Things To Do
in Sitangkai
Sitangkai is a remote town in the southern Philippines’ Tawi-Tawi province, perched at the edge of Mindanao. It is famed for its labyrinth of canals and stilt houses that rise over turquoise waters. The community is primarily Tausug, with a strong fishing and sea-based way of life that shapes every day.
Visitors will find a quiet, welcoming atmosphere and a chance to observe traditional island living away from more touristy destinations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the vibrant Sitangkai market, where local vendors display fresh seafood, fruits, and handmade crafts. The air is filled with the enticing aroma of breakfast delicacies, and locals greet each other with friendly smiles. Take your time to interact with the vendors and learn about their products, immersing yourself in the community's daily life.
After savoring a delicious lunch of local dishes, head to the nearby fish traps where you can witness the traditional fishing methods used by the locals. Engage with fishermen as they demonstrate their skills and share stories about their way of life on the water. Enjoy a scenic boat ride through the mangroves, observing unique wildlife and the stunning natural beauty of the area.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the waterfront to witness the breathtaking views of the horizon painted in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a dinner of freshly caught seafood, prepared in local styles, while listening to the sounds of the waves lapping against the shore. The evening can be spent strolling through the village, discovering the warm hospitality of the locals.
Set out early for a day of island hopping around the stunning nearby islands, starting with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Board a traditional bangka boat and feel the cool sea breeze as you cruise through crystal-clear waters, visiting hidden lagoons and pristine beaches. Your first stop will be on a secluded island where you can snorkel and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Continue your island-hopping journey to a picturesque sandbar, where you can relax on the soft white sand and enjoy a packed picnic lunch. Spend your afternoon swimming, beachcombing, or simply soaking up the sun, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Capture beautiful photos of the stunning landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of being away from the hustle and bustle.
Return to Sitangkai as the sun begins to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of gold and lavender. Dine at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of traditional Philippine cuisine while sharing stories from the day's adventures. End your evening by mingling with locals at a casual beach bonfire, where you can listen to music and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍲Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚤Local boat ride (short crossing) | $1-5 |
| 🧵Handicraft souvenir | $3-15 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 💧Water bottle (1.5L) | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich seafood heritage and scenic water-town ambiance
- Quiet, authentic experience away from crowds
- Limited infrastructure and services
- Remote location can mean longer travel times and fewer amenities
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Assalamu alaikum" - Peace be upon you / Hello
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Pila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Maka-luto ba kayo ng isda?" - Do you cook fish here?
Places to Visit in Sitangkai
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic wooden homes perched above clear turquoise water connected by narrow walkways.
Soft light over the water with reflections off wooden stilts and boats.
Dense mangroves with waterways, ideal for wildlife and landscape photography.
Golden hour over the sea with silhouetted boats and market activity.
Food in Sitangkai
Sitangkai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Ceviche-style raw fish dressed with vinegar, citrus, chilies, and coconut milk.
Must-Try!
Spicy onion-chili relish served with freshly grilled fish or seafood.
Fish simmered in coconut milk with garlic, ginger, and chili.
Fresh fish grilled over charcoal with lime and salt.
Rice served with a coconut-based seafood curry for a comforting meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling waterfront market selling freshly caught fish, shellfish, and ready-to-eat seafood bites.
Stalls along the canal offering grilled seafood skewers, kinilaw bites, and tropical fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees when visiting markets or mosques; ask before taking photos of people.
Always ask before photographing individuals or families; some ceremonies may require consent.
Remove shoes when entering homes; avoid loud behavior at prayer times; greetings are warm but not loud.
Safety
Tipping in Sitangkai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; round up for boatmen and guides.
Cash in PHP is preferred; some larger establishments may accept cards, but ATMs are limited; carry small bills.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically warmer days with clearer skies; calmer seas ideal for island-hopping and photography.
Higher humidity, frequent showers; seas can be rougher; pack rain gear and plan flexible itineraries.
Pleasant temperatures with occasional sea winds; good for outdoor photography and boat trips.
Sitangkai at Night
Hiking in Sitangkai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic trails along the coast and mangrove corridors offering birdlife and sea views.
Airports
How to reach Sitangkai by plane.
Main gateway to Tawi-Tawi; domestic flights connect via larger hubs such as Zamboanga and Cebu; from there, land and sea transfers reach Sitangkai.
Small local airport serving the Sanga-Sanga Island area; connected by regional flights; serves as a gateway to Sitangkai via short boat rides.
Major regional hub with connections to Manila, Cebu, and other cities; transfer by air to Bongao or Sanga-Sanga before traveling by sea to Sitangkai.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Sitangkai, with a strong maritime and trade heritage.
Coexisting groups known for fishing, boat-building, and sea-based livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite sport across the Philippines, popular in communities and schools.
Traditional water-based activities and competitions common among local families.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sitangkai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on rice with vegetable dishes; request vegetable curries or coconut-based dishes; avoid fish sauce if needed.