Loay
,Loay is a small town located on the southeastern coast of Bohol Island in the Philippines. It is known for its lush tropical landscapes, tranquil rivers, and traditional Filipino culture. The town is popular among tourists for its scenic countryside, historic sites, and warm hospitality of its residents.
Loay is also famous for its annual festivals and events that showcase the rich heritage and traditions of the local community.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.40 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Island Hopping Adventure
morning
:Start your day with a boat ride to nearby islands. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
afternoon
:Savor a picnic lunch on a beautiful sandy beach. Explore the vibrant marine life while diving or snorkeling.
evening
:Return to Loay and enjoy a sunset dinner at a local restaurant. Reflect on the day's adventures while sipping a tropical drink.
Nature Trekking Trip
morning
:Set off early to explore the lush hills and trails around Loay. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the sounds of nature.
afternoon
:Have lunch at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the hills. Continue to trek and visit local flora and fauna.
evening
:Wrap up the day with a campfire dinner under the stars. Share stories with fellow trekkers and enjoy the serene environment.
Highlights
Good
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
Bad
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities.
- Potential issues with infrastructure and transportation.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons and floods.
- Economic challenges in terms of job opportunities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Kayaking
Explore the beautiful rivers and waterways of Loay by kayaking. Experience the serene environment and immerse yourself in nature.
Hiking
Discover the scenic trails around Loay with various hiking routes that accommodate both beginners and experienced hikers.
Snorkeling and Diving
Visit nearby diving spots to enjoy the rich marine biodiversity. Snorkeling gear is available for rent to explore the coral reefs.
River Cruising
Take a peaceful river cruise to enjoy the lush landscapes along the banks of the Loay River, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Beach Picnic
Spend a day at a nearby beach with family and friends for a picnic while enjoying the sun and sea.
Cultural Tours
Engage in cultural tours to learn about the local history, traditions, and crafts of the communities in and around Loay.
Cycling
Bike through the picturesque roads of Loay and nearby areas, enjoying the cool breeze and scenic views.
Wildlife Watching
Observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. Bring binoculars for bird watching and enjoy the vibrant flora.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Loay with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Loay River Cruise
Enjoy picturesque views of the Loay River and its surrounding lush vegetation while cruising along the waterway, providing numerous photo opportunities.
Mount Ilihan
Feast your eyes on breathtaking panoramic views of Loay and its verdant landscapes from the summit of Mount Ilihan, offering exceptional photo opportunities.
Loboc-Loay River
Capture stunning images of the scenic river and its lush banks while exploring the tranquil waterway, presenting unforgettable photo opportunities in Loay.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ubos-Ubos
A traditional dish made with coconut milk, fish, and vegetables, giving a unique blend of flavors. Definitely try it at Bay-oy Seafood Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Lumpia Ubod
Fresh spring rolls filled with heart of palm, vegetables, and shrimp, often served with a homemade sweet and sour sauce. Visit the Loay Public Market for some of the best Lumpia Ubod in town.
Tinumok
A flavorful dish made of ground shrimp or fish mixed with coconut milk and spices, cooked in taro leaves. You can savor this dish at Lola Emilda's Kitchen, known for its authentic Tinumok.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Loay better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Loay Public Market
The heart of vibrant street food culture, offering a variety of local delicacies such as barbecue skewers, bibingka (rice cakes), and halo-halo (shaved ice dessert). Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in the bustling street food scene here.
Municipal Plaza Food Stalls
A great spot to experience an array of street food options, from grilled seafood to native desserts. Try the balut (fertilized duck embryo) for a unique street food adventure.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings
In Loay, it is customary to greet others with a warm smile and a handshake. Addressing people with respectful terms such as 'po' and 'opo' when speaking, especially to elders, is greatly appreciated.
Dining Etiquette
When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. If offered food, it is respectful to politely decline if you do not wish to partake, rather than refusing outright, which can be seen as impolite.
Dress Appropriately
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes. In general, wearing light and respectful attire is seen as a sign of respect towards the local culture and traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Loay with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Loay, Philippines, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a small tip at restaurants or for services, generally around 10% of the total bill. In tourist areas, tipping may be more common, and locals in the service industry often rely on tips as a supplement to their income.
Payment
Payment practices in Loay primarily involve cash transactions, as many local businesses may not have credit card facilities. However, in urban areas and among larger establishments, card payments and mobile payment options are increasingly accepted. It is advisable to carry Philippine pesos for everyday transactions, especially in markets and small shops.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Loay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season (November to April)
Best time to visit for sunny weather and festivals such as the town fiesta and the Kambugahay Falls Festival. Expect warm temperatures and lower chances of rain.
Wet season (May to October)
Expect higher chances of rain, lush greenery, and the possibility of typhoons. It's a good time for those interested in river cruising, bird watching, and experiencing the town's agricultural activities.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Mounts Iglit - Baco National Park
A vast expanse of natural beauty, this park features diverse ecosystems and a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels.
Kabasean Falls
A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, offering short hikes and a refreshing experience for nature lovers.
Mount Manggas
A popular hiking destination with a challenging trail that rewards hikers with stunning views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
Bucas Grande Islands
While primarily known for its lagoons and caves, it offers treks and hikes through beautiful landscapes that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
Bridal Veil Falls
A picturesque waterfall that can be reached by an enjoyable hike, perfect for a day trip that combines hiking with scenic views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Loay through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Loay by plane.
Mactan-Cebu International Airport (CEB)
The main international airport serving Cebu, located approximately 126 km from Loay.
Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO)
Also known as Davao International Airport, it is located about 294 km from Loay.
Kalibo International Airport (KLO)
Located in Kalibo, Aklan, this airport is approximately 162 km from Loay.
Iloilo International Airport (ILO)
Serves Iloilo City and is located about 182 km from Loay.
Puerto Princesa International Airport (PPS)
Located in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, approximately 498 km from Loay.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cebuano
Cebuano is the most widely spoken language and is the dominant cultural group in Loay.
Boholano
Boholanos are the local inhabitants of Bohol, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Visayan
Visayan people include various ethnic groups originating from the Visayas region, of which Bohol is part.
Tagalog
Tagalog-speaking individuals are present in weaker numbers and mostly consist of migrants from other regions.
Other Ethnic Groups
A small number of other ethnicities may be present, including migrants from other parts of the Philippines.
The Soul of Loay
Discover the essence of Loay through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
A widely played team sport in Loay, often played in streets and local courts.
Volleyball
A popular sport among both men and women, played in schools and local tournaments.
Football (Soccer)
An emerging sport in the area, with local teams and leagues forming.
Badminton
A favorite recreational sport, often played in community centers and homes.
Sepak Takraw
A traditional sport in the Philippines that is gaining popularity in Loay.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Loay are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, offering dishes like Pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and Ginataang Langka (young jackfruit in coconut milk). Engage with the staff for customized options.
Gluten-Free Options
Locally, rice is a staple, providing a gluten-free base for many dishes. However, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to ensure that dishes are prepared without gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Loay with these cultural adventures.