Things To Do
in San Isidro
San Isidro is a rural municipality set along rolling valleys just east of Metro Manila. It offers a peaceful escape from the city with lush farmland, small-town charm, and a sense of community. Visitors can explore farms, local markets, and quiet cathedrals that reflect Filipino rural life.
Its proximity to Rizal's natural attractions makes it a convenient base for day trips to forests, waterfalls, and karst landscapes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the San Isidro Labrador Church, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere and stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through the town center, where you can admire the vibrant local markets bursting with fresh produce and handmade crafts. Stop by a local café for a traditional Filipino breakfast, savoring dishes like longganisa and garlic rice.
After lunch, head to the nearby San Isidro Heritage Park, where you can explore the remnants of colonial-era structures and enjoy the lush greenery. Engage with local artisans who often showcase their crafts, providing a unique opportunity to learn about their skills and traditions. As the sun begins to set, find a perfect spot to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
As night falls, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a local eatery, trying out regional specialties such as sinigang and adobo. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as families and friends gather to share meals, immersing yourself in the local culture. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the town, soaking in the warm ambiance and perhaps stopping by a local bar for a refreshing drink.
Set off early to the nearby beaches, such as San Juan or Poro Point, to enjoy the sun and surf. Engage in exhilarating water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding, with the welcoming waves providing the perfect backdrop for an action-packed morning. Take a break to enjoy a fresh coconut drink while lounging on the beach.
After some fun in the sun, savor a delicious seafood lunch at a beachfront restaurant, relishing the fresh catch of the day. Spend your afternoon relaxing on the sand or exploring the shoreline, collecting seashells and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. If you're feeling adventurous, consider joining a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant underwater life.
As the day winds down, take a scenic sunset cruise along the coast, where you can witness the stunning colors reflecting off the water. Afterward, indulge in a beachside barbecue dinner, where you can feast on grilled seafood and local delicacies under the stars. Wrap up your evening with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and enjoying the sound of the waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🧃Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.75-1.50 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short to moderate distance) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, village atmosphere close to nature
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Traffic can be slow during peak hours in surrounding areas
- "Kamusta po?" - Hello/How are you? (polite)
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Tulong po" - Help, please
Places to Visit in San Isidro
Visit one of these nice places.
Quiet streets and a pastel-colored church glow as the sun rises, with farmers heading to markets.
A simple colonial-style church with a bell tower, framed by palm trees and morning light.
Golden paddies and irrigation canals provide strong lines and silhouettes for landscape shots.
A vantage point where terraced hills roll into the distance, ideal for golden hour photography.
Food in San Isidro
San Isidro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pork marinated in a savory mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves, often served with rice.
Must-Try!
A vegetable stew featuring squash, eggplant, green beans, okra, and bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) for a distinct salty-sour flavor.
A tangy tamarind soup with pork, fish, or shrimp and an assortment of vegetables.
Rice porridge served with toppings like egg, garlic, and sometimes chicken or pork.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small-town market where you can try fresh produce, grilled skewers, and classic snacks at friendly prices.
A section of stalls offering bananacue, balut, kwek-kwek, and other staples of Filipino street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with polite terms like po and opo; address older people with appropriate titles.
Use a friendly tone, avoid raising your voice in crowded places, and queue patiently.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly inside; ask permission before photography.
If invited to a home, bring a small token of appreciation; accept offers of food and drink with thanks.
Safety
Tipping in San Isidro
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; rounding up at eateries or leaving ₱20-50 for service is common in casual places; 10% is typical in higher-end restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards in bigger establishments; digital wallets like GCash or PayMaya are increasingly common for quick payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with little rain; carry water, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor shoots for early morning and late afternoon.
Expect frequent rain showers and humid conditions; bring a light rain jacket and waterproof gear for cameras; forests are lush, with vibrant greens.
November through February are cooler and more comfortable; perfect for city walks and countryside photography.
San Isidro at Night
Hiking in San Isidro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Limestone karst hike with rope bridges, pockets of wildlife, and scenic overlooks; permits required.
Forested trails near Rodriguez with waterfalls and wildlife; suitable for day hikes and short overnight stays.
Waterfall hike with easy to moderate trails and swimming spots near Tanay.
Airports
How to reach San Isidro by plane.
Primary international gateway to Manila; accessible by road and rail connections from Rizal and nearby towns.
An alternative international gateway located north of Manila; reachable via highways and toll roads from Rizal and central Luzon.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly families in farming communities and small-town residents.
Some residents commute to Metro Manila or Rizal towns for work; younger generations are increasingly connected via mobile tech.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport at schoolyards, streets, and local gyms.
Played by youth and adults in fields and makeshift pitches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Isidro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on vegetable dishes, tofu options, and rice; look for dishes like pinakbet or eggplant-based dishes; ask for no fish sauce or bagoong.