Things To Do
in Calubian

Calubian is a quiet coastal town in Northern Samar known for its fishing heritage and laid-back pace. It sits along the Samar Sea and offers access to nearby islets, mangrove trails, and simple beaches. Life centers on the harbor, market, and friendly local eateries where seafood is the main draw.

Visitors seek authentic rural Visayas vibes, warm hospitality, and affordable, unplugged travel moments.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Calubian
morning
:

Arrive at Calubian and settle into your accommodation, enjoying the warm welcome from the locals. Spend the morning exploring the nearby beaches and soaking in the serene landscapes. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, collecting shells and enjoying the refreshing sea breeze.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the local market to sample traditional dishes made with fresh seafood and local produce. Engage with the friendly vendors and learn about the area's culinary delights. Spend some time at a nearby café to enjoy a refreshing drink while gazing at the beautiful coastline.

evening
:

As evening falls, head to a beachfront restaurant for dinner, relishing local specialties while watching the sunset. The atmosphere is vibrant with music and laughter as locals gather to unwind. Wrap up your night with a leisurely walk along the beach, basking in the moonlight.

day 2
Island Hopping Adventure
morning
:

Embark on an island-hopping tour early in the morning, ready to discover the pristine beaches and unique marine life around Calubian. The boat ride provides breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby islands, making each moment memorable. Enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and marvel at the colorful coral reefs.

afternoon
:

After a day of exploration, grab lunch at a beachside hut serving grilled fish and tropical fruits. Continue your adventure by visiting secluded beaches, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. Capture stunning photos of the picturesque landscapes and the vibrant marine ecosystem.

evening
:

Return to Calubian in the evening, where you can shower off the salt and sand before venturing out for dinner. Choose a local eatery to discover more about the culinary scene and enjoy traditional Filipino dishes. Conclude your day by sharing stories with fellow travelers over a few drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-7
🍺Local beer or drink$1-3
🚕Taxi or jeepney short ride$2-4
🏨Inexpensive hotel or guesthouse per night$15-35
🛒Groceries (bread, milk, eggs)$3-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, uncrowded beaches
  • Friendly locals and authentic cultural experiences
  • Fresh seafood and simple, flavorful dishes
  • Affordable costs and straightforward accommodations
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options
  • Smaller travel hub with fewer direct flights
  • Infrastructure in some areas can be basic
  • Weather and typhoon risk during certain seasons
  • "Maupay nga adlaw" - Good day / Hello
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Palihug" - Please
  • "Pira ini?" - How much is this?
  • "Adto ha merkado?" - Where is the market?

Places to Visit in Calubian

Visit one of these nice places.

Calubian Town Port at Dawn

Fishermen preparing nets, colorful boats, and pastel skies create atmospheric coastal silhouettes.

Lighthouse Lookout (coastline)

Cliffside vantage point over the Samar Sea ideal for wide seascapes and dramatic sunsets.

Mangrove and River Edges

Calm waterways with reflections, birds, and soft morning light perfect for tranquil compositions.

Historic Church Facade

Weathered walls and a bell tower offer a sense of local history and architectural texture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Calubian

Calubian’s cuisine centers on fresh seafood and simple, hearty dishes. You’ll find fish, shellfish, and vegetables prepared in straightforward, comforting styles with seasonal produce. Expect flavor-forward meals that highlight the day’s catch, often seasoned with local herbs and coconut. For dietary needs, communicate clearly with cooks and look for vegetable-based options at markets and restaurants.

Calubian Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kinilaw na Isda

Fresh fish cured with local vinegar, citrus, and chilies; best enjoyed from market stalls or seaside eateries.

Must-Try!

Tinolang Isda

Light fish soup with ginger, leafy greens, and green papaya for a warming, comforting bowl.

Lechon Kawali

Crispy fried pork served with a tangy dipping sauce; a common special-occasion dish.

Lambanog (Coconut Liquor)

Local coconut-based spirit often enjoyed with meals or as a festive highlight; sip responsibly.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Calubian Public Market

Vibrant morning market with fresh seafood, dried fish, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Calubian has a tropical climate with year-round warmth and humidity. Expect distinct wet and dry seasons, with occasional typhoons in the rainy period. Average temperatures typically range from the mid-70s to low-90s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low-30s Celsius).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Showing respect to elders

Address older people with respectful language and gestures; greet with a smile and use polite forms.

Dress modestly at churches and rural areas

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites; remove hats indoors where appropriate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Practice standard travel safety: watch valuables in crowded markets, use licensed transport, and heed weather advisories during the typhoon season. Road conditions can vary, especially after heavy rains, so allow extra travel time. Stay informed about local alerts and follow guidance from authorities.

Tipping in Calubian

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants for good service, with small tips for guides or drivers.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely preferred; some larger establishments may accept cards. ATMs can be limited in smaller towns; carry PHP for day-to-day expenses.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, humid days with abundant sunshine; great for beach visits and outdoor photography. Hydrate frequently, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak afternoon heat.

Rainy/Wet Season

Frequent showers and potential storms; plan for flexible outdoor activities and carry rain gear. Weather can shift quickly, so have indoor options ready.

Nightlife Guide

Calubian at Night

The nightlife in Calubian is low-key and family-friendly, centered around seaside eateries, small bars, and karaoke spots. Evenings are calm, with locals socializing in markets or along the waterfront, especially on weekends. Expect a relaxed pace rather than a club scene, ideal for a quiet night out and conversations with residents.

Hiking in Calubian

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Hills Trail near Calubian

Easy to moderate hillside hikes with scenic views of the Samar Sea and nearby farmlands.

Mangrove Trail

Waterfront trails along mangrove ecosystems offering birdwatching and peaceful nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Calubian by plane.

Tacloban Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport (TAC)

Major regional hub with domestic flights; from Tacloban, hire land transport to Calubian.

Ormoc City Airport (OMC)

Smaller airport with limited flights; access via road to the Samar region.

Catarman National Airport (CRM)

Regional airport serving nearby northern Samar towns; can connect to Manila and Cebu via connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable in the town center with compact streets; key sights are within accessible distances. Outside the urban core, travel by local transport or on foot along rural paths is common.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Waray-Waray people

Major ethnic group speaking Waray-Waray; predominantly Catholic with strong local customs.

Catholics and rural communities

Religious and family-oriented communities with social calendars tied to fiestas and harvests.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Widely played in towns and schools; community games are common in barangay gyms.

Volleyball

Popular in schools and community centers, especially during weekends and fiestas.

Transportation

Traffic

In town centers, expect jeepneys, tricycles, and pedestrians sharing narrow streets. Outside urban areas, travel is typically by bus, van, or boat with variable schedules; plan for slower trips during peak hours or weather events.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Calubian.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Seafood-heavy options dominate; look for vegetable dishes at markets and request veggie adaptations in restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in town public health clinics and RHUs; for major conditions, facilities in Tacloban or Catarman are typical choices. Carry basic medicines and travel insurance, and know the location of nearest clinics.

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