Things To Do
in Bay
Bay, Laguna sits along the southwestern edge of Laguna de Bay, blending rural charm with growing urban touches. The town is known for its friendly communities, open markets, and easy access to nature and nearby attractions. Visitors experience lakeside views, heritage churches, and a relaxed pace that invites day trips to nearby mountains and hot springs.
It's a convenient gateway for exploring the greater Laguna region while staying rooted in local life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bay, Philippines, and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to relax and acclimate to the warm tropical climate. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Filipino dishes.
Explore the nearby Baywalk, a scenic promenade along the coastline where you can enjoy the sea breeze. Grab lunch from a bustling market stall featuring fresh seafood and local street food. Take a dip at one of the local beaches to unwind after your journey.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the beach to witness the breathtaking views of the horizon. Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring local delicacies while listening to waves lapping against the shore. End the night by strolling along the beach, taking in the stars and sounds of the ocean.
Visit the local church and immerse yourself in the culture by attending a Sunday service if it's the weekend. Afterward, stop by a traditional market to see artisans at work and browse handmade crafts. Enjoy a brunch of Filipino favorites like longganisa and tocino.
Head to the town center to learn about Bay’s history at the local museum. Join a guided tour that covers significant historical events and highlights of the area. Sample some local snacks at the market while you're there.
Experience Bay's nightlife by visiting local bars where you can enjoy live music. Engage with locals and fellow travelers to share stories and cultural experiences. Wrap up your night by trying a notorious local drink, lambanog.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $0.50-2 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚌Short ride by tricycle or jeepney | $1-3 |
| 🏥Basic healthcare visit | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Metro Manila, easy weekend trips
- Affordability and warm hospitality
- Lakeside scenery and nature access
- Delightful markets with fresh seafood and produce
- Limited nightlife and urban attractions
- Transit to bigger sights requires planning
- Some areas lack high-end dining and big-brand amenities
- Seasonal weather can disrupt outdoor plans
- "Magandang araw po" - Good day to you
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pwede bang kumuha ng litrato?" - May I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
A wide overlook where fishermen’s boats dot the calm water at sunset, perfect for wide shots and reflections.
Colorful façades, arches, and a centuries-old church provide classic Filipino architectural photography.
Docks and boats with gentle morning light offer compelling compositions of water and daily life.
A small vantage point where the sky and water glow during golden hour.
Food in Bay
Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled tilapia with a tangy soy-vinegar dip; commonly enjoyed along riverfront eateries.
Must-Try!
A tangy tamarind soup with local tilapia and seasonal vegetables; bright, comforting flavors.
Laguna’s iconic coconut custard pie, with a flaky crust and creamy filling found in bakeries and markets.
Glutinous rice flour and coconut treat dusted with grated coconut; a classic Laguna sweet.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh fish, vegetables, dried goods, and street snacks like banana cue and turon.
Evening stalls along the waterfront offering grilled fish, skewers, and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite title (po/opo) and a smile; show respect to elders.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or markets; remove hats in sacred spaces if required.
Ask before taking photos of people or inside religious sites; respect private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service; around 10%–15% in restaurants. Small tips for bartenders, guides, and drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; major cards are accepted at larger places; mobile wallets like GCASH and GrabPay are popular in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with clear skies; perfect for outdoor markets and lake activities, but stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Expect frequent showers and higher humidity; plan flexible outdoor plans and carry a light rain jacket.
Milder temperatures and less rain; pleasant for walking tours and outdoor photography.
Bay at Night
Hiking in Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular mountain trail with forest trails and scenic viewpoints near Los Baños.
A sacred mountain offering forest hikes and challenging climbs; accessible from nearby towns.
Iconic waterfall with gorge trails and river excursions (closest to Bay region).
Airports
How to reach Bay by plane.
Main international gateway near Manila; accessible by car or public connections from Bay.
Alternative international gateway in Pampanga; longer drive but useful for regional travel.
Smaller regional option enabling quick trips to northern Pampanga and Zambales; more limited flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents work in agriculture and fishing around Laguna de Bay.
Several towns nearby host campuses and family-oriented communities.
A portion of residents commute to nearby urban centers for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide; expect pickup games in parks and school gymnasiums.
Common in schools and community leagues; beach volleyball on coastal spots.
A favorite pastime among locals and tourists alike; many public courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Bay’s markets offer plenty of vegetables and legumes; ask for no fish stock or meat broth, and enjoy local veggie dishes and tofu options when available.