Things To Do
in Alubijid
Alubijid is a coastal municipality in Misamis Oriental perched along Macajalar Bay. It offers a quieter, more laid-back alternative to nearby urban hubs while serving as a gateway to Cagayan de Oro and the northern Mindanao coast. The town blends fishing livelihoods with farmland, creating a simple, friendly atmosphere for visitors.
Expect warm hospitality, fresh seafood, and scenic shorelines that suit relaxed beach days and easy day trips.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Alubijid and settle into your accommodation surrounded by lush greenery. Head to the bustling public market to sample carabao milk coffee and freshly baked ensaymada. Chat with friendly vendors as you browse vibrant stalls of tropical fruits and local handicrafts.
For lunch, enjoy grilled seafood and lumpia at a nearby eatery overlooking the row of coconut trees. Take a leisurely stroll along the main street to admire heritage houses and public art murals. Pick up souvenirs from local artisans, such as woven baskets and hand-carved wooden spoons.
Dine at a beachfront karinderia to taste savory kinilaw and fresh catch of the day under swaying nipa palms. Watch fishermen unload their nets on the soft sand as lanterns glow at dusk. End the night stargazing on the beach while listening to gentle waves lapping the shore.
Wake before sunrise for a guided kayak tour through Alubijid’s dense mangrove forest. Paddle slowly along winding waterways while spotting kingfishers, herons, and mudskippers darting across the water’s edge. Learn about the crucial role mangroves play in protecting coastal communities from storms.
Enjoy a beachside picnic of sinuglaw and fresh buko juice on a floating platform amidst the mangroves. Cool off with a refreshing swim in a clear tidal pool while your guide points out hidden marine life. Capture stunning photographs of light filtering through the tangled roots above.
Return to your homestay for a home-cooked dinner featuring adobo and steamed vegetables harvested from nearby farms. Gather around a small bonfire on the sand as you listen to traditional folk songs played on the kulintang. Drift to sleep lulled by the chorus of crickets and the distant call of nocturnal birds.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse per night | $10-25 |
| 🚎Local transport (jeepney/tricycle) per ride | $0.25-1 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🧭Daily miscellaneous snacks or street food | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal ambiance with friendly locals
- Fresh seafood and simple, tasty regional dishes
- Limited nightlife and fewer amenities compared to larger cities
- Some services and shops operate on cash-only or have limited hours
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Maayong buntag" - Good morning
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Tagpila?" - How much is this?
- "Asa ang CR?" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Alubijid
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping coastal view from the town’s shoreline or a nearby overlook, ideal for soft morning light and silhouettes of fishing boats.
Colorful stalls, fishermen preparing nets, and local life as it wakes up; a dynamic scene full of locals’ daily routines.
A short, shaded boardwalk through mangroves with reflections on still water and chances to spot wading birds.
A vantage point along the coast offering panoramic sea views and dramatic skies during sunset.
Food in Alubijid
Alubijid Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A zesty fish kinilaw made with fresh raw fish, vinegar, citrus, onion, and chilies; commonly found at coastal stalls and markets.
Must-Try!
Grilled whole or sliced fish seasoned with salt and citrus, often served with steamed rice and a dip made from local condiments.
A light fish soup with ginger, greens, and hot pepper, perfect for a comforting meal after a day by the sea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning stalls selling fresh seafood, dried fish, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks; a great place to sample local flavors.
Small vendors along the waterfront offering fried snacks, skewers, and sweet treats; ideal for quick bites after a beach visit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite terms like kuya/ate for respect and say ‘po’ when speaking to elders or people you don’t know well.
Dress modestly and behave respectfully when visiting churches or religious sites; remove hats indoors if appropriate.
Ask permission before photographing people or their homes; a smile and a friendly greeting goes a long way.
Keep voices respectful in public and avoid displays of anger or loud conduct in crowded areas.
Safety
Tipping in Alubijid
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service, typically 10–15% in restaurants. Small tips for hotel staff, drivers, and guides are common if service is satisfactory.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is widely used in Alubijid; many small vendors are cash-only. Some hotels, larger restaurants, and shops may accept credit/debit cards or mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season brings sunny days and calm seas, ideal for beach days and outdoor activities. Pack sun protection, hats, and plenty of water; expect higher temperatures in the afternoons.
Jun–Oct brings humidity and frequent rain showers; seas can be rougher and some trails may be slippery. Plan morning outdoor activities and have indoor alternatives in the afternoon.
Alubijid at Night
Hiking in Alubijid
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A light-to-moderate hike along rolling coastal hills offering sea views and rural landscapes; suitable for a half-day excursion.
An easy riverside walk through mangrove habitat with opportunities for birdwatching and quiet scenery.
A short ascent to a ridge with panoramic views of the bay and neighboring towns; best for sunrise or sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Alubijid by plane.
Main nearby airport serving Cagayan de Oro and the region; roughly a 60–90 minute drive to Alubijid, with domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most locals communicate in Cebuano and Filipino, with many also speaking English in shops and hotels.
A significant portion of the population engages in fishing along the coast and agriculture inland.
Tourists from across the Philippines and abroad who visit for beaches, markets, and regional culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in many communities; local courts and street games are common and provide social hubs for both locals and visitors.
A shared interest in nearby towns with public training spaces and local matches occasionally attracting spectators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alubijid.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable dishes, coconut-based curries, and tofu or egg options in many eateries. Communicate clearly about fish sauce and broth if you avoid animal products.