Top Things to See
The province of Batangas has a fair share of cultural and natural attractions which keep travellers engaged throughout their visit. Some of the Philippines’ nicest Spanish colonial era towns are located here, matched by original datus settlements inhabited by people who migrated from Borneo. Together they aptly represent the two main cultures which have merged to form this nation. Be sure to check out the town of Taal and its volcano surrounded by a lake, but also save some time to explore the pretty coastline and the lush hilly interior.
 Batangas City
The main city in this province is known as the home of sages and the Philippines’ most famous nationalist. Batangas City is also packed with things to do and see considering its modest size. Several intact Spanish colonial buildings and churches add an air of antiquity to the urban landscape, but it’s the integration of nature that makes this city really stand out. Two waterfalls flow year-round right in the heart of town, backed by the slopes of Mount Banoy and Matoco Point, where visitors can get amazing views over the city and Batangas Bay. There are even several quiet beaches perfect for long strolls and leisurely swims.
 Church of San Juan
Of the many impressive old churches which dot the Batangas landscape, the Church of San Juan in Batangas City is one of the standouts. Built by Augustinian friars in 1788, this lovely structure has many interesting features which separate it from other Spanish era churches. Visitors approach the church via a 19th century bridge which crosses the Malaquing Tubig River, which in itself is a highlight. A multi-tiered belfry and its massive main altar surrounding an image of Saint Joseph are also priceless details.
 Mabuhay Beach
Perhaps the most popular and well-endowed beach in Batangas is Mabuhay, situated in Lian town along the South China Sea coast. Its soft white sands stretch for over a mile and its waters are calm and clear, making this beach ideal for water sports including swimming and boating. If you want some activity to go along with your beach time, Mabuhay is the place. A nice range of bungalows dots the shoreline providing a relaxing place to base yourself.
 Punta de Santiago Lighthouse
One of the most impressive landmarks in Batangas is this lighthouse in Calatagan. It was built in 1890 and still functions as a beacon to approaching ships, making it one of the oldest functioning lighthouses in existence. Visitors can tour the tower which offers wonderful views over the nearby town of Calatagan and the South China Sea.
 Submarine Garden
If you want to see what lies beneath the surface of Batangas’ waters but aren’t interested in snorkelling or scuba diving, make a trip to the pleasant seaside town of Lobo. This is the home of the Submarine Garden, a large thriving coral garden which lies near the shore of one of Lobo’s beaches. During the early mornings when the tide is low the crystal clear waters provide an amazing window to this beautiful and colourful coral bed.
 Taal Lake and Volcano
This unusual and picturesque lake has the distinction of containing the world’s smallest volcano, making it Batangas’ most popular tourist attraction. A 20 mile-long lake surrounds the volcanic islet, which is a great place to do some hiking. There are seven small towns surrounding the lake, most of which have accommodation, transport and restaurants. Many visitors head to Tagaytay City first, which offers a panoramic view of Taal Lake from its ridge top location. You can also take a boat from one of the lakeside towns to reach the volcanic islet.
Top Things to Do
Absorb the Spanish colonial architecture of Batangas. The legacy of the Spanish is evident all over the Philippines, and is best represented by the enduring 400-year-old buildings which bear their style. Many consider Batangas to have the best collection of this Spanish architecture, particularly around the Taal municipality. Vigan City, Ilocos Sur and Batangas City also have wonderful old churches and houses dating from this period. For even greater detail, head to the town of Laguna which is famous for its exquisitely carved wooden furniture, the design of which is influenced by the Spanish.
Catch a boat to explore the planet’s smallest volcano which sits in the middle of Taal Lake. The Spanish colonial town of Taal is packed with things to do and see. Foremost among the highlights is its unique volcano in the centre of a lake, both of which lie within the crater of a larger extinct volcano. It’s a genuinely surreal sight, and boats regularly ferry passengers from the lakeshore to the six-mile wide volcanic island in the centre. Visiting this island is one of Batangas’ premier attractions, and the island’s trail network allows hikers to make deep forays along the volcanic slopes.
Climb Mount Maculot, one of the highest peaks in Batangas, for a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Trekking up the slopes of this beautiful mountain is the perfect way to get some fresh air and exercise. Mount Maculot has more than just stunning sub alpine scenery; it was also the last Japanese stronghold in the region during the Japanese occupation. On the way to the top you can explore some of the tunnels built by the Japanese, and at every turn there are amazing views over the lush hilly interior.
Cool off at one of Batangas’ sublime waterfalls. This province’s hilly terrain is dotted with waterfalls, meaning there are plenty to choose from if you want a quick and pleasant natural escape. Right in the main urban hub of Batangas City are two amazing little falls named Tingga and Ilijan. Tingga is about 30-feet high with a developed swimming area at the base, while Ilijan is a spring-fed beauty cascading into seven natural bowls on the side of a mountain. In Malavar you can check out Calicon Falls, where two large falls and two smaller cascades provide a shower where you can cool off from the heat. For something really exotic, visit Bulalacao Falls in Lipa, where three falls drop into a tight canyon, one of which pours out of the mouth of a cave.
Explore the underwater world of Batangas. Whether you’re an expert diver or just want to experience the surreal escapism of floating beneath the sea, Batangas has some great sites. There are several islands just offshore of the province where fun and easy sites like Sepok Point wait to be explored. There are some wonderful coral gardens off the mainland that are full of marine life, but if you want something more unusual check out the wreck of a Spanish galleon from the 1600s or the underwater caves at Maricaban.
Open your ears to the amazing musical traditions of the local Batanguenos. Few visitors leave the Philippines without noticing the deep musical heritage. The province of Batangas is famous throughout the nation for its music scenes. In particular, the Batanguena (local women from Batangas) have been the subject of countless songs that remark on their beauty. This region is the origin of the balitao form of vocal music which combines dancing with singing. Together with the traditional subli form of dancing native to Batangas, watching a dance or musical performance is a great way to experience the Philippines’ most treasured traditions.
Soak your bones in a natural hot spring. Fans of natural outdoor hot springs will definitely want to make the effort to get to Mainit Hot Springs near the town of San Juan. Set at the base of a beautiful mountain amid thick jungle vegetation, these mineral springs have been developed just enough to retain their natural feel yet make it easy to take a soak. You’ll have to travel along 10 miles of rough road to reach the hot springs, but this is precisely what keeps the crowds away.
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