Things To Do
in San Andres
San Andres is a small coastal town located in the province of Catanduanes, Philippines. Known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, it is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The town is also surrounded by lush greenery and offers opportunities for hiking and exploring nature trails.
Visitors can experience the laid-back island lifestyle and sample fresh seafood at local eateries.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Kick off your day with a delicious local breakfast. Afterward, take a boat tour around the beautiful islands of San Andres.
Enjoy snorkeling at nearby reefs teeming with colorful fish. Don’t miss the chance to relax on the stunning beaches.
Indulge in a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Catch the sunset for a stunning view over the ocean.
Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise at Johnny Cay. Grab a coffee at a local café to fuel your exploration.
Visit the famous Morgan's Head and explore the history behind it. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing on its pristine shores.
Take a leisurely stroll along the beach as the sun sets. Stop by a local bar for some live music and drinks.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters.
- Rich marine biodiversity, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling.
- Laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor activities such as hiking and boating.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to more developed tourist destinations.
- Transportation can be challenging, especially for reaching more remote areas.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons.
- Healthcare facilities may be inadequate for serious medical issues.
- Limited options for nightlife and entertainment.
Best Activities in San Andres
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs surrounding San Andres with a scuba diving adventure.
Discover the beautiful neighboring islands of San Andres by hopping on a boat and exploring their beaches and natural attractions.
Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life while snorkeling in San Andres' coastal areas.
Unwind and have fun with friends or family by playing beach volleyball on San Andres' picturesque beaches.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Andres with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Andres
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the island and the surrounding waters.
Features crystal-clear waters, white sandy beach, and a beautiful backdrop for photography.
Natural hot springs surrounded by tropical foliage, creating a picturesque environment.
Food in San Andres
San Andres Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Filipino dish made with meat, usually chicken or pork, marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings, and then simmered until tender. Best enjoyed at local eateries like Adobo Express or Tita Rosing's.
Must-Try!
A refreshing dessert made with shaved ice, mixed fruits, sweet beans, coconut, and leche flan, topped with ice cream and various sweet toppings. Visit Razon's Halo-Halo for an authentic and delightful experience.
Crispy deep-fried pork belly, a Filipino favorite often served with a side of liver sauce. Local eateries like Nanay's Lechonan serve delectable versions of this classic dish.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Andres better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Visitors can savor an assortment of street food such as barbecue skewers, fish balls, and bibingka (rice cake) from various vendors in the market.
A hub for street food lovers, this area is lined with stalls offering grilled foods, traditional snacks, and refreshing beverages like fresh buko (coconut) juice and calamansi (local citrus) juice.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Andres, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper titles and addressing them with courtesy and deference.
Hospitality is highly valued in San Andres, and visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity. It's important to reciprocate this hospitality and show appreciation for the local customs and traditions.
When visiting San Andres, it's important to dress modestly and respect the local dress codes, particularly when entering religious sites or attending local events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Andres with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Andres
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most places in San Andres, Philippines. However, it is appreciated for exceptional service, typically around 10% of the bill in restaurants or for tour guides and drivers.
Cash is commonly used in San Andres, especially for small transactions. Some hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments may accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for daily expenses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Andres.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit San Andres, Philippines is during the dry season which runs from December to May. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm weather, making it perfect for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving.
Visiting San Andres, Philippines during the rainy season from June to November means you may encounter frequent rainfall and occasional storms. However, this season can also offer unique opportunities for surfers and nature enthusiasts due to the lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.
San Andres at Night
Hiking in San Andres
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the highest peaks in Luzon, offering a breathtaking sea of clouds and diverse flora and fauna.
A protected area in Mindoro, ideal for hiking and exploring rich biodiversity, including the endangered Tamaraw.
These mountains offer challenging trails with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the sea.
A popular hiking spot with various trails that provide scenic views of Laguna de Bay and Manila.
Features forested mountains and historical significance with several trails for a nature-filled hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Andres through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Andres by plane.
The main international airport serving Manila, located approximately 1,151 kilometers from San Andres, Philippines.
An international airport located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, about 597 kilometers from San Andres.
An international airport in Angeles, Pampanga, situated around 1,226 kilometers from San Andres.
The main airport serving Davao City, approximately 919 kilometers from San Andres.
An airport located in Basco, Batanes, around 1,248 kilometers from San Andres.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A small community mainly composed of locals engaged in fishing and farming.
The central area of San Andres where most commercial and administrative activities occur.
A barangay known for its agricultural activities and local markets.
A residential area with a mix of locals and newcomers, focusing on small-scale businesses.
A coastal barangay with communities relying on fishing and tourism.
The Soul of San Andres
Discover the essence of San Andres through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a widely popular sport in San Andres, with local leagues and community games being played regularly.
Football is gaining traction in San Andres, with many young people participating in organized matches and informal games.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and communities, often enjoyed during beach outings and festivals.
A traditional sport similar to volleyball, sepak takraw uses a rattan ball and is well-loved in the region.
With beautiful beaches, surfing is a popular activity in San Andres, attracting both locals and tourists.
Dancesport events are popular in the area, celebrating both traditional and modern dance styles.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Andres.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine prominently features meat and seafood, many local eateries and restaurants in San Andres offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for places that serve pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew), ginataang langka (jackfruit in coconut milk), and grilled eggplant dishes.
Cafes like Kape Tasyo provide gluten-free pastries and meals, and many restaurants are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs upon request. Seafood and rice-based dishes are also safe go-to options for those avoiding gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Andres with these cultural adventures.
