Things To Do
in San Antonio
San Antonio, Philippines is a coastal municipality in Zambales known for its white sand coves and fishing heritage. The town centers around a working waterfront with a laid back vibe and friendly locals. Nearby coves such as Anawangin and Nagsasa offer pine forests on the shore and rugged scenery accessible by boat or hike.
Visitors come for seafood, outdoor adventures, and a window into traditional coastal life away from crowded city hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the San Antonio Church, a beautiful structure that showcases the town's rich history. Wander around the plaza, where you can enjoy the local morning vibe, filled with vendors selling fresh produce and traditional snacks. Don't forget to grab a cup of locally brewed coffee to energize you for the day ahead.
After lunch, head to the nearby historical sites, including the remnants of the old Spanish fort and the local museum that displays artifacts from the town's past. Engage with friendly locals as they share stories of the town’s heritage and significance. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the picturesque views of the bay.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in traditional Filipino cuisine, where you can savor dishes like adobo and sinigang. After your meal, take a peaceful walk along the shore, where you can witness vibrant sunset colors reflecting on the water. End your evening with a visit to a local bar, enjoying live music while mingling with both locals and fellow travelers.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the pristine shores of Anawangin Cove. Spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming, and exploring the beautiful sandy beach surrounded by pine trees. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak to paddle around the bay and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.
After a refreshing morning, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach with fresh seafood from a local vendor. Spend the afternoon engaging in water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding, discovering the vibrant marine life just beneath the waves. Take time to relax on the beach, basking in the sun and listening to the gentle sound of the waves.
As evening approaches, gather around a beach bonfire with friends and fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter. Enjoy a delightful seafood dinner prepared by local fishermen, experiencing the true flavors of the sea. End your day stargazing on the beach, marveling at the clear night sky far away from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚎One-way local transport | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $12-25 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coves and pine forests like Anawangin and Nagsasa
- Fresh seafood and affordable travel costs
- Relaxed, friendly atmosphere and safe family environment
- Excellent base for hiking and boat trips
- Limited nightlife and modern amenities
- Public transport can be infrequent; plan private rides or boats
- Typhoon season can disrupt travel plans
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Puwede bang tulungan mo ako?" - Can you help me?
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in San Antonio
Visit one of these nice places.
Lighthouse on Capones Island with sea cliffs; sunrise and golden hour shots are ideal.
Pine lined cove with white sand and turquoise water; iconic beach scenes.
Rugged shoreline and calm water perfect for long exposures and camping scenes.
Long sandy stretch with boats and rock formations for dynamic seascapes.
Food in San Antonio
San Antonio Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Milkfish ceviche marinated with vinegar, lime juice, onions, and chili.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish grilled over charcoal with a squeeze of calamansi.
Tamarind sour soup with fish and vegetables.
Classic adobo finished with coconut milk for a creamy touch.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Lively market by the shore offering fresh seafood, vegetables, and local snacks.
Seasoned dried fish and fish paste sold along the waterfront lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and villages; lightweight clothing is common.
Offer a smile and handshake; use polite terms like Po and Opo with elders; ask before taking photos.
Be mindful of people working along the waterfront; support local vendors and avoid blocking traffic.
Safety
Tipping in San Antonio
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not required; 5-10% in nicer places, rounding up taxi fares, small tips for guides.
Cash is widely used; cards are accepted in larger establishments; ATMs are available in main towns; carry cash for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny, warm days; best for beach days and outdoor activities; bring sun protection.
Frequent rain showers and high humidity; trails can be muddy; plan flexible outdoor days.
Increased risk of storms and power outages; monitor weather advisories and adjust plans accordingly.
San Antonio at Night
Hiking in San Antonio
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hill near Pundaquit with viewpoints over the coves; moderate hike.
Coastal path around Capones Island to viewpoints and the lighthouse; best during dry season.
Airports
How to reach San Antonio by plane.
Major international airport serving northern Luzon; about 2-3 hours by road to San Antonio depending on traffic.
Main Manila airport with domestic and international flights; roughly 3-4 hours drive to San Antonio.
Smaller facility in Subic Bay area; check current operations for domestic flights; often used for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who rely on fishing and small-scale agriculture.
A mix of local families and visiting travelers seeking a laid-back coastal vibe.
Smaller communities in the upland areas around the coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and community courts across town.
Traditional activity that doubles as sport around the harbor.
Snorkeling and kayaking offered at coves and near Capones Island.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at most local eateries; request vegetable dishes or tofu options; many places can tailor meals.