Sariaya Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sariaya, Philippines and explore its cultural and natural attractions. Check out this guide for the best things to do, places to stay, food scene, and more.


A Comprehensive Guide to Sariaya, Philippines

Located in the province of Quezon in the Calabarzon region of Luzon Island, Sariaya is a charming town that boasts a rich cultural heritage and scenic natural landscapes. Its proximity to Manila makes it an ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway. In this comprehensive guide to Sariaya, we’ll take a closer look at the top attractions, things to do, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Sariaya

Sariaya has a lot to offer to visitors, from cultural and historical attractions to natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top places to visit in Sariaya:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Sariaya Church: Also known as St. Francis of Assisi Parish Church, this historic church dates back to the 18th century and features stunning Baroque architecture.
  • Pahiyas Museum: Learn about the history and traditions of Sariaya’s famous Pahiyas Festival, which celebrates the town’s bountiful harvests through colorful decorations and delicious food.
  • Lucban San Luis Obispo Parish Church: While technically not in Sariaya, this beautiful church in the neighboring town of Lucban is worth a visit for its intricate design and rich history.

Natural Attractions of Sariaya: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mt. Banahaw: A popular destination for hikers and climbers, this majestic mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Candelaria Sariaya Wetlands: Also known as the Sariaya Mangrove Forest, this protected wetland area is a haven for various species of migratory birds and other wildlife.
  • Tumagay Beach: Clear waters, powdery white sands, and stunning rock formations await visitors at this beautiful beach, which is located just a short drive from Sariaya’s town center.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sariaya

Sariaya is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with several hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Some of the best routes to explore include:

  • Mt. Banahaw Trail: This challenging trail takes you up to the summit of Mt. Banahaw, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
  • Parang-Parang Trail: Located near Tumagay Beach, this trail offers a scenic route along the coast that passes through beautiful rock formations and forests.
  • Sariaya Heritage Trail: This easy trail takes you through Sariaya’s historic town center, where you’ll find stunning colonial-era architecture and cultural landmarks.

Best Things to Do in Sariaya: Activities and Tours

Apart from its natural and cultural attractions, Sariaya also offers plenty of fun activities for visitors to enjoy, including:

  • Pahiyas Festival: Held every May, this colorful festival celebrates the town’s harvest season through colorful decorations, parades, and food.
  • Tumagay Beach: Spend a day lounging on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, and exploring the nearby rock formations.
  • Caving and spelunking: Sariaya is home to several caves and caverns that can be explored with the help of a local guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sariaya

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Sariaya:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Sariaya’s historic town center, visit the Sariaya Church and Pahiyas Museum
Day 2 Hike to the summit of Mt. Banahaw
Day 3 Visit the Candelaria Sariaya Wetlands and nearby bird sanctuary
Day 4 Take a day trip to Tumagay Beach and nearby rock formations
Day 5 Explore the Parang-Parang Trail and nearby forests
Day 6 Visit Lucban San Luis Obispo Parish Church and explore the neighboring town
Day 7 Attend an eco-tourism and cultural day trip in Lucban and Tayabas

Food and Drink Scene of Sariaya

Sariaya is known for its delicious cuisine, which blends Spanish and Filipino culinary traditions. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lucban Longganisa: A type of Filipino sausage that is flavored with native garlic and red chili pepper.
  • Hamonado: A sweet pork dish that is marinated in pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
  • Pancit Habhab: A type of noodle dish that is popular in the nearby town of Lucban, which is served on banana leaves and eaten without utensils.

Local Beverages

  • Lambanog: A type of Filipino coconut wine that is distilled from the sap of coconut flowers.
  • Salabat: A type of ginger tea that is popular in the Philippines and is believed to have medicinal properties.
  • Kapeng Barako: A type of Filipino coffee that is grown and produced in the nearby Batangas province.

Where to Stay in Sariaya: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sariaya offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Here are some top options to consider:

  • Sariaya Lodge: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in the heart of Sariaya’s town center and offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Sariaya Boac Hotel: This mid-range hotel is located just a short drive from Sariaya’s town center and offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
  • Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort: This luxurious resort is located just outside of Sariaya and offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a range of outdoor activities.

What to Buy in Sariaya: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Sariaya can find a range of souvenirs and local products to bring home, including:

  • Handmade woven items: Sariaya is known for its vibrant weaving tradition, and visitors can find a range of handmade woven items such as baskets and mats.
  • Pahiyas Festival decorations: Take home a piece of Sariaya’s famous festival by buying colorful decorations made from rice, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Barong Tagalog: This traditional Filipino shirt is made from lightweight fabric and is perfect for warm weather.

Local Culture and Customs of Sariaya

Sariaya has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with strong Spanish and Filipino influences. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, including the religious traditions of the Catholic Church. It is also customary to dress modestly when visiting churches and other cultural landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Sariaya

The best time to visit Sariaya is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. The weather during this time is generally sunny and pleasant, with lower chances of rain and typhoons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sariaya

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting churches and other cultural landmarks.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs or behave disrespectfully.
  • Take anything from nature preserves or cultural landmarks.
  • Drink too much alcohol in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sariaya

Sariaya is generally a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should still take standard safety precautions such as keeping valuables secure and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Health in Sariaya

Visitors to Sariaya should make sure they are up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTaP), and polio. Travelers should also take precautions to avoid waterborne illnesses by drinking bottled or boiled water and avoiding raw or undercooked food.

Getting to Sariaya: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sariaya is located about 120 kilometers southeast of Manila, making it easily accessible for visitors coming from the capital city.

Airports Near Sariaya

  • Ninoy Aquino International Airport: This is the closest international airport to Sariaya, located in Manila and serving domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Sariaya

  • Lucena Grand Terminal: This is the main bus terminal that serves Sariaya, with buses arriving from Manila and other nearby destinations.

Other Options

  • Private car: Visitors can also hire a private car or taxi to take them to Sariaya from Manila or other nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Sariaya

The best way to get around Sariaya is by tricycle, which is a type of motorized rickshaw. Visitors can also explore the town on foot or by renting a bike from a local rental shop.

Where to Go Next from Sariaya: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sariaya is a great jumping-off point for exploring the surrounding Calabarzon region, which offers a range of natural and cultural attractions. Some nearby destinations to consider include:

  • Taal Lake: A scenic lake located near the town of Taal, which is known for its picturesque Spanish colonial architecture.
  • Majayjay Falls: A stunning waterfall located near the town of Majayjay, which offers great swimming and picnic opportunities.
  • Pagsanjan Falls: One of the most iconic waterfalls in the Philippines, located near the town of Pagsanjan, which offers exhilarating boat rides to get up close with the falls.

Conclusion

Sariaya is a hidden gem for travelers who are looking for a unique and authentic Philippines experience. From its rich cultural heritage to its scenic natural landscapes and delicious cuisine, Sariaya has something to offer to visitors of all ages and interests. Plan your trip today and discover the charms of this quaint town for yourself!

General Luna Street General Luna Street