LAGUNA
Laguna is the Philippines’ vibrant gateway to nature, blending breathtaking freshwater lakes with the therapeutic steam of volcanic hot springs. It’s a land of rich history, artistic heritage, and lush tropical landscapes just south of Manila.
This province is a serene escape from the urban rush. It is a destination of natural wonders, from the largest lake in the country to the scenic slopes of Mount Makiling and the historic sites of national heroes.
Most Popular Attractions
Lakes, Rivers & Waterfalls:
Pagsanjan Falls (Magdapio Falls): An iconic, multi-tiered waterfall famous for the thrilling “Shooting the Rapids” canoe ride through a deep gorge.
Lake Caliraya: A man-made lake with a serene, often misty atmosphere, popular for sailing, windsurfing, and fishing.
Seven Lakes of San Pablo: A cluster of small, deep volcanic crater lakes, including Lake Sampaloc (the largest) and Lake Pandin (known for its bamboo rafts).
Taytay Falls (Imelda Falls): A beautiful, cold-spring waterfall in the lush environment of Majayjay, known for its clear, clean water.
Hulugan Falls: A majestic, relatively hidden waterfall in Luisiana requiring a scenic trek to reach its base.
Bumbungan River: A scenic river in Pagsanjan where the famous rapids ride begins.
Hot Springs, Mountains & Natural Sites:
Pansol Hot Springs: A major area in Calamba and Los Baños featuring countless resorts with private and public pools fed by the natural hot springs of Mount Makiling.
Mount Makiling: A dormant volcano and protected forest reserve, famous for its rich biodiversity and hiking trails, including the trail to Maria Makiling’s Bath (a thermal spring).
Makiling Botanic Gardens: A research facility and public park in Los Baños showcasing a diverse collection of native Philippine flora and fauna.
Hidden Valley Springs: A secluded natural resort in Calauan with several pristine natural pools, including a soda pool and hot spring pools.
Historic, Cultural & Religious Sites:
Rizal Shrine, Calamba: The well-preserved ancestral home and birthplace of the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.
Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: A unique, historical, and highly photogenic 19th-century cemetery with a crypt located beneath the chapel, used as a secret meeting place by revolutionaries.
St. John the Baptist Parish Church, Calamba (Rizal Church): A historic church where Jose Rizal was baptized.
Diocesan Shrine of San Vicente Ferrer, Mabitac: A centuries-old, striking hilltop church offering panoramic views of Laguna de Bay.
Saint Gregory the Great Parish Church, Majayjay: One of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in the Philippines, established in 1575.
Paete Wood Carving: Visit the municipality of Paete, renowned as the “Carving Capital of the Philippines,” for its intricate wooden religious and folk art.
Urban & Modern Attractions:
Laguna Science Centrum: An interactive museum in Los Baños promoting science and technology education.
Southwoods City: A modern, integrated township featuring commercial areas, dining, and the Southwoods Mall.
Nuvali: A large, sustainable, and eco-friendly development in Santa Rosa offering boating, biking, and a large open field.
Museo ni Jose Rizal, Calamba: A modern museum near the Rizal Shrine detailing the hero’s life and works.
Splash Island: A large water park in Biñan offering numerous slides and water attractions.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Thrilling Boat Ride to Pagsanjan Falls (Cavinti Falls): Experience the traditional “shooting the rapids” canoe ride upstream on the Balanac River, passing through rocky gorges and lush vegetation to reach the magnificent waterfall.
Relax and Rejuvenate at a Hot Spring Resort: Spend a day or overnight in Calamba or Los Baños, enjoying the numerous hot spring resorts whose water is naturally heated by Mount Makiling and believed to have therapeutic properties. (e.g., Hidden Valley Springs, 88 Hotspring Resort).
Explore the Seven Lakes of San Pablo: Go on a driving or cycling tour to discover the seven crater lakes of San Pablo City, like Lake Sampaloc, Lake Pandin, and Lake Mohicap, often with options for swimming or bamboo rafting.
Go White Water River Rafting in Magdalena: Seek an adrenaline rush by riding the rapids of the Balanac River, with options for river tubing and even cliff jumping in this adventure town.
Hike up Mount Makiling: Trek the trails of this legendary, dormant volcano, known for its rich biodiversity, botanical garden, and spectacular views of Laguna de Bay.
Visit the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: Explore this unique historical landmark, a 19th-century underground crypt beneath a chapel where Filipino revolutionaries secretly met.
Discover the Pila Heritage Town: Stroll through the well-preserved Spanish colonial-era town center, declared a National Historical Landmark, featuring ancestral houses and the main plaza.
Go Canyoneering/Trekking to Hulugan Falls: Embark on a trek in Luisiana to see the impressive main cascade of Hulugan Falls, along with nearby Talay and Hidden Falls.
Have Lunch at a Waterfalls Restaurant: Experience a unique dining moment at a resort where you can sit with your feet dipped in running spring water while enjoying a meal.
Enjoy a Theme Park Day at Enchanted Kingdom: For a change of pace, visit the largest theme park in the Philippines, located in Santa Rosa, for thrilling rides and entertainment.
Try the Local Delicacies: Sample famous regional products like the sweet Buko Pie (young coconut pie), Espasol (sticky rice cake), and Kesong Puti (white cheese) from carabao’s milk.
Do Watersports on Lake Caliraya: Head to the man-made lake to enjoy activities such as jetskiing, windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, often available at lake resorts.
Local Tips & Transport
Bus is the Primary Public Option: For travel from Metro Manila (Cubao, Buendia, or Alabang), an air-conditioned bus is the most common and affordable way to reach major towns like Calamba, Los Baños, and San Pablo. The bus ride to Calamba (hot spring area) is typically 1-2 hours (approx. $4 – $7).
Tricycle and Jeepney within Towns: Once you arrive at a town terminal, travel within the area is best done via local Jeepneys (shared, fixed routes) or Tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars, used for private trips/short distances). Always agree on the fare with the tricycle driver before boarding, as they do not have fixed meter rates.
Driving is Convenient for Exploration: A rental car or private hire (like a van) offers the greatest flexibility, especially for visiting attractions spread out around the province, such as Pagsanjan Falls, the Seven Lakes, and various hot springs. Be prepared for occasional traffic congestion, especially on weekends and holidays.
Ride-Hailing (Grab/Taxi): Ride-hailing services are available for a direct and comfortable, though more expensive, trip from Manila, particularly to the Calamba/Los Baños hot spring area (approx. $15 – $20 one-way).
Hot Spring Etiquette: The hot springs in Calamba and Los Baños are often in private resort settings. Most pools are tiled, and many are chlorine-treated but fed by the natural hot spring water. Check the temperature before dipping, as some pools are very hot. For the best experience, consider a private pool rental (common in Pansol, Calamba) or a more natural setting like Hidden Valley Springs.
Philippine Time and Pace: Things may move at a more relaxed pace outside of the capital. Be patient with public transport and services, particularly in smaller towns.
Best Time to Visit: The hot springs are enjoyable year-round, but the dry season (November to May) is best for outdoor activities like hiking and visiting waterfalls, as the trekking paths are drier.
Waterfalls and Safety: When visiting waterfalls like Pagsanjan or Hulugan, listen carefully to local guides. The boat ride to Pagsanjan Falls is a thrilling but safe experience, guided by skilled boatmen. Be prepared to get wet, especially when riding under the falls!
Language: The local language is Tagalog, with the regional variant being a mix of Tagalog and other dialects. While most people in the tourism industry or younger generations can understand and speak basic English, using a few Tagalog phrases like Salamat (Thank you) and Magandang Araw (Good Day) is appreciated.
Hidden Gems:
- The Caliraya Lake Area: A secluded man-made lake offering a completely different vibe, with cool, crisp air, often referred to as the “Little Tagaytay” of Laguna. It’s a great spot for camping, glamping, and water sports.
- University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) Campus: Explore the scenic and lush campus nestled at the foot of Mount Makiling, a center for research and home to a beautiful botanical garden.
- Lake Pandin (San Pablo): Often considered the most beautiful and pristine of the Seven Lakes. Visitors can hire a bamboo raft, swim, and enjoy a picnic lunch prepared by the local community.
- Patis Tito Garden Cafe (San Pablo): A traditional house and art-filled garden that serves excellent local Filipino cuisine in a picturesque, relaxing setting.
Top Restaurants
Sulyap Gallery Café, Boutique Hotels and Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located in San Pablo City, this beautiful spot is set in a compound with restored heritage homes, serving traditional Filipino cuisine with a focus on local San Pablo specialties like Kulawong Talong (eggplant salad).
Patis Tito Garden Cafe [$25-$45] – An artfully designed cafe in San Pablo City, built with upcycled materials and surrounded by lush gardens, offering classic slow-cooked Pinoy dishes like Sinaing na Tulingan (slow-cooked tuna).
Calle Arco Restaurant [$20-$35] – A nostalgic house-turned-restaurant in Pagsanjan, set in a 70-year-old ancestral home that serves delicious, well-prepared Filipino home-style dishes like Pako Salad (fern salad) with Kesong Puti (white cheese).
Aurora Filipino Cuisine [$20-$35] – One of the oldest dining establishments in Santa Cruz, located in a century-old heritage home, known for serving elevated versions of timeless Filipino dishes.
Kanin Club [$15-$30] – Located in Santa Rosa, this place became a popular favorite for its creative Filipino rice dishes and modern interpretations of classics, such as Crispy Dinuguan (crispy pork in blood stew).
Kamayan sa Palaisdaan sa Bay [$20-$40] – A unique dining experience in Bay, featuring kubo huts “floating” on the water where you can enjoy a vast spread of fresh Filipino food and seafood, family-style.
Ted’s Kitchen Laguna [$15-$30] – Housed in an old rice mill in Santa Cruz, this spot exudes a rustic, nostalgic charm, serving Filipino and American comfort food.
Ding-Hao Chinese Cuisine [$15-$25] – A well-known local favorite in Calamba City since the 1980s, offering classic and comforting Chinese-Filipino dishes.
Barrio Fiesta [$20-$40] – While part of a chain, this branch often caters to local family gatherings and is known for its original Filipino classics like Crispy Pata and Kare-Kare.
Pabing’s Goto Bulalo sa Calauan [$10-$20] – A viral, must-try spot in Calauan for its legendary Gotong Kalabaw (Carabao meat rice porridge/soup), offering a rich, comforting, and very local experience.
Aling Taleng’s Halo-Halo [$5-$10] – An iconic and historic spot in Pagsanjan, famous for serving its traditional, refreshing Halo-Halo (Filipino dessert with mixed sweets and crushed ice) for decades.
Oro Restaurant [$15-$25] – A long-standing local favorite in Santa Cruz, known for its consistent quality and traditional Filipino offerings, frequented by residents.
IsKarGu Restaurant [$15-$25] – A “hidden gem” in Calauan that is lauded for its epic combo of Isda (fish), Karne (meat), and Gulay (vegetables), serving comforting lutong bahay (home-cooked) dishes.
Lolo Tuge [$10-$20] – A very local eatery in Pagsanjan that is a popular choice for authentic, no-frills Filipino meals and comfort food.
Emin and Mila’s [$10-$20] – Famous in the Pagsanjan area for their Sweet and Spicy Pansit (stir-fried noodles), a highly specific and beloved local specialty.
Riviera Restaurant [$15-$25] – An “OG resto” in Santa Cruz, well-regarded by locals for its classic Pancit and other traditional Filipino dishes.
Columbia Garden [$15-$25] – Another long-standing, original restaurant in Santa Cruz known for serving classic, comforting Filipino cuisine.
Elvira’s Halo-halo [$5-$10] – A popular spot in Lumban, highly recommended by locals for a delicious and traditional version of the famous Filipino dessert.
Ofreng’s Espasol [$5-$10] – Located in Lumban, this is more a local delicacy maker, famous for its Espasol (rice cake rolled in toasted rice flour), a quintessential Laguna treat.
Big Boss Lomi House [$10-$20] – A local go-to spot in various towns for Lomi (a thick, rich Filipino noodle soup), a favorite hearty meal, especially in the cool air of some Laguna areas.
The Rustic Bistro [$30-$50] – Found in Liliw, this restaurant offers a refined and modern take on traditional Filipino flavors, providing a fine dining experience in a charming setting.
The Pigpen [$30-$50] – Located in Nuvali, Santa Rosa, this popular spot offers delectable Euro-Asian dishes and comfort food, prepared with a focus on using fresh, local ingredients.
The Morning After Nuvali [$20-$35] – A charming all-day breakfast spot in Santa Rosa with a delightful garden-themed dining area, serving international breakfast favorites and Filipino classics with a modern twist.
Bonitos Bar & Restaurant Los Baños [$20-$35] – A versatile spot in Los Baños with a diverse menu, offering Filipino favorites, Asian comfort food, and Italian dishes, appealing to a variety of tastes.
Mamang’s Wood Fired Pizzeria [$15-$30] – A beloved spot in Biñan for authentic, artisanal pizzas, known for its commitment to quality ingredients and the distinct smoky char from its wood-fired oven.
Nonna’s Pasta & Pizzeria (Nuvali) [$20-$35] – Located in Santa Rosa, this Italian spot is known for making everything from scratch, including hand-pulled pasta, offering authentic, rustic Italian food with a fresh take.
Arabela [$20-$40] – An Italian fusion restaurant in Liliw that started as a small pasta and pastry stall, offering a variety of Italian dishes with a flavorful twist in a classy, homey ambiance.
Satya Graha Cafe and Restaurant [$15-$30] – A vegan-friendly establishment in Los Baños with an extensive plant-based menu and a pleasant al fresco dining atmosphere.
The Aviary Asian Fusion & Café [$25-$45] – Located in Santa Rosa, this place specializes in Asian fusion, blending flavors and techniques from various Asian countries for an exciting and inventive menu.
Crisostomo restaurant [$20-$40] – A Filipino restaurant in Laguna that is known for being an authentic, small, and non-touristy choice for quality Filipino fare.
Chef Chad Restaurant [$25-$45] – Offers a romantic and intimate dining experience, often serving food at quaint picnic tables, with a focus on thoughtful, quality cuisine.
Hygge Restaurant [$30-$50] – A sophisticated dining option in Laguna (Santa Rosa area), likely offering a modern, perhaps Scandinavian-inspired, cuisine and ambiance.
Bertie’s Artisan Bakeshop [$10-$20] – A charming spot in the area for its delectable cheesecake, artisan pastries, and good coffee, offering a cozy open-air setting.
Seoul Kitchen [$15-$25] – A cute little dining spot in Los Baños for a taste of Korean cuisine, described as bright and airy.
El Panchito’s Fil-Mexicano Resto [$15-$30] – A popular, highly recommended spot for Filipino-Mexican fusion dishes.
I Love Project Pie [$15-$25] – A casual, build-your-own pizza place in the Nuvali area, popular with the younger crowd and families for its fresh, customizable options.
The Coffee Project [$10-$20] – While primarily a café, their Santa Rosa branch offers a beautiful, cozy, and highly ‘Instagrammable’ space with good food and pastries.
Mamita’s Seafood Grill [$20-$35] – A local-favorite grill in the Los Baños area known for its fresh, grilled seafood and satisfying Filipino comfort food.
Superwok Modern Chinese Cuisine [$15-$30] – Offers a modern take on Chinese cuisine, serving familiar favorites in a contemporary setting.
Bulalo Fiesta [$15-$30] – A local go-to for Bulalo (a light-colored beef shank soup), a hearty Filipino dish perfect for the cooler weather around the Makiling area.
Faustina’s Restaurant [$20-$35] – A restaurant in the province with a lot of local history and a family legacy behind its cooking and atmosphere.
Kape Kesada Art Gallery [$10-$20] – Tucked in a two-storey ancestral building in Paete, this gallery-turned-cafe offers a mean brew, yummy pastries, and local kakanin amidst rotating art exhibits.
Isdaan Floating Restaurant (Calauan) [$25-$50] – A highly unique, large, and captivating dining spot (though semi-touristy) with over-the-water huts, known for its extensive Filipino menu and eccentric decor.
Kamayan at Palaisdaan Resto Resort (Bay) [$20-$40] – Similar to the above, this is a floating restaurant with kubo huts on the water, offering a unique, tranquil ambiance and serving Filipino cuisine.
Hidden Valley Springs Resort Dining [$40-$70] – More of an experience package, their day-tour often includes a well-prepared Filipino buffet lunch in a spectacular natural rainforest setting near Mount Makiling, after soaking in the hot springs.
Lola Mercy’s Kakanin Stall [$5-$10] – Located at the Sta. Cruz market, this is a highly localized and non-touristy gem for fresh, traditional Filipino kakanin (rice cakes/delicacies).
The Original Buko Pie Bakeshop [$5-$15] – An essential Laguna stop in Los Baños (though a bakeshop, not a full restaurant), famous for the freshest and best Buko Pie (young coconut pie).
Dalmatia Restaurant [$20-$35] – A local, non-chain restaurant that is consistently recommended for its solid Filipino and international menu, likely in the Los Baños or Calamba area.
Cena [$30-$50] – Located in one of the boutique resorts, offering a higher-end experience, focusing on local ingredients and refined international or Filipino cuisine.
Rico’s Café at Nena’s Sanctuary [$30-$50] – Located within Nena’s Sanctuary resort, this café offers a sophisticated and peaceful dining experience, often using fresh, local produce.
The Lakeshore Restaurant (Pueblo de Oro) [$25-$45] – Offers waterfront dining with a view, likely serving a mix of Filipino and international cuisine in a relaxed, scenic setting.
The Vineyard at Plantation Hills [$40-$70] – While technically slightly outside the core lake/hot spring area, this spot often provides a field-to-table dining experience with a beautiful view of a vineyard, focusing on fresh, quality food.
Tiaong Rural Kitchen [$15-$30] – A simple, roadside, very local eatery known for home-cooked Filipino food and specialties from the Southern Tagalog region.
San Rafael’s Kitchen [$20-$35] – Located in a quieter part of the province, this restaurant is known for its unpretentious, home-style Filipino cooking, often with an emphasis on hearty meat and vegetable dishes.
Amiras Food Hub [$10-$20] – A popular local ‘food hub’ or center in a main town like Los Baños or Calamba, offering a variety of local, non-chain food stalls and quick meals.
Travellers [$10-$20] – A straightforward, no-frills, local favorite in Pagsanjan for dependable and affordable Filipino meals.
3M’s Pancit [$10-$20] – A local spot in Santa Rosa, featured in vlogs, known specifically for its version of Pansit (Filipino noodles).
Minanok Recipe (Santa Cruz Area) [$15-$25] – A unique local specialty dish that can be found in restaurants like Aurora, made from banana blossoms, offering a flavorful and meatless take on Filipino cuisine.
Ginang-gang Eatery [$10-$20] – A simple, highly local, and affordable eatery known for its Filipino grilled dishes (inihaw) and comfort food.
Lola Nena’s Panciteria [$10-$20] – A classic, local noodle house (panciteria) known for its affordable and traditional Filipino noodles and short-order dishes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Anne’s Secret Garden Resto & Bar: Found in Biñan, this popular destination is known for its beautiful, glowing ambiance, including dome-style seating. It offers a lively spot for party drinks and good food, perfect for a vibrant night out.
H&B Restobar: Located in Sta. Rosa City, this spot is favored for its casual, welcoming atmosphere, often featuring acoustic sets or local bands, making it a great place to enjoy a beer or a simple mixed drink with friends.
The Hub Bar and Cafe: A popular hangout in the heart of Los Baños, particularly near the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) campus. It’s known for its chill vibe, affordable drinks, and occasional live performances, ideal for a relaxed evening.
Balay Dako (Tagaytay, near Laguna border): While technically in Tagaytay (Cavite), its proximity and spectacular views over Taal Lake make it a premier choice for high-end cocktails and local pulutan (bar snacks) just a short drive from Laguna’s western towns.
The Porch: Situated in Calamba City, this spot offers a more laid-back, lounge-like setting. It’s great for casual conversations over local beers and straightforward cocktails.
Coffee Lab & Lounge (CL&L): Located near the vibrant area of Los Baños, this establishment transitions from a daytime cafe to a cozy evening lounge, serving a variety of coffee-based cocktails and classic mixed drinks to a younger, hip clientele.
7/11 (Local Term): A common joke among locals, the numerous well-stocked convenience stores across Sta. Rosa and Calamba serve as impromptu late-night ‘bars’ for budget-friendly drinking, a quintessential Filipino experience.
Ambiance Resto Bar: Found in Sta. Rosa City, this bar lives up to its name with a stylish setting, offering a decent selection of classic cocktails and a lively atmosphere on weekends.
Kainan sa Kubo (Various Locations): While primarily a restaurant, many traditional “kubo” style eateries throughout Los Baños and Calamba offer local beers and spirits in a relaxed, open-air, cottage-like setting, offering a truly local “inuman” experience.
Moxie Bar: A hidden gem in Sta. Rosa, known for its slightly more refined interior and good service, it’s a suitable choice for those looking for a quiet place for a whiskey or a well-made Gin & Tonic.
Tambayan sa Laguna: Located near Sta. Cruz, this popular local joint is favored for its inexpensive food and drinks, functioning as a no-frills community bar where you can find simple mixed drinks and a friendly, local crowd.
Padi’s Point Calamba: Part of a chain popular throughout the Philippines, this spot in Calamba City offers an open-air setting, serving commercial cocktails and buckets of beer with a view and a lively, social vibe.
The Beer Garden (Los Baños): A staple in the Los Baños area, often featuring student crowds. It’s a straightforward bar with a focus on cold beer, cheap shots, and a vibrant, unpretentious college atmosphere.
Tipsy Pig (Nuvali, Sta. Rosa): Located in the upscale Nuvali area, this bar offers a slightly more modern, Manila-vibe experience with craft beers, elevated comfort food, and a more sophisticated cocktail list.
Chill Top Bar & Resto (Calamba): A good, mid-range option in Calamba offering standard bar fare, a variety of alcoholic beverages, and a solid place to hang out with a group.
Vibes Club: One of the more established and high-energy nightclubs in Sta. Rosa City (particularly in the Balibago complex), known for playing commercial, house, and EDM music, attracting a younger crowd ready to dance.
Blue Light Disco: A classic club destination in Calamba City, popular for its neon lights, loud music (often a mix of Pop, EDM, and local hits), and large dance floor, making it a reliable spot for a late-night party.
Prime Upscale Club: Located in the growing commercial district of Sta. Rosa, this club aims for a more premium experience, with modern lighting, VIP tables, and international DJ sets on occasion, catering to a sophisticated party crowd.
Pista sa Bahay (Club Setting): Often an event-based ‘club’ that pops up around Los Baños or Calamba, utilizing large venues for themed college parties or major holiday events, featuring local DJs and a massive party atmosphere.
The Stage Karaoke & KTV (Club Alternative): While primarily a KTV/Karaoke venue in Sta. Rosa, its main lounge area can often feel like a club with its sound system, flashing lights, and commercial music playing, a popular form of group entertainment.
Octagon Club: A smaller, more intimate nightclub in the Calamba area, which provides a dedicated space for dancing and high-energy music, often featuring local DJs spinning mainstream hits.
Balibago Strip Clubs (Local Complex): The area around the Balibago complex in Sta. Rosa is known for its concentration of entertainment venues, including a number of clubs and bars that cater to diverse tastes in music and atmosphere, from commercial pop to more specific genres.
G-Spot Bar and Grill (Los Baños): Though a bar and grill, its late-night atmosphere, especially on weekends, often transforms into a club-like environment with loud music and dancing, popular with the university student demographic.
Route 69 Bar: A music-centric club in Sta. Rosa known for its live bands playing rock, OPM (Original Pilipino Music), and pop-rock before transitioning to a full-on dance club with a DJ set later in the evening.
Sky Bar (Calamba, Rooftop Venue): Located on a rooftop in a Calamba commercial building, this venue transitions from a cocktail spot to a club-like environment late on weekend nights, offering music and a view of the city lights.
The Ruins (Los Baños): A spot popular for its alternative, rock, or reggae nights, which provides a high-energy “club” experience for a crowd looking for something outside the usual commercial dance music.