Things To Do
in Paoay
Paoay is a picturesque town located in northern Philippines, known for its rich history and well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The most famous landmark in Paoay is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Paoay Church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture. Visitors to Paoay can also explore the nearby Paoay Lake, a tranquil spot for relaxation and bird-watching.
The town offers a peaceful and charming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking a glimpse into the Philippines' colonial past.
- "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): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Enjoy the view of Paoay Lake while sipping your favorite coffee.
Visit the historic Paoay Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in its stunning architecture. Take a walk around the charming streets nearby to discover local shops and eateries.
Have dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling local Filipino cuisine. Wind down with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets.
Explore the grounds of the Malacanang of the North, a beautiful presidential museum. Take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding gardens by Paoay Lake.
Head to the sand dunes for some adventure; try sandboarding or a 4x4 ride. Experience the thrill of the desert vibes right in the heart of Paoay.
Enjoy a quiet evening at the local market, trying out street food delicacies. Find unique souvenirs and crafts made by local artisans.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, including the stunning Paoay Church which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including beaches, lakes, and rice fields.
- Warm and welcoming local community with a strong sense of tradition.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure activities in nearby attractions.
- Relatively lesser-known destination, allowing for a more peaceful travel experience.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities, which may affect comfort and convenience.
- Public transportation options can be scarce or unreliable.
- Exposure to natural disasters such as typhoons, given its geographical location.
- Economic opportunities and job availability may be limited in comparison to other urban areas.
- Some areas may lack modern healthcare facilities and services.
Best Activities in Paoay
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vast sand dunes by 4x4 or sandboarding for an adrenaline-filled experience.
Enjoy boating or fishing at the picturesque Paoay Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views.
Visit the historic Malacanang of the North and its beautiful lakeside surroundings for a cultural and scenic experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Paoay with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Paoay
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning baroque architecture and picturesque surroundings.
A beautiful mansion located on the Paoay Lake shore, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A natural attraction with vast, rolling sand dunes, perfect for unique and picturesque photography.
Food in Paoay
Paoay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy deep-fried pork belly, a local specialty. Must-try at Herencia Cafe and other local eateries.
Must-Try!
A savory vegetable dish made with local produce and often includes eggplant, squash, and bitter melon. Best enjoyed at La Preciosa Restaurant.
A rice cake infused with rich flavors of coconut milk and topped with cheese. Not to be missed at the Paoay Market or Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Paoay better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Paoay Market to discover an array of fresh local produce, street snacks, and authentic Ilocano delicacies like empanadas and miki noodles.
Take a stroll along the streets and indulge in the iconic Ilocos Empanada – a crispy orange rice flour pastry filled with minced meat, vegetables, and egg.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Paoay, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures. Elders are highly regarded and their wisdom is appreciated.
When visiting Paoay, it is respectful to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites and communities. Revealing clothing may be considered disrespectful.
Politeness and a friendly demeanor are highly valued in Paoay. It is important to greet people warmly and engage in courteous conversation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Paoay with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Paoay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Paoay, Philippines, and it is not expected in most situations. However, in upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be added to the bill, and tipping may not be necessary.
Payment in Paoay, Philippines is primarily done in cash. Credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels, high-end restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry enough cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in the town for cash withdrawal.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Paoay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Paoay, Philippines is during the dry season, from November to April. During this time, you can expect sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes.
In contrast, the rainy season in Paoay, Philippines occurs from May to October. Visitors can expect heavy rainfall, high humidity, and the possibility of typhoons. Travelers should be prepared for wet conditions and potential disruptions to outdoor plans during this season.
Paoay at Night
Hiking in Paoay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the Paoay Lake and surrounding landscapes.
While primarily known for paragliding, the trails leading to the launch points provide beautiful hiking paths.
Not a traditional hiking spot, but offers unique trails through picturesque sand dunes ideal for an adventurous hike.
A historical site with trails along the scenic shores of Paoay Lake suitable for casual hiking.
Located a bit further away, these trails lead to coastal views and are perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Aiports
How to reach Paoay by plane.
The nearest international airport to Paoay, located approximately 19 kilometers away, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 291 kilometers south of Paoay, this major international airport serves a range of international destinations and is a hub for various low-cost carriers.
Situated about 455 kilometers from Paoay, this is the main international gateway to the Philippines, located in Manila and offering a wide array of international flights.
Approximately 642 kilometers away, this airport serves both domestic and international flights and is located on Mactan Island, Cebu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Ilocanos are the dominant ethnic group in Paoay, known for their rich agricultural heritage and vibrant cultural traditions.
Tagalogs are present in Paoay, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area, particularly through language and customs.
The Visayan population in Paoay adds to the multicultural landscape, often linked to regional economic activities and lifestyles.
The Chinese community in Paoay plays a significant role in commerce, contributing to local businesses and trade.
A smaller Muslim demographic exists in Paoay, enriching the cultural tapestry with their unique traditions and practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a highly popular sport in Paoay, with many local courts and frequent community tournaments.
Traditional Filipino martial arts are practiced within the community, showcasing skills in combat and self-defense.
Volleyball enjoys popularity, especially among women, with local leagues and schools regularly participating in the sport.
Soccer is growing in Paoay, with various youth programs introducing the sport to younger generations.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball, sepak takraw is played with a rattan ball and is popular in local festivities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paoay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine features meat, many restaurants in Paoay offer delicious vegetarian alternatives like Pinakbet, Vegetable Kare-Kare, and fresh fruit platters.
Vegan-friendly options are available, especially in restaurants with a focus on fresh produce and Ilocano flavors. Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant is known for its vegan-friendly dishes.
For those with gluten sensitivities, options like fresh seafood, grilled meats, and rice-based dishes are widely available across Paoay. It's recommended to communicate dietary preferences with the restaurant staff for a tailored dining experience.