Things To Do
in Ternate
Ternate is a small coastal municipality in Cavite, Philippines, nestled along Manila Bay with a laid-back, water-rich landscape. It offers a breezy escape from the city with market life, seafront views, and friendly locals who welcome visitors. Fresh seafood is a constant highlight, whether at the public market or seaside stalls, and the town provides easy access to nearby mangroves and viewpoints.
Visitors should expect a warm, unhurried tempo and plenty of photo-worthy moments along the coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Fort Santiago, where you can marvel at the well-preserved stone walls and learn about Ternate's colonial past. After exploring the fort, take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, appreciating its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Filipino breakfast at a local eatery, sampling dishes like tapsilog or longsilog.
In the afternoon, visit the Ternate Museum to delve deeper into the rich history and culture of the area, featuring artifacts that showcase the local heritage. From the museum, head to the scenic Pantai Mardika, where you can relax on the beach while enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding islands. Grab a light lunch at a nearby café, indulging in fresh seafood dishes that the region is famous for.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can savor local delicacies while listening to the soothing sound of the waves. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil surroundings and perhaps catching a glimpse of local fishermen preparing for their night catch. Conclude your evening by visiting a local bar or café for a nightcap, experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Ternate.
Kick off your beach day at the beautiful Luso Beach, where the soft sands and clear waters invite you to relax and unwind. Start with some beachcombing to collect shells and enjoy the morning sun while sipping on fresh coconut water. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle along the coastline, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a beachside lunch at a local shack, known for its grilled seafood and refreshing fruit shakes. The afternoon is perfect for engaging in water sports like snorkeling or jet skiing, where you can explore the vibrant underwater life and coral reefs just offshore. Take breaks between activities to sunbathe or enjoy a game of beach volleyball with other visitors.
As dusk approaches, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness a breathtaking sunset, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Head back to your accommodation to freshen up before venturing out for dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in traditional Filipino cuisine. Wind down your day with a beach bonfire, sharing stories with friends or fellow travelers under a starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Fresh seafood and coastal scenery
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Roads can be crowded and markets may be crowded
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Opo" - Yes/Certainly
- "Puwede bang kumain ng walang karne?" - Can I have a meat-free meal?
- "Nasaan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Magandang araw" - Have a good day
Places to Visit in Ternate
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sea views with fishing boats and golden hour lighting; best from the harbor area.
Historic church facade with colonial architecture perfect for portrait shots.
Early morning market scenes with colorful produce and fishermen unloading their catch.
Food in Ternate
Ternate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled milkfish, usually served with calamansi and a dipping sauce; widely available at markets and seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Savory chopped milkfish with onions, peppers, and spices, a coastal twist on traditional sisig.
Fish stew with coconut milk and tangy aromatics, common in coastal Cavite cuisine.
Classic pork adobo with a rich, garlicky profile; varies by family recipe.
A refreshing mixed dessert with shaved ice, milk, fruit, and sweets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market for fresh seafood, produce, and everyday snacks; best in the morning.
Open-air stalls along the waterfront offering grilled fish, kwek-kwek, and seasonal fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a polite 'po' and 'opo' to elders; use respectful language in conversation.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or temples; remove hats and speak softly.
Avoid loud, disruptive behavior in public spaces; queue in markets and resist pushing.
Safety
Tipping in Ternate
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in restaurants and hotels if service is good.
Cash in PHP is widely accepted; many places now accept cards and mobile wallets like GCash, but carry cash for markets and street stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with dry days; carry water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities early.
Frequent brief downpours; pack a light rain jacket and seek shade during the hottest hours.
Milder temperatures; comfortable for long walks and outdoor exploring.
Ternate at Night
Hiking in Ternate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking route in Cavite offering a ridge walk and scenic sea views.
Forested ascent with rock formations and rewarding coastal overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Ternate by plane.
Main international and domestic gateway in Manila; travel time by road varies with traffic.
Alternative gateway in Pampanga; often used for domestic flights and regional travel to Cavite via highways.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with generations-long fishing livelihoods along the coast.
Households engaged in markets, eateries, and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extremely popular in the Philippines and commonly played in community gyms and schools.
Traditional coastal activity; local fishers use nets and small boats.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ternate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plan meals around fresh vegetables, tofu dishes, and rice; seafood is common, so request meat-free options when ordering.