Things To Do
in Navotas
Navotas is a coastal city in Metro Manila known for its fishing heritage and proximity to Manila Bay. It blends traditional fishing communities with urban development and waterfront spaces. The city hosts a busy fish port, bustling markets, and a food scene centered on seafood.
Visitors will find a maritime atmosphere, straightforward access to nearby Malabon and Manila, and a gateway to northern Metro Manila adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Navotas Fish Port, where you can witness the bustling activity of local fishermen bringing in their fresh catch. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby local eatery, savoring traditional Filipino dishes like tapsilog or longsilog. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to appreciate the early morning views of Manila Bay.
In the afternoon, explore the Navotas Museum, which showcases the rich history and culture of the area through various exhibits and artifacts. Next, visit the historic San Jose de Navotas Church, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, perfect for a moment of reflection. Wrap up your afternoon with a visit to local markets where you can shop for fresh produce and artisanal crafts.
As evening descends, indulge in a seafood dinner at one of the popular local restaurants along the coast, where you can enjoy freshly grilled seafood. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the bay to enjoy the cool breeze and stunning sunset views. End your day with a visit to a local bar or café where you can unwind with live music or a game of billiards.
If your visit coincides with a local festival, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful parades and traditional music. Start your morning by joining the locals in their preparations, sampling street food and learning about the cultural significance of the festivities. Capture the essence of the celebration through photographs and engaging with friendly locals who are eager to share their traditions.
Continue the festivities in the afternoon by watching traditional dance performances and participating in games that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Navotas. Visit stalls featuring local artisans and craftsmen to appreciate their skills and perhaps purchase unique souvenirs. Enjoy lunch from food vendors offering a variety of local specialties, ensuring you taste the flavors of Navotas.
As night falls, the festival lights up with fireworks and music, creating an enchanting atmosphere. Find a good spot to watch the evening performances, where you can see talented local artists showcase their skills. Conclude your vibrant day by joining the locals in dancing and celebrating under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥗Lunch at a local eatery | $3-6 |
| 🥤Soft drink or water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible from central Manila and the bay area
- Fresh seafood culture and affordable eats
- Not a major nightlife hub
- Can be hot and humid with occasional heavy rain or floods during the monsoon
- "Magandang araw po" - Good day (polite)
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Pwede po bang kumuha ng larawan?" - May I take a photo?
- "Magkano po?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Tulong po!" - Help!
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Navotas
Visit one of these nice places.
Industrial docks, cranes, and boats at dawn or dusk create dynamic maritime photography and bustling market scenes.
Long seawall and open ocean views ideal for sunset and wide coastal silhouettes.
A waterfront promenade with boats, fishermen, and canal-adjacent scenery for street photography.
Smaller channels and mangrove pockets offer reflections, birds, and quiet backdrops for portraits and landscapes.
Food in Navotas
Navotas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Milkfish simmered in vinegar, garlic, and spices; a staple at many stalls around the fish port.
Must-Try!
Sour tamarind soup with milkfish, vegetables, and sometimes fruit; a comforting Bay-area classic.
Grilled milkfish seasoned simply, often served with calamansi and dipping sauces.
Tilapia cooked in coconut milk with peppers and spices.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market lanes where vendors sell freshly caught seafood to cook at nearby stalls or take home.
Grilled fish, fish balls, kwek-kwek, corn on the cob, and fresh fruit shakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite “po” (for elders) and “opo” when replying or asking for favors; a handshake is common for first meetings.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially fishermen in their daily work; some areas around the port may restrict photography.
Dress modestly in public areas and markets; keep voices down in residential and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Navotas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up at casual eateries or leave a small tip (5–10%) in nicer restaurants; tip guides and drivers if service is good.
Cash is widely accepted, including small market stalls; many larger restaurants accept cards; ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder temperatures and light breezes make mornings pleasant; humidity is lower, ideal for outdoor photography and city walks.
Typically sunny and warm days with lower rainfall, good for outdoor activities but can be hot midday; stay hydrated.
Increased rainfall and humidity; expect cloudy skies, sudden downpours, and occasional flash floods in low-lying areas; plan indoor alternatives.
Navotas at Night
Hiking in Navotas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular limestone rock formation hiking area in Rizal Province with a network of trails and scenic overlooks, about 1.5–2 hours from Navotas.
A scenic river trail and mountain hike in Rizal Province, offering canyon views and limestone cliffs, roughly 2–3 hours from Navotas.
Airports
How to reach Navotas by plane.
Primary international and domestic gateway for Metro Manila; about 20-40 minutes to central Navotas depending on traffic.
Major gateway to northern and central Luzon; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road with tolls from Metro Manila.
Smaller international airport serving the Subic Bay area; further from Navotas but an alternative for some trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of Navotas' population lives in fishing and port-adjacent neighborhoods.
City dwellers who commute to Manila and nearby cities for work; diverse barangays with mixed-income groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the Philippines, with local leagues and street play common in urban areas.
Popular combat sports with community programs and occasional events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Navotas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in city eateries; look for garlic-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and eggplant-based meals. When ordering seafood, specify no fish sauce if avoiding animal products containing fish-based ingredients.