Things To Do
in Roxas

Roxas City is a coastal capital in Capiz province, known for its seafood-rich cuisine and friendly locals. It sits on Panay Island with a laid-back vibe, a growing waterfront promenade, and access to nearby islands and upland towns. Visitors enjoy Pan-ay Church, bayfront sunsets, and shell craft markets that reflect Capiz's maritime heritage.

The city serves as a gateway to both seaside adventures and cultural history in western Visayas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Filipino dishes like longganisa and garlic rice. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque Roxas City Plaza, admiring the impressive City Hall and the historic San Antonio de Padua Church. Don't forget to capture the vibrant local life as residents gather for their morning routines.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby eatery, head to the Roxas City Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of Capiz. Explore the exhibits featuring artifacts, historical photographs, and insights into local traditions. Spend some time at the nearby Baywalk, enjoying the ocean breeze and watching local fishermen at work.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a waterfront restaurant to indulge in fresh seafood, a specialty of the region. The atmosphere comes alive with live music, allowing you to soak in the local nightlife while savoring your meal. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Start your day at the beautiful Olotayan Island, taking a boat ride from Roxas City to reach this stunning destination. Enjoy the soft, white sands as you relax under the sun, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying out some snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the surface.

afternoon
:

After a morning of sun and sand, join in on various water sports available on the island, such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Spend time with friends and family, competing in friendly races or simply enjoying the thrill of being on the water. As the afternoon progresses, grab a packed lunch at a beachside hut, enjoying fresh coconuts and local delicacies.

evening
:

Return to Roxas City in the early evening and head to a local eatery for dinner, where you can try the famous Capiz delicacy, the 'baked oysters'. The warm ambiance of the restaurant sets the stage for a relaxing meal. After dinner, take a stroll along the shoreline, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere as the stars twinkle above.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$12-25
🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel$30-70
🚖Taxi or tricycle ride (local)$2-6
Coffee at a local cafe$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Coastal beauty and fresh seafood
  • Friendly local culture and relaxed pace
  • Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
  • Varying road quality outside Roxas City
  • "Kamusta ka?" - How are you?
  • "Salamat gid." - Thank you very much.
  • "Pila ang presyo ni?" - How much is this?
  • "Diin ang CR?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Palihug, mahimo mo buligan ako?" - Please, can you help me?

Places to Visit in Roxas

Visit one of these nice places.

Pan-ay Church (Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel)

An 18th-century church with a striking facade and vantage points for bay and river views.

Capiz Provincial Capitol

Iconic colonial-style building with clock tower and manicured grounds—great for daytime architecture photography.

Baybay Beach waterfront

Expansive shoreline with fishing boats and sunset lighting along Roxas Bay.

Roxas City Public Market at dawn

Bustling market scenes with fresh seafood, fruits, and local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Roxas

Roxas City's cuisine highlights fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and maritime flavors rooted in Capiz's coastal heritage.

Roxas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kinilaw na Isda

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, chili, and coconut milk; best enjoyed at seaside stalls.

Must-Try!

Inihaw na Hipon (Grilled Shrimp)

Char-grilled shrimp with a smoky finish, often served with garlic-lime dip.

Adobong Manok sa Capiz

Chicken adobo prepared with local spices and a slightly sweeter finish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Roxas Public Market

Vibrant morning market offering seafood, fruits, and local snacks.

Baybay Beach stalls

Seafood vendors along the beachfront offering grilled seafood and fresh calamansi juice.

Climate Guide

Weather

Roxas City experiences a tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid days year-round. Typical highs are in the low 30s°C, with cooler evenings in the dry season. The rainy season (June–October) brings heavy rainfall and occasional storms, while November–April offers more sunshine and comfortable outdoor conditions. Typhoons can occur; monitor forecasts during the wet season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Church dress code

Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly.

Respect for elders

Use courteous phrases such as 'po/opo' when addressing older people or authority figures.

Photography consent

Always ask permission before photographing individuals or private property.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise usual travel precautions: secure valuables in crowded areas, avoid isolated spots at night along the bay, swim in designated areas, and heed weather warnings during the rainy season.

Tipping in Roxas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and hotels.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; many places also take credit/debit cards, especially hotels and larger restaurants; small vendors prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with plenty of sunshine; ideal for beach days and island-hopping, but stay hydrated.

Rainy season

June to October brings frequent rain and possible storms; plan flexible itineraries and have indoor options.

Dry season

November to February offers cooler evenings and comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Roxas at Night

Roxas City's nightlife tends to be low-key, with laid-back bars and cafes along the bayfront; evenings are best for seafood dinners, waterfront strolls, and socializing rather than club-hopping.

Hiking in Roxas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal mangrove boardwalks

Easy coastal trails near Roxas Bay offering birdwatching and sea views.

Upland trails near Capiz towns

Short hikes through rolling hills and rural scenery within a short drive of Roxas.

Airports

How to reach Roxas by plane.

Francisco B. Reyes Airport (ROX)

Roxas City airport serving domestic flights; closest to downtown.

Iloilo International Airport (ILO)

Major regional hub with international connections; several hours' drive to Roxas City.

Kalibo International Airport (KLO)

Gateway for Northern Panay; farther from Roxas but connected to many regional routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Roxas City is reasonably walkable in the central areas, with a pedestrian-friendly bayfront and compact downtown. Outside the core, distances increase and some attractions require short drives or rides.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Language groups

Predominantly Capiznon/Hiligaynon-speaking residents, with Cebuano and Tagalog-speaking communities; a mix of fishermen, farmers, and public workers.

Visitors

Tourists and expatriates present in smaller numbers, especially during peak season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

The most popular sport, widely played in schools and communities.

Football (Soccer)

Common in coastal towns and youth leagues; fields are common in barangays.

Traditional Filipino games

Occasional events and community activities featuring local games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate in the city center; tricycles and jeepneys are common urban transport; traveling to more distant areas relies on buses and vans. During peak market hours or festival periods, expect some congestion near waterfronts and markets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Roxas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in many places; look for veggie stir-fries, eggplant dishes, tofu, and water-based soups; communicate clearly about sauces and broths.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Roxas City through public and private clinics and a regional hospital. For specialized services, travel to Iloilo or Cebu may be necessary.

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