Famous Tourist Destinations in Southern Luzon
When it comes to beautiful tourist destinations, there’s no shortage in the Philippines. From Luzon to Visayas to Mindanao, each region has their own wonderful tourist attractions. In this article, we are going to present to you the famous tourist destinations in South Luzon that are definitely worth visiting.
Everyone who has gone to the region has their own favorite destinations. What’s on your list? Here’s ours.
Top Tourist Destinations in South Luzon
Scroll down for videos
Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite
One of the must-visit tourist destinations in South Luzon is this mansion in Kawit, Cavite. It once belonged to Emilio Aguinaldo, the Philippines’s first president. For that alone, the place is worth visiting. But this structure is more than just a former country leader’s house, it’s also a symbol of the country’s birth and freedom from colonial tyranny. It is in this shrine that the Philippine independence from Spain was first proclaimed on June 12, 1898.
Where to eat: Hidden Tapsihan, Carl Ced’z Grill & Restaurant, Island Cove Cafe
Where yo stay: The Henry Hotel Manila, Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park, Solaire Resort & Casino
Pagsanjan Falls, Laguna
Does this view look familiar? It’s because you’ve seen this scenic sight before. Maybe not personally but in your elementary textbook. Pagsanjan Falls, along with Chocolate Hills and Mayon Volcano, is, safe to say, one of the scenic spots with most number of appearances in school textbooks. Pagsanjan is one of the several waterfalls found in Laguna.
Where to eat: Calle Arco Restaurant, Comida Exotica, Aling Taleng’s Halu-halo
Where to stay: Villa Socorro Agri-Eco Village and Farm Resort, Graceland Estates & Country Club, La Corona de Pagsanjan
Rizal Shrine, Calamba, Laguna
As the country’s national hero, Jose Rizal has several shrines across the archipelago, and the one in Calamba, Laguna, is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in South Luzon. As you all know, Laguna is the birthplace of Rizal. If you’re near the area, have a glimpse of the national hero’s residence and life.
Although the real house was already destroyed during World War II, still, the replica of Rizal’s house during Spanish period used the same materials and design.
Where to eat: Arebela, Graciano’s Kitchen, Beanstalk Cafe
Where to stay: Blue Palm Hot Spring Resort, The Green Glass Boutique Hotel, Riverview Resort and Conference Center
Taal Volcano, Batangas
The majestic view of Taal Volcano can be seen from Tagaytay. But if you want a closer look at this picturesque sight, go to Batangas. It is said that the full view of the volcano is worthy of the 45-minute-long trekking.
Where to eat: Antonio’s Garden Restaurant, Bags of Beans, Sonya’s Garden
Where to stay: Royal Taal Inn, The Theodore Hotel, Summit Ridge Hote
Puerto Galera, Mindoro
Puerto Galera is indeed one of the best tourist destinations in South Luzon you must include in your travel bucket list. With its several natural deep pockets and white beaches with diverse marine bio, it’s worthy of the recognition as a Man and the Biosphere Reserve of UNESCO in 1973. Just a few hours away from Manila, Puerto Galera is an ideal place for a short escape for those who wish to take a break from the hectic city life.
Where to eat: Luca’s Cucina Italiana, Hemingway Bar and Restaurant, Big Apple
Where to stay: Tamaraw Beach Resort, Sunset at Aninuan Beach Resort, Marco Vincent Dive Resort
Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins, Albay
The already-picturesque view of the Mayon Volcano is made even more attractive with the ruins of Cagsawa Church. No less than the National Museum has declared the Casagwa Ruins in Albay as a national treasure. This makes the place worthy of a spot on lists of tourist destinations in South Luzon one must pay a visit.
Where to eat: Four Seasons, Kamias, Eatalia
Where to stay: Mayon Backpackers Hostel, FJ Manila Hotel, Villa Amada Hotel
El Nido, Palawan
Palawan is blessed with pristine white beaches and crystal-clear waters, not to mention the rich marine life deep under the vast body of water around the island. One such place in Palawan is El Nido. Whatever you like to do, island hopping, scuba diving, snorkeling,or kayaking, El Nido is the place to go.
Where to eat: Art Café Restaurant, Squidos, The Alternative Restaurant
Where to stay: Anang Balay Turista, Amigo’s Inn, Big Creek Mansion
Coron, Palawan
Another island in Palawan with stunning rock formations, exquisite beaches, welcoming hot springs, and beautiful lagoons full of marine wildlife is the island of Coron. Lucky are those who live near the area as they don’t have to look far for paradise, they are already in it!
Where to eat: Winnie’s Restaurant, Sinugba sa Balay, Lolo Nonoy’s Food Station
Where to stay: Luis Bay Travellers Lodge, Coron Paradise Bed and Breakfast, Coron Village Lodge
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, Palawan
Talking about Palawan, Puerto Princesa is a home to another must-see tourist spot in Southern Luzon, the Subterranean River National Park. It’s actually an 8-kilometer long river that passes through a limestone cave, one of the longest passable river tunnels in the world. A world wonder, really.
Where to eat: Ka Lui Restaurant, Kinabuchs Grill and Bar, Pawikan Restaurant
Where to stay: Café Sabang, Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort, Sheridan Beach Resort and Spa
