The Bicol region around Naga offers some of the Philippines' most dramatic scenery. The Caramoan Peninsula, about 100 km east, is the standout day trip: a coastline of limestone karst islands, secluded beaches, and clear water that was used as a filming location for multiple international Survivor productions. Getting there requires a combination of jeepney and banca boat, and the trip is long enough to justify staying overnight if possible.
Mayon Volcano in Albay province, the Philippines' most perfectly conical active volcano, is 80 km south of Naga near the city of Legazpi. The drive takes two hours and offers increasingly impressive views of the volcano on clear days. The volcano last erupted significantly in 2018 and remains active.
Lake Buhi is an hour's drive southeast and is notable for the sinarapan, the world's smallest commercially harvested fish — tiny transparent fish caught in fine nets and eaten whole. Boat rides on the lake are available.
Naga also makes a practical base for exploring the Bicol National Park and the slopes around Bulusan Volcano, though these require more planning and are better suited to longer stays.