Things To Do
in Lupon
Lupon is a coastal municipality in Davao Oriental perched along the Davao Gulf, exuding a laid-back Mindanao charm. It blends fishing heritage with rural scenery, offering easy access to nearby islets, mangrove forests, and scenic viewpoints. The town comes alive through fresh seafood, simple markets, and welcoming locals who make visitors feel at home.
With a tropical climate and lush landscapes year-round, Lupon presents a relaxed base for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic drive to Cape San Agustin, where the lush greenery meets the azure sea. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Filipino dishes like longganisa and tapsilog. As the sun rises higher, set off on a guided tour to explore the stunning lighthouse and its breathtaking panoramic views.
After a morning of exploration, indulge in a fresh seafood lunch at a nearby beachside restaurant, taking in the serene ocean breeze. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant marine life, including colorful corals and tropical fish. Capture the moments with your camera as you bask in the sun and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
As the sun sets, head back to Lupon for dinner at a local eatery, where you can savor specialties such as sinigang and lechon. Join in a cultural dance presentation at the plaza that showcases the rich heritage of the region. Cap off the night with a stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore.
Kick off your beach day with an early morning yoga session on the sand, welcoming the day with mindfulness and relaxation. Following yoga, enjoy a delightful breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can taste delicious local fruit and fresh pastries. Prepare for an adrenaline-packed day filled with water sports by renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline.
After a morning of paddling, take a break to enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beach bar, savoring refreshing drinks and local specialties. Then, dive into a thrilling adventure by trying out jet skiing or banana boat rides, feeling the excitement rush through you as you skim across the waves. Spend the rest of the afternoon sunbathing or playing beach volleyball with locals and travelers alike.
As the day winds down, enjoy a beachside barbecue dinner, where you can grill your own catch of the day or choose from a variety of meats and vegetables. Gather around a bonfire with new friends, sharing stories and laughter under the starry night sky. Listen to live music from local artists, creating a perfect ambiance to end your adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse (per night) | $15-35 |
| 🧺Souvenirs/local crafts | $2-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to coast and seafood
- Relaxed, budget-friendly travel experience
- Close-knit communities and authentic local life
- Scenic coastal views and mangrove habitats
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options
- Fewer direct international flight connections; requires routing through major hubs
- Rural transport can be less predictable
- "Maayong buntag" - Good morning
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Asa ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Gutom na ko" - I am hungry
Places to Visit in Lupon
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light over calm waters, with silhouettes of fishing boats and distant shorelines creating a serene coastal scene.
A shaded path through mangrove forests offering reflections, birdlife, and intimate close-ups of roots and rootsy water edges.
Ridge or cliff vantage point overlooking the gulf, ideal for panoramic sea and horizon shots at sunset.
Colorful market stalls, fishing nets, and daily life along the waterfront provide candid portrait opportunities.
Food in Lupon
Lupon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Citrus-marinated raw fish with onion, chili, and vinegar; best enjoyed fresh at seaside stalls or markets.
Must-Try!
Whole fish grilled over charcoal, often served with calamansi, salt, and a side of dipping sauce.
Light fish soup with ginger and leafy greens; common in carinderias (local eateries).
Seaweed salad tossed with vinegar, onion, and chilies; a refreshing coastal dish found in markets and eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood stalls, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks; a great place to observe local life and pick up inexpensive bites.
A larger market hub nearby where coastal goods, fruits, and regional specialties can be found; convenient for day trips from Lupon.
Banana cue, camote (sweet potato) fritters, turon, and fried fish are common snacks enjoyed along the roadsides.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a polite “hello” or local greeting; use the right hand for giving or receiving items; dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in homes or during ceremonies; respect privacy and personal space.
Be mindful of Muslim communities and local customs; remove shoes where required and modestly dress when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Lupon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. A small amount (5-10% or rounding up) is common in restaurants and for guided services.
Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries; many larger establishments in Mati or Davao City accept cards. ATMs are available in larger towns; mobile payments are less common in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with plenty of sunshine; great for beach visits and water activities, but stay hydrated and protect yourself from sun exposure.
June to November brings heavy rainfall and occasional storms; lush landscapes and vibrant green scenery, but plan for potential travel delays and slippery trails.
December to February offers milder evenings and pleasant daytime temperatures; ideal for hiking, photography, and outdoor dining near the sea.
Lupon at Night
Hiking in Lupon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle hillside hike offering coastal views and rural scenery within a short drive from Lupon.
Accessible nature walk along mangrove ecosystems, ideal for birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach Lupon by plane.
Davao City's gateway with regular domestic and international connections; typical access for Lupon travelers involves a road trip of several hours.
South Mindanao gateway offering regional connections; often used as an alternative route for southern itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents communicate in Cebuano/Bisaya, with Tagalog and English used in tourism and formal settings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools, barangays, and community courts; a common after-school activity.
Seen in local gyms and community events; part of the traditional sports culture in Mindanao.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lupon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in carinderias and markets—request vegetable-based dishes, yam or tofu preparations, and avoid pork-based sauces. In predominantly rural areas, be prepared for some dishes to include fish sauce or shrimp paste; clearly communicate dietary needs and ask for meat-free substitutions.