Things To Do
in San Carlos
San Carlos is a coastal city located on the island of Negros in the Philippines. It is known for its vibrant agriculture industry, particularly for sugar cane production. The city offers beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming and diving.
San Carlos is also recognized for its warm and welcoming community, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café. Afterwards, take a peaceful stroll along the scenic San Carlos Bay and enjoy the views.
Visit the San Carlos City Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Grab lunch at a seaside restaurant and try fresh seafood dishes.
Enjoy the sunset at the bay, which is a perfect backdrop for some stunning photos. Wind down with dinner at a nearby restaurant overlooking the water.
Head to the nearest beach and soak up the morning sun. Bring along a good book and relax under the shade of a palm tree.
Enjoy a beachside picnic with local snacks and refreshments. Participate in beach activities like volleyball or snorkeling to make the most of your afternoon.
Watch the twilight settle in as you take a leisurely walk along the shore. Cap off the day with a seaside barbecue with friends or family.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas.
- Growing tourism and business opportunities.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services in some areas.
- Potential issues with infrastructure and transportation.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes.
- Job opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Healthcare facilities may not be as advanced as in urban centers.
Best Activities in San Carlos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful underwater world around San Carlos through scuba diving. The area is known for its rich marine biodiversity and clear waters, making it a great destination for diving enthusiasts.
Enjoy the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life by going snorkeling in the waters around San Carlos. The shallow reefs offer an opportunity to observe colorful fish and other marine creatures.
Embark on a boat tour to visit the picturesque islands near San Carlos. Discover secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes while island hopping.
Experience the beauty of the coastline by camping on the beaches around San Carlos. Enjoy a night under the stars, build a bonfire, and wake up to the sound of waves.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Carlos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Carlos
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Batangas and Balayan Bay, perfect for sunrise and sunset photography
Known for its picturesque crater lake and stunning viewpoint from the ridge
Boasts a scenic view of the Batulao mountains and lush gardens, ideal for photography
Food in San Carlos
San Carlos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole spit-roasted chicken marinated in a blend of spices and tangy flavors. Best enjoyed at Rico's Lechon or at local food stalls during festivals.
Must-Try!
Crispy shrimp fritters made with small shrimps, grated squash, and a light batter. Head to the San Carlos Public Market for the best street-style Bogoy.
A Filipino classic of tender meat (chicken or pork) marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic then simmered to perfection. Look for it at local eateries like Casa Vermosa.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Carlos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide variety of local street food including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to taste authentic Filipino street food here.
Along the riverside, you'll find an array of BBQ stalls offering freshly grilled seafood, chicken, and pork skewers. The ambiance and the taste make this an essential experience for food enthusiasts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Carlos, Philippines, it is important to show respect to elders by using respectful language and gestures. It is customary to greet elders first and offer a hand to kiss as a sign of respect.
When visiting San Carlos, it is important to dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in traditional events. This means covering the shoulders and knees, and avoiding revealing or tight clothing.
When dining in San Carlos, it is customary to wait to be seated and to wait for the eldest or most senior person to begin eating before starting the meal. It is also polite to sample all the dishes that are offered.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Carlos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Carlos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in San Carlos, Philippines. While it is appreciated in upscale restaurants and hotels, it is not expected in most situations.
Cash is widely used for payment in San Carlos, Philippines. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller businesses or local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Carlos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit San Carlos is during the dry season which runs from November to April. Expect sunny and warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.
During the wet season from May to October, expect heavy rainfall and potential typhoons. This season may not be ideal for outdoor activities, but it's a good time for agriculture enthusiasts to witness the lush greenery.
San Carlos at Night
Hiking in San Carlos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination in Benguet, known for its cool climate and stunning sea of clouds, Mt. Pulag offers various trails with breathtaking views.
Located in Mindoro, this national park features rugged mountains and diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for adventurous hikers.
An iconic volcano located in Batangas, Taal offers hiking trails that lead to the crater, providing spectacular views of the surrounding lake and landscape.
Known for its rolling hills and varied terrain, Mt. Batulao in Nasugbu, Batangas is ideal for day hikes and has multiple trails of varying difficulty.
This hiking destination in Maragondon, Cavite features a prominent monolith and offers scenic views from the summit, along with lush greenery along the trails.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Carlos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Carlos by plane.
Located in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, this is the second largest international airport in the Philippines and serves numerous domestic and international flights.
Located in Pampanga, it is an international airport that serves the Central Luzon region and is a major gateway for travelers going to and from Metro Manila.
Located in Pasay City, Manila, this is the main international gateway to the Philippines and one of the busiest airports in Asia.
Located in Davao City, this is one of the major international airports serving Mindanao and has several international and domestic connections.
Located in Iloilo City, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, making it an important regional hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group, encompassing various sub-groups and local cultures.
A significant ethnic group in the region, known for their agricultural and fishing practices.
Another major ethnic group, often involved in trade and commerce within the town.
A demographic group that has migrated from the Visayas and contributes to the cultural diversity of San Carlos.
An influential community in business and trade, contributing to the economic landscape of the area.
An indigenous group that historically inhabited areas surrounding San Carlos, though their population is relatively small.
The Soul of San Carlos
Discover the essence of San Carlos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in San Carlos, with many local courts and leagues for both youth and adults.
Football has a significant following, with schools and clubs promoting the sport among children and teenagers.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women, with various community teams and school competitions.
Badminton is a popular recreational sport in San Carlos, enjoyed in both casual settings and organized competitions.
Running and jogging are common activities, with several events held throughout the year, promoting health and fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Carlos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine leans heavily on meat, many local eateries and restaurants in San Carlos are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans. Dishes like Pinakbet (mixed vegetables) and Tofu Adobo are excellent choices.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes such as seafood sinigang (sour soup) or grilled seafood. Additionally, international restaurants and cafes often offer gluten-free alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Carlos with these cultural adventures.
