Things To Do
in Catmon
Catmon is a small coastal municipality in northern Cebu, Philippines, where emerald fields meet the sea. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere, friendly residents, and a countryside that rewards slow travel. Stone churches, hillside farms, and river scenery frame daily life here.
With nearby towns offering markets, beaches, and nature trails, Catmon makes a quiet base for exploring northern Cebu.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, sampling traditional Filipino dishes like longganisa and sinangag. Afterward, stroll through the historic streets of Catmon, taking in the beautiful Spanish-era architecture and charming old structures. Don’t forget to visit the local church, where you can admire its intricate details and serene atmosphere.
In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean. Post-lunch, take a guided tour to the nearby heritage sites, learning about Catmon's rich history and cultural significance. Wrap up your afternoon by visiting local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs and crafts.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness a stunning display of colors across the sky. For dinner, treat yourself to a barbecue feast at a beachfront grill, savoring the flavors of the region. After dinner, take a moonlit walk along the shore, enjoying the gentle sound of waves and the fresh ocean breeze.
Kick off your day by heading to the beautiful beaches of Catmon, where you can relax on the soft sands or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. After soaking up some sun, join a local water sports provider for an exciting morning of snorkeling among vibrant marine life. The stunning coral reefs around Catmon provide an unforgettable underwater experience.
After a morning full of activity, enjoy a light lunch at a beachside café serving local delicacies. Spend your afternoon trying out various water sports such as kayaking or jet skiing, feeling the adrenaline rush as you glide over the waves. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can opt for paddleboarding, taking in the scenic views from a different perspective.
As evening approaches, unwind with a cocktail at a beach bar while watching the horizon turn into shades of orange and pink. Relish a beachfront dinner featuring grilled catch of the day and other local favorites, all while listening to the sound of live music. End your night by joining in on a bonfire gathering with locals, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨One-night stay in budget hotel | $25-50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town vibe with friendly locals
- Beautiful coastal scenery and nearby nature trails
- Affordable costs and slow-paced travel
- Good base to explore northern Cebu communities
- Limited nightlife and large-scale tourist infrastructure
- Public transport options can be sparse outside town centers
- "Maayong buntag" - Good morning
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Puwede ko mangutana?" - May I ask?
- "Asa ang ...?" - Where is the ...?
- "Tagpila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Pwede ko maningil?" - Could I have the bill?
Places to Visit in Catmon
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy shoreline facing the rising sun; ideal for silhouettes of fishermen and calm water.
Panoramic view of the town, coastline, and surrounding hills; best in late afternoon for golden light.
Colorful stalls and boats with a lively early-morning atmosphere.
Diverse birdlife and tranquil water reflections along the mangroves.
Food in Catmon
Catmon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cebuano-style raw fish ceviche marinated in vinegar, citrus, and coconut milk, often with onions and peppers.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish seasoned with salt and herbs, cooked over charcoal; best enjoyed with rice and calamansi.
Crispy roasted pig, a Cebuano specialty; served with liver sauce and pickled papaya.
Young jackfruit stewed in coconut milk with shrimp or fish for a creamy tropical dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offer fresh seafood, produce, and snacks; try grilled fish and kinilaw from local stalls.
Skewers, fried snacks, and fresh fruit sold by vendors along the shoreline in the evenings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders politely with 'po' and 'opo' to show respect.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches; remove hats in worship spaces.
Embrace Pakikisama by staying patient and courteous in conversations and with service staff.
Safety
Tipping in Catmon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10-15% in restaurants if no service charge is included; small tips to taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Cash is widely accepted in rural towns; some larger venues may accept cards or mobile wallets in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with clear skies and calmer seas; bring sun protection, hydrate, and expect busy coastal markets.
Frequent showers and occasional tropical storms; lush landscapes but some roads may be slick; plan indoor activities and check forecasts.
Catmon at Night
Hiking in Catmon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike through rural woodlands to hilltop vantage points with coastal views.
A scenic, easy-to-moderate ridge walk linking several coastal villages for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Catmon by plane.
Main airport serving Cebu; typically about 2-3 hours by road from Catmon depending on traffic; taxis and buses are available from the airport to town centers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group; primarily Cebuano-speaking with strong family and community ties.
Coastal and rural communities sustaining the local economy with seafood, rice, and produce.
A mix of long-time residents and visitors contributing to a close-knit, hospitable culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, barangays, and local courts; community leagues are common.
Indoor and outdoor games, popular in gyms and beach areas alike.
Traditional Filipino martial art practiced in some communities and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Catmon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Catmon, vegetarian options exist with vegetables, coconut milk, and rice. Request dishes with no fish or meat; be prepared for fish stock in many broths and sauces.