Things To Do
in Calauag
Calauag is a coastal municipality in Quezon Province on the Bondoc Peninsula along Tayabas Bay. It has a working waterfront, inland farming, and a laid-back small town atmosphere that invites slow travel. Visitors come for fresh seafood, nearby beaches, and a chance to experience rural Filipino hospitality.
The town serves as a gateway to the region's maritime heritage and scenic coastal scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the historic San Diego Church, where you can admire its stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. Afterward, stroll through the town's charming streets, taking in the local vendors selling traditional handicrafts and snacks. Finish your morning with a stop at a local café for a refreshing drink and a taste of Calauag's famous bibingka.
Spend your afternoon at the Calauag Museum, where you can delve into the local culture and history through engaging exhibits. After your museum visit, take a leisurely walk along the scenic waterfront, enjoying the view of the fishing boats and local fishermen at work. Grab a late lunch at a popular local eatery, sampling the fresh seafood dishes that Calauag is known for.
As the sun sets, head to the town square where you can join the locals in an evening market filled with food stalls and handmade crafts. Enjoy an authentic Filipino dinner at a nearby restaurant, savouring dishes like adobo and sinigang. Conclude your day by mingling with locals and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Calauag’s nightlife.
Kick off your beach day at the beautiful Guisguis Beach, known for its white sand and clear waters. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying various water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Don’t forget to grab a coconut drink from a local vendor as you relax under the sun.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the local shacks, where you can savor grilled seafood and other local delicacies. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to nearby islands for snorkeling, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life. The stunning views and tranquil waters make for an unforgettable experience.
As evening approaches, return to Guisguis Beach for a breathtaking sunset. Settle down at a beach bar for a casual dinner and enjoy live music from local artists. After dinner, take a moonlit stroll along the shoreline, feeling the gentle waves lapping at your feet.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥥Fresh coconut | $1 |
| 🚍Local transport (jeepney/tricycle) per ride | $0.25-0.60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Friendly, hospitable locals
- Affordable travel and eating out
- Relaxed pace of life
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Fewer English-speaking resources for some services
- Rural transport can be slower and less frequent
- "Magandang araw po" - Good day
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Pwede po bang magtanong?" - May I ask?
- "Magkano po ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan po ang CR?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Calauag
Visit one of these nice places.
A working harbor with colorful boats and quiet dawn light over Tayabas Bay.
A classic town square scene with the church and palm trees against a blue sky.
A coastal overlook perfect for golden hour shots of boats and the bay.
Long stretches of shoreline with palm trees, local fishermen, and boats bobbing in the surf.
Food in Calauag
Calauag Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured in citrus and vinegar with onions and chilies; best at the waterfront markets.
Must-Try!
Whole or filleted fish grilled over charcoal with a bright calamansi finish.
Squid simmered in soy, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaf; tender and flavorful.
Tuna kinilaw with coconut milk and lime; a tangy coastal favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, vegetables, dried fish, and snacks; best in the early morning.
Quick bites like fish balls, banana cue, turon, and local delicacies along the harbor.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite hello and use 'po' and 'opo' when addressing elders. Dress modestly when visiting churches and ask permission before taking photos of people.
Show respect in churches; remove hats and speak softly during Mass.
Safety
Tipping in Calauag
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and hotels.
Cash is widely accepted; many small shops run on cash. Some larger establishments may accept cards or mobile wallets, but ATMs are scarce in town—plan to carry cash or withdraw in Lucena or Manila.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May is hot and dry. Expect sunny days ideal for beach visits, but carry water and sun protection. Humidity can be high.
June to October brings frequent showers and possible storms. Coastal trails may be muddy; plan indoor activities during heavy rain. Typhoon season can affect travel.
November to February brings cooler mornings and pleasant sea breezes. Great for outdoor walks and photography with clear skies.
Calauag at Night
Hiking in Calauag
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate hikes with sea views and forested areas; best with a local guide.
Calm water trails and birdwatching along riverine mangrove areas.
Airports
How to reach Calauag by plane.
Major international airport about 150-180 km by road from Calauag; travel by bus or van to Lucena and then a local ride to town.
Alternative airport about 180-210 km away; access via highways and bus or private transfer to Lucena or directly toward Calauag.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents work in fishing and related trades along Tayabas Bay.
Predominantly Filipino communities with Tagalog-speaking populations and occasional Bicol influences; Catholic majority.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant sport in towns and schools; local games are common in plazas and gyms.
Traditional fishing and small boat activities are central to the coastal lifestyle.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calauag.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Calauag, most dishes feature fish or meat. Look for gulay (vegetable) dishes like pinakbet or vegetable stews, and ask cooks to skip fish sauce or meat. Phrases to use: 'Wala po bang karne?' (No meat?) and 'Gulay lamang po' (Only vegetables).