San Jose Travel Guide

Discover all that San Jose, Philippines has to offer with our comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to must-try foods, we've got you covered.


San Jose is a beautiful coastal town located in Mindoro, in Luzon, Philippines. Nestled on the banks of the San Jose River and surrounded by lush tropical greenery, San Jose offers visitors an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this ultimate travel guide to San Jose, we’ll take you through all the best things to see and do in this charming town.

Introduction to San Jose

San Jose is a hidden gem in the Philippines, often overlooked by travelers in favor of more popular destinations. However, this charming town has plenty to offer visitors, from stunning natural scenery to rich historical and cultural attractions. San Jose is also surrounded by beautiful beaches, making it the perfect place for a relaxing vacation.

List of Places to Visit in San Jose

When it comes to things to see and do in San Jose, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, San Jose has plenty to offer. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

San Jose is rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and historical sites to explore. The San Jose Museum is a great place to start, showcasing the history and development of the town from its early days to the present day. Other must-visit cultural attractions in San Jose include the San Jose Church, which dates back to the early 18th century, and the Casa Real, a beautifully-preserved colonial-era building that now houses the town hall.

Natural Attractions of San Jose: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

One of the highlights of any trip to San Jose is the stunning natural scenery that surrounds the town. The San Jose River is a great place to start, offering opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and river cruises. The nearby Mount Halcon offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. If you’re looking for a more active adventure, head to Tugdan Beach for some surfing or hiking in the nearby rainforest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Jose

San Jose is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore. The Tamaraw Waterfalls Trail is one of the most popular, offering stunning views of the falls and the surrounding rainforest. If you’re a serious hiker or mountain biker, head to Mount Halcon for some challenging trails through the hills and forests.

Best Things to Do in San Jose: Activities and Tours

There is no shortage of things to see and do in San Jose. One of the best ways to get a feel for the town and its surroundings is to take a guided tour. The San Jose Walking Tour is a great introduction to the town’s history and culture, while the Tugdan Beach Tour offers opportunities for surfing and beachcombing. Other great activities in San Jose include kayaking on the San Jose River and exploring the nearby rainforest on foot.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Jose

To make the most of your trip to San Jose, we recommend spending at least a week in town. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in San Jose, check in to your accommodation, and go for a stroll around town.
2 Take the San Jose Walking Tour to explore the town’s history and culture.
3 Spend the day hiking or biking in the nearby rainforest.
4 Take a river cruise on the San Jose River.
5 Visit the San Jose Museum and other cultural attractions in town.
6 Spend the day surfing and beachcombing at Tugdan Beach.
7 Take a day trip to Mount Halcon for some challenging hiking or mountain biking.

Food and Drink Scene of San Jose

No visit to San Jose would be complete without sampling the local food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Adobo - a popular Filipino dish made with chicken or pork marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.
  • Sinigang - a savory and sour soup made with tamarind and a variety of meat and vegetables.
  • Kare-Kare - a creamy peanut-based stew made with beef, oxtail, or goat meat.

Local Beverages

  • Tuba - a traditional Filipino coconut wine.
  • Calamansi Juice - a refreshing drink made from calamansi fruit, a common citrus fruit in the Philippines.
  • San Miguel Beer - a popular Philippine brew.

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

San Jose has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Infinity Resort - a luxurious beachfront resort with stunning views of Tugdan Bay.
  • Coco Beach Island Resort - a secluded eco-friendly resort with private bungalows and a beautiful beach.
  • Jose’s Bed and Breakfast - a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of town.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring home from San Jose, there are plenty of options to choose from. Local products include handmade crafts, embroidered textiles, and wooden carvings. You can also find a range of delicious food products, including locally-produced honey and jams.

Local Culture and Customs of San Jose

San Jose is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions. Filipinos are generally conservative, so it’s important to dress modestly and behave respectfully when visiting religious sites or cultural attractions.

Best Time to Visit San Jose

San Jose has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The hottest months are from March to May, while the rainy season typically lasts from June to November. The best time to visit San Jose is from December to February, when the weather is cooler and drier.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Jose

To ensure a pleasant and enjoyable visit to San Jose, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or cultural sites.
  • Carry cash, as credit cards may not be accepted in some places.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Don’t try to buy or use drugs - penalties are severe in the Philippines.
  • Don’t forget to try the local food and drink!

Safety and Health

San Jose is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take common sense precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in San Jose

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables with you.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night or in unfamiliar areas.
  • Use licensed taxis or public transportation, rather than unmarked or informal transport options.

Health in San Jose

  • Drink bottled water, rather than tap water.
  • Be aware of the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, and take appropriate precautions.
  • Make sure your vaccines are up-to-date before traveling.

Getting to San Jose: Transportation Options and Logistics

San Jose is located on the island of Mindoro, which is accessible by air or sea. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near San Jose

  • San Jose Airport - the nearest airport to San Jose. It operates flights to and from Manila on a regular basis.

Bus Stations Near San Jose

  • San Jose Bus Terminal - located in the town center, this bus terminal serves buses to and from Manila and other destinations in the region.

Other Options

  • Ferry - there are regular ferry services to and from Manila and other destinations on the island of Mindoro.

How to Get Around in San Jose

San Jose is a relatively small town, easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and tricycles are also readily available for hire, and can be a good option for longer journeys or traveling at night.

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

If you’re looking to explore more of the Philippines after visiting San Jose, there are plenty of nearby destinations to choose from. Some popular options include:

  • Puerto Galera - a beautiful beach town located just a short ferry ride away from San Jose.
  • Puerto Princesa - the capital of Palawan Province, known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty.
  • Boracay - one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Philippines, known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Conclusion

San Jose is a true gem in the Philippines, offering visitors the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and relaxation. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re now ready to explore all that this charming town has to offer. Happy travels!

Location of San Jose within Occidental Mindoro Location of San Jose within Occidental Mindoro San Jose Airport San Jose Airport Motored tricycles are virtually the only mode of public transport for movement within the town proper. Motored tricycles are virtually the only mode of public transport for movement within the town proper. San Jose Municipal Plaza San Jose Municipal Plaza