Welcome to Laguna—The Backyard Getaway of Metro Manila

Just a couple of hours’ drive from the metro, Laguna feels like that comforting spot you keep coming back to. Tucked between bustling cities and mountainous borders, it’s where urban stress goes to retire. You’ve probably heard of Pagsanjan Falls or maybe even dipped your toes in the hot springs of Los Baños. But trust me—there’s more to this province than just warm water and waterfalls. Laguna is a time capsule, a nature trip, a cultural detour, and a food crawl—all rolled into one.

History You Can Actually Touch

Let’s talk about heritage. This province doesn’t just wear its history on its sleeve—it practically shouts it from the rooftops of Spanish-era houses in Pila and Nagcarlan. Pila is even dubbed a “Heritage Town,” with ancestral homes that have seen revolutions, fiestas, and love stories. Over in Nagcarlan, you’ll find the Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery, the only one of its kind in the Philippines. Creepy? Maybe. Fascinating? Definitely.

Nature That Doesn’t Feel Overcrowded—Yet

Sure, Tagaytay gets the headlines. But if you want less traffic and more trails, Laguna is your place. Mount Makiling is a favorite for hikers and eco-tourists alike. Not into hiking? Go for a boat ride to Pagsanjan Falls (aka Cavinti Falls), where you can glide through towering gorges with water spray kissing your cheeks. For something calmer, Lake Pandin in San Pablo offers bamboo raft lunches with a side of serenity.

Bonus tip: San Pablo has Seven Lakes, and yes, you can visit them all. No, you don’t have to do it in one day.

The Hot Spring Capital—Still Worth the Hype

Calamba and Los Baños have built reputations around their hot springs, and for good reason. There’s something therapeutic about soaking in warm, mineral-rich water after a long week (or month). Whether you’re staying in a modest pansol resort or a private villa with a view of Mount Makiling, the vibe is always the same: total chill.

Here’s the thing—many resorts now offer night swimming, private karaoke rooms, and even poolside Netflix setups. This isn’t your lolo’s hot spring anymore.

Festivals, Food, and the Fun Side of Culture

Every town in Laguna seems to have its own fiesta, and honestly, you can just follow the banderitas to the next one. Anilag Festival, usually held in March, is like the province’s official tourism celebration. Expect food fairs, street dances, and colorful floats that give you a snapshot of each town’s pride.

Food-wise, Laguna is a playground. Buko pie from Los Baños? Classic. Kesong puti from Sta. Cruz? Underrated. Puto Biñan? Don’t even get me started. This is the kind of province where your diet automatically goes on pause—and rightfully so.

Hidden Spots That Deserve a Shoutout

Let me throw a few lesser-known gems your way. First, there’s Paete, a quiet town bursting with creativity. Known for its master woodcarvers and artisans, even its lampposts seem like pieces of art. Then there’s Majayjay Falls, tucked deep within the forest—it’s icy cold, refreshingly raw, and well worth the slippery trek. Over in Cavinti, you’ll find an underground river and cave complex that gives you a taste of adventure minus the overwhelming tourist crowd you’d expect in more famous spots like Palawan. And don’t skip Liliw, a charming town famous for handcrafted shoes. But beyond the footwear, you’ll discover a quaint town center and a striking red-brick church that gives the place a character all its own.

HOW to do laguna right

Here’s a real talk moment: Laguna is best enjoyed slowly. It’s not a “hit five towns in a day” kind of place. Instead, pick a town or two, stay a night or two, talk to locals, eat without Googling, and take the scenic route. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a cultural junkie, Laguna has a way of adjusting to your mood.

And if you’re a photographer or a storyteller, the textures here—the old wood, the misty mornings, the afternoon light bouncing off rice paddies—are pure gold.

Final Thoughts—Why Laguna Is More Than a Stopover

Laguna is the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard. It doesn’t have to. It just shows up with good food, warm people, cool waterfalls, and the kind of heritage that doesn’t scream for attention. Whether you’re escaping the city or exploring more of your own country, this province deserves more than a pit stop.