Introduction: Exploring the Heart of Southern Tagalog
A Rich Tapestry of Nature, Culture, and Faith
Tucked in the CALABARZON region of Luzon, Quezon Province is a vibrant destination that offers more than just a quick escape from Metro Manila. Located about 3 to 4 hours away by car or bus, it is a scenic and accessible gateway to some of the Philippines’ most fascinating natural landscapes, historic sites, and cultural treasures. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a heritage enthusiast, or a beach-loving soul, there’s a Quezon Province tourist spot with your name on it.
The province is named after Manuel L. Quezon, the first president of the Philippine Commonwealth, and it lives up to its namesake by being an area rich in historical relevance and regional pride. With the mystical Mt. Banahaw dominating its skyline and the Pacific Ocean cradling its coastal towns, Quezon Province presents a perfect blend of inland and island charm.
Why Quezon Province Is a Must on Your Travel List
When it comes to diverse tourist destinations in Quezon Province, travelers are spoiled for choice. Fancy an island-hopping adventure? The sun-drenched shores of Borawan Island, Cagbalete Island, and Alibijaban Island offer crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches perfect for unwinding or camping under the stars. Looking for a more spiritual retreat? The famed Kamay ni Hesus Shrine in Lucban draws pilgrims and curious tourists alike with its larger-than-life statue of the Risen Christ and healing masses led by Father Joey Faller.
History buffs and architecture lovers will find solace in the Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel, a baroque treasure in Tayabas that dates back to the Spanish era. Art and food enthusiasts, meanwhile, will appreciate the creative retreat that is UGU Bigyan’s Pottery Garden and the rustic floating cottages at Kamayan sa Palaisdaan, where one can feast on local cuisine while surrounded by fishponds and mountain views.
A Landscape of Allure and Adventure
Each tourist spot in Quezon Province offers a unique experience. From trekking up Mt. Banahaw, a mountain revered for its spiritual energy, to sailing through hidden coves, the province caters to all types of travelers. It is this blend of coastal charm, inland adventure, and spiritual heritage that makes Quezon stand out in the increasingly saturated world of travel itineraries.
As this guide unfolds, readers will uncover the most compelling must-visit places in Quezon Province—a curated selection of destinations that highlight the province’s best. Whether you’re crafting a long weekend getaway or a full-fledged road trip itinerary, these tourist spots in Quezon Province are sure to leave lasting memories and stories worth sharing.
Table of Contents
List of Tourist Spots in Quezon Province
Quezon Province is a treasure trove of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and cultural landmarks that cater to all kinds of travelers. From serene island getaways to spiritually rich pilgrimage sites, every tourist spot in Quezon Province offers a unique experience that blends nature, heritage, and local charm. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or meaningful connection, this diverse province in Southern Luzon has something to offer.
In this section, we highlight the most iconic and lesser-known Quezon Province tourist spots, carefully curated to guide you through its must-see beaches, mountains, churches, resorts, and artistic spaces. These must-visit places in Quezon Province are ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and friend groups planning their next road trip or weekend escape.
As you explore these tourist destinations in Quezon Province, you’ll discover stunning coastlines like Borawan and Jomalig, cultural hideaways such as UGU Bigyan’s Pottery Garden, and time-honored landmarks like the Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel. Whether you’re crafting a 3-day escape or a full itinerary, this comprehensive list is your perfect starting point.
Borawan Island
Borawan Island in Padre Burgos combines the names of Boracay and Palawan, a reflection of its white sandy beach and majestic limestone cliffs. Though not as commercial as its namesakes, Borawan offers a serene and rustic charm that captures both nature lovers and beachgoers.
Why Visit
Borawan is a romantic place in Quezon Province, perfect for couples, groups, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful beach retreat. Its dramatic rock formations, clear waters, and island-hopping opportunities make it one of the best beaches in Quezon Province.
How to Get There
From Manila, take a bus to Lucena (3–4 hours). From Lucena Grand Terminal, ride a van or bus to Padre Burgos. Tricycles are available to Aplaya, the boat jump-off point.
Entrance Fees
Entrance: PHP 80
Tent Rental: PHP 500
Cottage Rental: PHP 700–850
Boat transfers: variable by group size
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November to May) is ideal for beach camping and island hopping.
Travel Tips
Bring cash; ATMs are scarce
Book in advance during summer
Don’t miss nearby Dampalitan and Puting Buhangin Islands
Alibijaban Island
Situated off San Andres, Alibijaban Island is a protected paradise known for its mangrove forests and long stretches of white sand beaches. It’s a hidden gem in the Bondoc Peninsula and a top natural attraction in Quezon Province.
Why Visit
Alibijaban is a sanctuary for beach lovers and eco-travelers. With minimal development, this Quezon Province tourist spot beach offers snorkeling, camping, and quiet reflection in nature.
How to Get There
Ride a bus to Lucena, then a van or bus to San Andres. From there, catch a boat at the public port (15–30 minutes to the island).
Entrance Fees
Environmental Fee: PHP 100
Boat ride: approx. PHP 75–100
Tent rental: PHP 300
Cottage rental: PHP 500–1,000
Best Time to Visit
Visit between March and May to enjoy calm seas and warm weather.
Travel Tips
Electricity is limited; bring power banks
Bring water and food supplies
Respect the local marine sanctuary rules
Want to know more about Alibijaban Island? Visit our full Blog about this tourist spot.
Jomalig Island
Known for its golden-sand beaches and isolated tranquility, Jomalig Island lies east of Quezon Province and is the most remote destination on this list. It’s a favorite among backpackers seeking the best beach in Quezon Province far from the crowds.
Why Visit
With its iconic Salibungot Beach, peaceful fishing villages, and endless coconut groves, Jomalig is ideal for long weekends of camping, beachcombing, and soul-searching.
How to Get There
Take a bus to Real, Quezon (5–6 hours), then board a passenger boat from Ungos Port (4–6 hours). Alternatively, book direct vans with boat packages from Manila.
Entrance Fees
Environmental Fee: PHP 170
Island entrance fees: PHP 30–50 per beach
Boat fare: PHP 400–500
Best Time to Visit
March to early June is perfect for sea travel and sightseeing.
Travel Tips
Power supply is limited; bring power banks
There are no ATMs—bring cash
Consider a local guide for motorcycle tours
Want to know more about Jomalig Island? Visit our full Blog about this tourist spot.
Cagbalete Island
Located off the coast of Mauban, Cagbalete Island is often cited as the best beach in Quezon Province for families and casual adventurers. With vast tidal sandbars and lush mangroves, it’s a visual and sensory delight.
Why Visit
It’s the perfect Quezon Province tourist spot beach for swimming, island hopping, and beach camping. Sandbars stretch into the sea during low tide, creating Instagram-worthy moments.
How to Get There
From Manila, ride a bus to Lucena or directly to Mauban. From Mauban Port, board a public boat to the island (45 mins to 1 hour).
Entrance Fees
Environmental Fee (Mauban): PHP 50
Boat fare: PHP 100
Tent/Cottage Rental: varies by resort (PHP 500–1,500)
Best Time to Visit
Plan trips between March and May for the best tidal views and fair weather.
Travel Tips
Buy food and water in Mauban before departure
Bring reef-safe sunscreen for snorkeling
Reserve early at popular resorts like Villa Cleofas or Dona Choleng
Want to know more about Cagbalete Island? Visit our full Blog about this tourist spot.
Kamay ni Hesus Shrine
Located in Lucban, Kamay ni Hesus Shrine is one of the most famous tourist spots in Quezon Province. Founded by healing priest Fr. Joey Faller, it is a well-known pilgrimage site.
Why Visit
The highlight is the 50-foot statue of the Risen Christ atop a hill, accessed by climbing over 300 steps lined with life-sized Stations of the Cross. The grounds also include a healing church, Noah’s Ark retreat center, and biblical gardens.
How to Get There
Ride a bus to Lucena, then take a jeepney or van to Lucban. From the town center, hire a tricycle to the shrine.
Entrance Fees
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Free entrance
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Donations accepted
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Retreat center has fees for accommodation
Best Time to Visit
Holy Week is popular but crowded; weekdays offer a more peaceful visit.
Travel Tips
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Wear modest, comfortable attire for the climb
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Bring water for hydration
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Avoid weekends for a more reflective experience
Want to know more about Kamay ni Hesus? Visit our full Blog about this tourist spot.
Mt. Banahaw
Towering at over 2,100 meters above sea level, Mt. Banahaw is an active stratovolcano that straddles Quezon and Laguna provinces. Known as a sacred mountain, it is one of the most spiritually significant and historical places in Quezon Province. Pilgrims, mystics, and mountaineers alike have long considered it a place of healing and divine energy.
Why Visit
Mt. Banahaw is among the top natural attractions in Quezon Province. It offers lush forest trails, sacred springs, and spiritual meditation caves. For adventurous hikers and devout pilgrims, this mountain promises both challenge and tranquility.
How to Get There
From Manila, take a bus to Lucena or San Pablo City. From there, head to Dolores, Lucban, or Tayabas—towns that serve as trail entry points. A permit from the DENR may be required depending on the route.
Entrance Fees
Climbing fee: around PHP 50 (via Tayabas route)
DENR permit may apply
Local guides are recommended and may charge additional fees
Best Time to Visit
Ideal months are March to May. Note that the mountain is periodically closed for ecological rehabilitation.
Travel Tips
Wear proper hiking gear
Hire accredited local guides
Respect the mountain’s sacred significance and environmental rules
UGU Bigyan’s Pottery Garden
Tucked away in Tiaong, UGU Bigyan’s Pottery Garden and Restaurant is an artist’s sanctuary created by the celebrated ceramicist Augusto “Ugu” Bigyan. It’s a haven for design enthusiasts and one of the most romantic places in Quezon Province, where art, food, and peace harmoniously coexist.
Why Visit
More than just a destination for pottery lovers, UGU Bigyan’s is a full sensory retreat. Guests dine on curated Filipino dishes served on handcrafted ceramics, stroll through artistically landscaped gardens, and browse a gallery of locally made pottery.
How to Get There
Drive via SLEX and exit at Sto. Tomas. Head toward Lucena via San Pablo Road until you reach Barangay Lusacan in Tiaong. Public transportation options are available from Manila to Tiaong, followed by a short tricycle ride.
Entrance Fees and Dining
Visits by reservation only
Set lunch menu: PHP 1,100 per person (minimum of 10 guests)
Workshops and pottery sales available on-site
Best Time to Visit
Open year-round by appointment. Visit on weekdays for a more private atmosphere.
Travel Tips
Book ahead for meals and workshops
Ideal for couples, creatives, and small groups
Bring cash and wear garden-friendly attire
Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort
Once a coconut plantation, Villa Escudero in Tiaong has become a premier cultural resort. It’s among the best tourist spots in Quezon Province, offering a unique mix of local heritage, countryside ambiance, and rural hospitality.
Why Visit
Guests dine at a man-made waterfall, visit a museum filled with colonial-era artifacts, watch cultural dance performances, and paddle bamboo rafts across Labasin Lake. It’s a quintessential family getaway and an immersive introduction to Filipino traditions.
How to Get There
Drive through SLEX and continue to San Pablo City. Villa Escudero is located along Km 91 in Tiaong, Quezon, just past the Laguna-Quezon boundary.
Entrance Fees and Packages
Day tour: PHP 1,800 (weekdays), PHP 2,100 (weekends)
Overnight stay: starts at PHP 10,400 per room (with full board meals)
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays offer more space for exploration; the resort is fully operational year-round.
Travel Tips
Reserve early for overnight stays
Don’t skip the cultural show (weekends and holidays)
Bring swimwear, extra clothes, and insect repellent
Kamayan sa Palaisdaan
In Tayabas City lies Kamayan sa Palaisdaan, a pioneering floating restaurant that has expanded into a full-service resort. This hybrid of food and leisure is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Quezon Province.
Why Visit
Dine in nipa huts above fishponds, enjoy Filipino dishes while being serenaded, and unwind in the resort’s infinity pools. It’s ideal for birthdays, reunions, and spontaneous weekend escapes with family or barkadas.
How to Get There
From Lucena Grand Terminal, ride a jeepney bound for Lucban and alight at Barangay Dapdap. For those driving, it’s an easy ride from SLEX to Tayabas via Lucena.
Operating Hours
Restaurant: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Hotel Check-in: 2:00 PM | Check-out: 12:00 PM
Best Time to Visit
Visit during weekdays or early weekends for shorter wait times. Dry months ensure better access to all amenities.
Travel Tips
Book dining or rooms in advance
Bring cash; limited card services
Try the Air Summit Gourmet airplane restaurant for a fun twist
Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel
Located in Tayabas, this famous tourist spot in Quezon Province is the largest church in the province and a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. Built in the 1500s and enlarged in the 1800s, the basilica features a key-shaped floor plan and a lengthy nave—the longest among Spanish-era churches in the Philippines.
Why Visit
This historical place in Quezon Province is a must-see for architecture buffs, pilgrims, and anyone seeking cultural depth. Its intricate interiors, ancient belfry, and religious relics evoke centuries of history and faith.
How to Get There
Take a bus to Lucena, then a jeepney or tricycle to Tayabas town proper. The church is centrally located and easily accessible.
Entrance Fees
Free to visit
Masses are open to the public
Donations are encouraged
Best Time to Visit
Best viewed in daylight hours. Sundays offer the full local church experience, while weekdays are quieter for sightseeing and photography.
Travel Tips
Dress modestly
Bring a camera and admire the details
Combine your visit with nearby Malagonlong Bridge or Casa Comunidad
Suggested 3D2N Itinerary in Quezon Province
For travelers seeking a well-balanced escape, this 3-day, 2-night itinerary explores the best cultural, spiritual, and coastal experiences Quezon has to offer. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple looking for a scenic getaway, or a family planning a nature retreat, this Quezon Province tourist spot itinerary ensures a taste of the province’s most iconic and underrated gems.
Day 1: Heritage and Handcrafted Charm in Tiaong and Tayabas
Ideal for: Families, couples, creatives
7:00 AM – Depart Metro Manila: Take South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and arrive in Tiaong by 10:00 AM.
10:30 AM – Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort: Enjoy a guided museum tour, bamboo rafting, and lunch by the waterfalls.
2:00 PM – UGU Bigyan’s Pottery Garden (Brgy. Lusacan, Tiaong): Pre-book a set lunch (for groups) and browse handmade ceramics.
4:30 PM – Head to Tayabas City: Check in at Kamayan sa Palaisdaan Hotel or similar accommodations.
5:30 PM – Visit Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel: Explore before sundown and enjoy a casual dinner nearby.
Day 2: Lucban Pilgrimage and Scenic Mountain Views
Ideal for: Solo travelers, spiritual seekers, nature lovers
7:00 AM – Depart Tayabas for Lucban (approx. 40 min):
8:00 AM – Kamay ni Hesus Shrine: Climb the hilltop grotto and visit the Healing Church.
11:00 AM – Lunch in Lucban Town: Try Pancit Habhab and Lucban Longganisa.
12:30 PM – Optional Mt. Banahaw side trip or nature walk in Dolores/Lucban area (Note: Trail access depends on DENR updates)
4:00 PM – Return to Tayabas or Lucena for overnight stay
Day 3: Coastal Escapade in Padre Burgos or Mauban
Ideal for: Couples, groups of friends, beach lovers
6:00 AM – Check out and depart for Padre Burgos (for Borawan Island)
9:00 AM – Boat ride to Borawan Island: Enjoy kayaking, swimming, and island hopping to Dampalitan or Puting Buhangin.
2:00 PM – Return to Aplaya Port and prepare for the trip home
OR
6:00 AM – Travel to Mauban for Cagbalete Island trip
8:00 AM – Boat to Cagbalete Island: Explore tidal sandbars, go snorkeling, or enjoy lunch at a beachfront resort.
3:00 PM – Return to Mauban Port, then head back to Manila
This flexible and efficient Quezon Province tourist spot itinerary lets you experience the province’s top cultural sites, spiritual landmarks, and beach destinations all in one go. A perfect introduction to the many must-visit places in Quezon Province—and perhaps the beginning of a new travel tradition.
Where to Stay in Quezon Province
Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, the mountains, or the culture, Quezon Province offers a wide array of accommodations that suit every type of traveler. From coastal camping to charming heritage inns, each lodging choice brings you closer to the most memorable tourist attractions in Quezon Province.
Accommodations in Lucban and Tayabas
For those exploring Lucban and Tayabas—home to Kamay ni Hesus Shrine, Mt. Banahaw, and colonial churches—convenient stays include:
Batis Aramin Resort and Hotel (Lucban) – Ideal for families visiting Kamay ni Hesus. Offers pools, lush gardens, and zipline adventures.
Graceland Estates and Country Club (Tayabas) – A serene getaway with villas, nature trails, and mountain views.
Kamayan sa Palaisdaan Hotel and Resort – Great for food lovers who want to stay close to one of the most unique tourist attractions in Quezon Province.
Coastal and Island Resorts
If your itinerary includes a Quezon Province tourist spot beach, consider the following:
Borawan Island Resort (Padre Burgos) – Offers beachfront cottages and tent rentals for a back-to-nature experience.
Cagbalete Island Resorts (Mauban) – Villa Cleofas, Doña Choleng, and Aquazul are top picks for beachgoers and eco-travelers.
Alibijaban Island Camping Grounds (San Andres) – Basic tents and cottages in a protected island setting.
Jomalig Homestays and Campsites – Best for adventurous travelers; accommodations include local homestays and beachside tent areas.
From rustic island setups to cozy town-side hotels, Quezon caters to every traveler’s style. Whether you prefer to unwind by a Quezon Province tourist spot beach or nestle near the foot of a holy mountain, there’s always a place to call home in this diverse and welcoming province.
Food to Try in Quezon Province
Quezon Province is not only rich in natural wonders and heritage landmarks, but also in culinary traditions that reflect its vibrant culture. For many travelers, food becomes one of the most memorable parts of their visit—and Quezon certainly delivers. From heirloom recipes to market-fresh produce, local cuisine here complements the charm of every famous tourist spot in Quezon Province.
Must-Try Quezon Dishes
Pancit Habhab – A beloved Lucban specialty, this stir-fried noodle dish is uniquely served on banana leaves and eaten without utensils. It’s a street food staple during the Pahiyas Festival.
Lucban Longganisa – A garlicky, slightly sour pork sausage that pairs perfectly with fried rice and eggs, often served for breakfast in Lucban eateries.
Pako Salad – Made from wild fern fronds tossed with salted egg, tomatoes, and vinaigrette—this refreshing salad is a common starter in farm-to-table restaurants.
Kulawo – A regional delicacy made of grilled banana blossom or eggplant, doused in creamy coconut milk, and traditionally smoked with burnt coconut husk for added flavor.
Notable Dining Spots
Kamayan sa Palaisdaan (Tayabas) – A floating restaurant offering native Filipino dishes like grilled tilapia and ginataang suso, all served in a garden-lagoon setting.
UGU Bigyan’s Pottery Garden (Tiaong) – Combines fine pottery with fine dining. Their set menus feature specialties like pork and mushroom soup and shrimp curry.
Lucban Town Eateries – Small restaurants and carinderias line the streets, especially vibrant during the Pahiyas Festival, when food stalls overflow with local delicacies and festive treats.
Eating your way through Quezon is a delicious way to explore its identity—every bite is a celebration of tradition, community, and the distinct flavor of its tourist attractions in Quezon Province.
Travel Tips for Quezon Province
Quezon Province tourist spot beach | Tourist destinations in Quezon Province | Natural attractions in Quezon Province
Planning a trip to Quezon Province is exciting, especially with its mix of coastal charm, cultural heritage, and natural attractions in Quezon Province. To make the most of your adventure, here are essential tips that can help travelers navigate and enjoy this vibrant destination with ease.
Best Time to Visit
The best months to explore Quezon Province tourist spot beach destinations and nature trails are from November to May, when the weather is generally dry and boat travel to islands like Cagbalete, Borawan, and Alibijaban is safer. If you’re interested in local festivals, time your visit in May for the Pahiyas Festival in Lucban, a colorful celebration of thanksgiving and artistry.
Getting Around
Jeepneys and tricycles are the main modes of transport in towns.
Buses and vans connect Manila to major towns like Lucena, Lucban, and Tayabas.
For island trips, boat rides are available from ports in Mauban, Padre Burgos, and Real.
Plan ahead as some island transfers only run at specific times.
Budget Tips and Essentials
Bring enough cash, especially when visiting remote beaches or islands where ATMs are unavailable.
Pack sunscreen, power banks, insect repellent, and refillable water bottles.
Most homestays and beach resorts accept cash only.
Safety and Local Etiquette
Quezon is generally safe, but always follow safety guidelines during hikes or boat rides.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites.
Respect local customs, especially when exploring spiritual tourist destinations in Quezon Province like Mt. Banahaw or Kamay ni Hesus.
By traveling prepared, you’ll fully enjoy the province’s charm—whether lounging on a Quezon Province tourist spot beach or discovering offbeat villages nestled in its hills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Planning your Quezon Province tourist spot itinerary? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions from travelers exploring this diverse and culturally rich destination.
What is the best tourist spot in Quezon Province for families?
Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort is often regarded as the best tourist spot in Quezon Province for families. With cultural dance shows, an on-site museum, and the unique waterfall restaurant, it offers both entertainment and educational value for all ages.
What is the best beach in Quezon Province?
Jomalig Island is widely considered the best beach in Quezon Province. Known for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful seclusion, it’s perfect for travelers looking to experience raw, unspoiled island beauty.
How do I get to Jomalig Island?
From Manila, take a bus or van to Real, Quezon. At Ungos Port, board a passenger boat to Jomalig Island. The boat ride takes approximately 4 to 6 hours, depending on sea conditions. Be prepared for a long journey, but the destination is truly worth it.
Are there romantic places in Quezon Province for couples?
Absolutely. Couples will enjoy the artistic serenity of UGU Bigyan’s Pottery Garden, and the floating dining experience at Kamayan sa Palaisdaan—both are top picks for romantic places in Quezon Province.
What are the historical places in Quezon Province?
The Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel in Tayabas is a standout among historical places in Quezon Province, along with Malagonlong Bridge and colonial-era architecture in Lucban. These sites offer a glimpse into the province’s rich Spanish heritage and religious traditions.
Conclusion / Final Thoughts
From centuries-old churches to sun-kissed islands, Quezon Province is a destination that balances spiritual reflection, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re hiking through Mt. Banahaw’s misty trails, praying at Kamay ni Hesus, or unwinding at a Quezon Province tourist spot beach like Borawan or Cagbalete, the experiences are as diverse as the landscape.
Travelers will find that each tourist spot in Quezon Province has its own story to tell—woven into the province’s rich history, culinary traditions, and heartfelt hospitality. It’s a place where you can find serenity on a boat ride to Alibijaban, adventure in the remote shores of Jomalig, and wonder inside centuries-old basilicas.
The best part? There’s always something new to discover. Many of the must-visit places in Quezon Province remain delightfully under the radar, waiting to surprise those willing to explore beyond the usual routes.
So whether you’re planning your next weekend escape or mapping out a longer adventure, Quezon deserves a top spot on your travel list. Don’t forget to bookmark this guide, share it with your fellow explorers, or leave a comment with your favorite Quezon memory. Your next unforgettable journey might just be one jeepney or boat ride away.
