Things To Do
in Laoang
Laoang is a coastal municipality on the northeastern side of Samar Island in Northern Samar province, known for its working fishing ports, simple town center, and surrounding coconut and rice farmland. The town serves as a local hub for nearby barangays and smaller islands, offering a slow-paced, community-driven Filipino provincial experience. Visitors come for quiet beaches, sunrise views over the Camotes Sea, and opportunities to explore rural coastal life and small-scale fishing operations.
Infrastructure is modest but welcoming, with basic services, local markets, and friendly residents eager to share traditions and food.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Laoang Church, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. As you stroll through the town, take in the sights of colonial-era buildings that tell stories of the past. Enjoy a traditional Filipino breakfast at a local eatery, savoring the flavors of longganisa and garlic rice.
After lunch, head to the town plaza where you can relax and enjoy the local ambiance. Explore the nearby Museo ng Laoang, which showcases artifacts and exhibits detailing the cultural heritage of the area. Spend time interacting with friendly locals who can share stories about Laoang's vibrant history.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood while listening to the sound of waves. Join a local fiesta celebration if available, experiencing traditional dances and music that reflect the region’s culture. Wind down your day with a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the beautiful Calicoan Beach. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by stunning views of the coastline. The soft sand and gentle waves make it the perfect place to relax or enjoy some fun in the sun.
After a morning of water sports, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, complete with local delicacies like ensaymada and buko juice. Spend the afternoon sunbathing or taking a refreshing swim in the ocean, or join a snorkeling expedition to discover the vibrant marine life. The beach is also a great place for photography, capturing picturesque moments against the backdrop of the stunning sea.
As evening approaches, enjoy a beachfront barbecue dinner, where you can grill fresh fish and enjoy local dishes under the stars. Participate in a beach bonfire with friends or fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter as the waves crash nearby. Finally, relax as you watch the moonlight shimmer on the water, concluding a perfect beach day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee at a local cafe | $1-2 |
| 🚕Tricycle short ride | $0.25-1 |
| 🏨Basic guesthouse room (per night) | $10-25 |
| ⛽Liter of fuel | $1-1.20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic provincial Filipino experience with friendly locals
- Fresh seafood and simple, inexpensive food
- Quiet beaches and opportunities for low-impact, uncrowded exploration
- Good base for exploring nearby barangays and coastal islets
- Limited tourist infrastructure and fewer accommodation choices
- Restricted access to advanced medical facilities and services
- Transportation and connectivity can be inconsistent, especially in bad weather
- Fewer entertainment and nightlife options compared with larger cities
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihug" - Please / Please do (Waray-Tagalog mix, used for requests)
- "Tagpila ini?" - How much is this? (Waray)
- "Asa ang palengke?" - Where is the market?
- "Pwede ko malangkit hin bangka?" - Can I hire a boat? (Waray)
- "Tabang!" - Help!
Places to Visit in Laoang
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning and sunset shots of fishing boats, nets, and daily activity; candid documentary-style photography opportunities.
Photos of civic life, local architecture, and community gatherings with a backdrop of simple provincial charm.
Low hilltops near nearby barangays provide panoramic views of the coastline, nearby islets, and coconut groves—great for golden hour landscapes.
Vibrant market scenes with colorful produce, seafood displays, and busy vendors—perfect for street and cultural photography.
Secluded shorelines and small islands accessible by short boat rides offer beachscapes and seascape compositions away from crowds.
Food in Laoang
Laoang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish simmered in a light broth with ginger, onions, and leafy greens; commonly prepared with locally caught fish and available in home-style eateries and small restaurants.
Must-Try!
A local ceviche-style dish using fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar or calamansi with onions, ginger, and chilis; best sampled at seaside stalls or when fresh catch is sold at the market.
Puso (hanging rice in woven palm) served with grilled fish or seafood is a popular, portable meal available at markets and beachside vendors.
Local rice-based desserts and sticky rice cakes made with coconut milk and sugar, available at markets and small pastry shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main market where fishermen bring fresh catch early morning, alongside vendors selling vegetables, coconut products, and kakanin; ideal for sampling cooked-to-order seafood and seeing daily commerce.
Small food stalls near the port that sell grilled fish, kinilaw, and ready-to-eat snacks—great for an inexpensive and authentic meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite greetings, show deference to elders, and observe queueing and local community norms—Filipino courtesy is valued.
Dress modestly in town and when visiting churches; casual beachwear is fine at the shore but cover up when returning to public streets.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private homes, markets, or religious events.
Simple reciprocity—small tokens of appreciation (snacks, sweets) are welcomed when invited to local homes; accept offers of food or drink politely even if you don’t finish everything.
Safety
Tipping in Laoang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service; small tips (20–50 PHP) are common in eateries, porters, and for guides. Round up fares for tricycles or leave small change at restaurants; in small-town settings a warm thank-you and polite behavior go far.
Cash (Philippine peso) is king—many establishments do not accept cards. ATMs may be limited; bring enough cash for daily expenses and small purchases. Mobile payments and e-wallets are growing but may be inconsistent in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Weather is generally sunnier and drier—best time for beach visits, boat trips, and hiking. Expect hotter midday temperatures from March to April; mornings and evenings are more comfortable.
Frequent afternoon and evening rains with occasional heavy downpours; outdoor plans should remain flexible. Rivers and trails can become muddy and slippery; some small boats may suspend trips during rough seas.
Northern Samar lies in the typhoon belt—be prepared for occasional severe weather, service disruptions, and contingency plans during these months. Monitor local forecasts and follow municipal advisories.
Laoang at Night
Hiking in Laoang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short hikes along low ridges near surrounding barangays for panoramic coastal views and coconut grove photography; generally easy to moderate difficulty and best at sunrise or late afternoon.
Flat, exploratory routes through mangrove fringes and tidal flats—great for birdwatching and learning about coastal ecosystems; bring waterproof footwear at low tide.
Short shoreline hikes on nearby islets accessible by local boats—combine snorkeling with easy beach treks for varied scenery and quiet beaches.
Airports
How to reach Laoang by plane.
The closest commercial airport serving Northern Samar (in Catarman). From there, Laoang is reached by road transport—jeepney, bus, or private vehicle—typically within 1–2 hours depending on route and condition.
Larger regional airport with more frequent flights and connections; located in Leyte. Overland travel to Laoang takes several hours by bus or private transfer plus possible ferry segments, so plan for a full-day transit if using this airport.
Serves parts of Samar and nearby provinces; access to Laoang requires additional road travel across Samar Island and may be less direct but an option depending on flight availability.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant group—speakers of Waray-Waray who maintain regional cultural practices and community networks.
Large portion of the population depends on fishing, coconut production, and small-scale agriculture—shaping daily life and the local economy.
Many families have members working abroad or in larger cities, influencing local remittances, housing, and celebrations; younger people often engage in education or seasonal work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular pastime—local courts host games, barangay leagues, and evening matches that are major social events.
Common in schools and community gatherings, especially among youth and during festivals.
Fishing is central to local life; recreational fishing and small competitions are common along the coast and in nearby waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Laoang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but possible—look for vegetable stews, ginataang gulay (vegetables in coconut milk), and rice dishes; clarify no fish broth or shrimp paste when ordering. Markets offer fruits and vegetable sides to supplement meals.
Vegan choices require careful communication—many dishes include fish sauce or shrimp paste. Stick to plain rice, fresh fruit, and ask vendors to prepare vegetables without animal products.
Most local dishes are rice-based and naturally gluten-free, but check for soy sauce or commercial marinades that may contain wheat. Explain sensitivity and request simple preparations.
Seafood is ubiquitous—if allergic, make this clear. Bring medication as local awareness and ingredient labeling are limited.