Things To Do
in Santo Tomas
Santo Tomas is a quiet agricultural town in Batangas, situated in the rural heart of Calabarzon within a comfortable drive of Manila. The landscape is a patchwork of cacao and coffee farms, coconut groves, and rolling green fields that glow at sunrise. The town exudes warm hospitality and a relaxed pace, making it ideal for day trips, nature walks, and casual meals with locals.
Visitors can enjoy a blend of historic sites, a lively public market, and an authentic small-town Philippine experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the charming historic center of Santo Tomas, where the streets are lined with beautiful colonial architecture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Filipino dishes such as tocino and garlic rice. Afterward, stroll through the town plaza, taking in the sight of the iconic Santo Tomas Church and its intricate facade.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the rich history of the area by visiting the local museum, where exhibits showcase the town's heritage and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to chat with local artisans and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a refreshing buko juice while watching the local life unfold around you.
As evening falls, head to a local restaurant to indulge in a delectable seafood dinner, featuring the catch of the day. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, where you can enjoy the cool breeze and stunning views of the sunset over the bay. Cap off your evening with a visit to a local bar for some live music and a taste of the vibrant nightlife.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the stunning beaches of Santo Tomas. Spend the morning soaking up the sun on the sandy shores, or take part in thrilling water activities like jet skiing or parasailing. The clear blue waters invite you to dive in for a refreshing swim, making it a perfect start to your beach day.
After a morning of fun, grab lunch at a beachfront eatery, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies while overlooking the ocean. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or try your hand at snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life just beneath the surface. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a kayak to paddle along the coastline and discover hidden coves.
As the sun begins to set, join a beach bonfire event, where you can mingle with locals and fellow travelers while roasting marshmallows. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant, where the sound of waves complements your meal with a stunning view of the horizon. End the night with a stroll along the beach, under a sky full of stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch/dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚎Local transport (jeepney/taxi per ride) | $0.25-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed small-town vibe with welcoming locals
- Close access to rural landscapes, farms, and local markets
- Limited nightlife and cosmopolitan dining options
- Smaller selection of international brands and facilities compared to big cities
- "Kamusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pwede bang magtanong?" - May I ask a question?
- "Saan ang CR?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
- "Tayo na" - Let's go
Places to Visit in Santo Tomas
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial-influenced church architecture and a tidy plaza ideal for daytime and golden-hour shots.
Long, tree-lined lanes and patchwork fields perfect for wide-angle landscape photography and portraits with natural light.
Calm water reflections and rustic bridges create tranquil compositions, especially at dawn or dusk.
A pastel-coloured, historic façade offering characterful architectural photography.
Food in Santo Tomas
Santo Tomas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef marrow stew slow-cooked until tender, often served with leafy greens and steamed rice; a Batangas comfort food found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
A thick, glossy noodle soup loaded with pork, egg, fried garlic, and sometimes chicharron; a satisfying pick for cooler evenings.
Sun-dried or freshly caught fish grilled with citrus and a tangy dip, commonly enjoyed with rice and atchara (pickled papaya).
Strong, robust Filipino coffee made from locally grown robusta beans; best enjoyed black or with a touch of condensed milk.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, seafood, snacks, and everyday staples—great for sampling local ingredients and catching impromptu bites.
Casual vendors offering fried snacks like fish balls, kwek-kwek, and banana cue; ideal for a quick bite while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello or hello po/opo is appreciated; use respectful language when addressing older people.
Request consent before taking photos of individuals or intimate settings; some homes or ceremonies may have restrictions.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly inside places of worship.
Sharing food is common; join conversations, pass dishes to the left, and wait for the table to be ready before eating.
Safety
Tipping in Santo Tomas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated when service is not included; 10-15% is typical in restaurants and cafes.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets; many restaurants accept cards in town; ATMs are available in larger nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with abundant sun. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent rainfall and high humidity; carry a compact rain jacket and plan indoor alternatives for heavy downpours.
Pleasantly cooler and drier; excellent for hiking and photography with clearer skies and comfortable temperatures.
Santo Tomas at Night
Hiking in Santo Tomas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day hike offering scenic ridges and views over the Batangas countryside and, on clear days, Taal Lake.
Less crowded trails through forested slopes with rewarding overlooks; suitable for experienced hikers seeking quieter routes.
Airports
How to reach Santo Tomas by plane.
Main international gateway; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Santo Tomas depending on traffic.
Alternative major airport in the region; typically longer drive, but options for domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A strong presence of multi-generational households with a community-focused lifestyle.
Significant portion of residents engaged in agriculture and related trades.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and communities; local leagues and pickup games common in the evenings.
Popular in schools and community centers; casual tournaments and beach variants seen in nearby areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo Tomas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes lean toward meat or seafood; look for vegetable-forward options like pinakbet or laing, and ask for meat-free preparations or broths.