Things To Do
in Masbate
Masbate is a pearl-green archipelago in the Bicol Region of the Philippines, anchored by Masbate Island with smaller Burias and Ticao nearby. It blends rugged coastlines, white-sand beaches, and a strong cattle-ranching heritage that colors local culture and cuisine. The province remains less touristy than more famous destinations, offering authentic island life, friendly locals, and maritime adventures.
Expect a relaxed pace where sun, sea, and hospitality define the experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Moises R. Espinosa Airport and unwind with a local coffee at a nearby café. Stroll around the town plaza to admire the Spanish-era church and meet friendly vendors. Pick up fresh coconut water from a roadside stand before heading to your hotel to settle in.
Enjoy a hearty lunch of grilled seafood at a seaside eatery along Baywalk. Visit the Masbate City Heritage District for its ancestral homes and museums that showcase local history. Take a short tricycle ride to Plaza Rizal and explore artisan shops selling woven mats and jewelry.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the bay as the sun sets in fiery hues. Chat with fellow travelers and locals over traditional dulong and rice cakes. End the night with a leisurely stroll along the illuminated beachfront promenade.
Board a pumpboat at Barangay Pawa for the crossing to Ticao Island at first light. Keep your camera ready for glimpses of dolphins or flying fish leaping beside the boat. Fuel up with rice porridge and fresh fruit sold by island vendors upon arrival.
Embark on a guided trek to the hillside rock formations of Magroo Cave for a light spelunking experience. Cool off with a picnic lunch on a white-sand beach at Monreal. Snorkel just off the shore to spot colorful corals and small reef fish.
Return to Masbate City and freshen up at your hotel. Relish a dinner of grilled chicken inasal and local vegetables at a homestyle eatery. Unwind with live acoustic music and sample craft beers at a cozy bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨One-night stay in budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 🚌Local transportation (jeepney/tricycle) per ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🧋Souvenir/market purchase | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Less crowded than major resort destinations, offering authentic island life
- Beautiful beaches, clear waters, and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-brand amenities in rural areas
- Occasional transportation gaps outside Masbate City and during the rainy season
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat po." - Thank you.
- "Magandang araw po." - Good day.
- "Saan ang [lugar]?" - Where is [place]?
- "Pakiusap, tulungan ninyo ako." - Please help me.
- "Gaano kalayo ito?" - How far is this?
Places to Visit in Masbate
Visit one of these nice places.
A long stretch of white sand backed by mangroves and shallow reefs; golden-hour photos and reflections in calm mornings.
Colorful boats, pastel sunrise or sunset, and harbor activity that makes for dynamic seascapes.
Rugged coastlines and deep-blue water with dramatic skies—great for wide-angle coastal panoramas.
Powdery sands and turquoise seas with opportunities for wide beach portraits and seascapes.
Historic lighthouse settings offering sea horizons and silhouetted foregrounds during dawn or dusk.
Food in Masbate
Masbate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fish or shark simmered in coconut milk with malunggay or leafy greens; a staple in coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Taro leaves stewed in coconut milk with chili, often enriched with pork or fish.
Spicy pork or seafood cooked in coconut milk and chili peppers, a regional favorite.
Fresh raw seafood cured in vinegar, lime, and spices; bright and citrusy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh seafood, produce, and stalls offering quick bites like kinilaw and grilled skewers.
Seasonal stalls serving grilled fish, banana cue, camote fries, and other local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'po' and 'opo' when addressing elders; a warm, polite tone carries cultural value.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; lightweight, breathable clothing is suitable for the tropical climate.
Ask permission before taking photos of people fishing or in private spaces; show appreciation for local hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Masbate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; small tips for guides and drivers.
Cash is widely preferred, especially in markets and street stalls; some mid-range establishments accept cards, but ATMs can be sparse outside Masbate City. Carry PHP cash and small denominations for day trips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler daytime temperatures and generally dry days; clear skies and calm seas make island-hopping and photography ideal.
Wet season with higher humidity and possible tropical downpours; plan flexible outdoor activities and expect rougher seas at times.
Transition periods with mixed mild heat and sporadic showers; good for fewer crowds and pricing shifts.
Masbate at Night
Hiking in Masbate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hillside routes offering sea views, fresh air, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Rugged ridges with limestone outcrops, offering panoramic ocean vistas and photo opportunities.
Gentle to moderate climbs near the city with viewpoints over the harbor and surrounding islets.
Airports
How to reach Masbate by plane.
Primary gateway to the province with domestic flights to Manila and Cebu; essential for island-hopping itineraries.
Nearby option for connecting flights; access from Masbate by land transfer and ferry as needed.
Additional nearby option for travelers combining Bicol destinations; road connections to Masbate are available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Large portion of households rely on fishing and small-scale aquaculture, shaping daily life and cuisine.
Cattle-raising and farming are important economic activities in rural areas.
More dispersed access to services, tourism, and markets; more varied dining options.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, communities, and local leagues; common sight in town centers and gymnasiums.
A celebrated cultural-sport event featuring cattle roping and riding that draws visitors during festival periods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Masbate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in most eateries; look for rice bowls with vegetables, laing, and tofu. Communicate clearly to avoid fish stock or shrimp paste, and consider ordering plainly seasoned vegetables with rice or noodle dishes.