Things To Do
in Hilongos
Hilongos is a coastal municipality located in the province of Leyte, Philippines. It is known for its picturesque beaches and stunning views of the sea. The town is also recognized for its vibrant market filled with local produce and handicrafts.
Hilongos is a close-knit community with friendly residents who warmly welcome visitors to experience their rich culture and traditions.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat ride to nearby islands like Calubian and Himokilan. Enjoy snorkeling and taking in the beautiful underwater scenery.
Savor a packed lunch on the beach while relaxing under the sun. Explore the untouched shores and take memorable photos.
Return to Hilongos and enjoy a local seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Watch the sunset as you unwind from the day's excitement.
Embark on a hike to Bukilat Cave and discover its stunning rock formations. The morning is ideal for exploring the lush surroundings with a guide.
After the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot nearby. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or taking nature photos.
Head back to Hilongos for a dinner of traditional Filipino cuisine. Enjoy the local atmosphere at a nearby café or tavern.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural beauty with beaches and lush landscapes
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Cultural heritage and traditional festivals
- Affordable cost of living
- Opportunities for local agricultural and fishing industries
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities
- Infrastructure challenges, including road conditions
- Potential for natural disasters like typhoons
- Economic reliance on a few key industries
- Limited educational opportunities for higher learning
Best Activities in Hilongos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hilongos has several beautiful beaches where you can relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters.
Explore the nearby islands and discover their natural beauty, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life through island hopping tours.
The waters around Hilongos offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, allowing you to witness the colorful marine ecosystem.
Embark on scenic hikes and nature trails to experience the lush landscapes, tropical flora, and diverse wildlife of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hilongos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hilongos
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the sea and a great place to capture the sunset or sunrise.
Provides picturesque views of boats and the surrounding coastline, ideal for photography.
A hill that offers panoramic views of Hilongos and the surrounding area, perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Hilongos
Hilongos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Filipino ceviche made with fresh and locally caught fish or seafood, marinated in vinegar, lime juice, and spices. Best enjoyed at local eateries such as Lutong Bahay sa Hilongos or during town fiestas.
Must-Try!
Grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of calamansi, lemongrass, garlic, and annatto, giving it a distinct flavor. Look for this dish at Turo-Turo stalls around town or at restaurants like B's Chicken Inato.
Hanging rice wrapped in woven coconut leaves, a staple often paired with grilled dishes or kinilaw. Available from local vendors along the streets or at the Hilongos Public Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hilongos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub offering an array of fresh produce, seafood, and street food. Sample grilled skewers, local delicacies like bibingka (rice cake), and various fruit shakes.
A lively night market where visitors can savor a variety of delectable street food such as fish balls, squid balls, and kwek-kwek (quail eggs coated in orange batter).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hilongos, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by seeking their guidance and advice.
It is customary in Hilongos to be hospitable and welcoming to guests, offering them food, drinks, and a comfortable place to stay.
It is respectful to dress modestly in Hilongos, particularly when visiting religious sites or attending community events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hilongos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hilongos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hilongos, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice. However, some upscale restaurants or hotels may include a service charge in the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Hilongos, Philippines. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It is important to carry sufficient cash when visiting Hilongos.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hilongos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Hilongos, Philippines is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. During this time, you can expect sunny weather, fewer chances of rain, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as beach visits, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
In the wet season, from June to November, Hilongos experiences higher humidity and increased rainfall. Visitors during this time should be prepared for occasional heavy downpours, cloudy skies, and the potential for typhoons. However, this season also brings lush green landscapes and lower accommodation rates, making it a more budget-friendly time to visit.
Hilongos at Night
Hiking in Hilongos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking spot offering lush forests and a chance to see unique wildlife. It provides stunning views of the surrounding area and is suitable for experienced hikers.
Located near Hilongos, this mountain offers a moderately challenging hike with rewarding views of the landscape. It's a great spot for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Though a bit farther, this park features beautiful hiking trails leading to natural bridges and stunning rock formations amidst a lush rainforest.
A known spot for hiking enthusiasts, this peak provides challenging trails and beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding region.
Offering a mix of trails for all skill levels, this park is great for leisurely walks or more challenging hikes amidst natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hilongos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hilongos by plane.
Located in Cebu, approximately 133 kilometers from Hilongos, this is the second busiest airport in the Philippines and serves as a gateway to Central and Southern Philippines.
Situated in Davao City, around 260 kilometers from Hilongos, this airport serves as another major international gateway to Mindanao and facilitates various international flights.
Located in Pampanga, approximately 620 kilometers from Hilongos, it serves as a hub for international travelers, especially those going to and from Northern and Central Luzon.
Found in Manila, about 700 kilometers from Hilongos, this is the primary international airport in the Philippines and handles a large volume of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Hilongos, primarily speaking Cebuano and known for their rich cultural heritage.
A significant demographic group in the region, speaking the Waray language, primarily from Eastern Visayas.
Present in smaller numbers, often involved in trade and commerce, speaking Tagalog and integrating with local cultures.
Comprising residents from nearby Bohol, sharing cultural and historical ties with the people of Hilongos.
Includes various groups from the Visayas region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Hilongos.
Minor indigenous groups that reside in the area, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Hilongos.
The Soul of Hilongos
Discover the essence of Hilongos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is the most popular sport in the Philippines, including Hilongos. It is played in streets, schools, and various community leagues.
Volleyball is widely played in Hilongos, particularly among women and the youth. Local tournaments often attract many participants and spectators.
Football has been gaining popularity in the Philippines, and Hilongos has its own local leagues and teams, promoting the sport among the youth.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in Hilongos, enjoyed by many for recreation and competitive play in local tournaments.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball using feet, is also popular in Hilongos and reflects the local culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hilongos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine leans heavily on meat and seafood, some local eateries and cafes in Hilongos, such as Cafe Amoree, offer vegetarian and vegan choices like vegetable sinigang, fresh salads, and tofu dishes.
In Hilongos, finding gluten-free options may require more specific inquiries, but some establishments such as Cafe Amoree may offer gluten-free pastries or rice-based dishes. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when ordering.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hilongos with these cultural adventures.
