Things To Do
in Santa

Santa, Philippines is a charming coastal municipality located in the province of Ilocos Sur. Known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage, Santa offers a relaxing getaway for both locals and tourists alike. The area is dotted with historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and stunning natural scenery, making it a perfect destination for adventure and exploration.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities while immersing themselves in the local culture and cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Santa's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Santa Maria Church, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to taste fresh seafood and sample local delicacies while interacting with friendly vendors.

evening
:

Enjoy a sunset stroll along the beach, followed by dinner at a seaside restaurant that offers traditional Ilocano dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby hills, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Santa Waterfalls for a refreshing swim and picnic in nature.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with a lively evening at a local bar, enjoying music and drinks with the locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee at a Cafe$2
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$3
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$25
🌮Street Food Snack$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Occasional language barrier for non-Filipino speakers
  • Weather can be unpredictable during the wet season
  • "Kamusta" - Hello
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Saan ang CR?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
  • "Pakiusap" - Please

Places to Visit in Santa

Visit one of these nice places.

Santa Maria Church

Capture the stunning baroque architecture of this historic church.

Santa Beach

A picturesque beach perfect for sunset photography.

Baluarte Viewpoint

An elevated spot offering breathtaking views of the coastline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Santa

Santa offers a delightful culinary experience with its array of local dishes, fresh seafood, and vibrant street food culture.

Santa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bagnet

Crispy pork belly served with a side of vinegar for dipping.

Must-Try!

Pinakbet

A vegetable dish made with local produce and shrimp paste.

Empanada

A savory pastry filled with meat, veggies, and egg.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Santa Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls.

Beachfront Food Stalls

Various stalls along the beach serving grilled seafood and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Santa experiences a tropical climate with a wet season and a dry season. During the dry season (November to April), expect warm temperatures averaging 27-32°C (81-90°F), ideal for beach activities. The wet season (May to October) brings higher humidity and rainfall, with temperatures averaging 24-30°C (75-86°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Local Customs

Always greet locals politely and show respect for their traditions.

Dress Modestly

When visiting religious sites, wear appropriate clothing.

Politeness in Conversation

Use 'po' and 'opo' in conversations to show respect, especially to elders.

Safety Guide

Safety

Santa is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take common safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, keep your belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings. It's also wise to stay updated on local weather conditions during the rainy season.

Tipping in Santa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; some restaurants and shops accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect warm and sunny weather, ideal for beach activities.

Wet Season (May - October)

Rainy weather is common; expect occasional storms and cooler temperatures.

Festival Season (January)

Experience local festivals with vibrant street parades and cultural events.

Harvest Season (September - October)

Enjoy fresh produce and participate in local harvest celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Santa at Night

Santa's nightlife is laid-back, with a few bars and beachside lounges where locals and tourists gather. Enjoy live music, karaoke, and dance the night away under the stars. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Santa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Santo Tomas

A popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers.

Bantay Hills

Provides a more challenging hike with rewarding vistas of the nearby towns and coastline.

Airports

How to reach Santa by plane.

Laoag International Airport

Located approximately 78km from Santa, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Santa is fairly walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and markets are located. Sidewalks are present, but it's best to be cautious of traffic. The beach areas also provide great walking paths for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ilocanos

The primary ethnic group in the area, known for their rich cultural traditions and agricultural practices.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations who come to explore the natural beauty and heritage of Santa.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

A favorite pastime among locals, with courts found in almost every neighborhood.

Surfing

The beaches near Santa are popular for surfing, especially during the typhoon season.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Santa is generally light, with most locals using motorcycles or tricycles to get around. Public transportation options include jeepneys, which are an affordable way to travel to nearby towns. During peak hours, traffic can get congested, but it's manageable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask the staff for options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but fresh fruits and grilled seafood are safe choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Santa are basic, with a few local clinics and a small hospital. For serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to larger cities such as Vigan or Laoag. Travelers should have health insurance and consider bringing necessary medications.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide