Jump to: About | History | Top Attractions | What to Do | How to Get There | Where to Stay | Local Delicacies | Travel Tips
About
Laguna is a picturesque, landlocked province in the Calabarzon region (Region IV-A) of Luzon, Philippines. Hugging the southern and eastern shores of Laguna de Bay—the largest lake in the country—the province is bounded by Rizal to the north, Quezon to the east and south, Batangas to the southwest, and Cavite to the west. Its provincial capital is the historic municipality of Santa Cruz, while Calamba City serves as its regional administrative center.
Celebrated as the birthplace of the national hero Dr. José Rizal, Laguna seamlessly blends rich colonial heritage, natural hot spring wonders, towering volcanic peaks, and artisan woodcraft traditions. Just a short drive south of Metro Manila, it remains one of the premier road-trip destinations for nature lovers, heritage enthusiasts, and weekend adventurers.
History
Long before Spanish arrival, the coastal and lake-plain settlements of Laguna were prosperous trade centers where native Tagalogs traded sea salt, forest produce, and textiles with Chinese and Southeast Asian merchants across Laguna de Bay. In 1571, Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo led military expeditions into the region, establishing colonial encomiendas and Franciscan mission posts.
Formally established as a province in 1577, Laguna played a central role during the Philippine Revolution against Spain and the subsequent Philippine-American War. It produced numerous patriot leaders, most notably Dr. José Rizal, born in Calamba on June 19, 1861. Throughout the 20th century, Laguna evolved from an agricultural valley into a major industrial, educational, and eco-tourism power center in southern Luzon.
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| Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery |
Top Attractions in Laguna
Laguna boasts majestic waterfalls, historic shrines, volcanic crater lakes, and preserved Spanish-era towns. Here are five top sights to include in your trip:
1. Pagsanjan Falls (Cavinti Falls)
The iconic multi-tiered cascade tucked inside a dramatic river gorge, famous for high-speed boat rapids rides and bamboo raft swims.
2. Rizal Shrine (Calamba City)
A faithful reconstruction of the two-story Spanish-colonial ancestral home where Dr. José Rizal spent his early childhood.
3. Seven Lakes of San Pablo
A series of scenic volcanic crater lakes—including Pandin, Yambo, and Sampaloc—surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views.
4. Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery
A National Historical Landmark built in 1845, featuring an above-ground chapel and the country's only Spanish-era underground burial crypt.
5. Pila Heritage Town
A remarkably preserved historical poblacion featuring elegant 19th-century ancestral houses framing a spacious Spanish colonial plaza.
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| Pandin Lake |
What to Do
Whether you crave water adventures, cultural excursions, or hot spring relaxation, Laguna offers a variety of activities. Here are five top things to do:
1. Shoot the Rapids to Pagsanjan Falls
Board a wooden canoe guided by expert bangkeros to navigate the roaring river currents and rocky gorges leading directly beneath the falls.
2. Soak in Natural Hot Springs in Los Baños and Pansol
Unwind in private thermal resorts and public pools fed by the natural volcanic hot spring waters flowing from Mount Makiling.
3. Go Bamboo Rafting and Dining on Pandin Lake
Glide across the emerald waters of Pandin Lake on a traditional bamboo raft while savoring fresh home-cooked Tagalog meals prepared by local women guides.
4. Shop for Handcrafted Footwear in Liliw
Stroll along Gat Tayaw Street in the town of Liliw to browse dozens of local artisan shops selling high-quality, affordable slippers and shoes.
5. Watch Master Woodcarvers in Paete
Visit family-owned artisan workshops in Paete—the Woodcarving Capital of the Philippines—to see master craftsmen hand-carve religious statues and relief art.
How to Book Activities
Discover and book unforgettable tours and activities in Laguna and beyond. Secure your spot easily and enjoy hassle-free reservations through Klook:
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| Trails of Mt. Romelo |
How to Get There
Laguna is directly connected to Metro Manila via major expressways and public bus routes:
- Via Public Bus from Metro Manila (Cubao, Buendia, or Pitx):
- Board an air-conditioned passenger bus (such as DLTB Co., LLI, or Jac Liner) bound for Santa Cruz, Calamba, or San Pablo City via SLEX.
- From the main town drop-offs or terminals, transfer to local jeepneys or tricycles to reach specific tourist spots and resorts.
- Via Private Vehicle / Expressway Route:
- Drive southbound along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX).
- Take the Calamba, Silangan, or Eton/Sta. Rosa exit to reach western Laguna towns, or exit at Turbina/Calamba to take the National Highway toward Santa Cruz and eastern towns.
Where to Book Your Flight
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| Buruwisan Falls |
Where to Stay
Accommodations across Laguna range from hot spring private resorts to heritage bed-and-breakfasts and lakeside nature lodges:
1. Astrotel
Astrotel Calamba offers affordable accommodations for travelers seeking a convenient stay near Calamba City's commercial and transportation hubs. Guests can enjoy clean, comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions, shopping centers, and dining establishments. Book Astrotel here and get a discounted price of 668 pesos per night.
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2. Angela's Resort and Leisure Farm
Angela's Resort and Leisure Farm San Pablo combines comfortable accommodations with a relaxing countryside atmosphere. Guests can enjoy spacious surroundings, recreational facilities, and a peaceful environment ideal for weekend getaways and family vacations. Book Angela's Resort here while the price is 1,477 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Hotels.com
Klook.com3. Rjat Guesthouse
Rjat Guesthouse Biñan offers simple yet comfortable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers. Its convenient location in Biñan provides easy access to commercial centers, business districts, and transportation terminals throughout Laguna. Book Rjat Guesthouse here and get a discounted price of 690 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Booking.com
4. TravelNest Transient
TravelNest Transient Santa Rosa provides a cozy and budget-friendly lodging option for families, groups, and business travelers. Its strategic location offers convenient access to major establishments, industrial parks, and popular attractions such as Enchanted Kingdom. Book TravelNest Transient here for as low as 832 pesos per night.
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5. Hotel Sogo
Hotel Sogo San Pedro is a well-known budget hotel offering clean rooms, modern amenities, and 24-hour services. Its location along major roads make it a practical choice for travelers seeking accessibility and convenience while exploring Laguna and nearby Metro Manila. Book Hotel Sogo here and get a promo price of 1,378 pesos per night.
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Please note that rates are subject to change without prior notice. Always confirm prices directly with the booking platform or hotel.
Airbnb
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| Buntot Palos waterfalls |
Local Delicacies
Savor famous Tagalog delicacies, baked pastries, and traditional desserts unique to Laguna:
- Buko Pie: The undisputed edible icon of Laguna—a double-crust pie filled with tender young coconut meat and sweet cream sauce.
- Espasol: Soft, chewy cylindrical rice cakes made from toasted glutinous rice flour and coconut milk, dusted with toasted rice powder.
- Kesong Puti: Fresh, soft white cheese hand-crafted from unpasteurized carabao’s milk, perfect paired with warm pandesal.
- Uraro (Arrowroot Cookies): Delicate, melt-in-your-mouth star-shaped cookies crafted from arrowroot flour in Yambo and Liliw.
- Pancit Habhab & Kinulob: Traditional regional noodle dishes and slow-cooked meat preparations served across local town eateries.
Travel Tips
- Book Hot Spring Resorts Early: Peak weekend slots in Pansol and Los Baños fill up fast; reserve private villas weeks in advance.
- Carry Local Cash in Pesos: While major city establishments take cards, local bangkeros, street food stalls, and footwear shops operate on cash.
- Plan Around Weekend Highway Traffic: SLEX and the Calamba-Los Baños national highway experience heavy traffic on Sunday afternoons; leave early.
- Wear Non-Slip Footwear for Waterfall Treks: Exploring cascades like Hulugan or Cavinti requires footwear with reliable grip.
- Buy Buko Pie Fresh from Main Highway Branches: Stop by established bakeries along the Los Baños highway for freshly baked pies straight out of the oven.
Final Thoughts
Laguna is a versatile province that offers a road trip experience for every type of traveler. From shooting river rapids and relaxing in volcanic hot springs to walking through Spanish-era heritage streets and savoring warm buko pie, Laguna captures the rich soul of southern Luzon. Pack your bags, fuel up the car, and experience Laguna with Sirang Lente!
Nearby Attractions
Extend your Calabarzon road trip by exploring these fantastic neighboring destinations:
- Tagaytay City (Cavite): Famous for chilly mountain breezes, Taal Volcano overlooks, and bulalo restaurants.
- Kamay Ni Hesus & Lucban (Quezon): Visit the popular healing church, shrine steps, and Pahiyas festival town south of Laguna.
- Villa Escudero Plantations (San Pablo / Quezon Border): A coconut plantation resort famous for waterfall dining.
- Mount Maculot & Taal Lake (Batangas): Popular mountain trekking routes and lake activities situated southwest.
As someone who has visited all provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines Provinces Travel Guide here.
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