Things To Do
in Masbate

Masbate is a province located in the Philippines, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It is often referred to as the 'Cattle Capital of the Philippines' due to its thriving beef industry. The province is characterized by beautiful beaches, rolling hills, and vibrant local festivals.

With a unique blend of agricultural and marine resources, Masbate offers visitors a diverse experience of both land and sea.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Masbate City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Masbate City Plaza, where you can enjoy the fresh morning air and take photos of the local scenery. Then, head to the Masbate Museum to learn about the province's rich history and culture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local eatery, then take a trip to the nearby Balay Ni Mayang, a historical house that showcases the traditional architecture of Masbate. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the nearby beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying water activities.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a seafood dinner at a waterfront restaurant, followed by a stroll along the beach to enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café before heading out to experience the famous Masbate cattle ranches. Participate in a ranch tour to observe cattle herding and traditional ranching practices.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on a guided snorkeling trip to the vibrant coral reefs of Ticao Island, where you can explore the underwater beauty of the Philippines.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local bar for live music and mingling with locals, experiencing the nightlife of Masbate firsthand.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3-5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$15-30
🚕Taxi Fare (in city)$2-5
Coffee$1-2
🍺Beer$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local festivals.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to other tourist destinations.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • Language barriers may exist for non-Filipino speakers.
  • "Mabuhay" - Welcome
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Magandang Umaga" - Good morning
  • "Paalam" - Goodbye
  • "Ano ang pangalan mo?" - What is your name?

Places to Visit in Masbate

Visit one of these nice places.

Buntod Sandbar

A picturesque sandbar perfect for capturing stunning sunset views and crystal-clear waters.

Masbate Cathedral

A beautiful church showcasing impressive architecture, ideal for cultural photography.

Ticao Island

Famous for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, a paradise for nature photographers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Masbate

Masbate offers a delightful culinary experience characterized by fresh seafood, local beef, and unique regional specialties.

Masbate Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kare-Kare

A traditional Filipino stew made with oxtail, vegetables, and peanut sauce.

Must-Try!

Sinigang na Baka

A sour beef soup made with tamarind and various vegetables.

Kinilaw

A traditional Filipino ceviche made from fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar and citrus.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Masbate Public Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food.

Street Vendors

Various street vendors offer delicious snacks like fish balls and isaw (grilled chicken intestines).

Climate Guide

Weather

Masbate has a tropical climate, with a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season, from November to April, is characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rains and higher humidity. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by using polite language and gestures.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Polite Greetings

Use local greetings like 'Mabuhay' to show friendliness and respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Masbate is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant against petty crime. Avoid isolated areas at night and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Always stay updated on local news and weather conditions, especially during the typhoon season.

Tipping in Masbate

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some establishments accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect sunny weather, perfect for outdoor activities and beach trips.

Rainy Season (May to October)

Frequent rain showers may occur; consider indoor activities or prepare for wet adventures.

Festival Season (May)

The province celebrates its local festivals, showcasing cultural performances and vibrant parades.

Typhoon Season (August to September)

Be cautious of potential typhoons; stay updated on weather advisories.

Nightlife Guide

Masbate at Night

Masbate's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a mix of local bars, karaoke clubs, and beachside lounges. Live music is popular, particularly during festivals, and many venues offer a friendly atmosphere for socializing. The nightlife scene is not overwhelming, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxed evening while engaging with locals.

Hiking in Masbate

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Iglit

A challenging hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is relatively accessible from the city.

Bulusan Volcano

Located nearby, this hike provides a chance to explore diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

Airports

How to reach Masbate by plane.

Masbate Airport (MBT)

The main airport serving Masbate, offering domestic flights to Manila and other nearby islands.

Getting Around

Walkability

Masbate has a moderately walkable environment, especially in urban areas like Masbate City. Sidewalks are common, but they may be uneven in some places. Walking is a great way to explore the city and interact with locals, particularly in bustling market areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

A significant portion of the population is involved in agriculture, particularly cattle farming.

Fisherfolk

With its coastal location, many residents depend on fishing and related industries for their livelihoods.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely popular in Masbate, with local courts and leagues available for both men and women.

Rodeo

Masbate is known for its annual rodeo festival, showcasing traditional ranching skills and attracting visitors from all over.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Masbate is generally light, with most locals using motorcycles or tricycles for transportation. Public transportation is available, but schedules may not be consistent. It's advisable to plan trips ahead of time and to use local taxis or ride-hailing services when necessary.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Masbate.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local eateries offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire at restaurants for suitable choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Masbate is limited compared to urban centers. There are a few hospitals and clinics in the city, but they may not offer specialized services. It's advisable for travelers to carry basic medications and consider travel insurance for emergencies.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide