At the mention of Philipines, people always think of its rice fields, teeming megacities, jeepneys with lovely decorations, smoldering volcanoes, and the happy-go-lucky people. Those looking for a place where they see all of these find that San Carlos City is the perfect destination. From its striking natural beauty to its impeccable man-made creations, San Carlos City has a lot of places where explorers will definitely enjoy. For the art and history lovers, there are several museums, landmarks and attractions that explain the rich chronicles of the city. If you happen to be in the city in November, join the locals in celebrating Pintaflores Festival, a street dancing festival which features rhythmic dances and dance dramas. There are also many Airbnb vacation rentals in Bacolod, a neighboring city, where you can stay to make the most of your entire vacation. If you want a more comfortable and luxurious place, Bacolod also has hotels where fully equipped bedrooms, parking spaces, and swimming pools are provided. Opportunities in San Carlos City are endless and inviting and therefore, anyone planning a visit should think of what they want to do. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or a local in the city, make sure you explore this guide for the best things to do in San Carlos City, Philippines.
1. Explore the fascinating Cave Lapus
Cave Lapus is one of the ideal tourist spots in San Carlos City for adventurous people. It is situated in Upper Tongo Bangay Palampas and is accessible either by a motorcycle or on foot within an hour or two. One can hike to the cave to take in the fresh air and the stunning scenery. The cave is naturally formed and features magnificent rock formations, an underground river and passageways which will add thrill and excitement to your adventure.
Cave Lapus
Address: Upper Tongo, Barangay Palampas San Carlos City Western Visayas Philippines
Website: Cave Lapus
2. Wander in the Codcod Rice Terraces
One of the places to visit in San Carlos City are these lovely terraces, which form a large part of the city’s attractions. Situated 28km (17 miles) from the city centre, Codcod is the rice granary and vegetable garden of the city. These breathtaking rice terraces are the results of the dedication and artistic labour of the local farmers. The area is characterized by cool weather, a stunning view of Mt. Kanlaon, amazing nature and mountains of rice paddies. You can’t miss this terraces when you are on the road. Make sure you stop to get a good look and maybe take some pictures.
Codcod Rice Terraces
Address: foot of Mt. Kanlaon
Website: Codcod Rice Terraces
3. Have a picnic at People’s Park
If you have the afternoon off and want to know what to do in San Carlos City, visit People’s Park. It’s a famous spot for walking, jogging, meeting with friends and relaxing. For only P5.00 (0.1 USD) you’ll get to enjoy a variety of amenities including swimming pools, playgrounds, picnic areas, outdoor cafes, sports area, kiosks and promenades. There are also miniature structures of the city in the park. Here, everybody is welcomed to enjoy a fun or peaceful day.
People’s Park
Address: San Carlos City Western Visayas Philippines
Website: People’s Park
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
Price: P5.00 (0.1 USD)
4. Spend a day at La Fortuna Nature & Wildlife Lagoon
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Looking for a quiet, relaxed place which is not crowded, try La Fortuna Nature & Wildlife Lagoon. It situated along Western Nautical Highway and features great scenery. It is peaceful, making it perfect for couples or solo adventurous looking for some quiet time. Take in the views of the waters, the trees and the plantations around. You can also hike/jog to the area.
La Fortuna Nature & Wildlife Lagoon
Address: Western Nautical Hwy San Carlos City, Western Visayas 6127 Philippines
Website: La Fortuna Nature & Wildlife Lagoon
5. Explore the Broce Ancestral House
Broce Ancestral House is one of the most beautiful places in San Carlos City, and those fascinated by history will totally love visiting it. It’s an old building that dates back to the 18th century. It was built for Don Florentino Broce and his family, one of the richest and greatest landowners of San Carlos City. The mansion was used by Broce’s Family as a home and was destroyed by fire in 2016. The Ancestral Home also plays a greater role in the city’s national affairs. Get to Broce Ancestral Home to learn more about its fascinating history.
Broce Ancestral House
Address: Azcona Street San Carlos City, Western Visayas Philippines
Website: The Broce Ancestral House
6. Dine at Sir Chief's Corner Restaurant
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Heard of what's new? It's Sir Chief's Corner "The Restaurant." And for today's menu, we're serving you Grilled Tuna Belly ala Sir Chiefs.
Posted by Sir Chief's Corner on Wednesday, October 25, 2017
Sir Chief’s Corner, mostly known as the burger restaurant, is a great place for families and friends to meet or to go out. It is a nice place to chow, drink and have fun with friends. The restaurant is built on great principles, which ensures that the guests receive friendly and professional service and that they are treated with the respect they deserve. The food at this place is affordable, making it open for everyone. Try the food at Sir Chief’s Restaurant and I assure you that you won’t be disappointed.
Sir Chief's Corner Restaurant
Website: Sir Chief’s Corner Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 3pm - 10pm; Sun: 4pm - 10pm
7. Have some fun at The Music Box Karaoke Bar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
now available....... #chickenskin
Posted by The Music Box on Friday, October 28, 2016
Couples and friends who love trying new things should definitely try out singing at The Music Box. It is a bar open from 5 pm to midnight and features an array of songs and modern videoke equipment. To make your visit worth remembering, take a few drinks and get your friends to record you while you sing the song you love. Isn’t that interesting? Get to the Music Box and test your vocals.
The Music Box
Address: FC Ledesma Avenue San Carlos City, Western Visayas Philippines
Website: The Music Box
Opening hours: 5pm - 12am (daily)
8. Visit the statues at Hacienda Santa Ana Grotto
This place plays an important role in the history of religion. It features religious statues depicting the 14 Stations of the Cross, that is from the crucifixion to the ascension. It also features the miraculous statue of Our Lady of Lourdes. The locals use this area during special events, like Thanksgiving day, to celebrate. Head to Hacienda Santa Ana Grotto and marvel at how the statues explain the story of the cross. Funny enough, you will also marvel at how the statues appear so real.
Hacienda Santa Ana Grotto
Address: Sta. Ana Grotto 6127 San Carlos City, San Carlos, Philippines
Website: Hacienda Santa Ana Grotto
9. Enjoy nature at Negros Chocolate Hills
On your way to/from San Carlos City, make sure you look to the right to catch a glimpse of what seems to look like the hills in Bohol. Situated along the road from San Carlos to Bacolod is a range of chocolate hills that give an interesting view. These hills form a lovely pattern and definitely make your trip interesting. You can get to the highest point of the area to have a better view of these hills.
Negros Chocolate Hills
Address: San Carlos City, Negros Occidental, Philippines
Website: Negros Chocolate Hills
10. Hike to Mayana Peak
Situated in Sitio Punod about two and a half hours from Bacolod City is this wonderful mountain tip. It is a very nice place to find your peace as you get in touch with nature. You will need to sign the logbook at Sitiyo Mayana so as to get a guide, who will take you to the top. To get to Sitio Mayana, you can either hike or ride a ‘habal-habal’ (motorbike). Nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts will surely love this activity. All you need is a physical and psychological preparedness along with lots of water. The hike to the top is a tough one but the views you get to see once you are at the top are worth it. You will find a small hut at the peak that sells refreshments. Tag along with your friends and hike to Mayana Peak. Make sure to take some pictures to show your friends and family back home.
Mayana Peak
Address: Sitio Punod, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental.
Website: Mayana Peak
11. Take a photo with the centuries-old Balete Tree
Balete trees are from the family of fig trees and are mostly found in the Philippines (around 10 of 800 species are found in the Philippines). They are given prominence due to their age and size. It has a wide treetop with protruding branches and a broad and flat root system making it perfect for growing in parks and avenues. The tree has a thrilling history behind its existence and the people know it to be a home for the mythical creatures at night. This specific Balete Tree is situated in Sipaway Island, 15 minutes from San Carlos City. It is located at the vicinity of San Juan Elementary School. Come down to this place where you will get to hear of its amazing stories and marvel at the size of the tree. Don’t forget to take a picture.
Balete Tree
Address: Sipaway Island San Carlos City, Western Visayas Philippines
Website: Balete Tree
12. Enjoy a meal at 10.9 Restobar
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Crispy Pata ala 10.9 Restobar #VamosSanCarlos #Pintaflores2019
Posted by 10.9 restobar on Tuesday, November 5, 2019
Come to this cosy, kid-friendly restaurant situated along Azucena Street in San Carlos. Enjoy eating and drinking from their delicious menu which includes dessert. It serves its customers with delicious meals and drinks in a lovely atmosphere. The restaurant is well furnished and the windows allow in fresh air creating a perfect ambience for dining. Reservations are accepted so book one and surprise your loved ones by taking them to this wonderful place.
10.9 Restobar
Address: Azucena Street, San Carlos City, 6127 Negros Occidental, Philippines
Website: 10.9 Restobar
Opening Hours: 10am - 10.30pm (daily)
The amazing San Carlos City
San Carlos City is perfect for families, solo adventurers, couples and also a large group of friends looking for something fun to do. The list above shows that San Carlos really has a lot to offer every type of traveller, from artists to history lovers and the adventurous. Make the above guide part of your itinerary during your vacation to San Carlo City and be sure to enjoy yourself.
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