Navotas Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful town of Navotas in the Philippines with this comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and more.


Introduction to Navotas

Located in Metro Manila, in the Luzon region of the Philippines, Navotas is a small town famous for its fishing port, colorful fish markets, and lively festivals. The town is bordered by the Manila Bay to the west and the city of Caloocan to the east. Navotas is a hidden gem in the Philippines, untouched by tourism and offers a unique glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of the locals.

List of Places to Visit in Navotas

Here are some of the top attractions in Navotas that you can add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Navotas Centennial Park: A popular park with many playgrounds and sports facilities where you can enjoy a family picnic. The park is also home to a monument that symbolizes the history of Navotas.

  • Museo ng Navotas: The only museum in Navotas that displays relics and antiques that depict the town’s history, geography, culture, and tradition.

Natural Attractions of Navotas: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Navotas Fish Harbor: Stroll along this bustling harbor where fishermen unload their catch of the day, and enjoy the fresh sea breeze while watching the boats come and go.

  • Navotas Mangrove Park: A serene park that offers a scenic view of the mangrove forest, which serves as the breeding ground for marine life and a habitat for migratory birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Navotas

While Navotas is mostly a fishing town, you can still explore the outdoors by hiking or biking along the coast.

  • Manila Baywalk: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the Baywalk, a 2 km stretch of paved promenade that offers picturesque views of Manila Bay.

Best Things to Do in Navotas: Activities and Tours

  • Attend the Bamboo Festival: A yearly celebration where locals showcase their bamboo crafts, including furniture and musical instruments.

  • Taste the local delicacies: Sample the famous seafood of Navotas, such as the crispy fried fish and shrimp paste.

Week-Long Itinerary for Navotas

Here is a sample itinerary for spending a week in Navotas:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Navotas Centennial Park and Museo ng Navotas
2 Explore Manila Baywalk and watch the sunset
3 Take a tour of Navotas Fish Harbor and Mangrove Park
4 Taste the local seafood delicacies
5 Attend the Bamboo Festival
6 Relax and unwind at the beach
7 Explore nearby destinations such as Manila or Quezon City

Food and Drink Scene of Navotas

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pritong Isda: Deep-fried fish served with steaming rice and spicy shrimp paste.

  • Bagoong: A popular condiment made of fermented shrimp or fish, used in many Filipino dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Buko Juice: A refreshing drink made from young coconut water.

  • San Miguel Beer: A famous beer brand in the Philippines.

Where to Stay in Navotas: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Oriente Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located near the Navotas Fish Harbor.

  • La Breza Hotel: A luxurious option located in nearby Quezon City.

What to Buy in Navotas: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bamboo crafts: A variety of bamboo products like furniture, musical instruments, and toys are available at the Bamboo Festival.

Local Culture and Customs of Navotas

  • Navotas is deeply connected to the sea and fishing. Thus, you will find many fish markets and seafood restaurants in the town.

Best Time to Visit Navotas

The best time to visit Navotas is from December to February when the weather is cool and ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Navotas

Do:

  • Respect the cultural norms.

  • Taste the local seafood delicacies.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.

  • Disrespect the locals and their traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Navotas

Navotas is generally a safe town. However, take the necessary precautions like keeping your valuables safe and not venturing into secluded areas at odd hours.

Health in Navotas

Consult your doctor for necessary vaccinations before traveling to the Philippines. Also, stay hydrated and carry a first aid kit while exploring the town.

Getting to Navotas: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Navotas

The nearest international airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila, about 15 km away from Navotas. From there, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach the town.

Bus Stations Near Navotas

Several bus companies operate from the Cubao Terminal in Quezon City that connects to other towns and cities in Luzon, including Navotas.

Other Options

You can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Navotas from Manila or other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Navotas

You can travel around the town by jeepney, tricycle, or taxi.

Where to Go Next from Navotas: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Manila: Explore the vibrant city of Manila, the capital of the Philippines, and visit historical sites like the Intramuros and Rizal Park.

  • Quezon City: Visit Quezon City, known for its cultural and art centers like the UP Diliman and the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife.

Conclusion

Navotas offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions that will take you on a beautiful journey of the town’s history and traditions. From fishing markets to mangrove parks, there’s something for everyone to explore. Plan a visit to Navotas now and experience the true essence of the Philippines.