Things To Do
in San Agustin
San Agustin is a small coastal municipality in the Philippines known for its serene beaches and friendly locals. Nestled along clear turquoise waters, it offers a relaxed getaway with easy access to nearby islands and reefs. The town centers on fishing, fresh seafood, and a pace of life that invites slow exploration.
Visitors can enjoy simple, authentic experiences—from market stalls to sunset boat rides.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the San Agustin Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can marvel at the stunning Baroque architecture and intricate woodwork. Afterward, stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of the town center, taking in the vibrant local culture and colorful facades of colonial buildings. Don't forget to stop by local cafes for a taste of traditional Filipino breakfast, like longganisa and sinangag.
After lunch, head to the San Agustin Museum to delve deeper into the rich history and heritage of the area, showcasing artifacts from the Spanish colonial period. Spend some time at the nearby Plaza de San Agustin, where you can relax on a bench and enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with local vendors and street performers. As the afternoon sun begins to set, consider visiting the historic Casa de la Cultura to appreciate local art exhibitions.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling fresh seafood dishes like sinigang na hipon while listening to live music. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy the cool breeze and beautiful views of the ocean. Cap off your night with a visit to a local bar for a nightcap, mingling with friendly locals and fellow travelers.
Begin your day with breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can savor fresh fruits and local pastries while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean. Afterward, head to the famous San Agustin beach, known for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for a morning swim or sunbathing. For the adventurous, consider trying out snorkeling or paddleboarding, exploring the vibrant marine life right off the coast.
Post-lunch, join a guided boat tour to explore nearby islands, such as Calaguas or Marinduque, where you can discover secluded beaches and hidden coves. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the boat or at one of the pristine beaches as you take in the stunning seascapes. Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and taking in the beauty of the surrounding waters, with opportunities for beach games and relaxation.
After returning to San Agustin, unwind with a refreshing drink at a beach bar, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. As night falls, indulge in a seafood feast at a local restaurant, where you can try dishes like grilled squid and kinilaw. End your day with a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the sound of the waves and the twinkling stars above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $15-40 |
| 🛶Island-hopping tour (half-day) | $25-50 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1L) | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Fresh seafood and beautiful seascapes
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Infrastructure in remote areas can be basic
- "Magandang araw" - Good day
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pakiusap, maaari mo bang ipakita ang menu?" - Please, can you show me the menu?
- "Tulong!" - Help!
Places to Visit in San Agustin
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm evenings with colorful boats and golden light over calm water.
Shaded trails along mangroves with reflections and birds.
Weathered lighthouse with sea views and dramatic skies.
Vivid boats and working harbor scenes at the day’s end.
Food in San Agustin
San Agustin Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh fish cured in vinegar, lime, and coconut; best at the fish market or seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
A tangy fish soup with tamarind, vegetables, and herbs.
Grilled fish seasoned with calamansi and local spices.
A coconut-milk version of adobo with tender meat or seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant morning market with stalls selling fresh seafood, produce, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Beachfront stalls offering grilled fish skewers, cassava fries, and fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a smile and a simple hello; address elders with respect and polite language.
Ask permission before taking portraits of people; avoid photographing in restricted areas.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or village ceremonies; remove shoes if required.
Safety
Tipping in San Agustin
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in sit-down restaurants if service isn’t included; small tips for guides and drivers.
Cash is widely accepted; many shops and eateries accept card payments in town; ATMs are available in larger towns; carry cash for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with sunny days and light seas; ideal for beach days, island hopping, and snorkeling, though expect heat and humidity.
Occasional heavy rains and stronger seas; plan boat trips carefully and bring rain gear; humidity remains high with possible tropical showers.
San Agustin at Night
Hiking in San Agustin
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle trail along the mangrove-lined coast with opportunities for birdwatching.
Short uphill hike to a lookout over the sea and surrounding islands.
Airports
How to reach San Agustin by plane.
Closest regional airport with connections to Manila and Cebu; from there, ground transport to San Agustin is available by bus or van.
Mid-sized airport with domestic flights; longer road transfer to San Agustin.
Nearby island airport; travel via land/sea routes to reach San Agustin.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Cebuano-speaking fishing communities with a warm, family-oriented culture.
Smaller indigenous groups and farming families coexisting with migrant workers and visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, courts, and community centers.
Popular among youth and in barangays.
Traditional livelihoods and recreational trips on local waters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Agustin.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist with vegetables, tofu, and egg dishes; communicate no fish stock and no meat; rely on rice, fruit, and vegetables.