Things To Do
in Pola
Pola is a quiet coastal town in Oriental Mindoro that exudes a laid-back island charm and a strong fishing heritage. Its palm-fringed shores, clear turquoise waters, and friendly locals create a relaxing escape from busier destinations. The town serves as a gateway to nearby coves, mangrove waterways, and simple island-hopping adventures.
Fresh seafood, modest guesthouses, and sunset views over Pola Bay define the quintessential Pola experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at the beautiful white sands of Pola beach. The calm waters are perfect for a morning dip, and you can grab a local breakfast at a nearby café. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, soaking in the picturesque views of the coastline.
After lunch, head to the vibrant local market to immerse yourself in the culture and try some traditional Filipino dishes. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or engaging in water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding. As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
End your first day in Pola by dining at a seaside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood dishes while listening to the soothing sound of waves. Take a stroll along the beach under the stars, enjoying the cool coastal breeze. Relish the serene ambiance as you wind down your day.
Begin your day with a guided tour through the stunning mangrove forests that surround Pola. This eco-tour will introduce you to the unique biodiversity and intricate ecosystems of the area. Observe various bird species and learn about the importance of mangroves to the coastal environment.
After the morning adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot within the mangroves. Spend your afternoon kayaking through the serene waters, getting up close with nature and appreciating the soothing sounds of the forest. Capture some amazing photos of the breathtaking landscape.
Return to Pola and treat yourself to a dinner featuring local delicacies at a cozy restaurant. Spend the evening exploring local nightlife, perhaps catching live music at a lively bar or enjoying a cultural performance. Reflect on your day while savoring a dessert made with tropical fruits.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚗Local transportation (tricycle/jeepney ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚤Boat tour or island excursion (half-day) | $20-50 |
| 🛍️Fresh seafood at market | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Excellent fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Rural infrastructure means variable connectivity and services
- "Magandang araw po" - Good day
- "Salamat po" - Thank you
- "Kumusta po?" - How are you?
- "Paki-bigay po ng menu" - Please give me the menu
- "Maaari bang mag-order ako?" - May I place an order?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang lavatory?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hindi ako nakapagsasalita ng maraming Tagalog" - I don’t speak much Filipino
Places to Visit in Pola
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over calm water with fishing boats and silhouettes of palm trees; ideal for sunrise shots and candid market scenes.
Rugged shoreline and dramatic rock formations along the coast, especially striking during late afternoon glow.
Shaded boardwalk through a mangrove ecosystem with reflections on still water and opportunities to photograph tiny aquatic life and birds.
Open beaches and colorful boats with village life in the background; great for wide-angle coastal portraits.
Food in Pola
Pola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh whole fish grilled over charcoal with a squeeze of calamansi and a soy-vinegar dip; best enjoyed at seaside stalls or beachfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Fresh raw fish cured in vinegar, onions, chilies, and citrus; light, zesty, and perfect as a seaside appetizer.
Bright tamarind broth with fish and vegetables; a comforting coastal favorite available in local eateries.
Sweet, crunchy cashews a local specialty; great as a snack from market stalls or small shops.
Juicy prawns grilled with garlic and a hint of lemon or calamansi, often served with rice at seaside eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning spot for fresh seafood, produce, cooked snacks, and local sweets; try grilled fish, fried snacks, and seasonal fruits.
Row of stalls along the waterfront offering banana cue, turon, fish balls, and sago’t gulaman on hot days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; greet with a smile and use polite Filipino phrases; avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Filipinos are known for warmth and hospitality; accept invitations to share meals when offered, and show respect to elders and community members.
Safety
Tipping in Pola
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5–10% in restaurants for good service is common in tourist areas. Small tips to guides or boat crews are often well-received.
Cash (Philippine peso) is widely used; some larger establishments may accept cards, but many small eateries and markets are cash-only. ATMs can be sparse in rural areas, so carry sufficient cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with plentiful sunshine, clear waters, and excellent visibility for snorkeling. Expect hot days and comfortably warm evenings; occasional coastal showers may occur but are usually brief.
May to October brings increased rainfall and higher humidity; seas can be rougher and travel plans may shift due to storms or typhoons. Lush landscapes and quieter beaches are common, with opportunities for dramatic skies and moody seascapes.
Pola at Night
Hiking in Pola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging trek through forests and ridges to Mindoro’s highest peak; popular among seasoned hikers and offering panoramic coastal and inland views.
Moderate hikes along the coast with viewpoints over Pola Bay and nearby islets; rewarding sunsets and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Pola by plane.
Closest regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for quick transfers to Pola and surrounding towns.
Smaller airstrip serving general aviation and occasional domestic flights; may require coordination for access.
Major international gateway; from Manila you can combine land and sea travel to reach Pola via Calapan or Batangas routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Filipino families engaged in fishing, farming, and small-scale commerce; Tagalog is widely understood, with local dialects spoken in communities.
Domestic tourists seeking a quiet coastal experience; international travelers attracted by seafood, beaches, and nature.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A community favorite; local courts and informal games are common in town centers.
Popular on the beaches and open spaces near the coast.
A traditional activity and a way of life for many residents; some visitors join in respectful, organized experiences.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pola.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy rice, vegetables (stir-fried or sautéed with garlic), tofu dishes where available, and fruit; request oil-free or fish-sauce-free preparations when possible and rely on fresh produce from markets.