Lubang Travel Guide (Mindoro/Luzon/Philippines/Southeast Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Lubang

Located in Mindoro, Luzon, Philippines, Lubang Island is a beautiful and tranquil destination in Southeast Asia. Known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Lubang is the perfect place for travelers looking for an authentic island experience.

The island spans over 120 square kilometers and is home to a population of around 20,000 people who mainly rely on agriculture, fishing, or tourism.

List of Places to Visit in Lubang

Lubang Island boasts a wide range of interesting and unique attractions, from culturally important museums and historical sites to natural wonders and outdoor adventures.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lubang Museum: Located in the town of Lubang, Lubang Museum is a must-visit for anyone wanting to learn about the island’s history. Here, you can see exhibits related to indigenous peoples, Philippine revolutionaries, and World War II.
Spanish-era Fortifications: The island of Lubang was a battleground during the Spanish-American War of 1898. You can still see the Spanish-era watchtower in the town of Tilik, while visitors can also see the remnants of American and Japanese wartime structures scattered around the island.

Natural Attractions of Lubang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Looc Beach: Looc Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, with crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and gorgeous views. Visitors can try snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, windsurfing, or simply soaking up the sun.
Mount Mataas: Mount Mataas is the highest peak on the island, providing a great opportunity for travelers who love hiking and taking in stunning views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lubang

For those who love exploring nature on foot or by cycling, Lubang offers excellent hiking and biking trails.

Some popular routes include:

Tilik-Baheli Traverse
Bantayan-Lisap Traverse
Gen. Lim Trail
Mount Mataas Trail

Best Things to Do in Lubang: Activities and Tours

Aside from visiting the museums and natural attractions, there are many other things to do on the island:

Go hand-line fishing
Try scuba diving or snorkeling
Visit the local market
Try stand-up paddleboarding
Learn arts and crafts from the locals

Week-Long Itinerary for Lubang

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Lubang:

Day	Activity
1	Explore Lubang Museum and the Spanish-era watchtower in Tilik
2	Go hiking in Mount Mataas, followed by a dip in Looc Beach
3	Take a boat tour to the beautiful Culebra Island
4	Take a walk through the local markets and try local cuisine
5	Try your hand at hand-line fishing
6	Spend a day relaxing in Tagnate Beach
7	Participate in a workshop on arts and crafts with the locals

Food and Drink Scene of Lubang

Lubang Island’s food and drink scene reflects the unique blend of cultures on the island, with influences from Spanish, Chinese, and other Philippine regions. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Adobo: A popular Filipino dish, made with meat or vegetables cooked in a vinegar-based marinade.
Sinigang na Baboy: A sour soup made with pork and tamarind, and sometimes with vegetables.
Pancit Lubang: A local specialty, made with stir-fried noodles, vegetables and meat or seafood.

Local Beverages

Coconut Milkshake: A refreshing drink, made with coconut and fresh milk.
Lambanog: A traditional Filipino wine made from the sap of coconut palm flowers.

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

Lubang Island has a range of accommodation options to suit any budget and preference. Here are a few options:

Rivron Beach Resort: Located in Rivron, this resort offers cottages and rooms with stunning sea views and a private beach.
Mount Sea Resort Lubang: Located in Tilik, this resort offers comfortable accommodation, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
Isolde Pension House: A budget-friendly guesthouse in Lubang, with clean rooms and simple amenities.

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

Looking for a souvenir or a gift for your loved ones back home? Here are some items you can buy on Lubang Island:

Handicrafts: Lubang Island is famous for its handicrafts, including weavings, baskets, and ceramics.
Sweet Treats: Try the local specialties such as pastillas and turrones de casuy (cashew nut nougat).

Local Culture and Customs of Lubang

Lubang Island has a rich cultural heritage, and its locals are known for their friendly and hospitable nature. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting:

Dress Modestly: The majority of Lubang’s population is Catholic, so visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting churches and religious sites.
Respect Local Traditions: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes before entering a home.
Greetings: It is customary to greet the locals with a smile and a friendly “hello” or “good morning”.

Best Time to Visit Lubang

The best time to visit Lubang Island is during the dry season, from December to May, when you can enjoy sunny days and clear skies.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lubang

Here are some things you should do or avoid when visiting Lubang:

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs
Try the local cuisine and beverages
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent
Interact with the locals and learn about their way of life

Don’t:

Litter or damage the environment
Wear revealing or skimpy clothing
Disrespect sacred sites or religious traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Lubang

Lubang Island is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always important to take necessary precautions. Make sure to:

Keep an eye on your belongings, especially when traveling on public transportation or busy areas.
Avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas.
Carry a copy of your identification documents along with you.

Health in Lubang

Travelers should stay up to date with standard vaccinations before traveling to Lubang Island. Bring along a first aid kit with standard medicines and insect repellent. Also, don’t forget to apply sunscreen for protection against sun burn.

Getting to Lubang: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options to get to Lubang Island:

Airports Near Lubang

The closest airport to Lubang Island is Mamburao Airport. From here, you’ll need to catch a bus or private vehicle to the port of Mamburao.

Bus Stations Near Lubang

There are buses that travel from Metro Manila to Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro. From the port in Mamburao, you can take a boat to Lubang Island.

Other Options

You can also book a private boat charter from Batangas port to Tilik on Lubang Island.

How to Get Around in Lubang

The best way to get around Lubang Island is by hiring a motorbike or tricycle. Buses also run between major towns, but may not be as frequent or reliable.

Where to Go Next from Lubang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After your visit to Lubang Island, you can head to the nearby destinations like Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro, or Calatagan, Batangas.

Conclusion

Lubang Island is a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered by travelers looking for a unique and authentic island experience. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and warm hospitality, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Southeast Asia.