Things To Do
in Maria
Maria is a small, laid-back coastal town in the Philippines known for its friendly communities, coconut groves and easy access to clear beaches and reefs. The town combines working fishing villages, local markets and a handful of small resorts and guesthouses that cater to travelers seeking an authentic provincial experience. Days here are spent exploring shoreline vistas, sampling fresh seafood and watching spectacular sunrises or evenings of calm sea air.
It’s an ideal stop for low-key island hopping, snorkeling and observing everyday Filipino life away from big-city crowds.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by walking through the historic streets of Intramuros, the oldest district in Manila. Visit San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the beautiful architectural designs. Take a guided tour of Fort Santiago to learn about the history and significance of this colonial fortress.
After lunch, explore the fascinating Casa Manila, a replica of a colonial period house. Wander through the gardens and take in the rich culture of the Philippines. Enjoy a leisurely stroll as you make your way to the Manila Cathedral.
As the day winds down, savor a traditional Filipino dinner at a local restaurant in Intramuros. Try out local dishes like adobo or sinigang while listening to the soothing sounds of live acoustic music. End the night with a stroll along the murals illuminated by soft lights in the area.
Begin the day with a visit to Rizal Park, a spacious green area filled with monuments commemorating national hero José Rizal. Take a peaceful walk or grab a coffee at one of the park’s kiosks. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby National Museum of Fine Arts, which houses impressive works of art.
After exploring the museum, head to the National Museum of Natural History to learn about the Philippines' rich biodiversity. Enjoy the interactive exhibits, showcasing native flora and fauna. Take a break in the museum café before heading out.
As the sun sets, visit the Baywalk along Manila Bay for stunning sunset views. Indulge in fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants along the bay while enjoying the ocean breeze. Cap off the night with a live band performance at a nearby venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1.50-3 |
| 🚕Short tricycle ride / local transport | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse / double room | $20-45 |
| ⛴️Boat trip / island-hopping (half day) | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic provincial atmosphere away from mass tourism
- Access to unspoiled beaches, reefs and island-hopping opportunities
- Friendly local community and fresh seafood
- Affordable prices for food, accommodation and activities
- Limited infrastructure: fewer ATMs, medical facilities and card-accepting businesses
- Public transport can be infrequent; travel between towns may take time
- Weather can be unpredictable in the rainy/typhoon season
- Nightlife and shopping options are limited compared with larger centers
- "Kumusta?" - How are you? / Hello
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang baybayin / pier?" - Where is the beach / pier?
- "Paumanhin / Excuse me" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Masarap" - Delicious
- "Tulong!" - Help!
Places to Visit in Maria
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning scenes of boats returning with the catch, mist over the water and soft warm light — ideal for atmospheric coastal shots.
Clifftop vistas offer panoramic views of the coastline, perfect for wide-angle landscape photos around golden hour.
Colorful market stalls, piles of tropical fruit and energetic vendors provide authentic street photography opportunities.
A tranquil setting for nature shots: reflected water, twisting roots and birds — better photographed in soft morning or late afternoon light.
Exposed sandbars at low tide create dramatic, minimalist compositions with turquoise water and lone palm trees.
Food in Maria
Maria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Filipino ceviche-style dish made from fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar or citrus, with onions, ginger and chili — commonly found at seaside stalls and eateries.
Must-Try!
Whole local fish or fillets grilled over charcoal, often served with rice and a vinegar dipping sauce — available at most seaside carinderias and small restaurants.
A tangy tamarind-based soup with fish or pork and local vegetables — a comforting meal sold at family restaurants and markets.
A popular Filipino shaved-ice dessert with sweet beans, fruits, leche flan and ice cream — perfect for cooling down after a hot day.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where fishers bring early-morning catches, and where vendors sell fruits, vegetables and cooked snacks. Try fresh grilled squid, fish balls, banana cue and local pastries.
Small evening stalls near the beach selling grilled seafood, skewers and cold drinks — great for casual alfresco dining while watching the sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to older people; common gestures include polite greetings and allowing elders to be served first. A simple nod, smile and 'po' (politeness marker) is appreciated.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities. Remove shoes when entering some homes and be mindful of local norms.
Filipinos are hospitable — respond warmly, accept invitations courteously and return smiles. Gift small tokens or sweets if invited to a household as a thank-you.
Avoid leaving trash on beaches or in villages; local communities value clean surroundings and sustainable use of marine resources.
Safety
Tipping in Maria
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips (20–50 PHP / ~$0.40–$1) for helpful service, tour guides or boat crews are welcomed. For restaurants, leave change or round up; in smaller establishments staff rely more on direct payment than tipping.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is king in Maria — many small eateries, markets and tricycle drivers accept cash only. ATMs may be limited; bring enough cash from a larger town and carry smaller denominations. Credit/debit cards are accepted at a few hotels and larger restaurants, but don’t rely on them for daily spending. Mobile payments are growing but not universally supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny and generally calm seas make this the best time for beach activities, snorkeling and island hopping. Expect higher temperatures from March to May and more visitors during holiday periods (December–January).
Frequent afternoon showers and occasional heavy rain are common; some outdoor activities can be limited and sea conditions rougher. Lower tourist numbers mean quieter beaches and more room to negotiate with local guides.
This period carries the highest risk of tropical storms and typhoons. Check weather forecasts and travel advisories, and be prepared for cancelled boats or temporary closures.
Maria at Night
Hiking in Maria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike along seaside cliffs offering panoramic ocean views and photo opportunities; usually easy to moderate difficulty.
A shaded walk through small forests and farmland to a local waterfall and swimming pool — best visited in the dry season or shortly after light rains.
A gentle trail through protected mangrove areas for birdwatching and learning about coastal ecosystems; accessible and family-friendly.
Airports
How to reach Maria by plane.
A regional airport (reachable by road or boat within 1–4 hours depending on location) typically connects to larger hubs — domestic flights link to Manila, Cebu or other regional centers. Check local transport schedules for transfers.
The primary international gateway to the Philippines — most international travelers will arrive here before taking a domestic flight or ferry to reach Maria.
Major southern hub with many domestic and international connections; reachable by ferry or domestic flight from various regional airports, depending on your route to Maria.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents make a living from fishing, coconut farming and small-scale agriculture — community life revolves around these livelihoods.
Older adults and extended families maintain traditions, often active in church and local community events.
Younger people may work in tourism, construction or migrate seasonally to larger cities for employment — many return for fiestas and holidays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Philippines’ most popular sport — local pickup games and barangay (village) tournaments are common and great for mingling with residents.
Another common community sport played on beaches and school courts, especially among youth and during local fiestas.
Coastal activities like fishing, snorkeling and kayaking are both recreational pastimes and livelihoods for many locals; surfers visit when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited — look for vegetable stir-fries, egg dishes, tofu and vegetable soups. Communicate clearly that you don’t eat meat or fish (use the phrase 'Hindi ako kumakain ng karne/isan' — see key phrases). Bring snacks and check with restaurants in advance.
Vegan choices can be scarce in small towns; focus on rice, fresh fruits, vegetable dishes and coconut-based preparations. Ask cooks about fish sauce (patis) and shrimp paste (bagoong), which are common ingredients.
Shellfish is widely eaten — if you have shellfish allergies, be explicit with vendors and avoid mixed seafood platters. Carry antihistamines and emergency medication if needed.