Things To Do
in Borongan
Borongan is a coastal city located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes, offering a serene and peaceful environment for visitors. The city is also home to historical sites such as Spanish-era churches and landmarks that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
Borongan is a popular destination for eco-tourism activities, including diving, snorkeling, and hiking in its surrounding natural beauty.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Borongan Beach, known for its clear waters and white sand. Grab breakfast at a local café after your beach time.
Explore the town and visit the famous Balay Ni Mayang, a historical site. Enjoy lunch at a seafood restaurant with fresh catches of the day.
Take a sunset stroll along the beach to relax after a day of activities. Wind down at a local bar and enjoy some traditional Filipino cocktails.
Visit the Borongan Cathedral to appreciate its stunning architecture and serene ambiance. Have breakfast at a nearby eatery with local delicacies.
Take a short hike to the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip. Pack a picnic to enjoy surrounded by nature's beauty.
Head back to the town for a dinner featuring regional specialties. Experience local nightlife at a pop-up event or bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as surfing, diving, and hiking.
- Increasingly popular among tourists, leading to potential economic growth.
- Limited access to healthcare and other essential services.
- Underdeveloped infrastructure, including roads and public transport.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, such as typhoons and flooding.
- Job opportunities may be limited, leading to out-migration of residents.
- Challenges related to environmental preservation due to tourism.
Best Activities in Borongan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches in Borongan such as Divinubo Island, Baybay Beach, and Buabasay Beach for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Hike through the scenic landscapes and lush forests surrounding Borongan, including Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge, and Maypangdan Mini Falls for a nature-filled adventure.
Enjoy surfing at the popular surfing spots like Lalaguna and Baras for an exciting water sport experience.
Embark on an island hopping tour to visit the pristine islands and islets nearby, including Divinubo Island, Consocep Rock Formation, and Ando Island.
Tours
Uncover the best of Borongan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Borongan
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the town, coastline, and surrounding mountains. Great for sunset photos.
Beautiful seaside promenade with views of the bay and fishing boats. Perfect for sunrise or sunset photography.
Scenic waterfall with lush green surroundings, providing a natural and picturesque setting for photography.
Food in Borongan
Borongan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish featuring fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. It's a must-try for its zesty and refreshing flavors.
Must-Try!
Chicken pieces marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, then browned in oil, and simmered in the marinade. The perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors.
A traditional rice cake made from ground glutinous rice, coconut milk, and sugar, often topped with cheese or salted eggs. A delightful sweet treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this bustling market to sample a variety of local street foods such as barbecue skewers, fish balls, and bibingka. You'll also find fresh fruits and vegetables to savor the flavors of the region.
A vibrant hub for street food enthusiasts offering an array of local delicacies from different food stalls. Don't miss the opportunity to savor authentic Filipino street food dishes here.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Borongan, it is important to show respect for elders by using the appropriate titles such as 'po' for older individuals and by using polite language and gestures.
Hospitality is a significant cultural norm in Borongan, and guests are often warmly welcomed with food, refreshments, and conversation. It is polite to accept offers of hospitality and to reciprocate the gesture in some way.
In Borongan, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in community events. Avoiding overly revealing or provocative clothing shows consideration for local customs and cultural norms.
Safety
Tipping in Borongan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Borongan, Philippines, tipping is not commonly practiced, especially in smaller establishments. However, in larger hotels and restaurants, a service charge of around 10% may be added to the bill. If a service charge is not included, leaving a small amount as a token of appreciation for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is the primary method of payment in Borongan, although some hotels and larger establishments may accept credit cards. It's important to carry sufficient cash, especially when venturing to more remote areas, as ATMs may not be readily available. When making purchases, it's advisable to confirm the accepted payment methods beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Borongan, with sunny weather, low humidity, and fewer chances of rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.
Expect frequent rainfall, high humidity, and occasional typhoons. This season is less favorable for outdoor activities, but the landscape becomes lush and green.
Borongan at Night
Hiking in Borongan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that leads from Malajog Beach through lush greenery, offering beautiful coastal views and the sounds of nature.
A hiking spot that features diverse flora and fauna, with spectacular views of the island landscape and the surrounding ocean.
A popular hiking destination with a moderate trail leading to the top, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of Borongan and its surroundings.
An extensive area with multiple trails varying in difficulty, providing an opportunity to explore the hills, valleys, and rivers of Eastern Samar.
A protected area with trails that highlight its rich biodiversity, perfect for both hiking and birdwatching enthusiasts.
Aiports
How to reach Borongan by plane.
Located approximately 90 kilometers from Borongan, this is the nearest major international airport, serving domestic and limited international flights.
Another option in Tacloban, this airport accommodates more flights and is approximately 90 kilometers from Borongan.
Situated around 140 kilometers from Borongan, this airport primarily offers domestic flights.
About 220 kilometers from Borongan, this airport provides domestic and limited international connectivity.
Located about 280 kilometers from Borongan, this is a larger international airport with a range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the most populated barangays in Borongan, known for its residential areas.
A significant barangay with a growing population and commercial establishments.
A suburban area that features a mix of residential and agricultural lands.
A community known for its vibrant local culture and traditions.
Home to a diverse group of individuals, mixing historical influences with modern developments.
A smaller barangay that emphasizes community ties and local initiatives.
Known for its historical significance and the close-knit community spirit.
A coastal barangay that is primarily engaged in fishing and tourism-related activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Borongan, often played in local courts and during community events.
Volleyball is widely played among women and youth, with many local tournaments taking place throughout the year.
Football has a growing popularity, with local leagues and school competitions fostering interest among young players.
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is quite popular among the locals.
Organized fun runs and races are common in Borongan, promoting health and fitness in the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Borongan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants in Borongan offer vegetarian and vegan options such as vegetable spring rolls, tofu adobo, and fresh fruit salads.
Those with gluten sensitivities can opt for seafood dishes, grilled meats, and rice-based snacks which are prevalent in the local food scene, ensuring a range of gluten-free dining options.