San Carlos Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to San Carlos with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to eat, stay, shop, and more.


San Carlos is a charming and laid-back city nestled in the heart of Pangasinan, in the Ilocos Region of the Philippines. With its rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and friendly locals, San Carlos is the perfect destination for travelers seeking authentic local experiences. In this ultimate travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do and places to visit in San Carlos, as well as offer recommendations on where to eat, stay, shop, and how to get around.

Introduction to San Carlos

San Carlos is a 2nd class city and is the commercial and industrial center of western Pangasinan. It is located about 200 km north of Manila, the capital of the Philippines, and is accessible by land transportation. With its mild climate and fertile soil, San Carlos is known for its thriving agricultural industry, including rice, corn, sugarcane, and fish.

List of Places to Visit in San Carlos

San Carlos has something to offer for everyone, from history buffs to nature lovers. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in San Carlos:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Carlos City Museum - a small but informative museum that showcases the history and culture of San Carlos.
  • St. Dominic’s Church - a beautiful Spanish colonial church built in 1538 and declared a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines.
  • Aguilar-Basa ancestral house - a well-preserved wooden house built in the 19th century that serves as a glimpse of the noble lifestyle during the Spanish era.
  • Gabaldon School Buildings - a historical site consisting of six old school buildings that were constructed during the American Colonial period.

Natural Attractions of San Carlos: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • San Carlos River - a scenic river that offers visitors an opportunity to go boating, fishing, or just enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank.
  • Macatbong Tuba Marine Sanctuary - a protected marine area that features a wide array of marine life, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
  • Mount Malabobo - a scenic mountain that offers hiking and birdwatching activities with stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
  • Luyat Cave - a natural cave formation located in Barangay Estanza that features stalactites, stalagmites, and underground pools.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Carlos

For outdoor enthusiasts, San Carlos offers a variety of hiking and biking routes that are perfect for exploring the countryside. Some popular routes include:

  • Mount Malabobo trail - a challenging hike that takes approximately 3-4 hours but rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  • San Carlos River bike trail - offers visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s scenic river on two wheels.
  • Umandal-Masalong trail - a moderate hike that takes visitors through picturesque rice fields and scenic jungle trails.

Best Things to Do in San Carlos: Activities and Tours

  • Take a city tour - San Carlos is a city that is rich in history and culture, and a guided city tour is the best way to explore it.
  • Visit a farm - San Carlos is known for its agricultural industry, and a visit to a local farm is a great way to experience it firsthand.
  • Go island hopping - San Carlos is surrounded by beautiful islands that offer white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Try local delicacies - San Carlos is famous for its seafood dishes, as well as its sugarcane products, such as muscovado sugar and basi, a local wine made from sugarcane.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Carlos

If you’re planning to spend a week in San Carlos, here’s a sample itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrival and check-in at hotel / city tour
Day 2 Visit St. Dominic’s Church and Aguilar-Basa ancestral house / lunch at local restaurant for seafood
Day 3 Visit Macatbong Tuba Marine Sanctuary / island hopping
Day 4 Hike Mount Malabobo / try basi wine
Day 5 Visit San Carlos City Museum / Luyat Cave exploration
Day 6 Explore local farms / biking along San Carlos River
Day 7 Souvenir shopping / departure

Food and Drink Scene of San Carlos

San Carlos offers visitors a variety of local delicacies that are unique to the region. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sugpo sa Tausi - a stir-fried dish made with shrimp and fermented black beans.
  • Paksiw na Bangus - a savory fish stew made with vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
  • Calamares - a popular fried squid dish.
  • Pindang Damulag - beef jerky that is marinated in vinegar and soy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Basi - a sweet wine that is made from sugarcane.
  • Rice wine - a mild and sweet alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice.

Where to Stay in San Carlos: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Carlos offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Alaminos City Hotel - a budget hotel in the heart of San Carlos that provides clean and comfortable rooms.
  • San Carlos Plaza Hotel - a mid-range hotel that offers modern amenities and excellent service.
  • Puerto Del Sol Beach Resort - a beachfront resort that provides visitors with a luxurious and relaxing stay.

What to Buy in San Carlos: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Carlos is known for its sugarcane products, such as muscovado sugar and basi wine. Visitors can also purchase locally made handicrafts and souvenirs, such as woven baskets and wooden figurines.

Local Culture and Customs of San Carlos

San Carlos is a predominantly Catholic city, and visitors should dress conservatively and refrain from disrespectful behavior when visiting religious sites. Filipinos are generally warm and hospitable, and visitors should reciprocate this kindness by being respectful and courteous to locals.

Best Time to Visit San Carlos

The best time to visit San Carlos is from December to May when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and the seas are calm for island hopping and snorkeling. June to November is the wet season and is prone to typhoons and heavy rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Carlos

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting San Carlos:

Do:

  • Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Be respectful to locals and their customs.
  • Eat local dishes and try new foods.
  • Take advantage of local tours and guides.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites or cultural traditions.
  • Litter or damage natural areas.
  • Engage in illegal activities, such as drug use or prostitution.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Carlos

San Carlos is a relatively safe city, but visitors should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of petty crimes such as pickpocketing or theft. It’s advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Health in San Carlos

Visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling to tropical areas, such as using mosquito repellent and staying hydrated. It’s also important to take necessary vaccinations and consult with medical professionals before traveling to San Carlos.

Getting to San Carlos: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Carlos

The closest airports to San Carlos are the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila and the Clark International Airport (CRK) in Pampanga. From there, visitors can take a bus or hire a private van to travel to San Carlos.

Bus Stations Near San Carlos

The city is accessible by land transportation or bus from Manila, Baguio, and other major cities in the Ilocos region.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private van for transportation within the city and nearby areas.

How to Get Around in San Carlos

San Carlos is a small city, and most attractions are within walking distance. Visitors can also rent a bike or motorcycle for exploring the countryside or hail a tricycle for transportation within the city.

Where to Go Next from San Carlos: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Carlos is surrounded by beautiful destinations that are worth exploring, such as:

  • Hundred Islands in Pangasinan
  • Vigan City in Ilocos Sur
  • Baguio City in Benguet

Conclusion

San Carlos is a hidden gem that offers visitors an opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of the Philippines. With its natural wonders, delicious food, and friendly locals, San Carlos is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your next trip to San Carlos, and prepare for an unforgettable experience!