Things To Do
in San Simon
San Simon is a municipality located in the province of Pampanga, Philippines. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, with several historical sites and landmarks to explore. The town is also famous for its agricultural produce, such as rice, sugarcane, and citrus fruits.
San Simon is a vibrant community with friendly locals and a lively atmosphere.
- "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: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the pristine beach, soaking in the sun. Enjoy a light breakfast at a local café with fresh fruits and coffee.
Spend your afternoon lounging on the sand or taking a dip in the clear waters. Consider renting a kayak to explore nearby coves.
As the sun sets, have dinner at a beachside restaurant savoring fresh seafood. Take a moment to watch the stars and listen to the gentle waves.
Begin with a trek to nearby hills for stunning views of the coastline and lush greenery. Pack a picnic breakfast for an energizing start to your adventure.
After descending, visit local waterfalls and take a refreshing swim in the natural pools. Enjoy some local street food for lunch from vendors near the waterfalls.
Return to San Simon for a quiet dinner at a local eatery. Enjoy the local flavors and unwind after an adventurous day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Natural beauty and scenic landscapes
- Friendly and hospitable locals
- Affordable cost of living
- Growing tourism industry
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities
- Job opportunities may be scarce
- Infrastructure development is still underway
- Vulnerability to natural disasters such as typhoons
- Transport options may be limited in some areas
Best Activities in San Simon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking and trekking to the summit for panoramic views of San Simon and nearby areas.
Relaxing on the beach, swimming, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Exploring the river by boat, bird watching, and enjoying the lush surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Simon with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Simon
Visit one of these nice places.
The San Simon Church offers a stunning historical backdrop for photos with its unique architectural design and picturesque surroundings.
Riverside Park provides scenic views of the river and the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal spot for capturing beautiful outdoor photos.
For an elevated view of San Simon and its environs, the picturesque Mount Arayat offers breathtaking panoramic vistas perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Food in San Simon
San Simon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory and tangy dish consisting of squid cooked in soy sauce, vinegar, and various spices. It's a popular local favorite and is often served with steamed rice.
Must-Try!
A sizzling dish made from parts of the pig's head and liver, usually seasoned with calamansi and chili peppers. It's a flavorful and spicy treat that's perfect for adventurous foodies.
A beloved Filipino dessert made with a colorful mix of sweet preserved fruits, beans, shaved ice, and milk, topped with a scoop of ube (purple yam) ice cream. It's a refreshing and indulgent treat for those with a sweet tooth.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Simon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of the town, the San Simon Public Market offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks. Visitors can explore stalls selling grilled skewers, traditional kakanin (rice cakes), and refreshing tropical fruit shakes.
For an authentic street food experience, head to the Lutong Bahay Food Stalls, where local vendors prepare an assortment of classic Filipino snacks such as lumpia (spring rolls), fish balls, and bibingka (rice cake).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Simon, it is important to show respect to elders by using respectful language and gestures. Elders are highly esteemed and their opinions are valued.
Hospitality is a key cultural norm in San Simon. Visitors are often welcomed with warmth and generosity, and it is customary to reciprocate this hospitality when visiting others.
When visiting or interacting with locals in San Simon, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending community events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Simon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Simon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in San Simon, Philippines, but it is appreciated for good service. A common practice is to leave a small amount, such as 10-20 pesos, for restaurant servers and hotel staff if the service was satisfactory.
Payment in San Simon, Philippines is primarily done in cash, especially for smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments and tourist areas. It's always good to have some cash on hand for transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Simon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit San Simon, Philippines is during the dry season, from November to April. This period offers sunny weather, clear skies, and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration. Travelers can expect warm temperatures and ideal conditions for beach trips, island hopping, and sightseeing.
During the wet season, from May to October, visitors to San Simon can expect frequent rain showers, high humidity, and the possibility of typhoons. While the countryside becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be limited due to the unpredictable weather. However, this period can be a good time for cultural experiences and indoor attractions.
San Simon at Night
Hiking in San Simon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its rich biodiversity, this national park features mountainous terrain and scenic hiking trails. It is a great spot for both seasoned hikers and beginners.
Famous for its sea of clouds, Mount Pulag offers a challenging hike with breathtaking views. The cooler climate and rich flora and fauna make it a popular choice.
Located on Sibuyan Island, this challenging hike is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a more rugged adventure. The trail offers stunning vistas and natural beauty.
With its beautiful beach and surrounding hills, Nagsasa Cove provides a unique hiking experience combined with relaxation by the sea.
A popular hiking destination near Nasugbu, Batulao is known for its peaks and picturesque views. Suitable for day hikes, it attracts many outdoor enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Simon through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Simon by plane.
Located in Angeles City, Pampanga, this airport is approximately 69 kilometers from San Simon and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Situated in Pasay, Metro Manila, this is the primary international airport serving the Manila area and is about 85 kilometers from San Simon.
Located in Subic Bay, Zambales, this airport is about 93 kilometers from San Simon, offering various domestic and limited international flights.
Although primarily a hub for the Caribbean, it is one of the larger airports in the region and serves as a connection point for flights to the Philippines.
Approximately 250 kilometers from San Simon, Dumaguete Airport handles domestic flights but also connects to international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group and language spoken in the Philippines, prevalent in the region.
Cebuano speakers are among the largest ethnic groups in the Philippines, with a presence in various regions.
This group has a significant presence in the northern parts of Luzon and can be found in San Simon.
Predominantly found in Central Luzon, including San Simon, known for their distinct culture and language.
An ethnic group primarily located in the northeastern regions of Luzon, with some representation in San Simon.
Comprising several groups from the Visayas region, some individuals may have settled in San Simon.
The Soul of San Simon
Discover the essence of San Simon through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in the Philippines, basketball is played in public courts and schools throughout San Simon, with local leagues and tournaments frequently held.
Volleyball is especially popular among women and is commonly played in schools and community events, with competitive teams often participating in regional contests.
Billiards is a favorite pastime and competitive sport in San Simon, with local billiard halls where players gather for both casual games and tournaments.
Sepak Takraw, a sport similar to volleyball but using a rattan ball and feet, is also gaining popularity in the area, with local competitions being organized.
Badminton is played recreationally and competitively in San Simon, with several badminton courts available and local clubs that organize events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Simon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many establishments in San Simon offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and ginataang langka (jackfruit cooked in coconut milk). It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining out.
Gluten-free options may be limited in traditional dishes, but some restaurants in San Simon can accommodate gluten-free requests. Dishes like grilled seafood, ensaladang talong (eggplant salad), and fresh fruit platters can be suitable choices for those avoiding gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Simon with these cultural adventures.
