Things To Do
in Paoay
Paoay is a historic town in Ilocos Norte known for its grand colonial architecture. The centerpiece is the UNESCO-listed Paoay Church, a striking Baroque church with twin towers set against a bright sky. The surrounding landscape features expansive lakes and a quiet rural charm that reflects Ilocos Norte’s heritage.
Visitors enjoy warm hospitality, starlit skies, and easy access to nearby sights like Malacañang of the North and the sand dunes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Laoag International Airport and take a scenic drive to Paoay. Check-in at a local resort and unwind after your travel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast featuring local delicacies.
Explore the serene surroundings of your resort or take a dip in the pool. If time allows, visit the nearby Paoay Lake for some kayaking or picnicking. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their culture.
Dine at a local restaurant, sampling fresh seafood and traditional Filipino dishes. Take a stroll around the area to enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Conclude your evening with a beautiful sunset over the lake.
Start your day with breakfast at a nearby café before heading to the iconic San Agustin Church. This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases stunning architecture and centuries-old history. Join a guided tour to learn more about its significance.
Have lunch at a local eatery and savor the famous empanada. Visit the adjacent Paoay Sand Dunes for a thrilling 4x4 ride and sandboarding adventure. Capture stunning photographs of the unique landscape.
Return to Paoay and enjoy a traditional Ilocano dinner. Experience a local cultural performance, including dance and music, to immerse yourself in the community's heritage. Wind down at your resort with a relaxing evening by the bonfire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-4 |
| 🥟Local street snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🚶One-way local transport | $0.20-0.60 |
| 🏨Budget hostel bed | $8-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and architecture
- Relatively affordable with easy access to Ilocos Norte highlights
- Limited nightlife in Paoay itself
- Summer heat can be intense; some roads are less developed
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Agyamanak" - Thank you
- "Ania ti presyo daytoy?" - What is the price of this?
- "Mabalin kadi nga agorder?" - Can I place an order?
- "Naimbag a aldaw" - Good day
Places to Visit in Paoay
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage running Baroque church with tall black twin bell towers, best photographed at sunrise or golden hour.
lakefront grounds offering reflective water shots, statues, and hilltop vantage points.
Open water horizon with homelier landscapes and sunset reflections.
Historic plazas and archways ideal for street photography and candid portraits.
White limestone sea stacks along the coast; dramatic contrast during blue hour.
Food in Paoay
Paoay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy deep-fried pork belly, best enjoyed with bagoong or as a topping for salads and meals.
Must-Try!
Pork liver and heart stewed with bell peppers, soy sauce, and vinegar.
Grilled eggplant puréed with tomatoes and onions, often served with rice.
Flat, fried pastry stuffed with green papaya, egg, and optionally mung beans; a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, seafood, and affordable snacks; a good place to sample local street foods.
Casual spots offering quick Ilocano breakfasts and snacks like empanada, bagnet bites, and basi (sugarcane wine) tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and use polite language; dress modestly when visiting churches; ask before taking photos of people; avoid loud behavior in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Paoay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; round up or leave ₱20-50 for small meals.
Cash is widely used; many smaller places are cash-only; larger establishments may accept cards; ATMs available in Laoag.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May: hot and dry; pack sunscreen, hats, light clothing; schedule outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
June–October: frequent rainfall and occasional typhoons; carry a light rain jacket and care for flooded roads; afternoon showers are common.
November–February: cooler and drier with comfortable temperatures; great for city strolls and lake views; evenings can be chilly.
Paoay at Night
Hiking in Paoay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with views of white limestone rock formations; relatively easy; best at sunrise or sunset.
Airports
How to reach Paoay by plane.
Closest airport with flights to Manila and other cities; about a 40–60 minute drive to Paoay.
Major international gateway; from Manila you can fly domestic to Laoag.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group in the region with a distinct language and cultural practices.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular; expect local games and casual courts in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Paoay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Ilocano dishes center on meat, but you can find vegetable-friendly options like pinakbet, sinigang, or veggie substitutions; ask for garlic oil or substitutions.