Things To Do
in Ubay
Ubay is a coastal municipality on the northern coast of Bohol, Philippines, known for its scenic shoreline and friendly local communities. The area blends rural charm with small-town life, where fishing boats dot the harbor and coconut groves line the roads. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, laid-back beaches, and gateway access to nearby islands.
The climate supports year-round outdoor activity, with vibrant markets and family-owned eateries adding to the authentic experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ubay Heritage Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. Marvel at the artifacts and exhibits that showcase the town's evolution and the stories of its people. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local delicacies like puto and kutsinta.
In the afternoon, head over to the iconic St. John the Baptist Parish Church, an architectural gem that dates back to the Spanish colonial period. Wander through the town plaza, where you can take in the local atmosphere and perhaps chat with friendly locals. Consider visiting local shops for unique handicrafts and souvenirs that reflect Ubay's cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Filipino dinner, featuring fresh seafood and other local specialties. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories over a hearty meal. End your evening with a stroll through the plaza, soaking in the vibrant night market atmosphere.
Begin your day by visiting the Ubay Public Market, a bustling hub of local produce and goods. Experience the vibrant energy as vendors showcase their fresh fruits, vegetables, and traditional crafts. Take the time to interact with the locals and sample popular street foods like chicharrón and bibingka.
After exploring the market, head to a nearby artisan workshop where you can observe skilled craftsmen at work, creating beautiful handmade products. Participate in a hands-on workshop to learn traditional crafts such as weaving or pottery. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, tasting regional specialties that highlight the flavors of Ubay.
For the evening, find a local cultural event or performance, where you can witness traditional dance and music. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you mingle with locals and fellow visitors, sharing in the festivities. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll through the town, taking in the sounds and sights of Ubay at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧭Short local transport (within town) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 💧Water bottle | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible coastal scenery with a welcoming local vibe
- Fresh seafood and regional flavors are abundant
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end restaurant options
- Public transport can be infrequent outside town centers
- "Palihug" - Please
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Asa ang kaban?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Pila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Walay problema" - No problem / It's okay
- "Gutom na kaayo ko" - I'm very hungry
Places to Visit in Ubay
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over fishing boats and calm water makes for serene seascapes and portraits.
Elevated vantage near the harbor offers broad sea views, silhouettes of boats, and sunset hues on clear days.
Vibrant daily life, colorful produce stalls, and local textures provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Tranquil mangrove fringe along a river gives moody, reflective water shots and birdlife imagery.
Long exposure opportunities with passing vehicles and the sea as a backstory for movement and atmosphere.
Food in Ubay
Ubay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured in citrus juice with onions and peppers; pairs well with rice and a squeeze of calamansi.
Must-Try!
Fish cooked in a sour, slightly sweet sauce with tomatoes and peppers; a regional take on Filipino fish stew.
Assorted grilled fish and shellfish seasoned with local salt, calamansi, and garlic, often enjoyed with a dipping sauce.
Sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves, commonly eaten with grilled seafood or stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh fish, crustaceans, vegetables, and dried goods; great for sampling street-side snacks and interacting with vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly and remove hats when inside churches; ask permission before taking photos of worshipers.
Polite greetings in Cebuano or Filipino are appreciated; handshake or a small nod is common when meeting new people.
Safety
Tipping in Ubay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small, family-run places. Round up bills or leave small tips for good service; in larger establishments, 5–10% is reasonable if service is not included.
Cash (Philippine peso) is widely preferred; some tourist spots and larger hotels accept major credit cards. Have small bills for market purchases or street food, and carry a little extra for taxis or tricycle rides.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny to mildly hot days with lower humidity and minimal rain, ideal for outdoor activities, beach days, and photography with clear skies.
Warm to hot with higher humidity and frequent short showers; brief afternoon rain can refresh landscapes and bring lush greenery, though it can limit some outdoor plans.
Ubay at Night
Hiking in Ubay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hiking route with sea views and rural scenery just outside the town, suitable for a half-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Ubay by plane.
Primary gateway for Bohol, located on Panglao Island; typically reachable by road transfer from Ubay via a few hours of travel.
Major international airport in Cebu; a longer route to Ubay but a common connection for international travelers, usually via domestic flights to Tagbilaran or Panglao followed by land transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Cebuano-speaking fisherfolk, farmers, and family households, with a strong sense of community and tradition.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in schools, community centers, and informal courts across towns.
Relaxed coastal activity with family-friendly swimming and beach games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ubay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by focusing on rice, vegetables, tofu or egg dishes, and fruit. Communicate “wala mi karne” (no meat) and ask for vegetable-based soups or fried tofu as alternatives; many places can accommodate with simple side dishes like grilled vegetables or extra fruit.