Guiuan Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Guiuan with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Guiuan

Guiuan is a laid-back town located in the easternmost part of Samar Island, Philippines. Its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and serene surroundings make it an ideal destination for tourists who are seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway. The town is known for its historical landmarks, natural wonders, and friendly locals.

List of Places to Visit in Guiuan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Guiuan Church: This beautiful church was built in the 1600s and is a testament to Guiuan’s rich history. It has survived numerous natural disasters and is a symbol of the town’s resilience.
  • Guiuan Municipal Museum: The museum houses a collection of artifacts, photos, and memorabilia that showcase the town’s history and culture.
  • Balangiga Church: Located just a few kilometers away from Guiuan, this historic church played a significant role in Philippine history during the Philippine-American War.

Natural Attractions of Guiuan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Calicoan Island: This stunning island is known for its breathtaking views, world-class surfing spots, and peaceful surroundings. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind.
  • Sulangan Beach: White sand beach surrounded by crystal clear waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming or snorkeling.
  • Cantilan Island: This secluded island can only be accessed by boat and is a must-visit for those who seek adventure. Here, you can enjoy a day of snorkeling, fishing, or just lounging on the beach.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guiuan

  • Guiuan Bike Trails: This newly developed trail system is perfect for bikers and hikers who want to explore the scenic countryside of Guiuan. It has different routes that cater to different levels of difficulty and caters to bike maintenance areas.

Best Things to Do in Guiuan: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing Lessons: Guiuan is known for its great surf spots and local instructors offer surf lessons.
  • Island Hopping: Guiuan is surrounded by beautiful islands, each offering a unique experience to tourists. Hire a boat and spend a day exploring the surrounding islands like Calicoan and Cantilan.
  • Visit a Local Fishing Village: Get a taste of the local culture by visiting a fishing village to learn about traditional fishing techniques and dine with the locals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guiuan

Day Activities
1 Arrival and check-in at a beachfront resort
2 Surfing lessons at Calicoan Island
3 Island-hopping tour in Guiuan
4 Visit Guiuan Church and the Municipal Museum
5 Biking and hiking at Guiuan Bike Trails
6 Shopping and souvenir hunting
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Guiuan

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lechon Manok: Roasted chicken with a distinct flavor and crispy skin is a popular dish in Guiuan.
  • Lato Salad: A seaweed dish that’s eaten fresh, usually served with a spicy vinegar dip.
  • Tinolang Isda: A delicious soup made with fish and vegetables and broth.

Local Beverages

  • Coconut Water: Refresh yourself with some freshly picked coconut juice.
  • Tuba: Coconut wine made from sap extracted from young coconut trees.

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

Guiuan has a variety of accommodations that fit any budget. Here are some recommendations:

  • Calicoan Villas: A luxury beachfront resort on Calicoan Island that features a spa, restaurant, and infinity pool.
  • Villa Isabel: A cozy villa with stunning views and a shared pool.
  • Guiuan Tourist Inn: A budget-friendly option that’s clean and conveniently located near the center of town.

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

  • Shell Crafts: Pick up some beautifully crafted shell products like earrings, bracelets, picture frames, and home decor.
  • Local Delicacies: Guiuan is known for its yummy delicacies such as kakanin, barquillos, and pili nuts.
  • T’nalak Weaving: This traditional weaving technique uses abaca fibers to create unique and beautiful fabrics. Grab some as a keepsake.

Local Culture and Customs of Guiuan

Guiuan is a deeply religious town, and many celebrations and festivals are held throughout the year. Respect the customs and traditions of locals, including dress codes in places of worship and public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Guiuan

The best time to visit Guiuan is from December to May as it is usually dry and sunny. From June to November, the area experiences typhoons and heavy rainfall, which might disrupt travel plans.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guiuan

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions of Guiuan.
  • Try to learn some basic phrases in the local dialect.
  • Be mindful of your environmental footprint and reduce plastic waste.

Don’t:

  • Leave your trash on the beach or in other public areas.
  • Disrespect the local culture.
  • Leave valuables unattended.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guiuan

Guiuan is generally safe, but it’s still recommended to take precautions such as staying in well-lit areas at night and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Guiuan

Guiuan has a health center that offers basic medical care. However, if you require more advanced medical care, it is recommended to travel to a larger city.

Getting to Guiuan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Guiuan

The nearest airports to Guiuan are the Tacloban Airport and the Borongan Airport, which are both approximately a three-hour drive away. From there, you can take a local van or bus to Guiuan.

Bus Stations Near Guiuan

Several bus and van companies operate routes to Guiuan from nearby cities such as Borongan and Tacloban.

Other Options

Private transfers and rentals of cars are available for hire.

How to Get Around in Guiuan

Guiuan is a small town, and most places are within walking distance. For longer distances or exploring the nearby islands, it is recommended to hire a motorbike or use public transportation.

Where to Go Next from Guiuan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Borongan: A historic city known for its church and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Tacloban: The regional capital of Eastern Visayas, Philippines. Tacloban is a bustling city known for its rich historical significance and delicious cuisine.

Conclusion

Guiuan is a hidden gem in the Philippines that offers beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and unique cultural experiences. It’s a perfect destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway. With this comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip with ease and make the most out of your Guiuan adventure.

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