Things To Do
in Salcedo

Salcedo sits along the coast of Eastern Samar with a rural landscape of rice fields and coconut groves. The town is known for its warm, welcoming communities and unhurried pace of life. Visitors can explore local markets, beaches, and nature trails while experiencing authentic provincial Filipino culture.

Seasonal weather and typhoon activity shape when and how you should plan outdoor adventures.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Heart of Salcedo
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample freshly picked fruits and vegetables. Engage with local vendors to learn about the traditional crafts and delicacies of the region. Don’t forget to capture the colorful sights and sounds of the bustling market scene.

afternoon
:

After a hearty lunch, head to the nearby beach for some relaxation and sunbathing. Enjoy the tranquility of the coastal surroundings, where you can take a refreshing swim or try some water sports. The afternoon is perfect for a leisurely stroll along the shore as the waves gently lap at your feet.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant featuring traditional Filipino cuisine. Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a lively evening festival or performance if one is happening during your visit. Cap off the night with a walk along the beach, taking in the serenade of the evening waves.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Local Museums
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Salcedo Heritage Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the area. Spend time admiring various artifacts and exhibitions that tell the story of the local communities. Use this opportunity to engage with knowledgeable staff members who can provide insights into Salcedo’s heritage.

afternoon
:

After exploring the museum, have lunch at a nearby café before heading to the local art gallery to appreciate contemporary works by regional artists. This is a great way to connect with the thriving local art scene and perhaps purchase a unique piece to remember your trip. Take your time to enjoy each exhibit and chat with the artists if they are present.

evening
:

In the evening, attend a local cultural performance or show, which may feature traditional dance or music. Experience the vibrant beats and compelling stories shared through the performances, offering a deeper understanding of Salcedo's artistic expressions. After the show, visit a park nearby for a relaxing evening under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-30
🚖Short local transport (tricycle/jeepney)$1-3
🛍️Souvenirs and groceries$5-25
Coffee/tea at cafe$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, unspoiled coastal town with authentic local culture
  • Warm, welcoming communities and scenic natural areas
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Fewer direct flight options and longer travel times from major hubs
  • "Maupay nga adlaw" - Good day
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
  • "Ano an imo ngaran?" - What is your name?
  • "Pwede mmo kami buligan?" - Can you help us?

Places to Visit in Salcedo

Visit one of these nice places.

Coastal Fishermen’s Wharf at Sunset

Colorful boats, working fishermen, and warm golden light over the water.

Public Market and Stalls

Colorful daily life with baskets of produce, dried fish, and local snacks.

Hilltop Viewpoint Overlooking the Coast

Wide panorama of the shoreline and surrounding villages, ideal for wide shots.

Mangrove Edge and River Bend

Tranquil water, mangroves, and birds—great for nature and reflection shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Salcedo

Salcedo’s cuisine reflects a coastal-agrarian lifestyle, showcasing abundant seafood, coconut milk, and garden vegetables. Dishes tend to be hearty, flavorful, and straightforward, with regional twists that highlight local ingredients.

Salcedo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tinolang Isda

Fish simmered in ginger, green papaya, and leafy vegetables in a light broth.

Must-Try!

Kinilaw

Fresh fish cured in vinegar or citrus with onions, chilies, and coconut oil.

Sinigang na Isda

Tamarind-sour fish soup with vegetables and a bright, tangy broth.

Laing

Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with a touch of spice (availability may vary locally).

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Salcedo Public Market

Vibrant stalls with fresh seafood, produce, dried fish, and regional snacks.

Coastal Street Food Stalls

Waterfront grills and quick bites offering grilled fish skewers, fried snacks, and local pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Salcedo experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, a defined wet season and dry season, and periodic tropical cyclones during the rainy period.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Use a polite tone and greet elders with respectful phrases; add 'po' when speaking to older people.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask before photographing individuals or private property; be mindful at religious sites and during ceremonies.

Dress and Public Behavior

Dress modestly in rural areas and when visiting churches; keep noise and behavior considerate in public spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travelers should practice normal safety precautions: secure valuables in crowded markets, use reputable transportation, avoid isolated areas at night, and stay informed about weather advisories during the typhoon season.

Tipping in Salcedo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% in tourist-friendly spots is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; some larger establishments may take cards; mobile payments are increasingly common where connectivity exists.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (Nov–May)

Generally sunny and warm days; great for beaches and outdoor activities; occasional tropical showers possible.

Rainy Season (Jun–Oct)

Frequent rain and higher humidity; rough seas can affect water-based activities; storms and typhoon risk are higher.

Nightlife Guide

Salcedo at Night

Nightlife in Salcedo tends to be quiet and community-centered, with family gatherings, small local cafes, and waterfront strolls especially popular at sunset. If there are local fiestas or events, you may find live music or performances, but major nightlife venues are limited compared to larger urban centers.

Hiking in Salcedo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Hilltop Trail

A short hike to a lookout with sea views and coastal scenery.

Riverside Walk with Mangroves

Easy trail along a riverbank featuring mangroves and birdlife.

Airports

How to reach Salcedo by plane.

Tacloban Airport (TAC)

Major gateway to Eastern Visayas with flights to Manila and Cebu; from Tacloban, a road transfer to Salcedo takes several hours.

Calbayog Airport (CYP)

Regional airport in Samar with connections to Manila and nearby islands; alternative access point for travelers before ground transfer.

Getting Around

Walkability

Salcedo’s town center is compact and walkable, with markets, churches, and shores nearby; reaching beaches and viewpoints beyond the center typically requires local transport or a short drive.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Waray-speaking communities

Predominant language group in Eastern Visayas with Catholic traditions and strong family ties.

Fisherfolk and farmers

Residents engaged in coastal fishing and inland agriculture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

The most popular sport in schools and communities.

Football (Soccer)

Played in barangay fields and during community events.

Volleyball

Common in gymnasiums and local gatherings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light; roads can be narrow and rural, with occasional congestion near markets. Tricycles and jeepneys are common local transport, while private cars are less prevalent.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Salcedo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Rely on rice, vegetables, and coconut-based dishes; clearly request no fish sauce or meat; many vegetarian options are available at local eateries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Salcedo is basic, with a rural health unit for routine care; more comprehensive services are available in nearby towns or Borongan City, so plan accordingly and carry basic medicines.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide