Things To Do
in San Ricardo

San Ricardo is a small coastal municipality located in the province of Southern Leyte, Philippines. Known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, it serves as a gateway to various eco-tourism activities. The town offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Visitors can enjoy the local hospitality while experiencing the rich traditions and cuisine of the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore San Ricardo
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful San Ricardo Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the sunrise. Grab breakfast at a local café featuring traditional Filipino dishes.

afternoon
:

Take a boat tour to nearby islands such as Suluan Island, known for its picturesque landscapes and snorkeling opportunities. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the sun and sea.

evening
:

Return to San Ricardo and dine at a local seafood restaurant. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach under the stars.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Adventure
morning
:

Visit the San Ricardo Church, which showcases beautiful architecture and historical significance. Attend a local market where you can interact with vendors and sample local delicacies.

afternoon
:

Participate in a community workshop to learn about traditional crafts or cooking methods. Afterward, explore local hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Filipino dinner at a popular restaurant, followed by a visit to a local bar to experience the nightlife and listen to live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍚Meal at a local restaurant$3-5
Coffee at a café$1-2
🏖️Beach entrance fee$1
🚕Taxi ride within the town$2-4
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Affordable travel costs and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Occasional transportation difficulties.
  • Wet season may limit outdoor activities.
  • "Magandang umaga" - Good morning
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Saan ang CR?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Mahal kita" - I love you
  • "Paalam" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in San Ricardo

Visit one of these nice places.

San Ricardo Beach

Capture breathtaking sunrises and breathtaking seascapes at this serene beach.

Suluan Island

A stunning island with pristine landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

San Ricardo Church

Photograph this historical church, which showcases beautiful architecture against a backdrop of lush greenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Ricardo

San Ricardo boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects the local culture and fresh ingredients from the sea and land.

San Ricardo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kinilaw

A traditional Filipino ceviche made with fresh fish marinated in vinegar, lime, and spices.

Must-Try!

Pancit

A stir-fried noodle dish often served during celebrations, featuring vegetables, meat, and seafood.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

San Ricardo Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, seafood, and street food like isaw (grilled chicken intestines) and fish balls.

Climate Guide

Weather

San Ricardo experiences a tropical climate with two main seasons: the dry season from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) year-round. The dry season features sunny skies and low humidity, while the wet season brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet elders politely and use 'po' and 'opo' to show respect.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local homes.

Greeting Locals

A friendly smile and greeting are common; locals appreciate engagement.

Safety Guide

Safety

San Ricardo is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep valuables secure. It's advisable to stay informed about local weather conditions, especially during the typhoon season.

Tipping in San Ricardo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and bars, typically around 10% of the bill.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some establishments do accept credit cards. ATMs are available in town.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect sunny weather, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

Wet Season (May to October)

Prepare for heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons; some activities may be limited.

Festive Season (December)

Enjoy vibrant local festivals celebrating Christmas and New Year, with colorful decorations and events.

Summer (March to May)

Experience the hottest months with increased tourist activity and various summer festivals.

Nightlife Guide

San Ricardo at Night

San Ricardo offers a laid-back nightlife scene, with beachfront bars and local music venues. Enjoy listening to live bands playing a mix of traditional Filipino and contemporary music. While the atmosphere is generally relaxed, local festivals can bring vibrant celebrations with dancing and food stalls.

Hiking in San Ricardo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Iglit

A challenging hike offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and coastline.

Bunga Falls Trail

A moderate hike leading to the picturesque Bunga Falls, perfect for a refreshing dip after the trek.

Airports

How to reach San Ricardo by plane.

Maasin Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers from San Ricardo, Maasin Airport offers limited domestic flights and is the nearest airport to the town.

Getting Around

Walkability

San Ricardo is a small town, making it highly walkable. Most local attractions, markets, and restaurants are within walking distance, providing visitors with a pleasant experience exploring the area on foot. However, be mindful of the occasional uneven pavements and road conditions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Visayan People

The majority of the population belongs to the Visayan ethnic group, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Indigenous Communities

There are also indigenous communities in the area that contribute to the cultural diversity of San Ricardo.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a widely loved sport in the Philippines, with many local games and tournaments organized in the community.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is popular among locals and tourists alike, especially on the sandy shores of San Ricardo.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in San Ricardo is generally light, with most locals using motorcycles or tricycles for transportation. Public transportation options include jeepneys and vans that connect to nearby towns. Walking is a preferred method for short distances due to the town's compact size.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Ricardo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat-based broths used in noodle dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

While options may be limited, rice dishes are prevalent, and you can find gluten-free choices; just communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in San Ricardo is limited to local clinics and small hospitals. For more serious medical needs, visitors may need to travel to larger cities like Maasin or Tacloban, which have more comprehensive healthcare facilities. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide