Things To Do
in Guiuan
Guiuan is a picturesque coastal town located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. The town is famous for its annual Sinulog Festival, a colorful celebration of music, dance, and cultural heritage.
Guiuan is also a popular destination for surfing enthusiasts, with its challenging waves drawing in visitors from around the world.
- "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): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Then, head out for an exciting island hopping tour around the beautiful beaches of Guiuan.
Enjoy lunch on one of the pristine islands. Spend the afternoon snorkeling and soaking up the sun on white sandy beaches.
Return to Guiuan and have dinner at a seaside restaurant. Take a peaceful evening stroll along the beach to savor the sunset.
Wake up and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with a view of the ocean. Spend the morning relaxing on Calicoan Island, famous for its stunning beaches.
Have a picnic lunch on the beach. Continue your relaxation with swimming or sunbathing in the tranquil environment.
Dine at a local restaurant offering fresh seafood. Cap off the day with a bonfire on the beach while mingling with other travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and pristine natural landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Warm and hospitable locals.
- Good opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities.
- Less crowded compared to other tourist destinations.
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities.
- Economy heavily reliant on tourism, leading to seasonal fluctuations.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, such as typhoons.
- Infrastructure development may be lacking in some areas.
- Transport options can be limited, impacting mobility.
Best Activities in Guiuan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Guiuan is known for its beautiful and uncrowded surfing spots, with Calicoan Island being a popular destination for surfers of all levels.
Explore the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters of Homonhon and Suluan Islands, perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxation.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Guiuan by trekking through Linao Cave and National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, and stunning limestone formations.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guiuan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guiuan
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its white sandy beaches and great surfing conditions, Calicoan Island also offers stunning views of the ocean and natural landscapes, perfect for photography.
This historic church, with its picturesque seaside location, provides a beautiful backdrop for photos and offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Located in the heart of Guiuan, this park offers vistas of the surrounding area and the chance to capture the local lifestyle and culture.
Food in Guiuan
Guiuan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Filipino ceviche made with fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi citrus, and spices. It's a zesty and refreshing dish often served as an appetizer.
Must-Try!
Considered the national dish of the Philippines, adobo features meat, usually chicken or pork, marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black peppercorns, then braised until tender. The result is a savory, slightly tangy dish perfect with rice.
A popular festive dish, lechon is a whole roasted pig with crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. It's often the centerpiece of celebrations and can be found at special events or through pre-order from local cooks.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guiuan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Guiuan Public Market offers a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and street food. Visitors can find grilled skewers of meat and seafood, local snacks like puto (steamed rice cakes), and fresh tropical fruits.
Along the coastal areas, beachside food stalls offer a variety of freshly grilled seafood, such as grilled fish, squid, and shellfish. Visitors can enjoy the catch of the day while taking in scenic ocean views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Guiuan, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and addressing them with their titles.
The people of Guiuan are known for their warm hospitality, so it is customary to greet others with a friendly smile and be welcoming to visitors.
When visiting religious sites or attending community events, it is advisable to dress modestly and respect the local dress codes.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guiuan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guiuan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not generally expected in Guiuan, Philippines. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant or from a tour guide, leaving a small tip as a token of appreciation is appreciated.
In Guiuan, cash is widely used for day-to-day transactions. Major credit cards may be accepted at some hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments, but it's always advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors and local businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guiuan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Guiuan is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and perfect for outdoor activities. Expect clear skies, calm seas, and warm temperatures.
During the wet season, Guiuan experiences heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. It is less ideal for outdoor activities, but the lush green landscapes and lower tourist numbers can make it a unique and interesting time to visit for some travelers.
Guiuan at Night
Hiking in Guiuan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning beaches and scenic views, Calicoan Island offers several hiking trails that provide breathtaking panoramas of the coastline and surrounding areas.
A trail that winds through lush forests and leads to beautiful viewpoints overlooking the Sulu Sea. This hike is perfect for those looking for a moderate challenge.
Located a short boat ride from Guiuan, Daram Island features hiking trails that showcase its natural beauty and biodiversity, ideal for nature lovers.
This national park has incredible hiking opportunities with diverse terrains, beautiful landscapes, and unique flora and fauna, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
A hidden gem near Guiuan, Manicani Island has hiking paths that lead through picturesque scenery, including beaches, rocky cliffs, and lush vegetation.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Guiuan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Guiuan by plane.
The Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport is located in Tacloban City, approximately 130 kilometers from Guiuan. It serves as a major gateway to Eastern Visayas and offers both domestic and limited international flights.
Borongan Airport is approximately 50 kilometers from Guiuan and serves the municipality of Borongan in Eastern Samar. While primarily a domestic airport, it plays a significant role in connecting the region.
Tacloban Airport is a key international airport located in Tacloban City, about 130 kilometers northwest of Guiuan. It handles international flights and is the closest major airport to Guiuan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Guiuan, primarily speaking Waray and other Visayan languages.
A significant number of residents are from the Cebuano ethnic group, speaking Cebuano language.
There is a presence of Ilocano speakers, particularly among migrant populations from Northern Luzon.
A small community of Chinese descent exists, contributing to the local economy.
Includes various other groups with mixed backgrounds or migrants from different regions of the Philippines.
The Soul of Guiuan
Discover the essence of Guiuan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Guiuan is known for its beautiful beaches and surfing spots, making surfing a popular activity among locals and tourists alike.
Basketball is a widely played sport in the Philippines, and Guiuan has several courts where both youth and adults participate in games.
With its sandy beaches, beach volleyball is a popular sport in Guiuan, often played during local festivals and gatherings.
Football is gaining popularity in the area, with local teams forming and competing in friendly matches.
This traditional sport, often likened to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular in many regions of the Philippines, including Guiuan.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guiuan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric, many local eateries offer vegetable-based dishes such as pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and ginataang gulay (vegetables in coconut milk). Additionally, there are international cuisine options in some restaurants and cafes that cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences.
Traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features rice as a staple, making it relatively easy to find gluten-free options. Dishes like grilled seafood, adobo, and fresh tropical fruits are safe choices. However, it's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Guiuan with these cultural adventures.
