Things To Do
in Bombon
Bombon is a small coastal municipality in Masbate, part of the Bicol Region of the Philippines. It sits along the Sibuyan Sea with nearby islands and pristine beaches reachable by short boat trips. The town has a laid-back, tight-knit community vibe and a backdrop of rolling hills and clear blue waters.
Visitors can explore simple, authentic experiences—from fishing villages to island hops—away from crowded tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Bombon and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Filipino dishes. Take a morning stroll around the town to acquaint yourself with the charming streets and friendly locals.
Visit the historic Bombon Church and learn about its significance in the community. Have lunch at a nearby eatery offering fresh seafood and local cuisine. Spend the afternoon exploring the town’s market, picking up handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Dine at a seaside restaurant while watching the sunset over the coastline. Experience the vibrant local nightlife with live music at a nearby bar. Relax and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Start the day with a traditional Filipino breakfast in a local household through a cultural exchange program. Participate in a workshop learning traditional weaving or pottery making. Enjoy interaction with local artisans and gain insights into their crafts.
Savor a lunch featuring indigenous ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. Attend a storytelling session or folk dance performance to deepen your understanding of Bombon’s heritage. Visit a community farm to see sustainable agriculture in practice.
Join a communal dinner with locals, sharing stories and food around a bonfire. Witness a traditional music performance that highlights regional instruments. Reflect on the day’s cultural experiences while enjoying the peaceful rural environment.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| ☕️Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🛏️One night in budget hotel | $15-40 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic island vibe away from crowds
- Fresh seafood and scenic coastlines
- Limited nightlife and infrastructure in some areas
- Occasional weather disruption and limited connectivity
- "Kumusta po kayo?" - How are you? (polite)
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Opo, pwede po" - Yes, please / Okay
- "Paalam po" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Bombon
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm waters and fishing boats; ideal for early morning compositions.
Panoramic sunset and sea views from a modest hill overlooking the town.
Dramatic seascapes with sailing boats and migrating seabirds.
A short path through mangroves offering reflections and wildlife moments.
Food in Bombon
Bombon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork or seafood simmered in coconut milk, chilies, and shrimp paste. A signature Bicol dish that pairs well with hot steamed rice.
Must-Try!
Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with chili and sometimes meat or seafood; rich, creamy, and mildly spicy.
A tangy, spicy dish usually made with fish or pork wrapped and cooked with taro leaves in coconut milk.
Fresh raw fish “cooked” in calamansi or vinegar with onions and peppers; best enjoyed fresh at seaside stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling center for fresh seafood, produce, and daily staples where you can sample local bites and observe daily life.
Morning catches displayed for sale; have fish grilled on the spot or prepared for your takeaway meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use po/opo when speaking to elders or strangers as a sign of respect.
Respect local customs in public spaces and places of worship.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in fishing villages.
Be mindful of working livelihoods and avoid obstructing boats or stalls.
Safety
Tipping in Bombon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service; 5-10% in restaurants and for hotel staff if service is not included.
Cash is widely used; some shops and larger resorts may accept cards; ATMs are limited in Bombon, plan to withdraw in Masbate City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season from March to May brings hot days, calm seas for island hopping, and bright skies; stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
West monsoon from June to October brings frequent showers and occasional tropical storms; plan indoor activities and check boat schedules.
November to February brings cooler breezes, clearer skies, and comfortable conditions for coastal walks and photography.
Bombon at Night
Hiking in Bombon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike offering coastal views and a chance to observe local flora and birds.
Moderate trails with sea panoramas and opportunities for photography.
Airports
How to reach Bombon by plane.
Main regional airport serving Masbate Island; connections to Manila and Cebu. Access to Bombon typically requires a road journey of a few hours.
Major airport in the Bicol region with domestic flights; further from Bombon but accessible by road and sea routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of coastal fishing communities and inland farmers with strong family ties and tradition. Languages include Masbateño and Filipino.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played sport in schools and communities across Masbate.
Traditional livelihoods and recreational activity around the coast.
Popular in local gyms and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bombon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes steamed or sautéed with garlic, onions, and coconut milk; request no fish sauce or meat-based stocks.