Things To Do
in Kawayan
Kawayan is a coastal municipality on Biliran Island in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It offers a laid-back island vibe with warm seas, quiet beaches, and scenic viewpoints. The town centers on fishing and farming communities, with markets where you can sample fresh seafood.
Visitors can explore a mix of coastal scenery, rural landscapes, and welcoming locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Kawayan and check into your beachfront accommodation. Spend the morning unwinding from your travels while soaking in the stunning views of the sea. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies to energize you for the day's adventures.
Explore the nearby village to experience the vibrant local culture. Engage with locals and discover handmade crafts, or perhaps take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. As the sun begins its descent, find a secluded spot to enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the island.
Savor dinner at a beachside restaurant, where you can relish fresh seafood and traditional Filipino dishes. Watch the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening. End the day with a walk along the shore, with the soothing sound of waves accompanying you.
After breakfast, embark on an island hopping adventure to explore the surrounding islets. Visit secluded beaches and enjoy swimming in pristine waters with vibrant marine life. Admire the unique rock formations and lush greenery that each island offers.
Indulge in a picnic lunch on one of the islands, surrounded by natural beauty. Afterward, indulge in water sports like snorkeling or kayaking to fully experience the aquatic wonders of Kawayan. Gather stories and memories as you mingle with fellow travelers.
Return to your accommodation and freshen up before dinner. Dine under the stars at a local eatery, enjoying live music that captures the essence of the island. As the night unfolds, consider joining a bonfire with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
| 🚕Local transport per ride | $1-3 |
| 🧭Attractions or boat trip | $2-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, welcoming communities
- Rich coastal scenery and accessible nature
- Good value for money and straightforward travel
- Limited nightlife and major tourist infrastructure
- Smaller selection of high-end dining options
- Typhoon season can disrupt travel plans
- "Kumusta?" - Hello / How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Nasaan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Opo / Hindi" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Kawayan
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide seascape with fishing boats and soft morning light ideal for long-exposure shots.
Panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of the town, coast, and distant islands.
Low-angle light along the shore with silhouettes of boats and palm fronds.
Food in Kawayan
Kawayan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Citrus-cured raw fish bathed in vinegar, coconut milk, and chilies; best fresh from the coast.
Must-Try!
Fish soup with green leafy vegetables and ginger; light, comforting, and widely available.
Tamarind-sour fish stew with vegetables; a tangy staple for coastal cooking.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh seafood, dried fish, produce, and small stalls for quick meals and snacks.
Street-side grills and stalls offering grilled fish, wraps, and homemade snacks along the shore.
Early-morning stalls where you can buy catch-of-the-day and have it prepared on-site.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Address elders with polite language (po/opo) and show deference in interactions.
Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting churches or temples.
Request permission when photographing people, especially in intimate or family settings.
Avoid pointing feet toward people or religious symbols; use respectful hand gestures.
Bargain politely in markets; smiles and friendly conversation go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Kawayan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. In restaurants, 5-10% is common if service is not included; rounding up is common at street stalls. Small tips to boat crews and guides are thoughtful.
Cash is widely used in Kawayan; many small vendors are cash-only. Larger hotels and some restaurants in Naval may accept credit cards. ATMs are more available in town centers; carry PHP for local purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings hot, dry days; great for beach activities and outdoor exploring. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan early-morning or late-afternoon excursions to beat the heat.
June to October brings frequent showers and possible storms; seas can be rough and travel may be disrupted. Lush greenery emerges; indoor attractions and flexible scheduling are wise during this period.
November to February offers cooler evenings and relatively lower humidity. Sea conditions are often calmer, making snorkeling and boat trips more comfortable; short rain showers can still occur.
Kawayan at Night
Hiking in Kawayan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hike with panoramic views over Kawayan and the Biliran Strait.
Riverside path through mangroves and open wetlands; good for birdwatching.
Easy coastal hike offering sea views and sunset opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Kawayan by plane.
Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport, the main gateway to Eastern Visayas.
A smaller domestic airport on Samar with connections to Manila.
Domestic airport in Leyte with regional links.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Waray-speaking residents with Catholic traditions and a strong sense of community.
Many families rely on small-scale fishing and agriculture, shaping daily life and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular in schools and communities; casual games are common in plazas and gyms.
Played at beaches and community centers, especially in the dry season.
A common indoor/outdoor activity in local clubs and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kawayan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh vegetables, coconut-based curries, tofu dishes, and rice; ask for sauces made without fish sauce and stock; many dishes can be adapted with a little notice.