Things To Do
in San Ricardo
San Ricardo is a coastal town in the Philippines known for its warm, welcoming communities and abundant seafood. Nestled along serene shores, its simple charms include a bustling public market, palm-fringed beaches, and scenic river views. The town offers a relaxed pace of life with easy access to nearby islets and nature trails.
Visitors can experience authentic local culture through food, markets, and sunset moments by the sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the San Ricardo Church, a beautiful historical site that showcases colonial architecture. Admire the intricate designs and take part in a morning mass to immerse yourself in local culture. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Filipino breakfast at a nearby local eatery, sampling dishes like longganisa and sinangag.
Stroll through the historical streets of San Ricardo, where you can discover charming colonial-era houses and vibrant local markets. Engage with friendly vendors and taste local delicacies such as bibingka and puto. Visit the San Ricardo Museum to learn about the town's rich history and heritage.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a seaside restaurant with stunning views of the ocean. Savor fresh seafood dishes while listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore. End your evening with a stroll along the beach, soaking in the cool evening breeze and the starry sky.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the pristine shores of San Ricardo Beach. Spend the morning basking in the sun while engaging in beach activities like beach volleyball or simply lounging with a good book. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and paddle along the tranquil waters, immersing yourself in the natural beauty around you.
After a relaxing morning, join a guided snorkeling tour to explore the vibrant underwater life just off the coast. Marvel at the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine species as you swim through the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a picnic lunch on a small island, surrounded by the picturesque scenery of the ocean.
Return to the beach for a stunning sunset, where the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and pinks. Enjoy a beach barbecue dinner with fresh catch of the day as the sounds of the ocean serenade you. Cap off the night by gathering around a bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🧭Taxi (short ride) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Groceries (basic) | $15-25 per week |
| ☕Coffee shop latte | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, less-touristy destination
- Warm, welcoming locals
- Fresh seafood and regional cuisine
- Affordable accommodations
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Public transport can be infrequent outside town center
- Seasonal weather can affect travel plans
- Fewer English-speaking services in remote areas
- "Kumusta" - Hello; how are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Kaon ta" - Let's eat
- "Asa ang ...?" - Where is the ...?
Places to Visit in San Ricardo
Visit one of these nice places.
A long stretch of pale sand with palm trees and turquoise water—an ideal spot for sunrise and long-exposure seascapes.
Rugged river banks and banyan trees create intimate compositions for morning light and golden-hour portraits.
Coastal cliff with dramatic sea views, perfect for dramatic sunsets and wide-angle shots.
Vibrant market scenes with colorful produce and boats in the early morning—great for candid street photography.
Food in San Ricardo
San Ricardo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshly caught fish grilled over charcoal, often served with vinegar-based dipping sauce and rice.
Must-Try!
Ceviche-style raw fish marinated in vinegar, citrus, and chili, sometimes with coconut milk or ginger.
Classic Filipino adobo finished with coconut milk for a creamy, rich flavor.
Juicy prawns grilled with garlic and seasoned with local herbs; pairs well with rice and a squeeze of calamansi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh seafood, fish, vegetables, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for locals and visitors seeking authentic flavors.
Evening stalls offering fried fish, empanadas, cassava chips, and sweet treats with a casual, family-friendly vibe.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a smile go a long way; address elders politely and use respectful terms when speaking to locals.
Modest attire is appreciated when visiting churches and rural communities; beachwear is appropriate mainly at the beach and resort areas.
Ask for consent when photographing people, particularly children; some local areas may prefer not to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in San Ricardo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in larger establishments and tourist-oriented spots.
Cash (Philippine Peso) is widely accepted; many places in town accept credit cards, but smaller vendors prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny and pleasant for beach days, boat trips, and outdoor exploring; watch for heat and sun exposure.
Frequent afternoon showers and higher humidity; plan flexible outdoor activities and enjoy indoor or market-based experiences when rain occurs.
San Ricardo at Night
Hiking in San Ricardo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike with forest cover and coastal viewpoints; typically 2-3 hours round trip.
Coastal trail offering sea views and opportunities to observe local wildlife.
Airports
How to reach San Ricardo by plane.
Major Mindanao gateway with frequent domestic flights; typically accessed by road from the town in several hours depending on route and traffic.
Regional airport offering connections to Manila and other islands; longer transfer to the town but serves as an alternative gateway.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households are multi-generational; the town is family-friendly with safe, walkable streets.
A large portion of the local economy revolves around fishing and markets, contributing to a strong community vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and community courts; local leagues and pickup games are common.
Popular as a sport and training activity; occasional local events and gyms available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Ricardo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many places; look for vegetable-based dishes, tofu-based options, and rice bowls; request dishes without fish sauce or shrimp paste when possible.