Things To Do
in Cantilan
Cantilan is a charming coastal town located in the province of Surigao del Sur in the Philippines. It is known for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque landscapes. The town is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Cantilan also offers opportunities for water activities such as snorkeling, surfing, and island-hopping.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $40
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing dip at Cantilan Beach. Enjoy the sunrise while sipping on fresh coconut juice.
Explore the nearby rock formations and discover hidden coves. Have lunch at a local eatery to savor the fresh catch of the day.
Stroll along the beach as the sun sets, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Indulge in a seafood feast at a beachfront restaurant.
Take a hike in the scenic hills surrounding Cantilan. Capture stunning views of the coastal area and lush landscapes.
Picnic at a lookout point and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Visit a nearby waterfall for a refreshing swim.
Return to town and immerse yourself in the local culture. Dine at a nearby eatery and try traditional Filipino dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and strong community ties.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches and mountains.
- Affordable cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
- Growing local economy and potential for investment.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including transportation and roads.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons and flooding.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Potential issues with waste management and pollution.
Best Activities in Cantilan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Cantilan is known for its great surfing spots, such as Consuelo Beach. Visitors can enjoy riding the waves and catching some sun while experiencing the beautiful coastline.
Explore the nearby islands and islets off the coast of Cantilan through island hopping tours. Discover beautiful beaches, clear waters, and marine life in this picturesque setting.
Enjoy a beach camping adventure in Cantilan, where visitors can set up camp by the shore, enjoy bonfires, stargazing, and the sound of the waves crashing on the sandy beaches.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cantilan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cantilan
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic location with picturesque views of the mangrove forest and surrounding area, ideal for photography and nature enthusiasts.
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean, a must-visit spot for capturing the beauty of Cantilan.
A landmark structure that provides stunning views of the river and the rural landscape, a great spot for taking unique photos.
Food in Cantilan
Cantilan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Filipino dish of raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. Served as a refreshing appetizer or as a main dish.
Must-Try!
Grilled stuffed squid marinated in a blend of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and garlic. It's a savory and succulent seafood delight.
Known as 'sea grapes,' this local seaweed is often served as a salad with tomatoes, onions, and a zesty dressing. It offers a unique taste of the sea.
Crispy deep-fried pork belly with a tender and flavorful meat inside is a must-try for meat lovers in Cantilan.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cantilan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the bustling market to experience the vibrant local food scene. From fresh seafood to tropical fruits, you'll find an array of ingredients for traditional Filipino cuisine. Don't miss the street food vendors offering grilled skewers, local snacks, and refreshing drinks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cantilan, it is important to show respect to elders through polite language and gestures such as mano, a tradition of taking the hand of an elder and placing it on one's forehead as a sign of respect.
The people of Cantilan are known for their warm hospitality, and it is customary to always accept food and refreshments when offered by locals, even if just a small portion as a sign of appreciation.
Cantilan is a predominantly Catholic town, so it is respectful to observe and respect local religious customs and practices, such as attending church services or participating in religious festivals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cantilan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cantilan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cantilan, Philippines, tipping is not a widely practiced custom. However, it is appreciated in some higher-end establishments such as luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants. In most cases, a 10% service charge is already included in the bill, so tipping is not obligatory. If exceptional service is provided, a small tip would be considered a kind gesture.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Cantilan, with credit and debit cards being less commonly accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's advisable for travelers to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting more remote areas. ATMs are available in the town proper for cash withdrawal. Additionally, some businesses may accept mobile payment apps, but it's not widespread.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cantilan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cantilan, with dry and sunny weather, good for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
Expect heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons, with lush green landscapes but limited outdoor activities.
Cantilan at Night
Hiking in Cantilan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mount Tago is known for its stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and is accessible through well-marked trails. It's a popular spot for both experienced hikers and beginners.
Located near Cantilan, Lanuza Eco Park offers scenic trails and a chance to experience the lush flora and fauna of the area. It’s a great place for a day hike with friends and family.
The trails around San Agustin Beach provide a unique opportunity to hike along the coastline while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. It's perfect for a combination of beach and hiking experience.
A hidden gem that requires a hike through a forested area, Buhion Falls rewards adventurers with a spectacular waterfall at the end of the trail. It's a great spot for a picnic after the hike.
Though a bit farther from Cantilan, Mount Taal features various trails leading to beautiful viewpoints. It's a favorite among hikers looking for a more challenging experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cantilan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cantilan by plane.
Located in Davao City, this is the largest airport serving the Davao Region and is approximately 175 kilometers from Cantilan.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, this major international airport is about 250 kilometers away from Cantilan.
Located in Surigao City, this airport is approximately 110 kilometers from Cantilan and serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Zamboanga City, this international airport is about 450 kilometers from Cantilan and serves as a key gateway to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Cantilan, known for their distinct language and cultural practices.
An indigenous group in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Cantilan.
A group with roots from the Bicol Region, present in various areas of Cantilan.
A broader group that includes various regional ethnicities, prevalent in Cantilan.
A group originally from the Ilocos Region, some of whom have settled in Cantilan.
The Soul of Cantilan
Discover the essence of Cantilan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is the most popular sport in Cantilan, played by people of all ages in various local courts.
Volleyball is a favored sport, especially among women and youth, often played in schools and community courts.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional Southeast Asian sport similar to volleyball but played with feet, is also popular in local communities.
Badminton enjoys popularity in Cantilan, with many facilities available for people to play recreationally.
Given Cantilan's coastal location, surfing has gained traction, attracting both locals and tourists to its waves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cantilan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, some restaurants in Cantilan offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of classic dishes. It's advisable to inquire with the staff about suitable options.
Gluten-free options may be limited in local eateries, but fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and rice-based dishes can often accommodate gluten-free dietary needs. Communicating specific dietary requirements with the restaurant staff is recommended.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cantilan with these cultural adventures.
