (bagoong/patis) and request vegetable-only versions of soups or fried rice.
More challenging—many dishes use fish sauce or shrimp paste. Shop at the market for fresh fruit, vegetables and rice, and speak to cooks to omit animal products and seasonings.
Rice is the staple so many local meals are naturally gluten-free, but watch out for soy sauce (contains wheat) and processed sauces—ask for alternatives or plain grilled items.