Things To Do
in Naujan
Naujan is a quiet municipality in Oriental Mindoro, Philippines, best known for its large freshwater Naujan Lake National Park and surrounding agricultural landscapes. The town offers a relaxed, rural Filipino atmosphere with fishing villages, coconut groves and small local markets. Its proximity to rich wetlands makes it attractive for birdwatchers and nature lovers while local communities preserve cultural traditions including Mangyan indigenous presence.
Visitors come for slow travel: boat tours on the lake, simple seafood meals and easy access to hiking and island destinations in Oriental Mindoro.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Naujan Church, one of the oldest churches in the area, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, stroll through the local market, where you can interact with friendly vendors selling fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Don’t forget to try a local breakfast dish, such as longganisa with garlic rice, to fuel your day ahead.
In the afternoon, delve deeper into history by visiting the Naujan Museum, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. Engage with the exhibits showcasing artifacts and photographs that tell the story of Naujan's past. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic riverbank, enjoying the views and the gentle breeze.
As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant, where you can sample fresh seafood specialties that Naujan is known for. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the promenade, soaking in the vibrant ambiance and perhaps catching a glimpse of local musicians performing. End your evening with a nightcap at a nearby café, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.
Begin your day with a visit to the picturesque white sand beaches of Puerto Galera, just a short trip from Naujan. Spend the morning swimming in the crystal-clear waters or lounging on the beach while soaking up the sun. For the adventurous, try your hand at snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life beneath the waves.
In the afternoon, engage in thrilling water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides, providing a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Afterward, take a break at a beachfront café, enjoying a refreshing buko juice while taking in the stunning ocean views. If time allows, explore the nearby coves and hidden beaches by renting a kayak or paddleboard.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot at one of the beach bars to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner with your feet in the sand. Experience a lively atmosphere with music and entertainment from local artists, creating a festive vibe. Conclude your day by watching the sunset over the horizon, a breathtaking sight that will leave you in awe.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at an inexpensive carinderia | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏡Budget guesthouse / homestay (per night) | $12-30 |
| 🛺Short tricycle ride | $0.20-1 |
| 🛍️Market groceries (daily basics) | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich freshwater biodiversity and excellent birdwatching at Naujan Lake National Park.
- Relaxed, affordable rural atmosphere with friendly local communities.
- Easy access to simple lakeside dining and fresh seafood.
- Good base for hiking and exploring other parts of Oriental Mindoro.
- Limited tourist infrastructure and few upscale accommodations.
- Public transport and ATMs can be sparse; cash planning required.
- Weather and lake conditions during the monsoon can disrupt plans.
- Fewer dining and nightlife options compared with larger towns.
- "Kamusta?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang palengke?" - Where is the market?
- "Pakihatid po ako sa ..." - Please take me to ...
- "Opo / Po" - Respectful yes / polite particle
Places to Visit in Naujan
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour shots of the expansive freshwater lake, reed beds and fishermen in wooden boats—excellent for birding and landscape photography.
Candid scenes of everyday life: nets, boats, fish drying racks and vendors at the market—best photographed with permission and respectful interaction.
Photograph colonial-era church facades, town life around the plaza and market activity—great for cultural and street photography.
Rural landscapes with palm silhouettes at sunrise or sunset; good for wide-angle and silhouette compositions.
Dramatic colors reflecting on calm water in late afternoon; bring a tripod for long-exposure shots and milky reflections.
Food in Naujan
Naujan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally caught tilapia or other lake fish, simply seasoned and grilled over charcoal; widely available at market stalls and small restaurants near the lake.
Must-Try!
A Filipino-style ceviche using fresh fish, vinegar or citrus, ginger and chilies; refreshing and common in fishing towns—ask for it when fresh catch is offered.
Sour tamarind-based soup with fresh fish and vegetables; a comforting staple especially on rainy days and in family eateries.
Sticky rice cakes (kakanin) and shaved-ice dessert halo-halo sold at markets and small cafes—perfect for a sweet snack after exploring.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The town market is the best place to try grilled skewers, fresh fish sold by weight, seasonal fruits and home-cooked snacks—go late morning for a lively scene and fresh catch.
Small clustered stalls near the lake serving inihaw, steamed rice, fried fish and local desserts; great for an inexpensive waterfront meal.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite words like 'po' and 'opo' when speaking to elders or officials; Filipinos value courtesy and a warm manner.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in indigenous communities or private homes; gifts or small purchases are appreciated if joining a cultural visit.
When visiting churches or community centers, wear modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) and remove hats inside places of worship.
If invited into a local home, bring a small gift (snacks or fruit) and be prepared to accept refreshments; declining food repeatedly can be seen as impolite.
Safety
Tipping in Naujan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leave small cash tips (PHP 20–50) for restaurant staff, boat operators or guides for good service. For tricycle drivers, rounding up or giving small change is common.
Cash (Philippine peso) is king in Naujan—many shops, stalls and rural services accept cash only. ATMs may be limited; withdraw in Calapan or bring enough cash from Manila. Credit cards are accepted at few establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with daytime temperatures frequently above 30°C (86°F); this is a good time for boat trips and outdoor activities but bring sun protection, stay hydrated and avoid the midday heat.
Expect frequent heavy rains, rougher lake conditions and possible travel disruptions; some boat services and rural roads may be limited—check weather and prepare waterproof gear.
Slightly cooler, more comfortable humidity and pleasant mornings—popular for outdoor exploration and birdwatching; occasional brief rains can still occur.
Naujan at Night
Hiking in Naujan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the highest and most challenging peaks in Mindoro—reserved for experienced hikers with permits and local guides; expect rugged terrain and remote conditions.
Easy to moderate walks along the lake shoreline and nearby fields—good for birdwatching, nature photography and short hikes without technical gear.
A popular natural attraction in Oriental Mindoro with short hikes, waterfalls and swimming spots—combine with a day trip for varied scenery and moderate hiking.
Airports
How to reach Naujan by plane.
Main international gateway; from Manila you can travel to Mindoro by bus and ferry (Batangas to Calapan) or by a combination of flights to regional airports and land/boat transfers—expect several hours of travel to reach Naujan.
A regional airport on Occidental Mindoro with occasional flights from Manila; travelers can combine road and ferry transfers to reach Naujan in Oriental Mindoro.
Calapan is the main port gateway to Oriental Mindoro—frequent ferries from Batangas to Calapan allow easy access to Naujan by road; ferries handle passengers and vehicles.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population—farmers, fishers and small business owners who speak Tagalog and live in town and lakeside barangays.
Several Mangyan groups inhabit parts of Mindoro—these communities maintain distinct languages, crafts and cultural practices; respectful, arranged visits help support cultural exchange.
People whose livelihoods center on the lake, coconut groves, rice paddies and small-scale agriculture—local economy is rural and community-oriented.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Naujan and across the Philippines—local courts host pickup games and barangay (village) tournaments.
Both a livelihood and recreational activity; lake and coastal fishing are culturally and economically important.
Volleyball, sepak takraw and traditional Filipino games are common during fiestas and school events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Naujan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited—look for vegetable stews, grilled corn, freshwater-vegetable dishes and kakanin at markets. Specify 'walang karne' (without meat) and check broths as many dishes use fish or meat stock.
Vegan choices require communication—cooked vegetables in oil and rice are safe, but ask about fish sauce (patis) and shrimp paste (bagoong) commonly used in cooking.
Halal-certified restaurants are rare in rural Naujan; seafood is widely available and acceptable for many Muslim travelers, but inquire about cooking oils, sauces and pork use if halal compliance is required.
Many traditional Filipino dishes are rice-based and naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce containing wheat is common—ask for tamari or no soy sauce if you are sensitive.