Things To Do
in Balud
Balud is a quiet coastal municipality in Masbate Province, located in the Bicol region of the Philippines. It offers a rural charm with fishing boats at the shore, palm-fringed beaches, and a welcoming local community. The town serves as a gateway to nearby islets and nature spots, accessible by road from Masbate City and surrounding communities.
Visitors can savor fresh seafood, experience traditional island life, and enjoy a relaxed pace away from crowded tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Balud Airport and take in the lush landscapes as you drive toward your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Filipino dishes like longsilog or tapsilog. Settle into your lodging and get acquainted with the friendly locals who can guide you throughout your stay.
Explore the nearby Balud Beach, where the golden sands invite you for some beachcombing or relaxation under the warm sun. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps try your hand at some water sports like kayaking or snorkeling. Wind down by enjoying fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant.
Experience the vibrant local nightlife by visiting a nearby bar or cultural hub where live music might be playing. Savor a delicious dinner featuring classic Filipino cuisine while chatting with locals and fellow travelers. Round off the evening with a peaceful stroll along the shoreline, enjoying the sound of waves under the starlit sky.
Start your day by visiting the Balud Heritage Center, where you can learn about the intriguing history and culture of the region. Enjoy a guided tour that showcases the various artifacts and exhibits that reflect local traditions. After a rich cultural experience, indulge in breakfast at a nearby market.
Partake in a cooking class that focuses on traditional Balud dishes, giving you hands-on experience in Filipino cuisine. After cooking, sit down to enjoy the meals you prepared alongside fellow participants and exchange cooking tips. Visit a local artisan shop to pick up unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
Attend a local festival celebration if your visit coincides with one, witnessing the colorful parades and cultural performances. Engage with the local community as you sample street food delicacies from various vendors. The evening concludes with captivating dance performances that illuminate the cultural spirit of Balud.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏️One-night hotel or guesthouse | $25-60 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, authentic coastal experience away from crowds
- Rich seafood cuisine and warm, welcoming locals
- Affordability and easy access to nearby islets
- Limited upscale nightlife and nightlife options
- Smaller infrastructure in some areas may affect connectivity
- Weather can be unpredictable during the rainy/typhoon seasons
- "Kumusta" - Hello / How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pakiusap" - Please
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Places to Visit in Balud
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light along a quiet shoreline with silhouettes of fishing boats and palm trees.
Texture-rich piers, nets, and colorful boats—perfect for dramatic golden-hour shots.
Panoramic views of the sea and surrounding farmlands; a gentle hike rewards with wide horizons.
Shaded, reflective waterways ideal for wildlife photography and tranquil scenes.
Food in Balud
Balud Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured with vinegar, calamansi, onions, and chili; a bright, tangy starter often found at coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish seasoned with local spices and a squeeze of lime, usually served with rice and dipping sauce.
Vegetables simmered in coconut milk with bits of fish, yielding a creamy, mildly spicy dish.
Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with chili and sometimes fish or meat; a staple in Bicol-inspired meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Center for fresh seafood, produce, snacks, and small stalls selling fried bites, corn on the cob, and locally grown coconuts.
Casual vendors offering grilled skewers, boiled corn, sweet potatoes, and small river crustaceans popular at sunset.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a smile and a polite 'hello' (Kumusta). Show respect to elders; a light handshake or a nod is common.
Ask before photographing people, especially on private property or in intimate settings.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or religious sites; remove hats when required.
Safety
Tipping in Balud
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. If service charges are not included, 5-10% is a courteous gesture in restaurants and for guided tours.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Some larger restaurants and hotels may accept cards or mobile payments; carry local currency for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with abundant sunshine, ideal for beach days and outdoor activities; expect hot days and warm nights.
Frequent showers and high humidity; plan for brief outdoor windows and keep rain gear handy.
Peak typhoon risk between July and October; monitor weather updates and have contingency plans for travel delays.
Balud at Night
Hiking in Balud
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic path along the shore offering sea views and opportunities for birdwatching during flocks of seabirds.
Educational and easy trail through mangroves with chances to spot crabs and mangrove birds at different tides.
Short to moderate climb ending at a viewpoint overlooking the coastline and farmlands.
Airports
How to reach Balud by plane.
Main gateway to Masbate Island; regular flights from Manila and Cebu, with connections to nearby towns. Accessible by road from Balud.
Regional hub in the Bicol region with broader domestic connections; useful for multi-location itineraries in the area.
Regional airport serving nearby areas; often used to access southern Bicol and neighboring provinces.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community with strong fishing and farming traditions; warm, family-oriented culture.
Key economic and cultural groups shaping daily life and cuisine.
Common among travelers and migrant workers; many residents are bilingual in Filipino and local dialects.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in schools, community centers, and barangays; local leagues and pickup games are common.
Traditional fishing activities and related water-based sports are integral to life in Balud.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balud.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options include laing, ginataang gulay, rice, and vegetable-based dishes; request no fish sauce or shrimp paste if needed.
Many dishes are naturally gluten-free when served with plain rice; confirm sauces and fried items are prepared without gluten-containing ingredients.