Things To Do
in Tarragona
Tarragona is a small coastal municipality in the province of Davao Oriental on the southeastern coast of Mindanao, Philippines. It is a rural town with a mix of coconut and rice farming, fishing villages, and easy access to coastal beaches and forested highlands. The area serves as a quiet gateway to larger Davao Oriental attractions such as Mount Hamiguitan and the beaches around Mati, offering rustic charm and slower-paced local life.
Visitors will find friendly communities, simple services, and good opportunities for nature photography and outdoor activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start the day with a visit to the historic Old Town of Tarragona, where the picturesque streets lined with Spanish colonial architecture await you. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee while absorbing the vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, capturing stunning photos of well-preserved buildings and inviting plazas.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the rich history by visiting the Tarragona Cathedral, an architectural gem that dates back to the 12th century. Continue your exploration with a stop at the Roman Amphitheatre, where you can learn about the city's ancient past while being awed by the impressive ruins. Take a moment to relax in one of the nearby parks, enjoying the warm sun and the sounds of the city.
As evening falls, enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, indulging in local seafood dishes fresh from the Mediterranean. Afterward, take a sunset stroll along the waterfront promenade, watching the sky transform into a canvas of colors. Conclude your day with a drink at a beach bar, listening to the waves and soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Kick off a relaxing beach day at Playa de la Mora, a stunning stretch of golden sand framed by crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café while looking out at the ocean, catching the first rays of the sun. Afterward, grab your beach gear and head to the shore for a morning of sunbathing and swimming.
In the afternoon, partake in water activities such as snorkeling or paddleboarding, discovering the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. For lunch, try a beachside eatery that serves up fresh ceviche and tropical drinks, enhancing the quintessential beach experience. Afterward, unwind on the sand or engage in beach games like volleyball, making the most of the sunny day.
As the day transitions into evening, enjoy a beachside barbecue or seafood dinner while listening to live music. Capture beautiful sunset views that paint the sky in vibrant hues before it gets dark. End the night with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories with friends and soaking in the relaxed, coastal vibe.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🏨Basic guesthouse / homestay (per night) | $15-30 |
| 🧉Coffee or cold drink | $0.80-2 |
| 🛺Short tricycle/jeepney ride | $0.20-1 |
| 🏖️Local tour or boat hire (half day) | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Uncrowded coastal and rural landscapes ideal for nature photography and relaxation
- Friendly local communities with authentic village experiences
- Easy access to notable regional attractions like Mount Hamiguitan and Dahican beaches
- Affordable prices for food, transport, and accommodation
- Limited tourist infrastructure, few upscale accommodations or guided services in Tarragona itself
- Cash is required for most transactions; few ATMs or card terminals locally
- Public transport can be slow and schedules variable, especially in rainy season
- Medical facilities are basic locally; for serious care you may need to travel to Mati or Davao
- "Kumusta?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihug" - Please (Cebuano)
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Pwede po kuha ng larawan?" - May I take a photo?
- "Asa ang banyo?" - Where is the restroom? (Cebuano/Visayan)
Places to Visit in Tarragona
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset compositions with fishing boats, nets, and local fishermen; candid village life scenes.
Vibrant market activity, colorful produce and seafood displays — great for street and food photography.
Long white-sand stretches, surfers, and dramatic coastal light — ideal for action and landscape shots.
Forest panoramas, endemic plants and birdlife in cooler upland settings — best with a guide and clear weather.
Tidal flats, mangrove roots, and reflections at low tide — good for moody nature photos and birdwatching captures.
Food in Tarragona
Tarragona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly grilled coastal fish served with rice and a simple dipping sauce of vinegar, chili and garlic — available at seaside stalls and small restaurants.
Must-Try!
A local ceviche-style dish made from raw fish marinated in vinegar or citrus, often with coconut milk, ginger and chilies — best at market stalls or seaside eateries.
Vegetables and/or seafood cooked in coconut milk — common home-style dish you can find in local eateries or familiy-run karinderias.
Grilled/marinated chicken commonly available at roadside stalls and for fiestas; often served with rice and dipping sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small municipal market to explore fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local snacks; a great place for candid photos and sampling local breakfast dishes like pandesal and fried fish.
Street-side grills and stalls where you can order grilled fish, banana cue, and simple kakanin (rice cakes) — casual, inexpensive, and fresh.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to older people; a polite greeting and soft tone are appreciated. Using 'po' or respectful phrases in Tagalog or polite language in Cebuano is well received.
Dress modestly when visiting villages, churches and during community events — avoid revealing clothing in conservative areas.
Politely ask permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural or indigenous communities. A smile and a simple phrase like 'Pwede po kuha ng picture?' (May I take a photo?) goes a long way.
Be mindful of Catholic and indigenous beliefs; observe silence during worship and follow local cues during festivals and rituals.
Safety
Tipping in Tarragona
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in small towns, but small tips are appreciated for good service — 10% in hotels or restaurants when service is strong; handing small change to drivers or guides is common. For informal helpers and guides, a modest tip is a kind gesture.
Cash (Philippine pesos) is king in Tarragona and surrounding communities; ATMs and card acceptance are limited and more available in Mati or larger towns. Bring enough cash, and carry small bills and coins for tricycles, markets and tips. Mobile payments and credit cards are accepted only in a few larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Drier weather and sunnier days make this the best time for beach activities, snorkeling, and hiking. Temperatures are warm to hot; bring sun protection and plan early starts for hikes to avoid midday heat. Festivals and fiestas are common in the dry months.
Expect frequent afternoon or evening rains and intermittent heavy downpours; coastal waters can be rough and some boat trips may be canceled. Roads and dirt tracks may become muddy; check local weather before traveling to upland trails.
Mindanao generally has fewer typhoons than northern Philippines, but the region can still be affected by tropical storms — monitor forecasts and avoid travel during advisories. Local schedules for ferries and buses may change quickly in bad weather.
Tarragona at Night
Hiking in Tarragona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO-recognized wildlife sanctuary known for its pygmy forest, endemic flora and bird species; guided treks are recommended and permits may be required.
Easy to moderate walks along coastal ridges and long beaches; great for sunrise/sunset and casual wildlife spotting.
Short inland hikes to small waterfalls and river pools in the municipality and neighboring barangays — ask local guides for safe access points and trail conditions.
Airports
How to reach Tarragona by plane.
Major international/regional airport in Davao City — the most reliable gateway for international visitors and domestic connections. Road transfer to Tarragona is several hours by bus or private vehicle.
A small regional airfield near Mati that may have limited charter or scheduled services; useful if available but expect fewer amenities and irregular schedules. From Mati it is a relatively short drive to Tarragona.
Another regional airport serving southern Mindanao with domestic connections; overland travel times to Tarragona can be substantial but it can be an alternative depending on flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of residents speak Cebuano (Bisaya) as the lingua franca and practice Visayan cultural traditions.
The province is home to indigenous peoples such as the Mandaya and other Lumad groups with distinct cultural practices and languages; many live in upland villages.
Families who rely on fishing and small-scale aquaculture form a significant demographic along coastal barangays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the Philippines, basketball courts are common in towns and barangays and pick-up games are frequent.
In nearby Dahican and coastal breaks, surfing and bodyboarding attract both locals and visiting surfers when conditions are right.
Both a livelihood and pastime — small-boat fishing and shoreline angling are ubiquitous and form part of local culture.
Common in schools and community events; beach volleyball occasionally at coastal areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarragona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited; request vegetable stews, rice, fresh fruit, and ginataang gulay. Carry snacks and instant options if you have strict vegetarian needs.
Vegan choices are fewer in small towns; communicate clearly (in Tagalog/Cebuano if possible) and prioritize markets for fruits and vegetable dishes prepared without fish sauce or shrimp paste.
Rice-based staples are naturally gluten-free, but be cautious with sauces, marinades, and processed items. Ask about ingredients when ordering.
Shellfish and fish are common; if you have severe allergies, bring medication and clearly communicate your allergy in Tagalog/Cebuano and English.