Tabuelan(Philippines) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For beachfront stays in Tubajon, the top choice is Tubajon Beach Resort, offering direct access to a private sandy cove with clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The resort features eco-lodges with ocean views, nightly bonfires, and guided sunset cruises on traditional banca boats. Nearby, Balete Inn provides budget-friendly rooms with rooftop terraces perfect for stargazing. Both properties emphasize sustainability, using solar power and locally sourced materials, making them ideal for travelers seeking authentic, low-impact island living.

Tubajon Poblacion is the most convenient district for first-time visitors, located at the heart of the island with easy access to markets, churches, and public transport hubs. This vibrant neighborhood hosts family-run guesthouses like Lumay Lodge and Anakalang Heritage House, blending modern comfort with traditional Ilocano-Samar architecture. Daily street food stalls serve fresh pulutan snacks, while evening gatherings feature live folk music and storytelling under the stars—perfect for immersing in local culture without venturing far.

Tourists in Tubajon should not miss the Pulutan Festival held every October, where locals showcase heirloom recipes like Kaldereta ng Isda and Binatog, competing in cooking challenges. Visit the Baludan Ancient Shrine, a sacred site adorned with carved totems and ritual altars reflecting indigenous animist beliefs. For deeper insight, join a twilight storytelling session led by elder community members, who recount myths of Daguitan, the sea deity, preserving oral traditions central to the island’s spiritual identity in the Central Visayas region.

Yes, Tubajon Beach is ideal for families, featuring shallow, calm waters perfect for children and gentle waves. The shoreline has shaded rest areas, playgrounds, and vendors selling grilled fish and coconut ice cream. For a quieter alternative, Pandan Bay offers secluded coves surrounded by tropical vegetation, suitable for kayaking and shell hunting—though a local guide is recommended. Both beaches provide rental services for kayaks, paddleboards, and motorized water bikes, ensuring safe, fun activities for all ages.

Must-try dishes in Tubajon include Kaldereta ng Isda (coconut milk-based fish stew), Binatog (sweet corn and coconut dessert), and Tinolang Manok (lemongrass and tamarind chicken). At Poblacion Market, visit Lola Selya's Kitchen for handmade coconut sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves, served with fresh mango juice. During the weekly Sikat Festival, the entire town transforms into an open-air food bazaar featuring regional specialties from neighboring villages—offering a true taste of Central Visayas’ culinary heritage.

The prime photo locations in Tubajon are Mount Tabugan Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the island and sea at sunrise, creating dramatic silhouettes and golden light. The Anakalang Church Ruins, with their weathered stone arches and creeping vines, provide hauntingly beautiful compositions. For candid moments, head to Tubajon Fishing Village during early morning hours to capture fishermen hauling nets, drying catch, or mending gear—authentic scenes that tell the story of island life through the lens.

In Tubajon, the primary transport modes are tricycles and jeepneys, connecting the port to the town center in under 15 minutes for just ₱20. For exploring remote villages, rent a motorbike or book a local driver via apps like GCash—costing around ₱500 per day. Regular ferries link Tubajon to Cagayan de Oro and Leyte Island, taking about 2 hours. All services accept cash, GCash, and some credit cards, ensuring seamless travel across the island.

The optimal time to visit Tubajon is between November and April, during the dry season when rainfall is minimal and temperatures range from 28–32°C. December is especially magical, with the Lambusao Lantern Festival illuminating homes and streets with handcrafted lights—ideal for romantic photos and quiet evenings. Avoid visiting between June and October, as this period sees frequent typhoons, which can disrupt ferry schedules and road access.

Couples in Tubajon can book a private villa at Tubajon Beach Resort, complete with a rooftop hot tub and candlelit dinners by the sea. Another highlight is a sunset cruise on a banca boat to Sunset Point, where you can collect seashells as keepsakes. For a unique experience, participate in a reenacted traditional Ilocano wedding ceremony hosted by local elders, wearing native attire and exchanging vows under starlight. Evenings spent walking the Poblacion Pier while sipping coconut ice cream create unforgettable moments.

Visitors should look for handwoven Ilocano mats, bamboo jewelry crafted in Samar style, and eco-friendly coconut oil skincare products made by women cooperatives at Anakalang Craft Market. Don’t miss the Poblacion Night Market, where you can find vintage records, antique books, and limited-edition Philippine marine-themed postcards. Each item tells a story—from family craftsmanship to island history—making shopping a meaningful part of your journey.