Marikina River Activities and Things to Do

(SPOT.ph) To the uninitiated, the Marikina River is merely a body of water they see as they pass through the city's bridge. For many living outside Marikina, it's a gauge for how badly affected Metro Manila is when a typhoon strikes. Frequented by locals and visitors alike, the river bank is actually brimming with life—though far from the neon-tinged action of Poblacion and the hustle and bustle of Cubao. You could say it breathes with a low, gentle hum.

Construction is ongoing for the river as part of the city's efforts to maintain pipes and surrounding infrastructure, along with dredging projects to prevent overflow during the rainy season. Still, there's plenty of space to frolic around and for walking about. In case you're planning to bring a car with family and friends, there's parking along the river. It's P20 per hour and P15 per succeeding hour. If you're taking a Grab or getting dropped off, most people get off at the LTO Office and walk from there. Here are some things you can do along the Marikina River if you seek a change of pace.

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Unwind along Marikina River with these activities

Go on a jog

We fancy a leisurely walk, but you can also break a sweat riverside. The terrain is pretty flat with a few inclines you can take on if you're up for a bigger challenge. Depending on the time you go, it can get hotter past 10 a.m. and cooler in the afternoons, around 3 p.m., but you'll have to dodge people like an obstacle course. Best time to go is really early in the morning—6 to 8 a.m. is a sweet spot—when it's cool and bright enough for a good post-run photo.

Bike along the river

Picked up biking over the lockdowns? You'll be happy to know that Marikina is a bike-friendly city and its river a safe space for cyclists. Residents bring out their bikes at any time of day, and you'll also spot people from different cities passing by or making a quick stop by the river. Same with walking or jogging, the terrain is flat and even, so your wheels own't get stuck while you take in the scene. We even spotted some furry friends riding with their humans!

Rent a bike

If you don't have your own bike, you can rent a bike by the hour from Danrick's Bike Rental. It's P50 per hour and P80 per hour for a sidecar. You can take your pick from any of the available bikes, all of which have tiny baskets upfront for your bag, belongings, or pet in case you want to take them along for the ride. The sidecar is popular choice for couples of all ages—from teens looking to date to the elderly just cruising by—but we make a case for renting a sidecar with friends and family.

Recharge at the Chinese Pagoda

Rest and catch your breath at the Chinese Pagoda a little further down the river. It's mostly bikers chilling together, but you're welcome to take a spot and relax as needed. You can't miss it with its giant red gate, golden dragon statue, and the pagoda itself (which is surrounded by smaller trees, but trust when we say it's there). Kapitan Kape is nestled at the side and serves a cup of joe if you're looking for a caffeine boost.

Buy vegetables or plants

Should you find yourself at the park early, don't miss out on fresh produce from residents and Marikina natives selling them. Every day yields a different selection of vegetables and wares, so what you see now might not be here tomorrow. We spotted kangkong, sitaw, corn, tomatoes, squash, and eggplants—the perfect base for any local vegetable dish, but we also spotted an eager crowd around a guy's pots of cacti and small plants.

Dance your heart out

Arrive early enough and you'll spot a squad of people dancing Zumba, doing synchronized exercises, or just busting a move to loud music. They come in groups dressed in colorful leggings and fitness gear, so feel free to come decked in your brightest and comfiest outfit. There's somebody leading a dance or a workout every day and you can join midway, just be sure to hand them the fee after the session, which is usually around the P40 mark.

Bring your dog

Furry friends are welcome along the river, as long as they're okay with people and other dogs or cats. Plenty of people take their dogs walking in the morning when the pavement is cool to the touch and the area is relatively calmer. It's great for socializing your pets and a good way for you to get your steps in. Watch out for community dog walks, where owners bring their pets and walk along the river as one pack.

Picnic with friends

A huge portion of the river is unfortunately closed, but there are still green spaces and public huts and chair that can accommodate a fun get-together or potluck with friends. Just be sure to bring a trash bag if you're bringing in lots of disposable utensils and be mindful of proper waste disposal.

Eat anytime of day

Food is readily available along the river courtesy of the restaurants and eateries serving local eats all day long. Start your morning at Colleen's goto for the usual goto or tokwa't baboy, or head on over to Boy Nita Ihawan for grilled food and all the silog combos you can think of. Fancy something more laidback and aesthetic? Drop by Jardin ni Lola for some drinks as you unwind. Only a few spots are open in the early morning, with most opening later in the day for lunch and dinner. Still, there are also joints meant for the livelier crowds at night while the other food spots are already closed.

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