Things To Do
in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa is a bustling city located in the province of Laguna in the Philippines. It is known for its rapidly developing economy, with various industrial parks and commercial centers attracting both locals and expatriates. The city offers a mix of urban convenience and natural beauty, with parks, gardens, and nearby tourist destinations such as Tagaytay and Mt. Makiling.
Santa Rosa also boasts a diverse culinary scene, with establishments offering both traditional Filipino dishes and international cuisine.
- "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): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Enchanted Kingdom for thrilling rides and attractions. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café to fuel up for the adventure.
Explore the local markets and grab some souvenirs to remember your trip. Have lunch at a restaurant serving local delicacies.
Wind down by visiting Nuvali for some scenic views and a relaxing stroll. Enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Visit the historical sites in Santa Rosa, including the old church and town plaza. A light breakfast at a local bakery will keep you energized.
Take a guided tour to learn about the local culture and traditions. Stop for lunch at a popular eatery known for authentic Filipino dishes.
Attend a cultural show or local event happening in the town. Enjoy a casual dinner with regional specialties.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pleasant climate with a mix of urban and rural living.
- Access to shopping malls, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
- Close proximity to major cities like Manila and Laguna, providing good job opportunities.
- Emerging economic developments and infrastructure improvements.
- Rich cultural heritage and community events.
- Traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for flooding in certain areas during the rainy season.
- Higher cost of living compared to other rural areas in the Philippines.
- Overcrowding as more people are drawn to the city.
Best Activities in Santa Rosa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a challenging hike and stunning views at Mount Batulao, which features a picturesque rolling terrain and a relatively easy trail for beginners.
Relax and unwind at Laiya Beach, known for its fine white sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and beach activities.
Explore the beautiful underwater world through snorkeling at Anilao, a popular spot for its rich marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
Places to Visit in Santa Rosa
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Santa Rosa and Laguna de Bay
Food in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Filipino staple dish made with marinated meat (usually pork or chicken) cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. It's best enjoyed at Kusina ni Kambal in Tagapo or Tahanan Bistro in Nuvali.
Must-Try!
A sour soup typically made with pork, shrimp, or fish, combined with a variety of vegetables and flavored with tamarind or other souring agents. Look for this delightful dish at Kanin Club in Paseo de Santa Rosa or Mangan Restaurant in Nuvali.
This iconic Filipino dessert is a delightful mix of shaved ice, sweet beans, coconut, various jellies, and fruits, topped with a scoop of ube (purple yam) ice cream. Don't miss the chance to savor this treat at Razon’s of Guagua in SM City Santa Rosa or Nathaniel's Bakeshop in Balibago.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience a wide array of street food and local delicacies as you stroll through this vibrant food bazaar located within the Enchanted Kingdom amusement park. From grilled skewers to sweet treats, the bazaar offers a variety of snacks and quick bites.
Every weekend, the Paseo de Santa Rosa comes alive with a bustling market featuring an assortment of local dishes, fresh produce, and artisanal food products. Indulge in street food such as barbecue, fish balls, and bibingka (rice cake) while exploring the market’s diverse offerings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Santa Rosa, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by deferring to their wisdom and authority.
Being punctual is a sign of respect in Santa Rosa, so it is important to arrive on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments.
When visiting public places or attending social events in Santa Rosa, it is respectful to dress modestly and to be mindful of local customs regarding attire.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Rosa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Santa Rosa, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some high-end restaurants or hotels, a service charge of 10% may be added to the bill. Otherwise, tipping is not expected but can be given for exceptional service.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in most places in Santa Rosa, Philippines. While credit and debit cards are accepted in some establishments, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for smaller vendors and transportation services. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Santa Rosa, Philippines is during the dry season, with warm temperatures and clear skies. Visitors can expect sunny weather, ideal for outdoor activities and beach trips.
During the wet season, visitors can expect occasional rain showers and increased humidity. This may affect outdoor activities, but some travelers enjoy the lush green landscapes and lower tourist crowds during this time.
Santa Rosa at Night
Hiking in Santa Rosa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning sea of clouds and diverse flora and fauna, Mount Pulag is the second highest peak in the Philippines and offers various trails for hikers of different skill levels.
Located in the Cavite province, Mount Marami is popular for its scenic views and rich biodiversity. The hike features a series of ups and downs, making it a favorite among adventurous hikers.
A favorite hiking destination near Batangas, Mt. Batulao offers a moderate trek with beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Batangas coastline.
As one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, Taal Volcano provides a unique hiking experience with its stunning crater lake and breathtaking vistas.
Located in Bataan, Mount Samat is home to the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) and features various trails with historical significance and spectacular views of the surrounding areas.
Aiports
How to reach Santa Rosa by plane.
Located in Manila, approximately 112 kilometers from Santa Rosa, this is the main airport serving the Philippines, with numerous international and domestic flights.
Located in Cebu, around 566 kilometers from Santa Rosa, this airport serves as a gateway to the central and southern Philippines, with both international and domestic flights.
Situated in Pampanga, roughly 90 kilometers from Santa Rosa, this airport is an alternative to Manila for international flights and is expanding its services.
Located in Davao City, approximately 963 kilometers from Santa Rosa, it serves as a hub for flights to and from Mindanao and offers international connections.
Situated in Iloilo City, about 614 kilometers from Santa Rosa, this airport handles both domestic and international flights primarily to Asia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Santa Rosa, speaking Tagalog as their primary language.
Residents of the nearby province of Cavite, which has a significant population in Santa Rosa.
A group originating from the Bicol region, some of whom have settled in Santa Rosa.
Ethnic group from the Ilocos region, present in smaller numbers in Santa Rosa.
People from the Visayas region, contributing to the diverse population of Santa Rosa.
The Chinese community, which has a historical presence in the city.
Various other groups and migrants from different regions and backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Santa Rosa, attracting players of all ages and genders. Local leagues and tournaments are frequently organized.
Volleyball is widely played, especially among women and youth. Community tournaments and school competitions are common.
Badminton has gained popularity, with many recreational players and organized competitions in clubs and local gyms.
Soccer is a growing sport in Santa Rosa, with local clubs and youth leagues encouraging participation.
Running events, including fun runs and marathons, are popular among residents, promoting fitness and community involvement.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Rosa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Filipino cuisine heavily features meats, many establishments in Santa Rosa offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for restaurants like Greens Vegetarian Restaurant and Café Breton, which offer a range of plant-based options.
Several restaurants and cafés in Santa Rosa accommodate gluten-free diets, serving dishes made from naturally gluten-free ingredients. Explore places like Nonna’s Pasta & Pizzeria and Early Bird Breakfast Club for gluten-free menu items and alternatives.