Things To Do
in Balangiga
Balangiga is a coastal town in Eastern Samar known for its resilient history and warm Waray hospitality. It sits along the Pacific coast, offering a quiet pace of life amid rice fields, fishing villages, and scenic vistas. The town is widely remembered for the Balangiga bells and the community’s enduring spirit in preserving local memory and culture.
Visitors come to explore historic sites, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience a rustic Filipino provincial town with genuine warmth.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Balangiga and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to soak in the stunning coastal views and the warm Philippine sun. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery to kick off your adventure.
Visit the Balangiga Bell Museum, where you’ll learn about the significant historical events that shaped the town. Explore the charming streets, meeting locals and discovering handmade crafts along the way. Stop for lunch at a beachfront restaurant and savor fresh seafood delicacies.
Unwind with a sunset walk on the beach, admiring the picturesque hues of the sky. Dine at a cozy restaurant, sampling local dishes under the stars. End the evening with a cultural show featuring traditional dances unique to the region.
Start your day with a guided tour through Balangiga's historical sites, immersing yourself in the rich culture and heritage of the area. Visit the St. Lawrence the Martyr Church, an architectural gem with deep historical significance. Engage with locals and hear stories that capture the spirit of the community.
Take part in a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Eastern Samar dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy your creations for lunch with your fellow classmates, exchanging stories and laughter. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring local markets and shops for unique souvenirs.
Relax at your accommodation or a beach bar, enjoying live music and mingling with tourists and locals. Savor a delicious dinner made from recipes you learned earlier in the day. Conclude the evening with stargazing on the beach, listening to the soothing sound of waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🚕Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Fresh fruit or street snacks | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural memory around the Balangiga bells
- Warm, welcoming Waray hospitality and authentic provincial atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
- Rural infrastructure means travel times can be longer and amenities fewer
- "Kumusta" - Hello / How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Tinare ang English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bulig!" - Help!
Places to Visit in Balangiga
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic exterior and bell display that commemorates the town’s history; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Museum exhibits related to the bells and local history; good for documentary-style shots and context.
Historic plaza area with colonial-era buildings and trees; great for wide-angle street photography and evening photography.
Food in Balangiga
Balangiga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi, onions, and chili; best enjoyed fresh by the coast or at seaside stalls.
Must-Try!
Fish simmered in a gingery broth with leafy greens and green papaya or plantains; a comforting, light soup.
A coconut milk–based seafood dish flavored with lemongrass and local herbs; a Samar specialty that showcases coconut’s versatility.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market stalls offering fresh seafood, tropical fruits, grilled snacks, and local treats; a great place to sample day-boat catches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with 'Kumusta' and say 'po' and 'opo' as a sign of respect. A friendly handshake is common; avoid loud public displays of anger.
The townspeople are predominantly Catholic; dress modestly when visiting churches and during religious events.
Guests are often offered food or drink; accepting hospitality is polite, but it’s okay to decline gracefully if you’re not hungry.
Safety
Tipping in Balangiga
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected. If service charge is not included, leaving about 5-10% in restaurants or rounding up small taxi fares is common.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is the most widely used method in Balangiga. Some larger establishments may accept card payments, but have enough cash on hand and consider bringing smaller bills for markets and tricycles.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot with high humidity; expect sunny days ideal for beach visits and outdoor photography, but carry sun protection and water.
June to November brings frequent rains and potential storms or typhoons; plan flexible itineraries and carry rain gear, waterproof bags, and sturdy footwear.
December to February tends to be milder and more comfortable for outdoor activities and walks, with lower humidity and pleasant evenings.
Balangiga at Night
Hiking in Balangiga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes offering sea views and rural panoramas; suitable for easy day treks and sunset photography.
Accessible walks through agricultural communities that reveal local life and offer opportunities for photography.
Airports
How to reach Balangiga by plane.
Regional hub with domestic flights; from there, a multi-hour road journey to Balangiga connects you via the National Highway and coastal routes.
Nearby Northern Samar gateway with limited services; access to Balangiga requires a longer road trip through provincial routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Waray-speaking Catholics, with a strong sense of community and local traditions.
Many residents rely on fishing and agriculture, contributing to the town’s steady, rural economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in schools and communities, with local leagues and informal pick-up games common in town centers.
Popular in schools and community centers, especially among youth and families during gatherings.
Native skills and activities tied to the sea remain a part of everyday life in coastal villages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balangiga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Waray cuisine frequently centers on seafood and meat stocks; opt for vegetable-based dishes, ask for no fish sauce or meat broth, and request sauces on the side to tailor flavors to a vegetarian diet.