NEGROS ORIENTAL
Negros Oriental, often called the “Province of Gentle People,” offers a blend of vibrant city life in Dumaguete and world-class natural attractions. Its volcanic mountains, pristine coastlines, and rich marine life make it an unparalleled ecotourism destination.
The province is a gateway to diverse adventures, from diving with sea turtles to exploring majestic waterfalls and serene volcanic lakes. It’s a perfect mix of cultural heritage and natural wonder in the heart of the Philippine Visayas.
Most Popular Attractions
Dumaguete City Core & Heritage:
Rizal Boulevard: A scenic, palm-lined seaside promenade in Dumaguete City, ideal for evening strolls and local street food.
Silliman University: One of the oldest American-established universities in Asia, featuring a beautiful campus and significant architectural landmarks like Silliman Hall.
St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral: The principal Catholic church in Dumaguete, dating back to the 1700s.
Dumaguete Bell Tower: Located beside the Cathedral, this historic coral stone structure is the oldest surviving building in the city, once used to warn the town of piratical raids.
Silliman University Anthropology Museum: Located within the university, this museum houses an extensive collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts.
Quezon Park: A central, well-maintained city park directly in front of the Cathedral and Bell Tower.
Sidlakang Negros Village: A complex showcasing the cultural products and handicrafts of the different towns in Negros Oriental.
Coastal & Marine Wonders:
Apo Island (Ah-poh): A small volcanic island and world-famous marine sanctuary known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea turtles (pawikan), perfect for diving and snorkeling.
Manjuyod White Sandbar (Man-hoo-yod): A stunning, unspoiled white sand strip that emerges fully at low tide, often called the “Maldives of the Philippines.”
Bais City Dolphin & Whale Watching: Boat tours from Bais City offering the chance to spot playful dolphins and occasionally whales in the Tañon Strait.
Dauin (Dah-ween) Coastal Area: Famous for its black sand beaches and excellent muck diving sites, home to a wide variety of rare and unique marine creatures.
Malatapay Market: A bustling weekly coastal market in Zamboanguita (Wednesdays) where locals trade produce, livestock, and fresh seafood.
Mountain, Falls & Hot Springs:
Balinsasayao (Bah-leen-sah-sah-yow) Twin Lakes Natural Park: Two serene crater lakes, Lake Balinsasayao and Lake Danao, nestled high in the mountains of Sibulan, ideal for kayaking and nature hiking.
Casaroro Falls: A majestic, tall, and narrow waterfall in Valencia, requiring a trek down steep steps and through a river to reach its powerful cascade.
Pulangbato (Poo-lang-bah-toh) Falls: A unique waterfall in Valencia where the rocks are stained a reddish-orange hue due to the sulfur and minerals from nearby volcanic activity (Pulang bato means “red rock”).
Red Rock Hot Spring: A resort in Valencia featuring natural thermal pools where guests can relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters.
Mount Talinis (Tah-lee-nis): A prominent dormant volcano (also called “Cuernos de Negros”) and a popular hiking destination with hidden crater lakes and lush tropical forest trails.
Forest Camp: A mountain resort in Valencia with natural spring-fed swimming pools, perfect for a cool retreat.
Mabinay (Mah-bee-nay) Caves: A vast network of over 400 limestone caves, earning Mabinay the title of “Cave Town” of Negros Oriental, offering spelunking adventures.
Lake Balanan: A figure-eight shaped freshwater lake in Siaton, surrounded by lush forested hills, offering a tranquil escape for boating and fishing.
Mount Kanlaon (Kahn-lah-on): A towering active volcano on the border with Negros Occidental, offering challenging treks to its peaks and calderas (for experienced mountaineers).
Activities & Experiences
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling in Apo Island: Explore the world-renowned marine sanctuary. The vibrant coral reefs and the chance to swim with numerous sea turtles make this a top global dive/snorkel spot.
Experience the White Sandbar of Manjuyod (Bais City): Often called the “Maldives of the Philippines,” take a boat trip to this stunning white sandbar where cottages appear to float during high tide.
Go Dolphin and Whale Watching (Bais City): Charter a boat early in the morning near the Tañon Strait for a high chance of spotting playful spinner and bottlenose dolphins, and sometimes whales.
Hike to Casaroro Falls (Valencia): Take on the challenging trek (including over 350 steps and river boulders) to see this majestic, 90-foot-high narrow column of water cascade into a cold basin.
Soak in the Red Rock Hot Spring (Valencia): Relax in the natural, sulfur-rich hot springs. The name comes from the rust-colored, sulfuric rocks surrounding the pools.
Go Spelunking in Mabinay Caves: Explore some of the over 400 caves in the “Cave Capital of Negros Oriental.” Options range from easy-access caves like Bulwang (Crystal Cave) to more advanced spelunking routes.
Trek and Kayak the Twin Lakes (Sibulan): Visit the serene and picturesque Balinsasayao (Pronunciation: bah-lin-sah-SIGH-ow) and Danao (Pronunciation: DAH-now) crater lakes, separated by a narrow mountain ridge. Kayaking is a popular way to explore the calm waters.
Wander through Rizal Boulevard (Dumaguete): Stroll along the city’s iconic seaside promenade, especially beautiful at sunset. It’s the hub for local street food, socializing, and the city’s relaxed atmosphere.
Explore Silliman University Campus: Take a walk through the beautiful, acacia-dotted campus of this prominent, historic university. Visit the Silliman University Anthropology Museum to see ancient artifacts.
Have a Seafood Feast at Lab-as (Dumaguete): Try the freshest local seafood at one of the province’s most famous seafood restaurants. Lab-as is the local Cebuano term for “fresh.”
Hike Mount Talinis (Cuernos de Negros): For the avid mountaineer, embark on a multi-day trek up the second highest peak in Negros Oriental, known for its scenic crater lakes and mossy forests.
Local Tips & Transport
Dumaguete Airport (DGT): The main gateway is Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport, located a short tricycle or taxi ride north of Dumaguete City proper. It offers regular domestic flights from major cities like Manila and Cebu.
Getting Around the City: Tricycles are the primary mode of transport within Dumaguete City. Fares are low (under $1 for most short trips). For longer city distances, you can hire a taxi or use a local ride-hailing app if available.
Getting Around the Province:
- Jeepneys and Ceres Buses: These are the most common and affordable options for inter-town travel. Ceres Liner operates extensive routes connecting Dumaguete to other municipalities like Bais, Valencia, and towns heading into Negros Occidental.
- Hired Motorbike (Habal-Habal): For reaching remote attractions like Casaroro Falls or Red Rock Hot Spring, you can hire a motorbike with a driver (habal-habal). Be sure to negotiate the round-trip fare before starting.
Island Hopping and Ferries: Dumaguete is a major port and a gateway to nearby islands. Fast crafts and ferries regularly depart for destinations like Cebu (via Liloan/Sibulan port), Bohol (Tagbilaran), and the mystical Siquijor Island. The pier is conveniently located near Rizal Boulevard.
The “City of Gentle People”: Dumaguete’s nickname reflects the genuinely friendly and laid-back nature of its residents. It’s a university town, giving it a youthful, intellectual, and welcoming vibe.
Language: While the national language is Filipino (Tagalog), the local language in Negros Oriental is Cebuano (or Bisaya). English is also widely understood and spoken, especially in the tourism, education, and business sectors. Learning a few Bisaya phrases like Maayong adlaw (Good day), Salamat (Thank you), and Palihog (Please) will be appreciated.
Must-Try Delicacies: Don’t leave without trying the province’s famous sweet treats, often associated with the Sans Rival Cakes and Pastries shop:
- Sans Rival: A multi-layered cake made of baked meringue, buttercream, and chopped cashews.
- Silvanas: The cookie version of the Sans Rival—meringue wafers filled with buttercream and coated in cashew crumbs, best served chilled.
Local Festivals: If visiting in October, you may catch the vibrant Buglasan Festival, a province-wide celebration showcasing the culture, products, and tourist spots of Negros Oriental. The Sandurot Festival in September celebrates fellowship and is a colorful display of the city’s history.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is certainly appreciated for good service, particularly in restaurants and by tour guides and drivers. A 5-10% tip is standard.
Hidden Gems & Local Spots:
- The Silliman Hall & Church: The iconic American-era building on the Silliman campus is a beautiful piece of architecture. The nearby St. Catherine of Alexandria Cathedral and Campanario de Dumaguete (Bell Tower) are historical must-sees.
- Painitan (Local Coffee Spot): Find a local market or painitan (a term for a place where you get a warm drink) for an authentic Filipino breakfast of budbud kabog (a local millet rice cake) and hot chocolate or local coffee.
- Malatapay Market: If you are near the Dauin area on a Wednesday, visit this bustling seaside flea market, famous for its live animals, fresh produce, and lechon (roast pig). It’s also the jump-off point for Apo Island.
Top Restaurants
Lab-as Restaurant [$15-$30] – A popular, beachfront seafood restaurant known for its fresh catch of the day, including crabs, prawns, and various fish prepared sutukil (Sugba/grill, Tuwa/stew, Kilaw/ceviche) style.
Hayahay Treehouse Bar and Viewdeck [$15-$30] – A relaxed, multi-level spot by the sea, famous for its laid-back vibe, live music, and excellent grilled seafood, including local favorites like Baked Talaba (oysters).
Jo’s Chicken Inato [$10-$20] – A local institution famous for its signature Chicken Inato (pronounced ee-nah-toh), a distinct, slightly sweet and savory grilled chicken with an atchara (pickled papaya) side, often served with unlimited rice.
KRI [$10-$20] – A beloved local spot known for serving modern Filipino food and international dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Their Chicken Rice is a popular order.
Adamo [$15-$25] – Offers a delightful fusion of Filipino and global cuisine in an intimate setting, focusing on contemporary dishes that elevate familiar local flavors.
Gabby’s Bistro [$15-$25] – Located in Florentina Homes, this colorful, European villa-inspired bistro offers a mix of Filipino, Asian, and American dishes in a fun, artistic setting.
Sans Rival Bistro [$10-$20] – While most famous for its pastries, this location along Rizal Boulevard also offers a menu of classic Filipino and international dishes in a charming, heritage-style setting.
Panda Ice Cream Hauz [$10-$20] – An old-school Dumaguete favorite famous for its fried ice cream and affordable Filipino meals.
Esturya by KRI [$15-$25] – A sister restaurant to KRI, it offers a romantic, intimate setting with a menu of delectable comfort food and elevated Filipino dishes.
Dong’s Kitchen [$10-$20] – A local go-to spot for excellent, traditional Filipino comfort food, known for its generous servings and home-style cooking.
Rizal Boulevard Vendors [Under $10] – Not a single restaurant, but an iconic local experience where vendors set up nightly along the boulevard, selling tempura (fish balls), squid sticks, and other street food best dipped in a sweet-spicy sauce.
Buglas Isla Cafe [$10-$20] – A cozy cafe environment that serves Filipino comfort food and coffee, often with a focus on local ingredients and a relaxing atmosphere.
Tinto [$15-$25] – Offers Filipino and international cuisine in a sleek, modern setting, providing a relaxed yet upscale dining experience.
Bakugo [$15-$25] – A highly-recommended local favorite known for its flavorful Filipino dishes, often using traditional cooking methods.
Senor Juan [$20-$35] – Highly praised for its quality Filipino cuisine and ambiance, often mentioned as a local choice for special occasions and great food.
The Dining Room at The Henry Resort Dumaguete [$20-$35] – Serves well-executed Filipino and international cuisine in an elegant resort setting, popular for a refined dining experience.
Bugtaw [$15-$25] – Known for Filipino fusion dishes, creatively blending local tastes with modern techniques in a well-designed space.
Azucarera [$20-$35] – A Spanish-inspired restaurant that also incorporates Filipino flavors, known for its paellas and other Mediterranean dishes with a local touch.
Lantaw Native Restaurant [$15-$30] – Known for its scenic view and large servings of native Filipino dishes, particularly fresh seafood and grilled meats. Lantaw (pronounced lahn-tao) means ‘view.’
Capiña’s Restaurant and Bar [$15-$30] – A popular seafood and grill spot, well-regarded by locals for fresh ingredients and straightforward, delicious cooking.
Ocean 101 Beach Resort Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in nearby Dauin, this resort restaurant serves excellent, fresh seafood and international dishes right by the beach.
Finbar [$15-$25] – Found in Dauin, this British-owned spot is known for its excellent burgers and international pub fare, but also has great seafood options and famous Taco Tuesdays.
Marina’s Restaurant [$15-$25] – A reliable choice for fresh seafood, serving grilled and stewed options in a casual setting near the coast.
opolo Pizzeria [$15-$25] – Known for serving some of the best brick-oven pizzas in Dumaguete, using quality ingredients in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere.
Meltin Pot [$15-$25] – Offers a diverse international menu with a focus on hearty, comforting dishes, popular for its wide selection.
Casablanca Restaurant Dumaguete – Cafe Bar & Fine Dining [$20-$40] – Serves high-quality Mediterranean, Western, and Filipino cuisine, often highlighted for its steaks and a good wine selection.
Domus [$15-$25] – A modern restaurant known for its contemporary Western dishes, offering a pleasant ambiance for casual dining.
The Barn [$15-$25] – Provides a cozy, rustic atmosphere and a menu of well-loved Western comfort food like burgers and ribs.
The Dining Room at Sea Forest Resort [$20-$35] – Located outside the city, this resort restaurant offers a refined menu of international dishes in a beautiful, serene setting.
The Henry Resort Restaurants [$20-$35] – The resort complex offers various dining options, including more upscale international cuisine alongside its Filipino offerings, ensuring quality and variety.
Tierra Alta Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located on a hill with a view, this restaurant offers a mix of international and Filipino food, popular for its scenic location.
Tropika [$15-$25] – Located slightly outside the city center, offering international and Asian dishes in a tropical-themed setting.
Si Señor [$20-$35] – A well-regarded spot for Spanish cuisine, particularly its tapas and paella, offering a taste of Spain in the Visayas.
La Mensa [$25-$45] – Known for its focus on modern, refined international dishes, often cited for a great ambiance and well-executed menu.
Sans Rival Cakes & Pastries [$5-$15] – An absolute must-visit and true local landmark. This iconic shop is famous for its Silvanas (pronounced seel-vah-nas), a frozen cashew-meringue cookie coated with butter cream and cashew crumbs, and the multi-layered Sans Rival cake.
Buttery [$5-$15] – A popular bakery and cafe known for its wide selection of delicious pastries, breads, and cakes, a great spot for coffee and dessert.
Delicés [$5-$15] – Another local favorite specializing in cakes and pastries, offering a tempting array of baked goods beyond the typical tourist spots.
Shimmerspill Cafe [$5-$15] – Known for its excellent coffee and a menu that includes both international and Filipino food, transitioning into a lively bar at night.
Cafe Panganod [$5-$15] – Offers a relaxing cafe experience, popular for its freshly brewed coffee and light snacks. Panganod (pronounced pah-ngah-nod) means ‘cloud.’
Beans and Barrels [$5-$15] – A modern cafe popular for its specialty coffee drinks, cozy atmosphere, and light meals.
Piapi Deli [$5-$15] – A good option for deli sandwiches, pastries, and coffee, perfect for a casual lunch or snack.
Alimyon Kapehan [$5-$15] – Located in nearby San Jose, this spot is worth the short trip for its incredible view overlooking the tropical forest and the Tañon Strait, serving traditional Filipino snacks and coffee.
Cliff House Valencia [$10-$20] – Situated in Valencia, this cafe is lauded for having some of the best burgers in the region and offers a stunning view, making it a worthy trip outside the city center.
Ginabot ni Eking [$10-$20] – A local spot famous for its Ginabot (pronounced gee-nah-bot), which is the Visayan version of Chicharon Bulaklak (deep-fried ruffled pork fat), a classic Filipino delicacy.
Das Burgery [$10-$20] – A highly-rated spot for quality, gourmet burgers in town, standing out from the usual fast-food options.
Beth’s Kitchen [$15-$25] – A rare gem for good Mexican food in the region, known for its giant tacos, enchiladas, and other Tex-Mex favorites.
Gab’s Restaurant [$15-$25] – Offers a good mix of Asian and Western food with a reputation for solid quality and a relaxed setting.
The Blue Elephant [$15-$25] – A local favorite for those seeking well-executed Thai and other Asian fusion dishes.
Manhattan Deli [$15-$25] – Known for its extensive selection of sandwiches, salads, and Western comfort food, offering a taste of the American deli experience.
Royal Suite’s Resto [$15-$25] – A hotel restaurant that is locally known for its excellent Sizzling Bulalo (a Filipino beef marrow stew served on a hot plate).
Silver Reef Dive Resort Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located in Dauin, it’s known for its commitment to sustainable food and surprisingly great vegetarian/vegan options, alongside international and Filipino favorites.
Dauin Boulevard Vendors [Under $10] – Similar to Dumaguete, the local street food vendors on the Dauin Boulevard offer an authentic, affordable local food experience, often selling grilled skewers and local snacks.
Nevas Pizza [$10-$20] – With a branch in Valencia, this place serves cheap, brick-oven pizzas, offering a great value option for a simple, tasty meal.
Beyond Plants [$10-$20] – A good recommendation for those seeking healthy or plant-based meals, offering a refreshing break from meat-heavy Filipino cuisine.
Shrimp Bucket [$15-$30] – Specializing in seafood cooked in a bag with various sauces, this spot is perfect for a fun, messy, and flavorful dining experience.
La Creperie [$10-$20] – Offers a variety of sweet and savory crepes and other French-inspired light meals and desserts.
Mooon Cafe [$10-$20] – A popular cafe chain that serves a mix of Asian and Western-style meals, known for being a consistent and casual dining option.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Hayahay Treehouse Bar and Viewdeck Restobar (Dumaguete City): A popular spot along Flores Avenue near Rizal Boulevard, offering an elevated, treehouse-like setting with spectacular views of the ocean, a laid-back ambiance, and live music, making it perfect for sunset cocktails.
Balay Ni Lola (Dumaguete City): Located in the heart of Dumaguete, this cozy spot (the name means “Grandmother’s House”) offers a warm, inviting atmosphere and a diverse selection of drinks for a relaxing evening with friends.
Ritual Gastropub Bar (Dumaguete City): A gastropub located in Dumaguete that is known for its delicious food pairings alongside creative cocktails and an ambiance that’s popular with a trendy, mixed crowd.
Apartment 5 (Dumaguete City): Considered a speakeasy bar in the Tubod area, it’s known for serving high-quality, inventive cocktails and a sophisticated atmosphere.
Solbar (Dumaguete City): A craft beer haven located in Dumaguete, offering an exceptional selection of brews alongside a treasure trove of flavors in its food menu, perfect for enjoying scenic sunsets.
La Mensa (Dumaguete City): Highly recommended for its knowledgeable and sociable bartenders who craft amazing cocktails, located within Dumaguete’s city limits.
Popolo Pizzeria (at Henry’s) (Dumaguete City): While a pizzeria, this establishment within Henry’s Hotel complex offers good cocktails, perfect for a casual drink with a bite to eat.
Hyde (Dumaguete City): A party bar in Dumaguete known for its ‘bougie’ feel and a lively atmosphere, offering a good selection of drinks, though its space is noted to be slightly small.
Fibber Magees (Dumaguete City): An Irish-themed pub in Dumaguete City, offering a lively atmosphere, cold beers, and often a good spot to mingle, though less focused on cocktails.
Firehouse Restaurant (Dumaguete City): Located in the Pulantubig area, this spot is known for offering some of the more affordable cocktails in the city.
Azucarera (Bais City): A stylish restaurant in Bais City, an hour north of Dumaguete, offering an impressive selection of wines, beers on tap, and signature cocktails to complement its modern Spanish dining experience.
Baha Ba’r (Siquijor Island – Maite, San Juan): A beloved beachfront restaurant/bar on Siquijor (a short ferry ride from Dumaguete) with a laid-back, loungey atmosphere. It prides itself on an extensive drinks menu, including traditional cocktails inspired by local fruits, and often features live music.
Monkey Business (Siquijor Island – San Juan): An artsy and fun backpacker bar experience on Siquijor, offering a lively atmosphere and unique decor for a memorable night out.
Tipsy Bar (Siquijor Island – San Juan): An energetic and popular bar on Siquijor with an eclectic drink menu, known for its cool crowd and social vibe.
El Kabron Siquijor (Siquijor Island): Offers a more upscale experience on Siquijor with killer ocean views and an elegant atmosphere, serving fancy cocktails for a touch of class.
Why Not? Dumaguete (Dumaguete City): One of the city’s most famous and long-standing nightclubs (often referred to as ‘Why Not?’), located along the main Rizal Boulevard, featuring a bustling dance floor, an energetic atmosphere, and a mix of locals and tourists.
Tiki Bar (Dumaguete City): Found along Rizal Boulevard, this vibrant spot often hosts DJ-hosted events, infusing it with a strong club-like atmosphere where beats and connections intertwine, attracting a younger, student crowd.
Mad Monkey Hostels (Dumaguete City): While a hostel, its bar is known as a major party destination in the Rizal Boulevard area, featuring themed parties, DJs, and a vibrant, unforgettable atmosphere that draws in backpackers and locals alike.
Bahia (Dumaguete City): A newer party bar in Dumaguete City that is good for a night out, with a mixed crowd and lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Gen Z (Dumaguete City): A popular reservation-based party bar in Dumaguete, mostly attracting a Gen Z crowd, offering a high-energy nightlife experience.
Bubbles Club Dumaguete (Dumaguete City): A known spot in the city for dancing and lively music, catering to those looking for a traditional nightclub experience.
Studio 26 (Dumaguete City): A local favorite known for its energetic ambiance and music, a go-to for many Dumagueteños looking to dance.
Mad Monkey Siquijor (Siquijor Island – San Juan): The ultimate party hub for backpackers on Siquijor, with an atmosphere, music, and menu designed for an unforgettable night out and a great way to meet fellow travelers.
AM/PM, GK, Little Dodong’s, Amigo (Various spots in Dumaguete City, e.g., Escaño Street and Tubod): While not formal clubs, these convenience-store style drinking spots (often along Escaño Street) transform into major social hubs on weekends, where locals park and hang out until sunrise, creating a large, open-air party scene.
Disco/Clubbing Spots in Sibulan and Bacong (Areas near Dumaguete City): For those looking for more traditional, full-scale disco places, various venues are situated in the neighboring municipalities of Sibulan and Bacong.