Things To Do
in San Teodoro
San Teodoro is a quaint municipality located in the province of Oriental Mindoro in the Philippines. This coastal town boasts stunning white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and diving. San Teodoro is also known for its lush forests and waterfalls, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
The town's relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make it a great destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe. Then, board a boat for an island hopping tour to explore the stunning beaches and clear waters.
Have a picnic lunch on a secluded beach surrounded by nature. Afterward, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs and discover the underwater beauty.
Return to San Teodoro and enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach. Relax as you watch the sunset, painting the sky in beautiful hues.
Savor a leisurely breakfast at your resort while overlooking the sea. Spend your morning lounging on the pristine beaches and soaking up the sun.
Grab lunch from a nearby beach shack and continue your day with watersports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Take a stroll along the shoreline as the tide rolls in.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant with fresh local cuisine. Cap off the night with a walk under the stars on the beach.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters
- Rich marine biodiversity, ideal for snorkeling and diving
- Lively local culture and friendly communities
- Affordable cost of living and travel
- Variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and water sports
- Limited access to modern amenities and services in some areas
- Potential for overcrowding during peak tourist seasons
- Infrastructure challenges, such as transportation and internet connectivity
- Environmental concerns due to tourism and development pressures
- Risk of natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes
Best Activities in San Teodoro
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs at Buhangin Beach, a popular snorkeling spot known for its crystal-clear waters.
Embark on an island-hopping adventure to discover the beautiful nearby islands, including Malapascua and Apo Island, known for their stunning beaches and diverse ecosystems.
Take advantage of the favorable wind conditions in San Teodoro for an exciting kite surfing experience, suitable for both beginners and experienced thrill-seekers.
Enjoy a fun game of beach volleyball with friends or locals on the sandy shores, a great way to socialize and stay active.
Go hiking in the nearby Mt. Iglit, where you can enjoy panoramic views and appreciate the rich biodiversity and wildlife in the area.
Unwind by the beach and experience breathtaking sunsets over the ocean, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure.
Dive into the stunning underwater world of San Teodoro with guided scuba diving trips, suitable for all levels of divers.
Places to Visit in San Teodoro
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of San Teodoro and the surrounding landscapes.
Features stunning coastal scenery and provides excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its picturesque views of the mountains and valleys, ideal for capturing beautiful photos.
Food in San Teodoro
San Teodoro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kinilaw is a Filipino version of ceviche featuring raw fish marinated in vinegar, calamansi juice, and spices. It's a refreshing and tangy dish often served as an appetizer. Head to the local beachside eateries to savor authentic Kinilaw.
Must-Try!
Adobo is a beloved Filipino dish that consists of meat (chicken or pork) marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves, then braised until tender. It's a savory and comforting dish that can be found at traditional eateries and home-style restaurants across San Teodoro.
Lechon is a festive staple in Filipino gatherings. It is a whole roasted pig, resulting in crispy skin and succulent meat. Visitors can relish this delicacy at local fiestas and special occasions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The San Teodoro Public Market is a vibrant hub where visitors can immerse themselves in a kaleidoscope of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food. Here, explore stalls offering grilled seafood, tropical fruits, and street-style barbecue.
For an authentic street food experience, don't miss the Bulalohan. This is where you can sample the famed Filipino beef shank and marrow stew called Bulalo, alongside an array of grilled skewers and native delicacies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When interacting with locals in San Teodoro, it is customary to use polite greetings. A simple 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon' in Filipino (e.g., 'Magandang umaga' or 'Magandang hapon') is appreciated. Handshakes are common, and it's polite to use both hands when greeting elders.
San Teodoro has a tropical climate, but it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or local communities. Wearing lightweight, respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees is advised as a sign of respect for local customs.
When dining with locals, it is polite to wait for the host to begin eating before you start. It's also common to be offered food multiple times; you may politely decline a few times before accepting. Use the right hand when eating, as this is a customary practice in Filipino culture.
Safety
Tipping in San Teodoro
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Teodoro, tipping is not a strict requirement, but it is often appreciated for good service, especially in restaurants and hospitality. A standard tip ranges from 10% to 15% of the total bill. In some areas, small gratuities may also be given to tour guides, taxi drivers, and hotel staff.
Payment methods in San Teodoro typically include cash, as many local businesses are not equipped for card transactions. However, some establishments, especially resorts and larger restaurants, may accept credit and debit cards. It is advisable to carry local currency, the Philippine Peso, and use ATMs for cash withdrawal when necessary.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for sunny weather and outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and beach hopping. Expect clear skies and warm temperatures.
Expect heavy rainfall, occasional typhoons, and rough sea conditions. Not the best time for outdoor activities, but a good time for surfing due to the bigger waves.
San Teodoro at Night
Hiking in San Teodoro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected area with diverse flora and fauna, offering challenging trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
A popular hiking destination that provides scenic views of Taal Lake and the unique volcanic landscape, suitable for moderate hikers.
A beautiful trail that showcases the rich biodiversity of the region, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Known for its sea of clouds, this park offers breathtaking views and a variety of trails ranging from easy to challenging.
This prominent mountain in Central Luzon features well-marked trails and a chance to see local wildlife and unique vegetation.
Aiports
How to reach San Teodoro by plane.
Located in Manila, approximately 935 kilometers from San Teodoro, it serves as the main international gateway to the Philippines.
Situated in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, around 680 kilometers from San Teodoro, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Pampanga, about 900 kilometers from San Teodoro, it handles international and domestic flights and is a key hub north of Manila.
Situated in Davao City, approximately 525 kilometers from San Teodoro, it offers international flights, primarily connecting to Asian destinations.
Located in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, about 530 kilometers from San Teodoro, this airport serves international flights and is a gateway to Palawan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnolinguistic group in the Philippines, the Tagalog people primarily inhabit the regions of Luzon, including San Teodoro.
A prominent group in the northern regions of Luzon, they have a significant presence in various communities in San Teodoro.
Originating from the Visayas region, Cebuanos may also be found in San Teodoro due to migration and labor opportunities.
A diverse group that includes various ethnicities from the Visayas region, they contribute to the demographic makeup of San Teodoro.
People from Mindanao who may have settled in San Teodoro for work or educational opportunities, adding to the multicultural fabric.
An indigenous group in the Philippines, Aetas, though fewer in number, are part of the country's rich cultural diversity.
The Chinese community has had a long-standing presence in the Philippines, contributing to the local economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the Philippines, including San Teodoro, with many local leagues and pickup games played in schools and community courts.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women, with numerous community tournaments and school competitions throughout the region.
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball and using feet, knees, and head, is popular in the Philippines and enjoyed in San Teodoro.
Running events and fun runs are frequently held, promoting health and fitness among the local community.
With access to beautiful beaches, surfing has become increasingly popular in coastal areas near San Teodoro, attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Teodoro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the traditional Filipino diet leans heavily towards meat and seafood, several eateries in San Teodoro offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for establishments where you can enjoy fresh tropical salads, grilled vegetables, and flavorful meat-free stews.
For those with gluten restrictions, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out. Some restaurants in San Teodoro may be able to accommodate gluten-free requests by offering rice-based dishes, fresh seafood, and fruit-based desserts.