Things To Do
in Nabua

Nabua is a charming municipality located in the province of Camarines Sur, Philippines. Known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional Bicolano way of life. The town is famous for its vibrant festivals, warm hospitality, and beautiful natural attractions, such as rivers and hills.

Nabua serves as a gateway for exploring the stunning beauty of the Bicol region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Nabua
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Nabua Church, a historic landmark known for its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy some street food.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Bicolano dishes while watching a cultural performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to nearby Lake Nabua for a serene morning of bird watching and photography.

afternoon
:

Visit the local handicraft shops to learn about traditional crafts and possibly take a workshop.

evening
:

Attend the local evening market for dinner, featuring various local snacks and delicacies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$3-$5
Coffee$1-$2
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🛍️Souvenir$2-$10
🏨Budget hotel per night$10-$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited modern amenities and infrastructure
  • Public transportation can be irregular
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Filipino speakers
  • "Magandang araw" - Good day
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Mahal kita" - I love you
  • "Paalam" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Nabua

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Nabua

A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.

Nabua Church

The stunning architecture and historical significance make this a must-capture spot.

Pagsanjan Falls

A short trip from Nabua, this waterfall is perfect for breathtaking photos in nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nabua

Nabua is a food lover's paradise, offering a variety of delicious local dishes that showcase the rich flavors of Bicolano cuisine.

Nabua Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bicol Express

A spicy pork dish cooked in coconut milk, flavored with shrimp paste and chili.

Must-Try!

Laing

Dried taro leaves cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with chili and shrimp.

Pinangat

Fish wrapped in gabi leaves, cooked in coconut milk and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nabua Public Market

A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, seafood, and street food.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors selling local snacks like fish balls, kwek-kwek, and banana cue.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nabua has a tropical climate, characterized by a dry season and a wet season. The dry season lasts from December to May, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). The rainy season, from June to November, yields heavy rainfall, and temperatures remain consistent. Humidity levels are high year-round, making it feel warmer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals.

Dress Modestly

Wearing modest clothing is expected in rural areas and religious sites.

Greeting Locals

A friendly smile and a simple greeting go a long way.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nabua is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. It’s also advisable to travel with a local guide when exploring remote areas.

Tipping in Nabua

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; some establishments may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December to May)

Expect sunny days, great for outdoor activities and exploring.

Rainy Season (June to November)

Frequent rain showers; plan for indoor activities and expect lush landscapes.

Festival Season (September)

The town celebrates its fiesta with vibrant parades and cultural events.

Cool Season (November to January)

Mild weather is great for visiting; it's the peak season for tourists.

Nightlife Guide

Nabua at Night

Nabua's nightlife is laid-back, with a few local bars and restaurants offering evening entertainment. You can enjoy live music, dance the night away at local clubs, or simply relax at a cafe with friends. The local evening market also provides a vibrant atmosphere for late-night snacks and mingling with locals.

Hiking in Nabua

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Isarog

A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and diverse flora and fauna.

Mount Iriga

A popular hiking destination known for its scenic trails and picturesque summit.

Airports

How to reach Nabua by plane.

Naga Airport

The nearest airport located about 30 kilometers from Nabua, it serves domestic flights and connects to Manila and other major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nabua is fairly walkable, especially in the town center where key attractions, markets, and restaurants are located close together. Sidewalks are available in many areas, but some rural parts may lack proper paths. Walking is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and interact with residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bicolanos

The primary ethnic group in the area, known for their rich culture and traditions.

Migrant Workers

Many locals work abroad and return home, bringing diverse influences and experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a favorite sport, with many courts available and local leagues.

Sepak Takraw

A popular traditional sport, similar to volleyball, played with a rattan ball.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nabua is generally light, with most locals using motorcycles or bicycles for transportation. Public transportation includes jeepneys and buses, which can be crowded but are inexpensive. Road conditions vary, with some rural areas having unpaved roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nabua.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian upon request.

Spicy Food

Bicolano cuisine is known for its spiciness, so ask for milder options if necessary.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Nabua are basic, with a public hospital and a few clinics available. For serious medical issues, residents often travel to larger cities like Naga. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide