What to Do in Navotas: Where to Eat and Hang Out
You want a chill day near Manila. You want real flavor and real stories. You also want easy wins that fit your budget and your ‘tambay’ mood. Navotas gives you that energy.
Navotas might not be the first city you think of for a quick getaway, but this fishing hub in Metro Manila has its own charm.
Looking to explore Navotas City? Here’s your ultimate travel guide when going around Navotas.
About Navotas City
Right on the northwestern edge of Metro Manila (NCR), Navotas has built its reputation as the Commercial Fishing Hub of the Philippines. It’s home to the largest fish port in Southeast Asia and the third largest in Asia. Locals are proud of their patis and bagoong, staples in many Filipino kitchens.
The city officially became independent in 2007, but its spirit has been shaped by centuries of fishing traditions. Barangays like Bagumbayan North and South, Bangkulasi, Daanghari, and Navotas East and West each have their own rhythm. North Bay Boulevard North and South are busy hubs, while San Jose, San Rafael Village, San Roque, Sipac-Almacen, Tangos, and Tanza give you glimpses of quieter, everyday life.
Map of Navotas City
What to Do in Navotas
Navotas City offers a slice of culture you can’t fake. Start with history, stroll past a mystery house, then head straight into the heart of the fishing industry. Here are some of the ‘tourist spots’ in Navotas.
San Jose de Navotas Parish Church
Standing since 1859 (with a reconstruction in 1964), this church has seen the city’s history unfold. It’s the kind of place where sunlight filters through old windows just right, creating a peaceful pause before your next stop. Wear modest clothing, and keep your voice down.
Century House
Somewhere along M. Naval Street sits the “Century House,” only partially visible from the outside, but still a cool stop for history lovers. You can’t go inside, though. Its capiz shell windows and vintage facade make it a quick and satisfying photo op outside.
Navotas Fish Port
This is the city’s heartbeat. On 47.5 hectares of reclaimed land, the Navotas Fish Port handles hundreds of tonnes of fish every single day. Arrive early to catch the action: boats docking, ice being shoveled into crates, and vendors negotiating prices.
Bulungan Market
Just a short walk from the port, the Bulungan Market gets its name from the whispering method traders use to bid for fish. It’s organized chaos: buckets of fresh catch everywhere, shellfish being cleaned, and the smell of the ocean hanging thick in the air. It’s a sensory overload in the best way. Just be ready for slippery floors and close quarters.
Where to Eat in Navotas
Samgyup sa Noah
Food here is all about comfort, flavor, and sharing with friends. Here are the top restaurants in Navotas if you’re planning to go on a Navotas food trip:
■ Pia's Boodle Fight
■ Ricafredo's Food Haus - Navotas
■ Phetron Restaurant
■ Samgyup Sa Noah
■ Bistro Kakamberta
Navotas Hotels and Accommodations
There’s no big Navotas hotel here, mostly Airbnbs and private resorts. That means packing your own travel essentials is smart, including your portable bath towel, since smaller stays may not provide towels.
■ Villas at Casadea
■ Esto Resort Private Swimming Pool
If you prefer a traditional hotel setup, nearby Malabon or Caloocan have more options, and you can easily commute to Navotas.
How to Get to Navotas City
From Manila, Radial Road 10 (R-10) takes you straight into the city. Jeepneys and buses from Quezon City, Caloocan, and downtown Manila also make frequent trips here, with tricycles covering the last stretch. Traffic can be heavy, so aim for off-peak hours, and keep your essentials close.
Explore Navotas City Today
By the end of your trip, you’ll have eaten well, met friendly locals, and maybe even picked up a few bargaining tips from the Bulungan Market. It’s a city that’s easy to explore in a day but leaves you wanting more. So hop on a jeep, and let Navotas show you its charm. Enjoy your trip!