Laiya (San Juan)

Laiya is one of the most popular beach destinations in Batangas, characterized by its extensive shoreline of creamy white sand and turquoise waters. Located in San Juan, it has evolved into a major resort hub, offering everything from eco-friendly glamping sites to high-end beach clubs. It is a favorite for family vacations, corporate outings, and beach weddings due to its wide and accessible coast. Activities in Laiya range from high-energy water sports like jet-skiing and banana boat rides to relaxing island-hopping tours. Nature lovers can also trek up Mount Daguldol, which provides a moderate hike with refreshing views of the coastline. The town of San Juan is also noted for its heritage houses and traditional pottery industry. The best time to visit is during the dry months from January to May when the weather is handy for beach activities. It is approximately a three-hour drive from Manila, with several routes available through the Batangas countryside.

Nearby cities

Quezon City

The most populous city in the country, which formerly served as the capital of the Philippines.

Caloocan

One of the largest cities in the metropolitan area, uniquely divided into two parts by another city.

Manila

The capital of the Philippines on the eastern shores of Manila Bay, known for its Spanish colonial architecture.

Taguig

A rapidly growing city known for the modern business district of Bonifacio Global City.

Pasig

Once a rural settlement, it is now a highly urbanized city with a major financial district.

Valenzuela

A significant industrial and residential hub in the northern part of Metro Manila.

Parañaque

A bustling city in the capital region that houses several major casino resort complexes.

Las Piñas

A historic city in Metro Manila known for its cultural heritage and traditional salt production.

Muntinlupa

The southernmost city of Metro Manila, known for exclusive residential areas and modern business hubs.

Marikina

A vibrant industrial and residential center nationally famous for its high-quality shoe production.

Mandaluyong

A major business and commercial center in Metro Manila that is home to numerous large shopping malls.

Pasay

A vibrant city in Metro Manila that acts as the international gateway to the Philippines.

Malabon

A coastal city north of Manila known for its distinct local delicacies and well-preserved heritage houses.

Los Baños

A resort town at the foot of Mount Makiling, famous for its hot springs and academic institutions.

Makati

The leading financial center of the Philippines, featuring skyscrapers and multinational corporate headquarters.

History & landmarks

Manila American Cemetery

A cemetery and memorial in Taguig, Metro Manila, that honors American and allied soldiers who died in World War II.

Cultural Center of the Philippines

A government-owned corporation considered the premiere institution for arts and culture in the Philippines.

Malacañang Palace

The official residence and principal workplace of the President of the Philippines.

National Library of the Philippines

The official national library of the Philippines, located in Manila, which houses original copies of José Rizal's novels.

San Sebastian Church (Manila)

An all-steel Roman Catholic minor basilica in Manila.

University of Santo Tomas

The oldest existing university in Asia, founded in 1611 in Manila.

More places

Bonifacio Global City

A modern financial and lifestyle district in Taguig, Metro Manila, rivaling the Makati CBD.

Star City

An amusement park in Pasay City that offers a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions.

Filinvest City

A central business district in Muntinlupa City, Metro Manila, focused on sustainability and green development.

Eastwood City

One of the first and most successful mixed-use developments in Quezon City, considered a pioneer for the BPO industry.

San Miguel Corporation Complex

The headquarters of one of the Philippines' largest and most diversified conglomerates, located in Mandaluyong City.

EDSA Shrine

A monument dedicated to the 1986 People Power Revolution that overthrew the Marcos regime.

Las Piñas Bamboo Organ

A 19th-century church organ in Las Piñas with pipes made almost entirely from bamboo.

Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center

A botanical garden and zoological park in Quezon City that serves as a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center.