Things To Do
in Santa Margarita
Santa Margarita is a coastal town in the southern Philippines known for its warm hospitality and scenic shoreline. Set against a backdrop of lush farmland and rolling hills, it offers a relaxed pace away from crowded city centers. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, markets, and easy access to nearby islands and natural attractions.
Despite its small size, the town serves as a gateway to authentic Mindanao experiences and friendly local communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Santa Margarita and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the stunning sea views. Take a stroll along the pristine beach, letting the waves wash over your feet.
After a few hours of relaxation, head to a nearby beach shack for a delicious seafood lunch. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing or try out some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding. Capture the beautiful scenery with photographs of the lush coastline and vibrant marine life.
In the evening, enjoy a romantic beachside dinner, experiencing the local flavors of the Philippines. As the sun sets, watch the sky transform into a canvas of colors. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the beach, listening to the calming sound of the waves.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before visiting local cultural sites, including the Santa Margarita Church. Engage with locals and learn about the rich history of the area through guided tours. Appreciate the architecture and significance of historical landmarks.
Enjoy a traditional Filipino lunch at a local restaurant, where you can taste authentic dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting local artisans and exploring small shops that showcase traditional crafts. Participate in a workshop to create your own souvenir.
As evening approaches, attend a local festival or event if available, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Santa Margarita. Relish in the live music, dancing, and delicious food that can be found at these festivities. End the night with a casual stroll through the town, experimenting with local snacks from street vendors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚖Short taxi or tricycle ride | $3-10 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $20-45 |
| 🛒Groceries (week locally sourced essentials) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Fresh seafood and scenic coastal views
- Affordable travel experiences and genuine regional culture
- Accessible gateways to broader Mindanao attractions
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Some services may be less consistent in remote areas
- Weather can affect outdoor plans during the rainy season
- "Kamusta po?" - How are you, sir/ma’am?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
- "Maaari bang makatulong?" - Can you help me?
- "Walang anuman" - You’re welcome
Places to Visit in Santa Margarita
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide ocean horizon, soft light at golden hour, and fishermen at work making for atmospheric silhouettes.
Water lined with tangled roots and reflections; ideal for wide shots and close-up wildlife observations.
Panoramic coastal and island vistas, especially striking during early mornings or late afternoons.
Historic maritime landmark with lighthouse architecture and sea views, great for timeless coastal photography.
Food in Santa Margarita
Santa Margarita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw seafood cured in vinegar or citrus with onions, chili, and coconut milk; served as an appetizer or light main.
Must-Try!
Light fish soup with ginger, garlic, leafy greens, and green papaya; comforting and easy to find at local eateries.
Meat braised in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices; widely available and a Filipino staple.
Taro leaves cooked in coconut milk with chili and sometimes shrimp; a creamy, mildly spicy dish.
Fresh fish or seafood grilled over charcoal, often served with a squeeze of lime and rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant center for fresh seafood, produce, dried goods, and everyday snacks; great for tasting local flavors and seeing daily life.
Rows of stalls offering fried snacks, grilled items, and sweet treats like banana fritters and sweetened coconut bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite terms like po and opo when addressing elders; greetings are warm and friendly.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; ask permission before photographing people or private spaces.
Refuse hospitality once or twice with a smile before accepting; sharing meals is common and a sign of welcome.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Margarita
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in small eateries. For good service, a small tip (5–10%) at nicer places is common; in casual stalls, rounding up is fine.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets and small shops. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger establishments; ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny with calm seas; ideal for beach days and outdoor activities, but stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Frequent showers and occasional storms; plan for flexible outdoor plans and carry a light rain jacket.
Pleasant daytime temperatures and lower humidity; good for city strolls and hikes, though evenings can be cooler near the coast.
Santa Margarita at Night
Hiking in Santa Margarita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible loop through forests with coastal views and opportunities to encounter local wildlife.
Rugged route along the shoreline offering dramatic sea vistas and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Santa Margarita by plane.
Davao City gateway with domestic and limited international flights; 2–4 hour road journey to Santa Margarita depending on route and weather.
Major regional airport in the southern Philippines; convenient alternative with road connections to Mindanao towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A predominant religious group in the region, with many church activities and Christian holidays observed locally.
Minority communities with distinct traditions and mosques; respect local customs and dress codes in religious spaces.
Local Lumad and other indigenous communities with rich cultural practices in nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple pastime in schools, barangay courts, and community centers across Mindanao.
Traditional Filipino martial art practiced in many communities and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Margarita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted by requesting seafood or meat-free versions; look for clear vegetable sides and tofu options in larger eateries.