Things To Do
in Catarman
Catarman is a coastal town located in the province of Northern Samar in the Philippines. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, such as the White Beach and San Pablo Beach, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking sun and sand. Catarman is also home to historical sites like the Sunken Church, a remnant of a church that was submerged during a volcanic eruption in 1871.
The town has a laid-back atmosphere and offers a glimpse into the local way of life in the Philippines.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Bangon Falls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. Breathe in the fresh air and take in the lush greenery surrounding the falls.
After lunch, discover the unique volcanic landscape of the Catarman Volcano. Take a short hike and capture beautiful photos of the panoramic views.
End your day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, tasting regional delicacies. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your journey with a boat ride to the nearby islands, such as Calayan and Diit. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters and witness the vibrant marine life.
Lunch on the beach with a packed picnic, enjoying the sun and surf. Continue your island hopping to explore hidden coves and pristine beaches.
Return to Catarman and stroll along the beach while watching the sunset. Dine on fresh seafood at a beachside eatery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Friendly and hospitable local community.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and diving.
- Lower cost of living compared to urban areas.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities and services.
- Fewer job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Susceptibility to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Internet connectivity can be inconsistent.
Best Activities in Catarman
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a challenging yet rewarding hike up Mount Pantiangan, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Catarman and its surrounding areas.
Explore the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Bariawa Island through a captivating island-hopping adventure, perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.
Discover an underwater wonderland at Laoang Marine Sanctuary, teeming with vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations, ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Catarman with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Catarman
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the surrounding waters and is known for its picturesque sunsets. It's a popular spot for birdwatching and beach photography.
Nestled in the lush forest, this location provides scenic views of the natural surroundings and opportunities for capturing unique steamy landscapes.
A historical site with beautiful stone arches and walls, offering a unique backdrop for photography and a glimpse into the town's past.
Food in Catarman
Catarman Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Filipino dish consists of fresh seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi, and spices. Must-try at Lapyahan Food Park.
Must-Try!
A sweet delicacy made from taro, coconut milk, and sugar, traditionally cooked in banana leaves. Available at Catarman Public Market.
A native chicken soup cooked with coconut water, lemongrass, and green papaya. Best savored at Kanto sa Pagkaon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local delicacies like binagol, and street food such as grilled skewers and fried bananas.
A vibrant street food hub offering an array of grilled seafood, meat skewers, and local desserts like bibingka and puto bumbong.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Catarman, Philippines, it is important to show respect for elders by using traditional titles like 'po' and 'opo' when addressing them, and by showing deference in conversation and actions.
When visiting Catarman, it is important to adhere to a conservative dress code, particularly when visiting religious sites or family gatherings, to show respect for local cultural norms.
In Catarman, hospitality is highly valued, and reciprocating acts of kindness and generosity is an important aspect of respectful behavior within the community.
Safety
Tipping in Catarman
Ensure a smooth experience
In Catarman, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice and is not expected in most situations. However, in some high-end restaurants or luxury hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary.
Cash is the most commonly accepted form of payment in Catarman, Philippines. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and when visiting more remote locations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Catarman, Philippines is during the dry season, from December to May. Expect warm and sunny weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
During the wet season from June to November, expect frequent rainfall and higher humidity. This can be a good time to enjoy the lush green landscapes, but beach activities may be affected.
Catarman at Night
Hiking in Catarman
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its stunning sea of clouds and diverse flora and fauna. The trek offers various trails suitable for different skill levels.
This national park features several hiking trails through beautiful landscapes and is home to the indigenous Mangyan communities. It's known for its rich biodiversity.
A lesser-known hiking spot that offers an adventurous trail and spectacular views of the surrounding areas, making it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
An active volcano that offers rewarding views from the summit. The hike is challenging and provides a chance to explore the area's unique geological features.
While primarily known for its beaches, the hike to the highest point of the islands rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surroundings and the pristine waters.
Aiports
How to reach Catarman by plane.
Located in Tacloban City, approximately 115 kilometers from Catarman, this airport serves as the main gateway to the Eastern Visayas region.
Situated in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, around 225 kilometers from Catarman, this is one of the busiest international airports in the Philippines.
Located in Pampanga, about 350 kilometers from Catarman, this airport is an alternative international gateway to Manila and serves various international flights.
Situated in Pasay City, Metro Manila, approximately 400 kilometers from Catarman, this is the primary international airport serving the capital of the Philippines.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Catarman, primarily speaking Cebuano and known for their vibrant culture and traditions.
A significant demographic group in Catarman, Ilocanos are known for their agricultural practices and strong community ties.
Waray people are native to the Eastern Visayas region, and while they are less populous in Catarman, they contribute to the local culture.
As part of the larger Visayan region, this group includes various cultural identities and languages among the residents.
Includes migrants from various provinces and ethnic backgrounds, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Catarman.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Catarman, often played in local courts and enjoyed by people of all ages.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women, with many community leagues and school competitions.
Football is gaining popularity in Catarman, with local teams and events fostering a growing interest in the sport.
Badminton is a favorite recreational sport in Catarman, with many residents playing in schools and recreation centers.
A traditional sport in the Philippines, sepak takraw is played in Catarman, combining elements of volleyball and martial arts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Catarman.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat and seafood are prevalent, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options, with dishes centered around fresh vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins.
Gluten-free options are available at some restaurants, particularly those specializing in traditional Filipino cuisine that utilizes naturally gluten-free ingredients like rice and corn.