17 BEST Bulacan Tourist Spots + Things to Do
Located an hour away, Bulacan Province is one of the best weekend destinations from the metro. The province — marked by flat lands and several hilly areas, is home to a variety of resorts where you can relax and re-energize. You can find private houses with pools, private resorts, and bed-and-breakfasts with a view of surrounding farmlands for the family.
But what other attractions does Bulacan offer? Laguna has its mountain forests, waterfalls, and hot springs, while Batangas has its beautiful beaches and snorkel & dive sites. Bulacan meanwhile is home to several important historical sites; natural landscapes such as mountains, waterfalls, and rivers; and a vibrant culinary scene.
In this article, we’ll go through the best Bulacan tourist spots that you can visit on your next trip.
Contents
- 1. Barasoain Church
- 2. Biak na Bato National Park
- 3. Angat Rainforest and Eco Park
- 4. Mount Balagbag
- 5. Kaytitinga Falls
- 6. Pinagrealan Cave
- 7. Tila Pilon Hills and Talon Pari Falls
- 8. Secret Falls
- 9. Maramo River
- 10. Mount Secret
- 11. Kabayunan View Deck
- 12. Malolos Church
- 13. Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm
- 14. Enjoy a riverside staycation
- 15. Raw camping at The Secret Haven
- 16. Pick-and-pay at The Viewpoint Farm
- 17. Grab a coffee at Pugpog Bikers Highlands
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1. Barasoain Church
Barasoain Church is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Bulacan. Known formally as Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, it holds religious, historical, and architectural significance for the Filipinos.
The church was built in 1888 during the Spanish Colonial Period and features beautiful Baroque architecture. It is the site of three important events. It was here where the first Philippine Republic was inaugurated back in 1899, earning it the nickname “Cradle of Democracy in the East.” It was also where the drafting of the Malolos Constitution and the inauguration of the first Philippine Republic took place.
Today, you can visit the church and appreciate its splendors. You can also visit the convent cloister-turned-museum (Museo ng Repulibka ng 1899) for free to learn more about its history. During Holy Week, this church is one of the pilgrimage sites that Filipinos visit for the Visita Iglesia.
2. Biak na Bato National Park
Biak na Bato National Park is one of the most established tourist spots in Bulacan, combining a mix of historical tours and eco-adventure. The national park covers about 2100 hectares and features natural attractions such as mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls, and caves. It is also a historically significant site – it served as the hideout of the Katipuneros led by Emilio Aguinaldo and the site where the Biak na Bato Republic was established.
This Bulacan attraction offers a variety of outdoor activities, including trekking, caving, and swimming. One of the popular tours in the park includes the Historical Caves, where you can explore four caves that Katipuneros used as hideout, and the Paniki Cave, where you can see wild bats and take a dip in a small waterfall behind the cave.
Inside the park, you can also find Mount Manalmon, a beginner-friendly hike that includes crossing across a monkey bridge along the Madlum River and exploring Bayukbuk Cave. For more experienced hikers, Mount Gola offers a more challenging trek.
3. Angat Rainforest and Eco Park
Angat Rainforest and Eco Park is an eco-park located at Norzagaray, Bulacan. Known locally as “Hilltop,” it was built to drive awareness about the importance of watersheds, particularly Angat Dam which supplies over 90% of water to the metro and is also home to a variety of indigenous flora and fauna.
The highlights of the park include the view deck where you can see Angat Dam, Ipo Dam, and the surrounding Sierra Madre mountain range; an ecological center; and a fun trail for runners and cyclists.
From the eco-park, you can also visit the nearby Bitbit Bridge for a quick swim or a picnic with the family.
4. Mount Balagbag
Mount Balagbag is a popular beginner-friendly hike located in the border of Bulacan and Rizal. It is marked by open trails and grassy areas that are said to be reminiscent of Mount Pulag in Benguet. From the jump-off point, it takes about 2-3 hours to reach the summit where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and hills. If you’re lucky, you may even be blessed with a rainbow atop the mountain!
You can visit Mount Balagbag on a day hike or overnight. There is plenty of space in the summit for pitching tents. During your visit, you can also do side trips to nearby attractions such as Maranat Falls and Otso-Otso Falls.
5. Kaytitinga Falls
Kaytitinga Falls is one of the gems of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan. This waterfall stands about 50 feet high, with three layers that cascade down into an inviting and refreshing basin, perfect for swimming especially during warm days. It also serves as water source for the Dumagat Tribe in the area.
Getting here requires 40 minutes of trekking from the registration area. On the way, you’ll get to see lush foliage, as well as various flora and fauna.
6. Pinagrealan Cave
Pinagrealan Cave is a historical and natural wonder in Norzagaray, ideal for those looking for a fun outdoor activity for the family. The limestone cave stretches over a kilometer deep and features various stalactites, stalagmites, and other rock formations. It also holds significance in the Philippine history, as it served as refuge for the Katipuneros during the Philippine Revolution and the Filipino-American War.
It takes about an hour to tour the cave, upon which you will experience exploring its tunnel, squeezing through small holes, and wading in chest-deep waters. You may also spot bats inside the cave, as well as tiny fishes, crabs, and shrimps in the pool waters. During the tour, your guide will also tell you about the cave’s history.
This Bulacan tourist spot is more than just exploring; it’s about connecting with the past while immersing yourself in nature’s wonder.
7. Tila Pilon Hills and Talon Pari Falls
https://www.instagram.com/p/CjU5f25PTLW/Bulacan offers a number of beginner-friendly hikes, and Tila Pilon Hills in DRT is one that you shouldn’t miss. It’s ideal for those starting out in mountain climbing as it only takes 30-40 minutes to reach the summit.
As you ascend the trail, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking panorama of rolling landscapes as far as the eye can see. As such, locals liken Tila Pilon Hills to Chocolate Hills in Bohol. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains.
The adventure doesn’t stop at the summit! After you ascend, you can proceed to Tila Pilon Falls. This waterfall consists of three low-lying streams along a river. It isn’t as impressive as other waterfalls in the country, but it’s a great spot for a refreshing swim after the trek. You might also want to try having a “back massage” directly under the streams!
8. Secret Falls
Next up on our list of Bulacan tourist spots is Secret Falls — a not-so-secret waterfall found in the town of Dona Remedios Trinidad (DRT). It has a wide basin which goes up to 4-5 feet, so it is perfect even for non-swimmers.
The trail here only takes around 5 minutes from the registration area. From Secret Falls, you can also hike for 40 minutes to reach the Blue Lagoon, a beautiful swimming hole nestled up in the mountains.
The Secret Falls is crowded especially on weekends and holidays, so if you want to have a quieter experience, schedule your visit on weekdays. You can also rent a cottage or room nearby for day or overnight use.
9. Maramo River
Tucked away in Norzagaray, Maramo River is one of the emerging tourist spots in Bulacan. It features a clear, green river where you can enjoy various daytime activities such as hiking, swimming, crystal kayaking, balsa ride, cliff jumping, caving, and more. Aside from these, you’ll also love the IG-worthy spots around the river, perfect for a weekend day out!
You can visit here on a day trip or stay in one of the humble cottages for overnights. It’s recommended to bring your own food and drinks. Reservations are a must especially during weekends and holidays.
To get here, head to Sitio Sapang Saging in Norzagaray, Bulacan. From the parking lot, you need to trek for 20-30 minutes to get to the river site.
10. Mount Secret
Nothing stays secret in Bulacan! Next on our list of Bulacan tourist spots that you shouldn’t miss is Mount Secret, a new hiking destination located in the town of San Rafael.
Mount Secret is one of the easiest, beginner-friendly hikes near Manila. From the jump-off point, it will take you an hour to reach the summit at a moderate pace. Once at the top, you will find two rock formations reminiscent of Nagpatong Rock Formation in Tanay, where you can have a sweeping view of the plains of Bulacan as well as Mount Arayat from afar.
From the summit, you can also visit White Rock, a rock formation that offers a similar view. Other side trips include Malangaan Cave and Spring.
11. Kabayunan View Deck
Kabayunan View Deck is one of the best places to visit in Bulacan for those who want to unwind. The highlight of the campsite is the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and Mount Arayat from afar. Breathe fresh air, appreciate the view, and take awesome photos in one of the viewing decks!
The campsite offers plenty of space for pitching tent; teepee huts are available for rent as well. Remember that you need to bring your own food and drinks, as well as cooking equipment if you need to cook.
Getting here isn’t the easiest, as you need to either walk for 2 kilometers or ride a motorcycle or 4×4 vehicle. However, the view from atop is definitely worth it!
12. Malolos Church
Built at the heart of Malolos City, Malolos Cathedral (also known as Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception) is one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Bulacan especially among history buffs.
The Malolos Church served as the presidential palace for General Emilio Aguinaldo. It was then burnt down and rebuilt from the ashes of war. In 1962, the church was declared a cathedral with the creation of the Diocese of Malolos.
Today, you can visit the church and appreciate its interiors, see the beautiful Immaculada Concepcion de Malolos at the center of the altar, and visit the historic “kayalaan tree” which is rumored to be planted by Aguinaldo himself.
13. Gawad Kalinga Enchanted Farm
Gawad Kalinga, which translates to “give care,” is a movement dedicated to helping the poor through building integrated, holistic, and sustainable communities. They have opened their home, the GK Enchanted Farm, as a haven for those interested in learning about various types of enterprises, as well as those who would like to seek an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
At this farm, you will see beautifully painted homes, landscaped parks, thriving local businesses, and more importantly smiles on the faces of the community members. You can witness demonstrations on how to make cheese, stitch plushie toys, plant seeds sustainably, and more. Kids in particular will enjoy visiting the Animal Farm.
Aside from its educational day tours, GK Enchanted Farm also offers dorm-type rooms, cottages, and private villas for groups who would like to stay longer.
14. Enjoy a riverside staycation
One of the best things to do in Bulacan for the family is to enjoy a riverside staycation. Casa Lina Riverside Adventure Resort offers an exclusive haven for groups who would like a quiet retreat, with multiple bedrooms, a spring-fed swimming pool, and access to the river.
San Rafael River Resort is another popular resort in the area, offering day tour glamping tents and cottages, as well as luxurious rooms and villas for solo tourists, couples, and families. This resort complex also has multiple swimming pools, in-house restaurants and cafes with a great view of the river, and various river activities such as fishing, kayaking, jetski, and more.
15. Raw camping at The Secret Haven
Bulacan offers one of the best opportunities to get away for a while. At The Secret Haven, experience raw camping and wake up with a pleasant river view, surrounded by green mountain and forests. Swim at the river with your friends, cook fresh food with charcoal, and end the day with a soothing kawa hot bath!
Aside from the camp, you can also explore four other attractions: Banahaw Cliff, Banahaw Cave, Secret Spring, and Secret Lagoon. There is so much memories to make that you’ll probably plan another trip so soon!
If camping isn’t your thing, worry not. You can still experience the beauty of this place since the camping site now offers cabins and houses for a more comfortable stay.
16. Pick-and-pay at The Viewpoint Farm
The Viewpoint Dragonfruit and Grape Farm is one of the hidden gems of Bulacan. Located in San Rafael, the farm allows its visitors a tour around the plantation and even pick-and-pay fresh dragonfruits and grapes during the harvest season. For those who want to get those lovely photos of harvesting fresh grapes, this is your chance!
The farm also has a restaurant/café opened from Friday to Sunday, where you can order dragonfruit-based items such as dragonfruit-topped cheesecake and dragonfruit shake. Aside from the delicious food and drinks, you can also take photos of the lush surroundings.
17. Grab a coffee at Pugpog Bikers Highlands
One of the newest attractions in Bulacan, Pugpog Bikers Highlands is a café known for its relaxing view of Angat Dam and Sierra Madre mountain range. It’s the perfect play to hang out and chill with your friends, enjoy a cup of coffee, and snap IG-worthy photos!
The café serves various kinds of coffee drinks, as well as Filipino comfort food, pasta, and bread. It’s especially popular among bikers and motorcycle riders as its just along the way to DRT.
Whether you’re an adventurous spirit seeking thrilling escapades, a history buff, or a laid-back tourist looking for a quiet place to relax, Bulacan has something for you! The diversity of these Bulacan tourist spots offers unforgettable experiences.
Do you have other recommendations for tourist spots in Bulacan, as well as other things to do in Bulacan? Let us know in the comment section below!
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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).
