Things To Do
in Natividad

Natividad, Pangasinan is a coastal municipality along Lingayen Gulf in the Philippines. It preserves a quiet, maritime way of life with fishing boats, market stalls, and friendly locals. Visitors enjoy simple beach walks, scenic sunsets, and day trips to nearby islets.

The town serves as a relaxed base for exploring Pangasinan’s coast and nearby heritage sites.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Natividad
morning
:

Arrive at Natividad and check into your local accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine beaches to soak in the refreshing sea breeze and start unwinding. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby local eatery, trying local specialties.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and taste fresh produce and seafood. Engage with friendly vendors and perhaps buy some unique handicrafts as souvenirs. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or swimming in the crystal-clear waters.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a beachfront restaurant with a stunning view of the sunset. Enjoy a seafood feast, highlighting the local catch of the day. As night falls, listen to the sound of the waves and perhaps join in on a local drum circle if available.

day 2
Exploring the Local Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a guided tour of the local historical sites, including the Natividad Church which dates back several centuries. Appreciate the unique architecture and learn about the town's rich history through a knowledgeable guide. Stop by a nearby café for coffee and pastries made from traditional recipes.

afternoon
:

Participate in a local cooking class where you’ll learn how to prepare Filipino dishes using fresh ingredients from the market. Enjoy the authentic meal you've crafted, sharing stories and recipes with your fellow cooking students. After lunch, explore the surrounding countryside on a bike, taking in the stunning views and local wildlife.

evening
:

Attend a local cultural performance showcasing traditional dances and music in an open-air venue. Enjoy dinner at a local pop-up food stall, tasting various street food delicacies. Wind down the evening with a beach bonfire, connecting with fellow travelers under a starry sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$3-6
🚲Local transport (short ride)$0.50-1.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$15-40
Coffee/tea$1-3
🎟️Attraction entry$1-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet coastal charm and close-knit community
  • Fresh seafood and scenic sunsets
  • affordable travel and slow-paced exploration
  • Limited nightlife and few large-scale attractions
  • Fewer English-speaking services in remote areas
  • "Kumusta" - Hello / How are you?
  • "Salamat" - Thank you.
  • "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
  • "Agyamanak" - Thank you (Pangasinan)

Places to Visit in Natividad

Visit one of these nice places.

Sunset Promenade along Lingayen Gulf

Wide horizon and calm waters ideal for golden-hour photography.

Municipal Fishing Wharf

Colorful boats, nets, and fishermen at work provide authentic maritime scenes.

Town Plaza and Historic Church Facade

Architectural subjects with a sense of local history.

Mangrove Trail Overlook

Shoreline mangroves and birdlife with reflections on quiet mornings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Natividad

Natividad’s cuisine highlights fresh seafood, simple rice dishes, and salty condiments like bagoong; expect generous portions and bold flavors.

Natividad Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kinilaw na Bangus

Fresh milkfish ceviche-style, marinated in vinegar, calamansi, onions, and chilies.

Must-Try!

Inihaw na Bangus

Milkfish grilled over charcoal with a squeeze of calamansi.

Sinigang na Bangus

Tamarind-based sour soup with milkfish and vegetables.

Bagoong Rice with Vegetables

Rice fried with pangasinense bagoong and greens for a salty, savory bite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Town Market (Poblacion)

Bustling market offering fresh seafood, produce, dried fish, and snacks.

Coastal Street Food Stalls

Kinaries of grilled skewers, kinilaw cups, and local snacks along the waterfront.

Climate Guide

Weather

Natividad experiences a tropical climate with hot, humid days year-round. Expect a defined dry season and a rainy monsoon season with the possibility of typhoons during the wet months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Use polite terms like po/opo when addressing elders; greet neighbors with a friendly hello.

Photography Etiquette

Ask permission before photographing people or intimate settings; show courtesy in religious or cultural spaces.

Dress and Conduct

Dress modestly when visiting churches; avoid loud behavior and keep noise to a minimum in residential areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty theft can occur in crowded markets; keep valuables secure and be mindful of traffic and water conditions during storms. In emergencies, local authorities and the Rural Health Unit can assist; follow weather advisories during the typhoon season.

Tipping in Natividad

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; round up bills or leave small amounts for service in restaurants and guides.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; many places have card facilities, especially in markets and eateries around the town center.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (Nov–Feb)

Pleasant, dry weather with cooler evenings—great for outdoor exploration.

Hot/Rainy transition (Mar–May)

Hot days with high humidity; sea breezes offer relief; best for early-morning activities.

Monsoon/Wet season (Jun–Oct)

Frequent showers and occasional storms; plan for indoor activities and flexible travel.

Nightlife Guide

Natividad at Night

Nightlife in Natividad is low-key, centered on seaside hangouts, karaoke at local venues, and casual bars. Expect friendly conversations and a relaxed pace rather than club-centric scenes.

Hiking in Natividad

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mt. Balungao (Balungao, Pangasinan)

A popular hiking destination with a challenging ascent and a cave feature near the top.

Airports

How to reach Natividad by plane.

Clark International Airport (CRK)

Major gateway in Angeles City; several hours by road from Natividad; frequent international and domestic flights.

Laoag International Airport (LAO)

In Ilocos Norte; farther from Natividad but serves as an alternative gateway with domestic connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable with compact streets, markets, and the waterfront within easy reach. Beyond the core area, some streets can be less pedestrian-friendly and services may be spread out.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

Mostly Filipino families and fishing communities; Pangasinan-speaking with Tagalog understanding.

Fisherfolk

A significant portion of families rely on fishing and related trades; coastal communities with strong ties to the sea.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

The most popular sport across towns in the region, with local leagues and pickup games.

Boxing

Common in gyms and community events; boxing matches sometimes held for local celebrations.

Billiards & Volleyball

Popular recreational activities in community centers and resorts.

Transportation

Traffic

Roads are generally light to moderate with jeepneys, tricycles, and private vehicles sharing the streets. Expect slower traffic during peak hours and after rain. Public transport is affordable but can be infrequent outside town centers.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Natividad.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Options include vegetable dishes, rice, tofu, and fruit; request that no fish sauce or meat stock is used; many markets offer fresh produce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available at the local Rural Health Unit and nearby clinics; for more comprehensive care, residents travel to Dagupan City or Urdaneta City for larger hospitals and emergency services.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide