Things To Do
in Tubao
Tubao is a quiet agricultural town in La Union, nestled among rolling hills and irrigated rice fields. It offers a glimpse of everyday Ilocano life, with friendly locals and simple, home-cooked meals. The town sits inland from coastal towns and serves as a gateway to Cordillera foothills and nearby markets.
Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, scenic rural landscapes, and genuine hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start the day with a visit to the local market where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. Engage with the friendly vendors and sample traditional Filipino breakfast dishes such as longganisa and sinangag. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby villages to witness the daily life of the locals.
Head to the Tubao Church to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its historical significance in the region. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby park, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views. Spend the afternoon exploring local artisans’ shops, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant that serves authentic Ilocano cuisine. Engage with the community during a cultural presentation featuring traditional dances and music. Wrap up the night with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, enjoying the cool breeze and tranquil atmosphere.
Rise early and begin your journey to Mount Pulag, known for its stunning vistas and diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy the breathtaking sunrise while hiking the trail, which is characterized by mossy forests and vibrant wildflowers. Capture beautiful photos of the landscape before heading back down for a hearty brunch.
After lunch, visit the nearby eco-tourism park where you can engage in various activities such as zip-lining and nature walks. Take time to relax and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you, perhaps even joining a guided nature tour. Experience the thrill of adventure while learning about the local ecology.
Return to Tubao and indulge in a hearty dinner of grilled seafood at a rustic beachfront restaurant. Unwind on the shores as you enjoy the sound of the waves and a mesmerizing sunset. Participate in storytelling with the locals around a bonfire, sharing experiences and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🧃Drink at local cafe | $1-3 |
| 🏨1-night hotel/guesthouse | $25-60 |
| 🚌Local short-distance ride | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, friendly communities and authentic Ilocano cuisine
- Affordable prices and easy day trips from La Union’s beach towns
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in Tubao
- Occasional travel times to larger airports and facilities
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Agyamanak" - Thank you
- "Mangan tayo?" - Shall we eat?
- "Wen, okay lang" - Yes, it's okay.
Places to Visit in Tubao
Visit one of these nice places.
An open central space with people starting their day and church spire behind.
Expansive green fields with lines of rice; best during planting or harvest seasons.
A vantage point offering views of rolling hills and the Cordillera foothills.
Calm river scenes with local farming life and boats.
Food in Tubao
Tubao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory mix of vegetables like ampalaya, eggplant, okra, and bagoong, served with rice.
Must-Try!
A light, vegetable-forward dish with grilled fish or bagoong, rich in flavor from sautéed greens.
Pork liver and other parts cooked in a tangy soy-vinegar sauce with peppers.
Crispy pork belly paired with a tangy sauce or vinegar dip; best enjoyed with warm rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market offering fresh produce, grilled fish, and local snacks like banana cue and turon.
Quick bites such as fried fish, cassava chips, and sweet treats along busy streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language and say po/opo when addressing elders.
Ask permission before taking photos of people or private property.
Dress modestly and behave respectfully at churches and shrines.
Keep noise levels down in residential areas and queue politely.
Safety
Tipping in Tubao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash is widely accepted; some places may take cards or mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid; carry water, hat, and sunscreen.
Expect frequent showers and possible typhoons; roads can be slick.
Pleasant days with cooler nights; bring a light jacket.
Tubao at Night
Hiking in Tubao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails with views of the countryside, suitable for half-day hikes.
Scenic drives to higher elevations offering panoramic vistas and fresh air.
Airports
How to reach Tubao by plane.
Major gateway with domestic and international flights; about 2–3 hours by road to La Union.
Small regional airport serving nearby towns; limited flights.
Primary international gateway to the Philippines; driving time to Tubao depends on traffic, typically 4–6 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the area; Ilocano language widely spoken.
Smaller communities from nearby provinces and migrant workers families.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and communities; many street courts.
Common in the village and school leagues; casual games in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tubao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes like pinakbet and dinengdeng; ask for bagoong-free versions if possible.