Things To Do
in Calapan
Calapan is the capital city of the province of Oriental Mindoro, Philippines, known for its vibrant culture and stunning natural surroundings. It serves as a gateway to the beautiful beaches and resorts of Mindoro Island. The city is rich in history, featuring landmarks such as the historic Calapan Cathedral and the bustling Calapan Market.
With friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere, Calapan offers an authentic experience of Philippine life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Calapan Cathedral, a beautiful historical site. Afterward, head to the Calapan Market to experience local life and try some fresh fruits.
Visit the Mindoro National Park for a hike and enjoy the lush greenery and stunning views. Have lunch at a local eatery near the park.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Filipino cuisine and then take a stroll along the waterfront to admire the sunset.
Take a boat trip to the nearby beaches such as White Beach or Sabang Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sun.
Participate in water activities such as snorkeling or kayaking. Have lunch at a beachside restaurant.
Return to Calapan and experience the vibrant nightlife at local bars and lounges, enjoying live music and drinks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant | $5 |
| ☕Coffee | $2 |
| 🚕Taxi Fare (within city) | $3 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel per Night | $30 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Public transportation can be challenging.
- Language barrier may exist for non-Filipino speakers.
- "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Tulong, please" - Help, please
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kumusta?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Calapan
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful historical church with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing serene moments.
A lush green park with scenic views and wildlife, ideal for nature photography.
A picturesque beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.
Food in Calapan
Calapan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous Filipino dish made with marinated meat, typically chicken or pork, cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, and spices.
Must-Try!
A sour soup made from tamarind, often featuring pork, shrimp, or fish with various vegetables.
A spicy dish made from dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and chili.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls offering local delicacies.
Try local street foods like fish balls, kwek-kwek (quail eggs), and isaw (grilled chicken intestines) at various stalls around the city.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect to elders by using appropriate titles and gestures, such as 'po' and 'opo'.
When visiting religious sites or local communities, dress modestly to show respect.
Use polite language and gestures, including a smile, to foster friendly interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Calapan
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are used in larger establishments, but smaller vendors may only accept cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm and sunny weather, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
Frequent showers and thunderstorms occur; be prepared for wet conditions but also enjoy lush landscapes.
Very hot temperatures; hydrate and wear sunscreen while enjoying beach outings.
Be cautious as typhoons can occur; check weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes.
Calapan at Night
Hiking in Calapan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that offers stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a chance to experience the local flora.
Known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery, this hike is popular among experienced trekkers.
Airports
How to reach Calapan by plane.
Located approximately 45 km from Calapan, this airport offers flights to and from Manila and other nearby provinces.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The city is home to indigenous groups, including the Mangyan, who maintain their unique cultural identities.
Many residents are involved in trade, fishing, and agriculture, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in the Philippines, with many local courts and leagues.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, it is popular in local communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calapan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to ask specifically for vegetarian preparations.
Halal food is available at certain restaurants; inquire before ordering to ensure dishes meet dietary needs.