Things To Do
in Lianga
Lianga is a coastal town in Surigao del Sur, Mindanao, Philippines, set along the Pacific shoreline with lush hinterlands. It blends island vibes with rural charm, offering calm beaches, rivers, and friendly communities. The area is known for its fresh seafood, coconut-based cuisine, and access to natural scenery.
Visitors can experience laid-back coastal life while using Lianga as a gateway to nearby forests and hidden coves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Lianga's pristine beaches, soaking up the sun and listening to the gentle waves lapping at the shore. Take a leisurely walk along the soft sands as the sun rises, capturing beautiful photographs of the serene landscape. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, indulging in fresh local fruits and seafood delicacies.
After lunch, engage in some water sports such as snorkeling or kayaking to explore the vibrant marine life that surrounds the area. Visit nearby rock formations and hidden coves, taking time to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. As the sun begins to dip, return to the beach to enjoy the breathtaking views and perhaps build sandcastles with the kids.
As night falls, savor a sumptuous seafood dinner at a local restaurant that features fresh catch from the day. Join locals at the beach for a bonfire, where you can share stories and laugh under a blanket of stars. Finally, end your day with a stroll along the shoreline, enjoying the soothing sounds of the ocean.
Head out early to the Enchanted River, a stunning freshwater river known for its mesmerizing blue hue. Enjoy the scenic drive through lush landscapes filled with coconut trees and local villages, immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of the Philippines. Once at the river, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters to start your day off right.
After a morning swim, enjoy a picnic lunch by the riverside while soaking in the breathtaking views around you. Explore the nearby caves and lush pathways, taking in the natural beauty and discovering unique flora and fauna. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak to navigate the river for a different perspective of the area.
As the sun sets, gather around a local eatery to enjoy traditional Filipino dishes, experiencing the local flavors. Share stories and laughter with your travel companions as you savor the culinary delights of the region. Conclude your evening with a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, listening to the sounds of nature around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🌮Street food or snack | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (trike/bus) | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or small meal at cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life and natural scenery
- Fresh seafood and affordable prices
- Friendly locals and rich coastal culture
- Good value for money and fewer crowds
- Limited nightlife and cultural amenities
- Occasional infrastructure gaps in remote areas
- Smaller selection of international dining and shopping
- "Kumusta" - Hello/How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Maayong buntag" - Good morning
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Asa ang kasilyas?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tagpila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Gusto nako mag-order" - I would like to order
- "Daghang salamat" - Thank you very much
Places to Visit in Lianga
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal horizon with soft morning light over the calm bay; ideal for landscape and silhouette photography.
Cliffside or gentle elevated spots offering panoramic views of the coastline and distant islands.
Shallow river mouths and mangrove lines provide reflections, wildlife, and atmospheric light for nature photography.
Food in Lianga
Lianga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi, onions, and chili. Commonly served at seafood stalls and beachfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Whole or filleted fish grilled over charcoal, often seasoned with salt, pepper, and local herbs; a staple at seaside markets.
Fish in a light ginger and green leafy broth, served with rice; widely available in local eateries.
Classic Filipino dish of marinated meat stewed in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and pepper; commonly found in restaurants and home-style cookouts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main hub for fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and everyday snacks; great for tasting local street offerings and picking up ingredients.
Nearby stalls along the waterfront offering grilled skewers, fried snacks, and fresh fruit—good for a quick bite after a beach visit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings with hands folded or a simple nod are common. Using pa/po when speaking to elders shows respect.
Modest clothing is appropriate in public spaces and when visiting villages; shoulders and knees should be covered in more traditional settings.
Ask before entering homes or private spaces and wait to be invited to sit or eat.
Safety
Tipping in Lianga
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is customary if staff provide good service and no service charge is included. Taxis and trikes may appreciate small change tips for help with bags or extra wait time.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Some larger establishments accept credit/debit cards, but ATMs can be limited in smaller towns, so bring enough cash for daily expenses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with long sunny days; ideal for beach visits and outdoor photography. Bring water, sun protection, and plan afternoons for shade.
June to October brings heavier rain and storms; roads can be slippery and travel slower. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and plan flexible outdoor plans.
Lianga at Night
Hiking in Lianga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails along the coastline and near forested hills; suitable for day hikes and photography stops.
Short hills with panoramic views of Lianga Bay and surrounding countryside; best in early morning or late afternoon.
Airports
How to reach Lianga by plane.
Regional airport serving Mindanao; access to Lianga by road with travel time dependent on road conditions.
Domestic flights hub in the region; convenient as a gateway to Lianga with a longer road trip to reach town centers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Filipino communities with indigenous Lumad groups (such as Manobo) and long-standing settler families; Surigaonon and Cebuano are commonly spoken alongside Filipino.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide, commonly played in schools and local courts.
Common in schools and community gatherings; informal beach games occur during dry season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lianga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted to a vegetarian diet by focusing on vegetables, rice, and fruit. Request dishes without meat or fish, and rely on coconut milk-based curries, tofu options if available, and fresh produce at the market.