Things To Do
in Donsol
Located on the eastern coast of Sorsogon Bay in the Bicol Region, Donsol is a laid-back coastal town. It is best known for its role as a whale shark viewing destination, offering gentle snorkeling with butanding. Beyond marine life, the town markets, lagoons, and mangrove trails provide a quiet rustle of rural life.
Visitors come for sustainable ecotourism, warm community hospitality, and access to clear waters and scenic sunsets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
We depart before dawn to catch the calm waters and golden sunrise over Donsol Bay. Our naturalist guide provides safety instructions and marine conservation insights before launching the boat. Drift gently beside the magnificent whale sharks as they glide just below the surface.
Return to shore for a fresh seafood lunch at a local eatery and sample the catch of the day. Spend the rest of the afternoon snorkelling in shallow reef patches teeming with vibrant corals and tropical fish. Relax on the sandy beach and enjoy a traditional massage under the shade of coconut palms.
As dusk falls, gather around a bonfire on the beach for grilled fish and coconut rice. Share tales of the day’s marine encounters with fellow travellers while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. End the night with stargazing and the soft glow of fireflies dancing in the palms.
Walk through the early morning market in Barrio Pangpang to meet local vendors and sample freshly brewed barako coffee. Stroll past colorful stalls overflowing with tropical fruits, catch sight of smiling islanders, and rent a bicycle to explore hidden alleys. Feel the pulse of village life as fishermen mend nets by the riverside.
Join a cooking class in a humble nipa hut where you learn to prepare kinilaw and sinigang using local ingredients. Visit a coconut farm and help gather fresh coconut meat to make buko pie and culpa de coco. Chat with farmers about sustainable practices and the region’s rich agricultural heritage.
Return to your homestay for a light dinner of adobo and steamed vegetables cooked by your hosts. Sit on the porch as lanterns illuminate the wooden houses and frogs chirp in the distance. Drift to sleep to the lulled rhythm of the nearby river.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥙Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Guesthouse/Hotel room per night | $15-40 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 📶Local SIM card with data | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class whale shark encounters with responsible operators
- Friendly, welcoming locals and laid-back vibe
- Fresh seafood and affordable travel costs
- Seasonal wildlife viewing can be weather-dependent
- Limited nightlife and less-developed infrastructure
- Longer travel times from major hubs
- "Kamusta po?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pakiusap, tulungan mo ako" - Please, help me
Places to Visit in Donsol
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shore with calm waters and golden light perfect for silhouettes and wide landscapes.
Photograph whale sharks from designated platforms; best results come with early morning calm seas and licensed guides.
Mirror-like water and lush mangroves, ideal for reflections and bird photography.
Elevated spots along the coast offering panoramic sea views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Food in Donsol
Donsol Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with chili peppers; creamy, spicy, and popular with rice.
Must-Try!
Pork simmered in coconut milk and long red chilies; richly flavored and iconic to the region.
Fresh fish ceviche marinated in vinegar, onions, and peppers; bright and zesty.
Fish or shark stewed in coconut milk with malunggay; comforting and savory.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh seafood, produce, and local snacks. Great place to sample daily life and pick up small souvenirs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite hello and say po/opo when addressing elders or religious sites. Dress modestly when visiting churches or villages.
Ask for permission before photographing locals, particularly children or families.
Respect local workers; avoid loud behavior near ports; handle seafood and gear with care.
Safety
Tipping in Donsol
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Consider 5-15% for tour guides and boat crews if service is good; carry small tips in pesos.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and eateries; some establishments accept cards; ATMs are available in larger towns; use PHP for most purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season from February to May; hot, sunny days and clear seas; peak whale shark season is February–April; book tours early.
Rainfall more frequent June–November; seas can be rougher and cloudier; fewer crowds and lush landscapes; flexible scheduling advised.
December–February offers cooler evenings and pleasant daytime temperatures; occasional rain possible.
Donsol at Night
Hiking in Donsol
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Crater hike with scenic landscapes; access from nearby towns in Sorsogon.
Iconic cone-shaped volcano with multiple viewpoints; possible day trips from Legazpi.
Airports
How to reach Donsol by plane.
Primary gateway to the region; short drive to Donsol and many ecotourism sites.
Catanduanes gateway; longer drive but possible for certain itineraries.
Northern Bicol option; flight connections to Manila and Cebu.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Bicolano and Tagalog-speaking communities with fishing and farming livelihoods.
Domestic and international visitors seeking eco-tourism and marine life experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime in schools and towns; casual pick-up games in public spaces.
Traditional coastal fishing remains important to the local economy and culture.
Common on beaches and islands near Donsol.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Donsol.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can find veggie dishes or request plant-based options; ask for kinilaw-free salads or tofu dishes; request no fish sauce.