Things To Do
in Caba

Caba is a coastal municipality in La Union on the northwestern coast of Luzon, Philippines. It offers a relaxed vibe with fishing villages, rice fields, and scenic shoreline along the Lingayen Gulf. The town provides a gateway to nearby Ilocos Norte and Cordillera landscapes while preserving Ilocano hospitality and local seafood traditions.

Visitors will find a gentle pace, warm people, and coastal scenery perfect for a laid-back getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the historic San Juan Nepomuceno Church, renowned for its intricate architecture and rich history. As the sun rises, stroll through the cobblestone streets, absorbing the local culture and chatting with friendly vendors. Enjoy a traditional Filipino breakfast at a nearby local eatery, sampling dishes like longganisa and sinangag.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby heritage sites, including the remnants of Spanish colonial structures that tell the story of Caba's past. Visit the local museum to learn more about the region's history through its artifacts and exhibits. Spend some time in the town plaza, where you can relax and watch the locals engage in their daily routines.

evening
:

As dusk falls, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, featuring fresh seafood and regional specialties. Take a leisurely walk around the town center, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and possibly catch a local festival or event. End your night with a visit to a local café for some traditional desserts and a taste of local coffee.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Kick off your day with a trip to the beautiful beaches of Caba, where the golden sands and clear waters await. Rent snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life just off the shore, or take a refreshing swim in the calm sea. Enjoy a light breakfast by the beachside, where you can savor fresh fruits and pastries while soaking in the sun.

afternoon
:

After a morning of fun, participate in exciting water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding, allowing you to experience the stunning coastline from a different perspective. Embark on a guided island-hopping tour, visiting nearby islets and hidden coves, perfect for a picnic lunch. Capture the picturesque scenery and seascapes with your camera as you explore the beauty of the surrounding waters.

evening
:

Return to the main beach for a sunset viewing, where you can witness the sky painted in hues of orange and pink. Savor a beach barbecue dinner, featuring grilled seafood and local meats, while enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves. Relax under the stars, perhaps with a bonfire, sharing stories with fellow travelers and locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-12
🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant$15-30
🚕Taxi or local transport (one-way)$1-4
🛏️Lodging per night (budget hotel)$20-40
Coffee or snack$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Coastal scenery and nearby natural spots
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Longer trips to major cities for some services
  • "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
  • "Manu ti daytoy?" - How much is this?
  • "Agyamanak" - Thank you
  • "Naimbag nga bigat!" - Good morning!
  • "Mabalin kadi nga agsalsal-sala?" - Could you please help me?

Places to Visit in Caba

Visit one of these nice places.

Caba Beach at Sunrise

Golden light on calm waters with fishing boats and silhouettes along the Lingayen Gulf.

Municipal Church Facade

Historic Ilocano church facade with simple, elegant lines and local architectural details.

Mangrove Boardwalk

Shaded boardwalk through mangroves, reflecting in tidal pools at low tide.

Coastal Cliff Overlook

Panoramic view of the coast and sea stacks during golden hour.

Culinary Guide

Food in Caba

Ilocano and Ilocos cuisine define the local dining scene, emphasizing bold flavors, pork dishes, vegetables, and seafood. Expect a mix of rustic eateries, market stalls, and seafood-centric menus that celebrate the coast.

Caba Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bagnet with Ilocos vinegar

Crispy pork belly served with a sharp, tangy vinegar dip.

Must-Try!

Pinakbet

A vegetable medley stewed with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) for a savory, smoky flavor.

Dinengdeng

A light veggie stew often paired with grilled or fried fish.

Ilocos Empanada

Fried pastry stuffed with vegetables and meat, a popular street snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Caba Public Market

Bustling hub for fresh seafood, vegetables, and quick bites from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Caba experiences a tropical humid climate with hot, humid days most of the year, a distinct rainy season, and relatively mild evenings. The sea breeze provides some relief, while humidity can be high. Typhoon season can bring heavy rains and storms to the region.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for elders

Polite greetings and courteous language when speaking to older people; a handshake or light nod is common.

Ask before photos

Many locals appreciate being asked before photographing people or homes; respect refusals.

Dress for religious sites

Modest attire when visiting churches or temples; remove hats and speak softly in sacred spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travelers should follow standard precautions: keep valuables secured, avoid poorly lit areas at night, swim only in designated areas with lifeguards, and heed local weather and storm warnings. Use reputable transport and avoid isolated beaches after dark.

Tipping in Caba

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Small tips (5-10%) are appreciated in sit-down restaurants; not always expected in casual markets.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; some mid-range and tourist-oriented places accept debit/credit cards; carry cash for markets and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (Mar–May)

Hot and dry days; ideal for beach activities. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.

Rainy Season (Jun–Oct)

Expect frequent showers and high humidity. Plan flexible outdoor days and monitor weather advisories.

Cool Season (Nov–Feb)

Pleasant to mild temperatures with cooler evenings; great for hikes and scenic walks; light jacket recommended.

Nightlife Guide

Caba at Night

Nightlife in Caba is low-key and family-friendly, with beachside cafes offering quiet live music on weekends. Most social activity centers around dining by the shore, small gatherings, and seasonal events rather than large clubs.

Hiking in Caba

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tangadan Falls Trail (San Gabriel)

Popular waterfall hike with a refreshing plunge pool after a river crossing.

Coastal Ridge Walks

Less formal trails along coastal cliffs offering sea panoramas and sunset views.

Airports

How to reach Caba by plane.

Laoag International Airport (LAO)

Closest major airport in Laoag, Ilocos Norte; travel time by road varies with traffic.

Clark International Airport (CRK)

Large international and domestic hub; reachable via highway routes and public transport.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL)

Main international gateway to the Philippines; connections to regional destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Caba is a small town with a walkable core. The shoreline and market areas are easily explored on foot, while longer trips may require a tricycle or motorbike rental.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ilocano

Predominant ethnolinguistic group with strong cultural traditions.

Fisherfolk and farmers

Communities reliant on coastal and agricultural livelihoods.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Widely played in schools, streets, and community gyms.

Surfing (San Juan, La Union)

Nearby world-class waves attract surfers for day trips and weekend visits.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center is usually light; main highways see typical regional traffic. Local transport includes tricycles and jeepneys; anticipate slower travel during storms or peak holiday periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Caba.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Opt for vegetable-heavy dishes like pinakbet (request bagoong-free if needed) or dinengdeng; ask for meat-free preparations and option to replace fish sauces with vegetable-friendly condiments.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available at barangay clinics and a provincial district facility. For more advanced care, residents typically go to hospitals in San Fernando, La Union, or to larger facilities in Laoag or Clark, accessible by road with varying travel times.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide