Things To Do
in San Felipe

San Felipe is a charming coastal town located in the province of Zambales, Philippines, known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by lush mountains and offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for tourists seeking both adventure and tranquility. San Felipe is particularly famous for its surfing spots, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through various festivals, delicious food, and friendly community interactions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Beach Day and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day at San Felipe Beach to enjoy the sunrise and some beach yoga. Afterward, have breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market, where you can shop for crafts and souvenirs. Then, take a guided tour of the nearby historical sites.

evening
:

Dine at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Go for a surfing lesson at one of the popular surf schools in the area.

afternoon
:

After surfing, grab a quick lunch and then head to the nearby hiking trails for an afternoon hike.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at local bars and enjoy live music or karaoke.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🚌Local Transport Fare$1
🏨Hotel Night Stay$30
Coffee$2
🍦Ice Cream$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
  • Friendly and hospitable locals
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious food
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Occasional heavy rains during the wet season
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities
  • "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Paalam" - Goodbye
  • "Ano ang pangalan mo?" - What is your name?
  • "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in San Felipe

Visit one of these nice places.

San Felipe Beach

Capture stunning sunset views and the pristine coastline.

Mount Pinatubo Viewpoint

A breathtaking vantage point to photograph the iconic volcano and surrounding landscapes.

Local Market

Vibrant colors and bustling activity make for great candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Felipe

San Felipe offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine.

San Felipe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sinigang

A sour soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and a variety of meats or seafood.

Must-Try!

Lechon

Roasted whole pig that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Pancit

Stir-fried noodles typically served during celebrations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

San Felipe Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Food Stalls at the Beach

Enjoy local street food like fish balls and banana cue along the beach.

Climate Guide

Weather

San Felipe experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season lasts from November to April, characterized by warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, while the wet season from May to October brings humidity and occasional heavy showers. Average temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F) throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders with respect, using terms like 'po' and 'opo'.

Dress Modestly

While on the beach, dress appropriately; at restaurants, casual but neat attire is expected.

Politeness in Conversations

Filipinos value politeness; greetings and small talk are important.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Felipe is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advised to take normal precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Always stay updated on weather conditions during the rainy season.

Tipping in San Felipe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some establishments also accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (March to May)

Expect hot weather perfect for beach activities and numerous local festivals.

Rainy Season (June to November)

Frequent rain showers; great for lush landscapes but outdoor activities may be limited.

Winter (December to February)

Cooler temperatures and dry weather; ideal for hiking and exploring.

Typhoon Season (August to October)

Possible severe weather; advisable to monitor forecasts and plan accordingly.

Nightlife Guide

San Felipe at Night

San Felipe's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with beach bars and local pubs offering live music, karaoke, and dancing. Many establishments cater to both locals and tourists, creating a friendly atmosphere. The beach is often the center of nightlife activity, where bonfires and gatherings take place under the stars.

Hiking in San Felipe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Tapulao

A challenging hike that offers panoramic views of Zambales and is known for its scenic trails.

Mount Pundaquit

A popular hiking destination with stunning views of the surrounding area and the nearby Anawangin Cove.

Airports

How to reach San Felipe by plane.

Subic Bay International Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from San Felipe, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Felipe is a relatively walkable town, with many attractions located close to each other. The streets are generally safe for pedestrians, and walking along the beach is a popular activity. However, some areas may require transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Filipino Locals

The majority of the population consists of friendly locals engaged in fishing, agriculture, and tourism.

Tourists

San Felipe attracts both local and international tourists, particularly surfers and beachgoers.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

A popular sport in San Felipe, attracting both locals and tourists to its waves.

Basketball

A widely loved sport in the Philippines, with many courts found in and around San Felipe.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in San Felipe is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes jeepneys and tricycles, which are affordable and a common way to get around. However, during holidays or events, traffic can become congested.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Felipe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Limited options; inform the restaurant in advance to accommodate your needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in San Felipe include a few clinics and a local hospital. For minor ailments, local clinics are sufficient, but for serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger hospitals in nearby cities like Olongapo or San Fernando.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide