Roxas

A charming coastal town in Oriental Mindoro known for its proximity to Apo Reef, one of the Philippines' premier diving destinations, and its relaxed island atmosphere. It's an excellent base for diving, snorkeling, and exploring nearby marine protected areas.

Things to do

• Apo Reef National Park Diving — Explore one of the Philippines' most pristine coral reef systems with vibrant marine life, colorful corals, and excellent visibility for both beginners and advanced divers.
• Snorkeling at Nearby Islands — Take a boat tour to shallow reef areas around small islands near Roxas for accessible snorkeling with sea turtles, tropical fish, and coral gardens.
• Paluan Beach Exploration — Visit this nearby white-sand beach known for its calm waters and local fishing villages, offering a quieter alternative to diving activities.
• Mangyan Indigenous Village Visit — Learn about the indigenous Mangyan people of Oriental Mindoro through cultural tours that showcase traditional crafts, weaving, and sustainable living practices.
• Fishing Village Boat Tours — Experience local life by joining early morning or sunset boat tours through Roxas' active fishing communities and mangrove areas.

Food to try

• Fresh Grilled Fish — Savor locally-caught fish grilled whole and seasoned simply with salt and calamansi, commonly served at beachside restaurants and warungs.
• Tumis (Local Fish Soup) — A hearty coastal soup made with fresh fish, coconut broth, and local vegetables that reflects Oriental Mindoro's fishing heritage.
• Fried Tawilis (Freshwater Sardines) — Crispy-fried small fish endemic to Taal Lake region, often served as an appetizer or side dish in local eateries.
• Dinuguan — A traditional Filipino pork blood stew simmered in vinegar and spices, commonly found at local home-style restaurants and breakfast spots.
• Fresh Coconut Water and Seafood — Enjoy fresh young coconuts paired with grilled shellfish like squid and crabs at beachfront stalls, especially in the early evening.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect for Diving Safety — Always use certified dive operators and follow their safety briefings carefully, as Apo Reef's strong currents and depth require proper training and equipment.
• Loose Island Time and Scheduling — Tours and activities often depart based on weather and tides rather than fixed schedules, so maintain flexible expectations and book accommodations in advance during peak season.
• Support Local Communities — Engage with Mangyan artisans and local fishermen directly when possible, purchasing crafts and food from independent vendors rather than larger resorts to support the community economy.
• Environmental Consciousness — Practice reef-safe behaviors such as wearing reef-safe sunscreen, not touching corals, and minimizing plastic use, as Roxas' economy depends entirely on marine conservation.

Nearby

• Baco — 39 km
• Boracay Island — 78 km
• Caticlan — 83 km
• Sabang Beach — 91 km