Things To Do
in Castilla
Castilla is a small coastal municipality in the Bicol/Visayan region of the Philippines, characterized by fishing villages, coconut groves and quiet sandy shores. The town has a relaxed, rural energy where daily life revolves around the sea and agriculture. Visitors will find rustic ports, mangroves and short coastal trails that reveal colorful sunrises and local fishing activity.
Basic services are available in town, while larger hospitals, more extensive dining and air connections are found in nearby cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the historic San Juan Bautista Church, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll around the surrounding plaza, where you can admire the local lifestyle and perhaps grab a traditional breakfast from a nearby eatery. The morning sun casts a warm glow on the vibrant streets, perfect for capturing memorable photographs.
After lunch, explore the local market where you can find handmade crafts and local delicacies. Engage with the friendly vendors and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Castilla. As the afternoon unfolds, consider visiting the nearby historical landmarks to learn about the rich heritage of the area.
As twilight descends, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local specialties. Join locals in the plaza for a cultural performance or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere under the stars. Wind down your day with a walk along the streets, taking in the sounds of laughter and music that fill the air.
Start your day at the pristine shores of the nearby beach, where the sound of the waves sets a relaxing tone. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the crystal-clear waters at your own pace, feeling invigorated by the morning sun. The beach is relatively quiet in the early hours, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful connection with nature.
After a refreshing swim, indulge in a delightful seafood lunch at a beachside shack, sampling local dishes like kinilaw and grilled fish. Spend the afternoon engaging in exhilarating water sports such as jet skiing or banana boat rides, ensuring you make the most of the coastal fun. With the sun shining brightly, the colorful beach scene is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
As sunset approaches, find a comfortable spot on the sand to witness the breathtaking views as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Afterward, enjoy a beach bonfire while savoring roasted marshmallows and sharing stories with fellow travelers. The evening ambiance is lively, with music and laughter echoing along the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Local coffee / snack | $1-2 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5 L) | $0.30-1 |
| ⛴️Short boat/ferry fare | $1-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (double) | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic small-town coastal atmosphere with friendly locals
- Excellent access to fresh seafood, island hopping and nature photography
- Low travel costs and relaxed pace ideal for unwinding
- Limited medical facilities and fewer tourist amenities than bigger cities
- Transportation options can be infrequent; schedules change with weather
- Fewer dining and nightlife choices; language and service variability for non-Tagalog/Bicol speakers
- "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
- "Salamat po" - Thank you (polite)
- "Paalam / Ingat" - Goodbye / Take care
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Marhay na aldaw (Bicolano)" - Good day (Bicol greeting)
Places to Visit in Castilla
Visit one of these nice places.
Lively early-morning activity with colorful boats, nets and fishermen — great for candid shots, portraits and sunrise scenes.
Quiet stretches of sand and small sandbars ideal for sunrise/sunset silhouettes, long exposures and drone shots (check local drone rules).
Birdlife, reflections and dramatic tidal textures make for atmospheric nature photos, especially at low tide.
Classic tropical-scene compositions: palm-lined paths, local farmers and thatched huts provide authentic rural imagery.
Colorful processions, street dancing and parish celebrations (if timing allows) are excellent for cultural photography — ask permission before close-up portraits.
Food in Castilla
Castilla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught and simply grilled over charcoal; available at the fish port stalls and seaside karinderias (small restaurants).
Must-Try!
Coconut-milk based dishes with chili and shredded taro leaves or pork — look for milder local variants and fiery traditional versions at home-style restaurants.
A local stew made from coconut milk and fish or shellfish, seasoned with native spices; best tried at family-run eateries.
Classic Filipino staples (vinegar-soy adobo and sour tamarind sinigang) common at almost every eatery — comforting and widely available.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning market where fishermen sell the day’s catch and vendors offer grilled skewers, fried banana (bananacue), fresh fruit, and local snacks; a great spot to taste fresh seafood and meet locals.
Simple stalls selling grilled or fried fish freshly prepared — try the grilled mackerel or small reef fish with rice and a side of atchara (pickled papaya).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders politely and use 'po' and 'opo' (polite forms) when speaking Filipino; a simple nod or handshake is common.
Dress modestly at religious sites and community events; beachwear is fine on the sand but not appropriate in town centers or churches.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially during religious ceremonies or intimate moments.
If invited to a home or fiesta, it's polite to bring a small gift or contribute a dish; try local foods and show appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Castilla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Small tips (20–50 PHP / ~0.40–1.00 USD) for helpful service staff, drivers or boat crew are customary. For excellent service in restaurants or tours, leave a slightly larger tip.
Cash (Philippine pesos) is king in small towns — bring small bills and coins. Larger establishments in nearby cities may accept cards, and mobile wallets (GCash, PayMaya) are growing but are less reliable in rural areas. ATMs may be limited; plan withdrawals in larger towns before arriving.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hottest months with clear skies — best for beach days, boat trips and snorkeling. Bring sun protection, light clothing and stay hydrated; midday heat can be intense.
Frequent heavy rains and the regional typhoon season begin mid-year; expect rougher seas and some ferry or boat cancellations. Plan flexibly and monitor local weather and advisories.
Slightly cooler and breezier weather—pleasant for hiking and coastal walks. Evenings can be cooler but still mild compared with temperate climates.
Castilla at Night
Hiking in Castilla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short ridge trails along the coast offering panoramic sea views and good sunrise/sunset vantage points; low difficulty and suitable for casual hikes.
Flat, easy walks through mangrove areas for birdwatching and nature photography; best at low tide.
If traveling into the greater Sorsogon area, Mount Bulusan and its national park offer more challenging hikes, hot springs and volcanic landscapes — allow a full day and check park conditions and guides.
Airports
How to reach Castilla by plane.
Serves Masbate City; reachable by road/ferry depending on exact location — useful if traveling from the Visayas or Luzon via connecting flights and ferries.
Larger Bicol gateway with several domestic connections; from here it's a road trip to Sorsogon-area towns and ferry/land links to coastal municipalities.
Another regional airport serving the greater Bicol area; offers connections to larger hubs and then onward ground transport to the province.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of residents, speaking Bicolano dialects and Filipino; many households involved in fishing and farming.
Communities centered around coastal fishing, coconut and small-scale farming form the backbone of the local economy.
Younger generations often migrate for work or have family members working overseas (OFWs), shaping income patterns and local dynamics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport — local courts and barangay leagues are central to community life, with pickup games common in afternoons and evenings.
Widely played, especially among women and during town festivals; sand volleyball is enjoyed on some beaches.
Fishing is both a livelihood and a community activity; friendly local competitions and coastal fishing trips are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Castilla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but possible: rice, vegetable stews, fried plantain and vegetable-adapted dishes. Ask for no fish sauce/anchovy and try vegetable laing if available. Bring snacks if you need more variety.
Vegan choices are sparse in small towns; coconut-based dishes can be suitable but confirm ingredients. Gluten-free diets require asking about soy sauce (contains wheat) and cross-contamination; bring staples if necessary.
Seafood is widely used — make allergies known clearly. Language cards with key allergy phrases in Filipino can help; carry medication if you have severe allergies.