Santa Cruz Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Santa Cruz, Philippines. Learn about the local culture and customs, and get tips on transportation, safety, and more.


Introduction to Santa Cruz

Located in the Laguna province of Calabarzon, Santa Cruz is a small town situated in the southern part of Luzon island in the Philippines. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitable people. Santa Cruz is a perfect destination for tourists who want to experience the calm and serene countryside lifestyle of the Philippines.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Cruz

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Santa Cruz Museum - Learn about the town’s rich history and cultural heritage by visiting this museum that houses various artifacts and memorabilia.
  • Jalajala Church - Also known as the St. John the Baptist Church, this is an old and beautiful church that dates back to the Spanish colonial period.
  • Rizal Monument - A monument that is dedicated to the national hero of the Philippines, Dr. Jose Rizal.

Natural Attractions of Santa Cruz: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lumot Lake - A beautiful and serene lake that is located in the middle of the town’s forest reserve. It is perfect for sightseeing, swimming, and kayaking.
  • Buntot Palos Falls - A majestic waterfall that is situated in the middle of a dense forest. It is a popular destination among adventure seekers.
  • Mount Sembrano - A mountain that is perfect for hiking and trekking. From the peak of the mountain, you can get a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Cruz

  • Mount Banahaw - A popular hiking destination that is located in Lucban, Quezon. It is known for its sacredness and is a perfect destination for those who love to explore nature.
  • Pagsanjan Falls - A natural wonder that is situated in the town of Pagsanjan. It is a famous destination for kayaking, rafting, and hiking.
  • Makiling Trail - A hiking trail that is located in Los Banos, Laguna. It is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz: Activities and Tours

  • Kayaking in Lumot Lake - Rent a kayak and explore the calm and serene waters of Lumot Lake.
  • River Rafting in Pagsanjan Falls - Enjoy a thrilling experience by taking a river rafting tour in Pagsanjan Falls.
  • Heritage Walk - Take a walk through the town’s historic district and visit the various museums and cultural sites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Cruz

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in at a hotel
2 Explore the cultural heritage of Santa Cruz by visiting museums and historical sites
3 Go trekking or hiking in Mount Sembrano or Mount Banahaw
4 Enjoy a kayaking tour or swimming in Lumot Lake
5 Take a river rafting tour in Pagsanjan Falls
6 Spend a day exploring the beautiful Buntot Palos Falls
7 Relax and enjoy the town’s countryside lifestyle before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Cruz

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sinigang - A sour soup that is made with various meats and vegetables.
  • Adobo - One of the Philippines’ national dishes made with meat, soy sauce, vinegar, and spices.
  • Lechon - Roasted pig that is a popular party dish in the Philippines.

Local Beverages

  • Sago’t Gulaman - A refreshing drink that is made with tapioca pearls, gelatin, and brown sugar.
  • Buko Juice - A popular drink that is made with fresh coconut water.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Green Glass Boutique Hotel - A modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Santa Cruz.
  • Clear Water Accommodations - A budget-friendly guesthouse that offers clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Ginger Lily Hotel - A cozy hotel that is perfect for travelers who want to experience the town’s countryside lifestyle.

What to Buy in Santa Cruz: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Bags and Baskets - Made by the town’s local weavers, these bags and baskets are a perfect souvenir to take home.
  • Handcrafted Pottery - A unique and beautiful souvenir that is created by the town’s local potters.

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Cruz

  • Fiesta Celebrations - If you’re lucky enough to visit during a town fiesta, you’ll get to experience the local celebrations and cultural dances.
  • Religious Festivals - The town is known for its rich religious heritage, and various festivals are celebrated throughout the year to honor different saints and religious events.

Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is during the dry season, which runs from December to May. During this season, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer chances of rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Cruz

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Make sure to bring appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites or events.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Engage in illegal activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a safe town, but it’s always important to take safety precautions. Make sure to keep your belongings close and never leave them unattended.

Health in Santa Cruz

Bring basic medication and first aid supplies with you. In case of an emergency, there is a hospital located in the town center.

Getting to Santa Cruz: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Santa Cruz

The nearest airports to Santa Cruz are the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark International Airport (CRK).

Bus Stations Near Santa Cruz

The town has a bus terminal for those who want to take public transportation. Buses, jeepneys, and tricycles are the most common modes of public transportation in Santa Cruz.

Other Options

Hiring a private car or van is a convenient and comfortable way to travel around Santa Cruz and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Santa Cruz

Tricycles are the most common mode of transportation for getting around the town. For longer trips, buses and jeepneys are available.

Where to Go Next from Santa Cruz: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Liliw - A town known for its locally-made footwear.
  • Lucban - A town known for its Pahiyas Festival and delicious longganisa (sausage).
  • Los Banos - A town known for its hot springs and natural attractions.

Conclusion

Santa Cruz is a perfect destination for tourists who want to experience the calm and serene countryside lifestyle of the Philippines. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Santa Cruz offers a wide range of activities and attractions for tourists. Plan your visit during the dry season, bring appropriate clothing for outdoor activities, and respect the local culture and customs. Enjoy your stay in Santa Cruz!