Things To Do
in Maria
Maria is a peaceful coastal town located in the province of Siquijor in the Philippines. The town is known for its picturesque beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical scenery. The local community is friendly and welcoming, making visitors feel at home.
Maria is a popular destination for those seeking a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "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): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the airport and take a scenic drive to Maria. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local café.
Explore the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming and relaxing under the sun.
Savor a traditional Filipino dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Watch the sunset while enjoying your meal.
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the ocean. Grab brunch at a nearby beach shack.
Join a beach volleyball game or try your hand at snorkeling. Discover the vibrant marine life just off the shore.
Take a leisurely walk along the beach as the sun sets. Indulge in a seafood feast at a popular local restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with beaches and mountains nearby.
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to major cities.
- Growing tourism industry providing opportunities for local businesses.
- Access to fresh seafood and local produce.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, such as poor road conditions.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, such as typhoons.
- Limited job opportunities for specialized professions.
- Challenges with public transportation.
Best Activities in Maria
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque trails and stunning landscapes around Maria, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Relax and enjoy the sun at the beautiful beaches in and around Maria, offering swimming, sunbathing, and beach games.
Discover the vibrant marine life and coral reefs while snorkeling in the clear waters near Maria.
Paddle through the serene waters and enjoy the scenic views along the coastline and nearby islands.
Observe various bird species in their natural habitat during a peaceful hike or nature walk.
Experience a relaxing day of fishing, whether from a boat or the shore, in the abundant waters around Maria.
Set up camp in designated areas and enjoy the great outdoors, complete with starry nights and the sounds of nature.
Tours
Uncover the best of Maria with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Maria
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning rock formations and vibrant sunsets, Biri Island offers breathtaking views and unique landscapes for photography.
A popular viewpoint in Maria, this site provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is perfect for capturing beautiful sunrises.
This scenic waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a picturesque spot for nature photography and a serene atmosphere.
The pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters of Maria Beach create a stunning backdrop for beach photography and sunset shots.
A hiking destination that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views from the summit, perfect for capturing aerial photographs of the surrounding area.
Food in Maria
Maria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Filipino-style roasted pig, with crispy skin and tender meat. Best enjoyed during fiestas and special occasions. Try at the local market or during town festivals.
Must-Try!
A traditional Filipino ceviche made with fresh fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, lime juice, and spices. Look for it at beachside eateries or family-owned restaurants.
A beloved Filipino dish of meat (chicken, pork, or beef) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, then braised until tender. Look for it at local 'carinderias' or home-style diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An bustling market where you can find an array of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Don’t miss the street food stalls offering grilled skewers, fresh fruit shakes, and traditional snacks.
During evenings, the town square transforms into a food lover’s paradise with vendors selling barbecued meats, halo-halo (a classic Filipino dessert), and other local street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Maria, Philippines, it is customary to show great respect to elders. Use polite language and gestures such as a slight bow or placing your hands together in front of you when greeting.
Filipinos are known for their hospitality. If invited to someone's home, it's respectful to bring a small gift such as food or flowers. Accepting offers of food or drink is also common and considered polite.
When visiting places of worship or rural areas, dressing modestly is important. Avoid overly revealing clothing, and opt for more conservative attire to show respect for local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Maria
Ensure a smooth experience
In Maria, Philippines, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to leave a tip for service staff in restaurants, typically ranging from 10% to 15% of the bill. Tipping is also customary for taxi drivers, tour guides, and hotel staff, although the amount can vary based on the quality of service.
Payment practices in Maria include both cash and electronic transactions. Cash remains a prevalent method for day-to-day purchases. However, there is a growing acceptance of digital payment systems, such as mobile wallets and card payments, particularly in urban areas and larger establishments. It is advisable for visitors to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets, where electronic payments may not be accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Maria as the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as beach outings and exploring the natural scenery. Expect clear skies, less humidity, and comfortable temperatures.
This period is characterized by increased rainfall and occasional storms. While it’s still possible to visit Maria, travelers should be prepared for wet conditions. Expect lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and potential disruptions to outdoor plans due to rain.
Maria at Night
Hiking in Maria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its cool climate and stunning sea of clouds. It offers various trails suited for different skill levels.
This park features lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. It is ideal for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path hiking experience.
A fascinating hike leads you to the rim of one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, providing panoramic views of Taal Lake.
Located in Pampanga, it boasts a challenging climb and rewarding views from its summit, making it a favorite among seasoned hikers.
A scenic hike in Benguet that offers breathtaking views of the Cordillera mountain range, perfect for both casual and experienced trekkers.
Aiports
How to reach Maria by plane.
Located in Angeles City, Pampanga, approximately 80 kilometers from Maria, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Pasay, Metro Manila, about 270 kilometers away from Maria, it is the main international gateway to the Philippines.
Situated in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, around 450 kilometers from Maria, this airport is a major international hub in the Visayas region.
Located in Davao City, approximately 650 kilometers from Maria, this airport serves international and domestic flights.
Located in Iloilo City, around 600 kilometers from Maria, this airport facilitates both domestic and international air travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Maria, primarily speakers of the Cebuano language.
A broad group of people from the Visayas region, including speakers of various Visayan languages.
A significant minority in Maria, known for their distinct language and culture.
This group is noted for their unique traditions and language, adding to the cultural diversity.
Local indigenous peoples may be present, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is immensely popular in Maria, often seen being played in local courts and barangay leagues.
Volleyball has a strong following, especially among women, with many participating in community tournaments.
Football is growing in popularity, with youth leagues and community teams forming in recent years.
Sepak Takraw, a traditional sport in the Philippines, is commonly played in the region, showcasing agility and skill.
Badminton is enjoyed recreationally and competitively, with local clubs and tournaments attracting participants.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Maria offer vegetable-based dishes such as pinakbet (mixed vegetables) and laing (taro leaves in coconut milk). Additionally, some cafes offer vegan-friendly smoothies and salads.
Most dishes in Maria are rice-based, which is naturally gluten-free. However, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs to chefs or restaurant staff to ensure a gluten-free meal.