Things To Do
in San Nicolas
San Nicolas is a coastal municipality in Ilocos Norte, perched along the West Philippine Sea. It offers a laid-back, small-town atmosphere with friendly locals and a scenic shoreline. The town blends Ilocano heritage with fresh seafood and open skies that invite outdoor days.
Its surrounding countryside and markets provide authentic rural experiences within a short drive of Laoag City.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic San Nicolas Church, where you can admire its beautiful architecture and learn about its significance to the local community. After soaking in the rich history, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby plaza, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere filled with local vendors and artisans. Don't forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, indulging in local delicacies like longsilog or tocino.
In the afternoon, visit the San Nicolas Public Market, where you can experience the bustling energy of local life while sampling fresh produce and regional snacks. Engage with the friendly vendors to learn more about the local customs and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. As the sun begins to set, head to the scenic San Nicolas Pier for a relaxing walk by the water, taking in the views of the sunset over the ocean.
For dinner, enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant that serves fresh seafood, savoring dishes that highlight the local flavors. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, listening to the sound of the waves lapping at the shore. Complete your evening by enjoying a nightcap at a beach bar, soaking in the tranquil ambiance under the stars.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the beautiful beaches of San Nicolas. Spend your morning soaking up the sun on the soft sands of the local beaches, or take part in thrilling water sports such as jet skiing or parasailing. The clear waters and stunning scenery provide the perfect backdrop for a fun-filled morning.
After a morning of excitement, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside cafe, sampling local seafood dishes while enjoying ocean views. Post-lunch, consider joining a guided snorkeling tour to explore the underwater beauty of the region, where vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life await. Alternatively, you can rent a kayak to paddle along the coast and discover hidden coves.
As evening falls, return to your hotel to freshen up before dinner. Choose a beachfront restaurant for a delightful dinner, where you can enjoy fresh catch of the day while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. Afterward, take a moonlit stroll along the beach, reflecting on a day filled with adventure and relaxation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨One night in budget hotel | $25-50 |
| 🚕Local taxi or tricycle start fare | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed, safe vibe
- Delicious Ilocano cuisine and coastal scenery
- Affordability and easy access from Laoag City
- Limited nightlife and few international dining options
- Rural transport can be sporadic outside town centers
- Fewer high-end accommodation choices compared to bigger cities
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Wen" - Yes
- "Agyamanak" - Thank you (Ilocano)
- "Mabannog kadi?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in San Nicolas
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal horizon and sea breezes provide dramatic sunset silhouettes over the West Philippine Sea.
Tree-lined square with local architecture and the daily rhythm of town life—great for candid photography.
Historic church ruins with a sense of local history and atmospheric lines for architectural shots.
Windswept beach and dunes offering expansive skies, especially striking during golden hour.
Food in San Nicolas
San Nicolas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vegetable-forward stew with okra, eggplant, squash, and bagoong (fermented shrimp paste); often served with rice.
Must-Try!
Crispy, deep-fried pork belly, typically paired with vegetables or a vinegar dip.
Grilled pork mixed with onions, herbs, and a tangy sauce; a flavorful Ilocano favorite.
Grilled milkfish, a staple coastal dish that highlights fresh seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh seafood, vegetables, and everyday snacks; great for observing local food culture.
Markets and stalls offering grilled skewers, lumpia, empanadas, and sweet pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders politely and use respectful terms such as 'po' and 'opo' in conversation.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and public spaces; remove hats and speak softly in sacred places.
Accept offered food or drink as a sign of hospitality; showing appreciation is valued.
Safety
Tipping in San Nicolas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In sit-down restaurants, 5-10% is common if service charge is not included.
Cash (PHP) is widely accepted; many places in town accept cards, but rural stalls may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with clear skies; plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Frequent showers and high humidity; carry rain gear and consider indoor attractions or sheltered viewpoints.
Cooler evenings with comfortable daytime temperatures; ideal for walking tours and outdoor photography.
San Nicolas at Night
Hiking in San Nicolas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short coastal hike offering ocean views and opportunities for sunset photography near the town.
Moderate ascent to a lookout that overlooks plains and sea, suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach San Nicolas by plane.
Main airport serving Ilocos Norte; connects to Manila and other regional destinations; road transfer to San Nicolas is straightforward.
Major gateway with domestic connections to Laoag for travelers coming from abroad; typically requires a domestic flight to Laoag.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in the region, with a rich cultural and linguistic heritage.
Smaller communities and travelers from other parts of the Philippines and abroad.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport nationwide, commonly played in schools and barangays.
Casual and community games are common on flat fields and beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Nicolas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ilocano dishes use meat or bagoong; look for vegetable-forward options like pinakbet or ampalaya and ask for no bagoong.