Things To Do
in Tubay
Tubay is a small coastal municipality in Agusan del Norte, tucked along the Butuan Bay coastline. It offers a laid-back, community-focused atmosphere with friendly locals and simple, seafood-led cuisine. The town serves as a convenient base for day trips to nearby Butuan City while maintaining a distinctly quiet, rural charm.
Expect golden sunsets over the river, easy-access beaches, and a pace of life that invites slow exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tubay and get settled in your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Filipino dishes. Afterward, take a stroll around the town to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Visit the local market where you can experience the vibrant culture and shop for unique handicrafts. Engage with friendly locals and try some street food that represents the region. As the sun starts to dip, take a short hike to nearby scenic spots for breathtaking views.
Head to a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying fresh seafood and other specialty dishes. Immerse yourself in the laid-back nightlife at a local bar or café, mingling with residents and other travelers. End the evening by taking a quiet walk along the shore, listening to the waves crash.
After breakfast, set off for San Salvador, a stunning beach known for its crystal-clear waters. Spend the morning lounging on the sandy shores and swimming in the gentle waves. Don't forget to capture beautiful moments with a camera, as the scenery is picture-perfect.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the beach, surrounded by lush palm trees swaying in the breeze. Spend the afternoon indulging in activities like beach volleyball or snorkeling, discovering the underwater beauty of the area. Take a break under an umbrella, with a good book in hand, soaking in the relaxing atmosphere.
As the sun sets, take a moment to appreciate the stunning colors painting the sky. Have dinner at a beachside restaurant, trying local specialties like grilled fish and kinilaw. Listen to live music while relaxing by the water, creating a perfect end to a beach day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚲Tricycle ride (short distance) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🍺Domestic beer | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $12-25 |
| 🧺Groceries (basic items) | $15-30 per week |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet coastal town with friendly locals
- Low cost of living and access to nearby Butuan City
- Limited tourist infrastructure
- Fewer nightlife options and language barriers in rural areas
- "Maayong buntag" - Good morning
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Asa ang kasilyas?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Tubay
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river bend with sunset light, silhouetted palm trees, and reflective waters.
Expansive coastal scenery, boats, and horizon lines ideal for early morning or late afternoon shots.
Central plaza with everyday life scenes, local architecture, and occasional community events.
Food in Tubay
Tubay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A ceviche-style dish of fresh fish marinated in vinegar, lime, onion, and chili.
Must-Try!
Freshly grilled fish or seafood, typically served with rice and calamansi.
Classic Filipino meat dish simmered in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves.
Stir-fried vegetables with tofu, a common vegetarian option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market with fresh seafood, vegetables, and ready-to-eat street snacks.
Larger market offering a wider range of local treats and produce; great for sampling regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite language; say po/opo when addressing elders and show deference in conversations.
Handshake or light greeting is common; dress modestly when visiting homes or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Tubay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included.
Cash is widely used; smaller shops are cash-only. Some larger establishments in nearby Butuan City may accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry, and humid days; great for outdoor activities and beach trips, but stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Frequent afternoon showers and potential typhoon activity; plan flexible outdoor plans and carry rain gear.
Tubay at Night
Hiking in Tubay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle riverside trails suitable for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Coastal paths with sea views and sunset opportunities near the bay.
Short forested loops and hill trails accessible with a local guide.
Airports
How to reach Tubay by plane.
Closest airport serving the area; quick drive to Tubay from the city.
Larger international and domestic flights nearby; about a 2–3 hour drive depending on traffic.
Major hub with many flight options; further but useful for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language and culture; primarily fisherfolk, farmers, and small business owners.
People from nearby regions visiting for work, family, or tourism; diverse households in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and communities; many casual courts around town.
Popular among youth; informal matches on open fields and dirt patches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tubay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist as vegetables and tofu; communicate with cooks and choose dishes without fish sauce.