Things To Do
in Batangas
Batangas Province sits along the southern rim of Luzon, hugging the coast with a protected mix of beaches, lagoons, and volcanic landscapes. It’s famous for diving around Anilao, the dramatic crater lake of Taal, and heritage towns like Taal that preserve centuries of history. The coastline yields abundant seafood and warm Filipino hospitality, making it a popular weekend escape from Manila.
Its culture blends maritime traditions with agricultural roots, producing a relaxed pace, bold flavors, and scenic photo opportunities at every turn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the heritage town of Taal, known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and admire the intricate details of the Taal Basilica, one of the largest churches in the Philippines. Don't forget to stop by local artisan shops to grab some unique souvenirs.
After lunch at a local eatery, immerse yourself in the rich history of the area by visiting the Casa Villavicencio, a historic house museum. Engage with knowledgeable guides who will share fascinating stories about the family's role in Philippine history. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the Taal Market to sample local delicacies such as kapeng barako and puto.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet dinner at a lakeside restaurant overlooking Taal Lake. Savor fresh seafood dishes while soaking in the stunning views of the lake and the volcano. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront to enjoy the cool breeze and the charming ambiance.
Head to Nasugbu for a fun-filled morning at the beach, where you can soak up the sun on the pristine white sands of Batangas. Engage in exciting water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides, perfect for adrenaline seekers. Alternatively, you can simply relax by the shore with a refreshing coconut drink in hand.
After a hearty lunch of local grilled dishes, take a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant marine life at Sepoc Beach. Witness colorful corals and an array of fish species as you swim in the crystal-clear waters. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or participating in beach volleyball with fellow travelers.
As dusk approaches, enjoy a beach bonfire with friends or fellow tourists, sharing stories and laughter under the stars. Treat yourself to a delicious seafood barbecue prepared by local vendors along the shore. Cap off your night with a refreshing drink at a beach bar, listening to the sound of waves gently lapping the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride (3-6 km) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Hotel/guesthouse per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and beaches with reliable seafood
- Strong day-trip access to nature and cultural sites
- Excellent dive spots especially in Anilao
- Relatively affordable compared to Manila and resort towns
- Infrastructure outside major towns can be patchy
- Traffic near coastal routes and during peak season
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options in some towns
- Occasional weather disruption during the rainy season
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Po" - Please / respectful particle used when addressing elders or strangers
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang pinakamalapit na ospital?" - Where is the nearest hospital?
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Batangas
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand, centuries-old church set against the town’s historical houses and mount background—great for architectural and landscape shots.
A photogenic church complex with gardens, arches, and hilltop views—especially beautiful at golden hour.
Steep trail that rewards hikers with a dramatic, rocky overlook of Taal Lake and the sea on clear days.
Colorful boats and clear water make for stunning seascapes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Long white-sand shoreline with silhouettes of palm trees and boats at dusk.
Food in Batangas
Batangas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshwater sardine from Taal Lake, usually fried or grilled and served with lime.
Must-Try!
Steaming beef marrow soup with corn and leafy greens, a cooling coastal staple especially in cooler evenings.
Sticky coconut and glutinous rice candy rolled in thin coconut leaves, a sweet local treat.
Freshly grilled milkfish or other reef fish with a tangy dip.
Strong Liberica coffee grown in Batangas—perfect with breakfast or dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daily market with tawilis stalls, fresh seafood, produce, and local snacks.
Casual street food and grilled seafood along the coast, great for sunset snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite phrases like po/opo in conversations with elders or staff.
Dress modestly and remove hats when entering churches; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Greet neighbors, avoid loud behavior in residential areas, and ask permission before taking photos of people or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Batangas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. Round up bills or leave 5–10% at good service, especially in tourist areas.
Cash is widely accepted; major credit cards are common in hotels and nicer restaurants. Digital wallets (GCash, PayMaya) are increasingly accepted in cities and popular spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with little rain; perfect for beach days, water sports, and island hopping. Expect crowded weekends near Manila and higher room rates.
Frequent showers and possible storms; seas can be choppy but the landscapes are lush. Best to plan indoor activities or protected beach days, and watch typhoon advisories.
Milder temperatures and pleasant evenings; great for hiking in the mountains, coffee stops, and exploring heritage towns.
Batangas at Night
Hiking in Batangas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Classic Batangas hike with a peaks and Rockies viewpoint offering sea and lake vistas.
Coastal forest hike leading to rocky viewpoints and beach access near San Juan.
Accessible day hike with forest trails and hillside panoramas overlooking Batangas.
Airports
How to reach Batangas by plane.
Major hub about 2-3 hours away by road, depending on traffic; frequent domestic and international flights.
Alternative hub about 2.5-3.5 hours away, especially useful for travelers from northern Philippines or certain international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Filipino communities speaking Tagalog with regional dialects; strong Catholic traditions.
Many visitors come from Metro Manila seeking weekend escapes, contributing to seasonal population spikes.
Communities around coastlines and inland farmlands sustain traditional livelihoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among youth and adults; informal games and leagues are common in towns and barangays.
Anilao is renowned for macro photography and reef life; water-based sport widely pursued.
Local communities rely on fishing and small boat activities, with opportunities for coastal sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Batangas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-based dishes like veggie adobo-style stews or stir-fries; ask for egg-free options and lighter broths; many places can prepare meatless dishes if requested.