San Jose Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in San Jose, Palawan, Philippines. Read our comprehensive travel guide!


Introduction to San Jose

San Jose is a quiet coastal town located in the northwestern part of Palawan, Philippines. It is a laid-back destination that is perfect for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. San Jose offers a serene and relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy the pristine beaches, lush forests and interesting attractions.

List of Places to Visit in San Jose

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • San Jose Municipal Hall – Visit the Municipal Hall, a landmark building that was established in 1916, displays the cultural and commercial heritage of the town. It houses various historical and cultural artifacts that reflect the rich history of San Jose.
  • San Jose Church – Visit the town’s beautiful church which was built during the Spanish colonial period. It features impressive architecture and serves as a reminder of the religious traditions of the Philippines.
  • Taraw Cliff - This is a famous historical site in San Jose. It was used as a lookout point against the invaders in ancient times. It offers a scenic view of the town and the coastline that is worth visiting.

Natural Attractions of San Jose: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Twin Beaches – The Twin Beaches are one of the most beautiful natural attractions in San Jose. It is a must-visit destination where you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters and the soft white sand.
  • Berong River – Berong River is a stunning river that is surrounded by lush forests. You can enjoy kayaking or simply cruising down the river and watch the sunset while taking in the natural beauty around.
  • San Jose Mangroves – A boat tour along the San Jose Mangroves is highly recommended. It is a captivating experience to see the mangroves and observe different types of birds that thrive in that area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Jose

  • Mount Bahulao – This is a great spot for hiking in San Jose. It features a well-marked trail for hikers and has stunning views of San Jose and its surrounding areas.
  • Biking Trails in the Forest – Biking is an exciting activity in San Jose, and you can explore the surrounding forests and the landscapes with your bicycle.

Best Things to Do in San Jose: Activities and Tours

  • Island Hopping – The islands in San Jose offer some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences. You can visit nearby islands like Port Barton, Tandol, and Inaladelan Island. Be sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture the amazing underwater scenery.
  • Snorkeling or Diving – San Jose lets you experience the diverse marine life of the Philippines. You can book a snorkeling or diving tour and spot the vibrant sea creatures and coral reefs.
  • Spa Treatments – San Jose has a few spas where you can pamper yourself with massages, facials, and other treatments. You can take a break and relax in a peaceful setting.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Jose

Day Plan
1. Visit the Municipal Hall and San Jose Church
2. Explore Mount Bahulao
3. Relax on the Twin Beaches
4. Take a boat tour of the San Jose Mangroves
5. Go on an island-hopping expedition
6. Go diving or snorkeling in the sea
7. Spend the day at a spa and pamper yourself

Food and Drink Scene of San Jose

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken Inasal – A Philippine favorite, grilled chicken, and a must-try dish in San Jose.
  • Crispy Pata – This Filipino dish is a crispy and flavorful pork leg that is perfectly paired with beer or rice.
  • Adobo – This is a popular Filipino dish that is cooked and marinated in garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar. Try having this with rice!

Local Beverages

  • Buko Juice – This is fresh coconut juice that is served in its shell and is a must-try beverage in San Jose.
  • San Miguel Beer – San Miguel is a well-known Philippine beer and is available at almost every restaurant and bar in San Jose.

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

  • Pawikan Hostel – This eco-friendly hostel is located near the beach and offers beautiful seascapes and clean rooms.
  • Daluyong Beach Resort – This resort has a beautiful beachfront and comfortable bungalows with affordable prices.
  • Port Barton Beach Resort – Located in another beautiful nearby town, Port Barton Beach Resort offers a great stay.

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

  • Accordions – San Jose is famous for its hand made accordions. These are available at the souvenir shops.
  • Baskets – The baskets made from bamboo, and other materials that are made by locals, are great souvenirs to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of San Jose

San Jose is a quiet, conservative town, and humble dressing is recommended. The locals following a strict moral code when it comes to behavior and speech. You may hear them speak a combination of Tagalog and Cuyunon, the local dialect.

Best Time to Visit San Jose

The best time to visit San Jose is from November to April when the weather is pleasant, warm, and less humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Jose

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions of the town.
  • Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter - proper waste management and disposal are still in the early stages in small towns like San Jose.
  • Don’t wander off alone at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in San Jose

San Jose is a safe town, but it’s always advisable to take the necessary precautions, like keeping your possessions secure and watching out for your surroundings.

Health in San Jose

Medical facilities in San Jose are limited, and it’s always advisable to bring any medication you might need for your trip. Always practice basic hygiene standards.

Getting to San Jose: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near San Jose

Francisco B Reyes is the nearest airport to San Jose, with regular daily flights from Manila and Puerto Princesa.

Bus Stations Near San Jose

San Jose has only a few local bus lines, and there is no central Bus Station.

Other Options

You can also reach San Jose via Van, which is the most comfortable option. The Vans leave from Puerto Princesa and take around three hours to reach San Jose.

How to Get Around in San Jose

You can explore San Jose on foot or motorbike which you can rent from any number of rental firms located in town.

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

You can visit other nearby towns like Port Barton, El Nido, and San Vicente which offer similar beachfront attractions and scenery.

Conclusion

With its natural beauty, historical significance, and serene surroundings, San Jose is a perfect travel destination. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor activities or relaxation, San Jose has something to offer everyone, making it a top destination in the Philippines.