Things To Do
in Real
Real, Philippines is a coastal municipality in Quezon Province located along Tayabas Bay. It is a quiet town known for its fishing heritage, fresh seafood, and laid-back seaside charm. The landscape blends mangrove shores, river channels, and nearby hills that offer easy day trips.
Visitors come to enjoy authentic local cuisine, gentle beaches, and gateway access to nearby islands and natural spots.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Real and settle into your accommodations, taking a moment to breathe in the fresh coastal air. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Filipino dishes. Spend the morning exploring the nearby beaches, walking along the soft sands and taking in the scenic views.
After lunch, visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and support local artisans. Engage with the friendly locals as you purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs. Spend the late afternoon swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, discovering the rich marine life that flourishes in the area.
As the sun sets, head to a beachfront restaurant for a delightful seafood dinner. Savor fresh catch while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. End the night by joining a beach bonfire, sharing stories under the starlit sky.
Start your day with breakfast at your hotel before heading out to Dinahican Beach. Spend the morning soaking up the sun and swimming in the cool, turquoise waters. For the adventurous, try out water sports available, such as surfing or paddleboarding.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach surrounded by lush palm trees. Spend the afternoon exploring the shoreline or hiking nearby trails that offer breathtaking views of the coastline. Take time to relax and perhaps indulge in some beach yoga as the gentle breeze calms your mind.
Head back to your accommodations to refresh before venturing out for dinner in a local seafood restaurant. Experience the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine while enjoying the serene ambiance of the beachfront. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the shore, relishing the cool evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥤Bottled water | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $3-6 |
| 🍚Rice + dish at local eatery | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal charm and seafood-focused cuisine
- Friendly locals and relaxed pace of life
- Gateway access to nearby islands and nature reserves
- Affordable costs and casual vibe
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Smaller infrastructure for big crowds
- Beach erosion concerns and seasonal weather impacts
- "Magandang araw" - Good day
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Po" - Polite particle used when addressing elders
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pwede bang mag-order?" - Can I order?
Places to Visit in Real
Visit one of these nice places.
A long pier with fishing boats silhouetted against a colorful sunset over Tayabas Bay.
Wide sandy shore with gentle waves, perfect for long exposure seascapes at blue hour.
Historic church with simple colonial architecture and quiet interior light for photos.
Raised boardwalk through mangrove forests, ideal for wildlife and reflection shots.
Vivid early-morning scenes of vendors, produce, and colorfully arranged seafood.
Food in Real
Real Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw fish cured in vinegar, lime, onions, and chili; best by the waterfront.
Must-Try!
Grilled milkfish served with a squeeze of calamansi and a dipping sauce.
Sun-dried, fried milkfish often enjoyed with rice and eggs.
Young jackfruit stewed in coconut milk with shrimp, a comforting coastal dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and affordable snacks.
Boat-to-table stalls offering grilled fish skewers, kinilaw bites, and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a warm Magandang araw and say po when addressing elders; a handshake or light nod is common.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or temples; remove hats and speak softly inside sacred spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people; respect private property and fishing activity.
Safety
Tipping in Real
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; leave 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn’t included; small tips for drivers and tour guides.
Cash (PHP) is widely used; credit/debit cards accepted in larger establishments; smaller vendors often prefer cash; ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with cooling sea breezes at night; pack light clothing, sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; carry a light rain jacket and plan for possible swim breaks after rain.
Pleasant, mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and photography; occasional light rains.
Real at Night
Hiking in Real
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with scenic views and spiritual significance; permits and local guides recommended.
Coastal forest and mangrove trails near Pagbilao; relatively easy hikes with wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Real by plane.
Main international hub in Manila; travel by road and bus to Real takes roughly 3–5 hours depending on traffic.
Nearby airport in Legazpi City for domestic flights; access to Real via road transfer; longer travel time.
Alternative international gateway in Pampanga; road transfer to Real is longer but available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population relies on fishing and seafood trade.
Residents engaged in agriculture, aquaculture, and local commerce.
Some residents commute to larger cities for work and return seasonally.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime in towns and school gyms; watch a neighborhood game for local culture.
A traditional activity; local fishermen work the bays, especially during early mornings.
Common among youth and adults; you may encounter casual games on open fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Real.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in markets and restaurants; communicate clearly about no meat and avoid fish sauce; rely on vegetables, tofu, and rice; many places can prepare simple veggie dishes.