Batangas is a province located in the southern part of Luzon Island in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning beaches, excellent diving spots, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage. Here are ten things to do in Batangas that will make your visit unforgettable:
Visit Taal Volcano
Taal Volcano is a small but active volcano located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. It is a unique geological formation as it is situated on an island in the middle of a lake, which is itself on an island (Luzon Island). This makes Taal Volcano the world’s smallest volcano in an island in a lake on an island. The main crater of the volcano is filled with water, which creates a stunning lake that changes color depending on the time of day.
Visitors can take a boat ride across Taal Lake to reach the island where the volcano is located. Once there, they can hike up to the crater’s edge, which offers a breathtaking view of the surroundings. The hike takes about 45 minutes to an hour, and the trail is relatively easy to follow, even for beginners. The view from the top is truly spectacular, with the stunning lake and its surroundings stretching out before you. Taal Volcano is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Philippines, and its unique location and breathtaking views make it a truly unforgettable experience.
Explore the historic town of Taal
The town of Taal is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. You can take a walking tour of the town and visit landmarks such as the Taal Basilica and the ancestral houses. Here are things to do in the historic town of Taal
- Visit the Taal Basilica, one of the largest Catholic churches in Asia
- Explore the ancestral houses that showcase the Spanish colonial architecture
- Learn about the town’s history and culture at the Taal Heritage Village
- Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the local stores
- Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the town to see the sights
- Visit the Galleria Taal, a museum that showcases the town’s photography history
- Attend the annual Parada ng Lechon festival, where roasted pigs are paraded around the town
- Visit the Marcela Agoncillo Museum, dedicated to the woman who sewed the first Philippine flag
- Take a side trip to nearby sites such as the Balisong Capital of the Philippines in the town of Taal
- Enjoy the local cuisine, including Batangas bulalo, lomi, and panucha
Dive in Anilao
Anilao is a small barangay in the municipality of Mabini, located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. It is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts due to its diverse marine life, clear waters, and beautiful coral reefs. Anilao is known as the birthplace of scuba diving in the Philippines, and it is home to numerous dive resorts and centers that cater to both beginners and experienced divers.
Aside from diving, Anilao is also known for its stunning beaches, hidden coves, and scenic views. It is an ideal destination for those who want to relax and unwind in a peaceful and natural setting.
From Batangas City, there are jeepneys and tricycles that go to Mabini, where Anilao is located. The journey from Batangas City to Mabini takes around 30-45 minutes.
Relax on the beaches of Nasugbu
Nasugbu is a coastal town located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. It is known for its stunning beaches, pristine waters, and panoramic views of the sea. The beaches in Nasugbu are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports activities.
One of the most popular beaches in Nasugbu is Calayo Beach, which features crystal-clear waters and fine white sand. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking in the calm and clear waters of the beach. The beach is also known for its stunning sunset views, which are best enjoyed while sipping on a refreshing coconut juice.
Another popular beach in Nasugbu is Papaya Beach, which is known for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters. The beach is ideal for swimming, beach volleyball, and other water sports activities such as banana boat rides and jet skiing.
Take a dip in Tingga Falls
Tingga Falls is a hidden gem located in the town of Laurel, Batangas, Philippines. It is a breathtaking waterfall that cascades down into a natural pool, surrounded by lush greenery and rock formations. The waterfall is relatively unknown to tourists, making it an ideal destination for those looking for a more secluded and peaceful experience.
The journey to Tingga Falls requires a short hike through a forested area, which adds to the adventure and excitement of the trip. The trail is relatively easy, even for beginners, and takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete. Upon reaching the falls, visitors are greeted by the sight and sound of the cascading water, creating a relaxing and serene atmosphere.
The pool at the base of Tingga Falls is ideal for swimming and cooling off from the heat of the day. Visitors can also climb the rock formations around the waterfall to get a better view of the surroundings. Tingga Falls is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.
Visit the Batangas State University Museum
The Batangas State University Museum is a cultural institution located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. The museum showcases the rich heritage and culture of Batangas through a collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. The museum’s collection is a reflection of the province’s history, from pre-colonial times to the present day.
The museum’s main attraction is its collection of pre-colonial artifacts, which includes pottery, jewelry, and other artifacts that date back to the pre-Spanish era. The museum also houses a collection of Spanish colonial artifacts, which includes religious icons, furniture, and other items that showcase the influence of Spanish culture in the region. Other exhibits in the museum highlight the cultural practices and traditions of the Batangueños, such as the famous Batangas barong tagalog and the traditional balisong knife.
Explore the Mt. Maculot trail
Mt. Maculot is a popular hiking destination in Batangas, offering visitors the chance to enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including Taal Lake and Taal Volcano. The hike through lush forests and rocky terrain is relatively easy for beginners, but can be challenging for others. At the summit, travelers can take in panoramic views of Batangas Bay and the nearby mountain ranges, and enjoy a well-deserved rest after the challenging hike.
For those who want to extend their stay, camping is allowed in the area. Travelers can set up tents near the base of the mountain or at the nearby campsites, and immerse themselves in nature. Mt. Maculot is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for an outdoor adventure.
Indulge in Batangas cuisine
Batangas cuisine is a delicious blend of local and foreign culinary traditions, resulting in a unique and flavorful food culture. The province is known for its excellent seafood, beef, and pork dishes, as well as its use of native ingredients such as calamansi, sili, and sampalok.
Some must-try Batangas dishes include bulalo, a beef marrow stew with vegetables, and lomi, a noodle soup made with thick egg noodles and topped with meat and vegetables. Adobo sa dilaw, a chicken dish cooked with turmeric, is also a popular local specialty. For seafood lovers, try sinigang na sugpo, a sour soup made with giant prawns and tamarind broth. And for dessert, there’s the famous bibingka, a rice cake cooked in clay pots with butter and cheese.
Where to Eat in Batangas
- Mataasnakahoy – Try the famous bulalo at Rose and Grace Restaurant.
- Batangas City – Sample lomi at the iconic Loming Batangas or sizzling bulalo at Kainan sa Dalampasigan.
- Lipa City – Enjoy crispy fried tawilis at Mangan Restaurant or authentic Batangas delicacies at Casa Marikit.
- Nasugbu – Savor fresh seafood at Sandy Beach Resort and Restaurant.
Attend the Maliputo Festival
The Maliputo Festival is an annual celebration held in the town of San Nicolas in Batangas, Philippines. It is usually celebrated every 9th of August and is dedicated to the maliputo, a unique and delicious fish found only in Taal Lake, which is considered a vital part of Batangas cuisine. The festival is a celebration of the town’s fishing industry and a showcase of its rich cultural heritage.
The festival features a range of activities, including street dancing, parades, cultural shows, and culinary competitions. One of the highlights of the festival is the “Kalutan ed Dalan” or “Cooking in the Street,” where participants cook and showcase their best maliputo dishes. Visitors can also enjoy fresh maliputo cooked in various ways, such as grilled, fried, and in soups, as well as other Batangas specialties like bulalo, lomi, and adobo.
The Maliputo Festival is not only a celebration of the town’s culinary traditions but also a way to promote its tourism industry. The festival attracts both locals and tourists and is an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the unique flavors and experiences that Batangas has to offer.
Relax in a hot spring resort
One of the main attractions of Batangas is its abundance of hot spring resorts, offering visitors a relaxing and therapeutic experience. The hot springs in Batangas are known for their healing properties, and many resorts have capitalized on this by offering spa treatments and other wellness services to their guests. The resorts vary in size and amenities, but they all offer a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to unwind and de-stress.
Many of the hot spring resorts in Batangas are located in the towns of Calamba, Los Baños, and Tanauan. Some of the popular resorts include La Vista Pansol, Laguna Hot Spring Resort, and 88 Hotspring Resort. These resorts offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly cottages to luxurious villas, and a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, jacuzzis, and hot tubs. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and kayaking, or simply soak in the soothing hot springs and enjoy the natural scenery.
