Calayan
,Calayan is a remote and picturesque island municipality located in the Babuyan Group of Islands in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged landscapes. The island is a popular destination for tourists seeking a quiet and unspoiled paradise away from the crowds.
Calayan is also a haven for marine biodiversity, making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
- "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 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Calayan Island
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing swim at the pristine Calayan beaches. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café while soaking in the morning sun.
afternoon
:Take a boat tour to nearby islets, where you can snorkel and marvel at the vibrant marine life. Don't miss the chance to capture stunning photos of the picturesque views.
evening
:As the sun sets, find a cozy spot for dinner and enjoy fresh seafood. Stroll along the beach to see the stars and listen to the waves.
Nature Trails Adventure
morning
:Embark on a guided trek through the lush trails of Calayan's forests. Look out for unique plants and birds along the way.
afternoon
:Reach a scenic viewpoint for a picnic lunch while admiring the breathtaking landscape. Spend some time relaxing and taking in the beauty of nature.
evening
:Return to your accommodation to freshen up, then enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Share stories about your adventure with fellow travelers.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural beauty with pristine beaches and clear waters
- Rich biodiversity, including unique wildlife and marine life
- Less commercialized, providing a more authentic and peaceful experience
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities like snorkeling and hiking
- Strong sense of community and local culture
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities
- Transportation can be challenging due to geographical isolation
- Limited availability of dining and entertainment options
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons and flooding
- Limited job opportunities for residents
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Snorkeling
Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs around Calayan Island by snorkeling in its clear waters.
Hiking
Trek through the lush landscapes and scenic trails, offering breathtaking views of the island and coastline.
Island Hopping
Visit nearby islands and beaches, experiencing the beauty of the unspoiled nature and pristine sands.
Camping
Set up camp on the beach or in the wilderness to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Calayan.
Fishing
Engage in traditional fishing or join local fishermen for an authentic experience of the island's fishing culture.
Bird Watching
Enjoy the diverse avian species present on the island, making it a great spot for bird watching enthusiasts.
Visiting Waterfalls
Discover the stunning waterfalls around Calayan, perfect for a refreshing swim or a picnic while enjoying nature.
Photography
Capture the breathtaking landscapes and stunning sunsets, making it a great location for photography lovers.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Calayan with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Canaway View Deck
Offers panoramic views of the coast and surrounding landscapes
Sibang Cove
Scenic beach cove with picturesque rock formations and clear waters, perfect for photography
Nagudungan Hills
Overlooks the town and provides stunning views of the island and sea
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lato Salad
A refreshing and unique salad made with fresh seaweed, tomatoes, onions, and a zesty vinegar dressing. It can be found in many local eateries and beachside stalls.
Must-Try!
Adobong Pusit
Squid cooked in a savory blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and various spices. It's a staple dish often served in family homes and small restaurants.
Guavano
A local specialty featuring grilled or stewed flying fish, a common catch in the region. Visitors can savor this dish at beachside grills and seafood restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Calayan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Calayan Public Market
The bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. Visitors can sample street food like grilled fish skewers, sweet rice cakes, and fresh fruit juices from the vibrant stalls.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Elders
In Calayan, it is important to show respect to elders. This can be done by using polite language and gestures such as bowing slightly or offering them your seat.
Proper Attire
When visiting places of worship or during local festivals, dress modestly. Wearing appropriate clothing shows respect for the traditions and values of the community.
Greeting Customs
A warm greeting, such as a smile or a friendly 'hello', is appreciated. It is also common to greet people with 'po' and 'opo' as a sign of respect when addressing someone older or of higher status.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Calayan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Calayan, Philippines, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip service workers, such as those in restaurants, hotels, and tour services. A tip of around 10% of the total bill is considered generous. However, locals may not always expect a tip, and the practice can vary depending on the establishment and the service provided.
Payment
Payment methods in Calayan typically include cash transactions, as credit card acceptance may be limited in some areas. Local currency, the Philippine Peso (PHP), is primarily used. Visitors are encouraged to carry enough cash for daily expenses, especially in remote areas where ATMs may not be readily available. Some businesses may also accept mobile payments, but this is not widespread.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Calayan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (March to May)
The best time to visit Calayan is during the dry season, from March to May. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and the sea is calm, making it perfect for beach activities and exploring the island.
Rainy season (June to October)
The rainy season in Calayan is from June to October. Visitors can expect occasional heavy rainfall and rough seas during this time. However, the lush greenery and waterfalls are at their most vibrant, offering a unique experience for nature enthusiasts.
Cool season (November to February)
The cool season, from November to February, is characterized by cooler temperatures and occasional northeast monsoons. This season is ideal for trekking and birdwatching, as well as experiencing the local festivals and celebrations.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Calayan Island Trails
Explore the natural beauty of Calayan Island with several trails that offer stunning views, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for photography.
Batanes-inspired Hills
Hike through hills that resemble the landscapes of Batanes, providing breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding ocean and lush greenery.
Patapat Viaduct Coastal Trail
Follow the coastal pathways near the Patapat Viaduct, featuring scenic views of the sea and the rugged coastline, perfect for a leisurely hike.
Suyoc Hills
Trek the Suyoc Hills for a mix of challenging terrain and scenic vistas, ideal for adventurous hikers looking for a bit of a workout.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Calayan by plane.
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)
Located in Manila, this is the main international gateway to the Philippines and one of the largest airports in Southeast Asia.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
Located in Cebu, this airport serves as a secondary gateway to the Philippines and is known for its international connections.
Clark International Airport (CRK)
Situated north of Manila, Clark International Airport is a significant airport for both domestic and international flights.
Davao International Airport (DVO)
Located in Davao City, this airport serves as a major hub in Mindanao and offers several international flights.
Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO)
Also in Davao City, this airport serves international and domestic flights and is sometimes referred to by its full name.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Tagalog
The predominant linguistic and cultural group in Calayan, with most residents speaking Tagalog.
Ilocano
A significant minority in Calayan, many residents have Ilocano heritage or connections.
Ibanag
Another notable group, especially among those engaged in agricultural activities.
Visayan
Some residents are from the Visayan regions, contributing to the cultural diversity of Calayan.
Other Ethnicities
Includes smaller groups from other regions of the Philippines and migrant communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
Basketball is the most popular sport in Calayan, played in various barangays with local leagues and tournaments.
Volleyball
Volleyball enjoys significant popularity, especially among women, with many local competitions held throughout the year.
Football (Soccer)
Football has a growing following, with local teams and matches encouraging participation among the youth.
Sepak Takraw
A traditional sport in the region, sepak takraw is played frequently, showcasing the agility and skills of the players.
Fishing
While not a conventional sport, fishing is a popular recreational activity in Calayan, with locals engaging in it for both leisure and sustenance.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, some restaurants and cafes in Calayan offer vegetarian dishes like vegetable stir-fries, fresh fruit salads, and vegetarian spring rolls. Visitors are advised to communicate their dietary preferences clearly, and local chefs are often willing to cater to specific needs.
Gluten-Free Choices
Gluten-free options may be limited in Calayan due to the prevalence of rice and wheat-based products in Filipino cooking. However, some establishments may accommodate gluten-free requests by offering rice-based dishes, fresh seafood, and naturally gluten-free tropical fruits.