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Things to Do in Dasmarinas

Things to Do in Dasmarinas

Dasmarinas Calabarzon, Philippines Travel Guide

Explore Outdoors

Significant outdoor adventure activities are outside Dasmariñas. Day trips to nearby provinces offer more options.

Adventure Beyond City

Hiking and Trekking

No significant paths inside Dasmariñas. Available in Batangas (Mt. Batulao, Mt. Talamitam) or Laguna (Mt. Makiling).

Water Sports

No facilities in Dasmariñas. Popular in coastal Batangas (Anilao, Nasugbu, Calatagan) for swimming, snorkeling, diving.

Adventure Sports

Limited to non-existent in Dasmariñas. Found in other zones like Nuvali in Laguna (wakeboarding).

Nature & Wheels

  • Wildlife Encounters: None in Dasmariñas. Sanctuaries or zoos like Paradizoo (Tagaytay) or Avilon Zoo (Rizal) are outside the city.
  • Bike Routes: Local groups might use routes within residential subdivisions or less busy roads.
  • Mountain Biking: No dedicated trails. Cycling on main roads carries risk due to heavy traffic.
  • Book adventures via GetYourGuide for nearby regions.

Hiking

  • Explore trails in Batangas.
  • Mount Talamitam or Mount Batulao.

Water Activities

  • Coastal Batangas for snorkeling.
  • Diving and swimming options.

Safaris

  • Visit Paradizoo in Tagaytay.
  • Avilon Zoo in Rizal for animal viewing.

Important Safety Information

When engaging in outdoor activities, specifically outside the city, confirm tour operator credentials and safety records. Carry emergency numbers and first-aid supplies.

Connect with Culture

Engage with local culture through various activities and events in Dasmariñas.

Local Participation

  • Workshops: Community centers or universities (DLSU-Dasmariñas) may offer art, craft, music, or dance workshops.
  • Cultural Performances: Check local city government or university calendars for performances during festivals or special events.
  • Community-Based Tourism: No prominent initiatives specifically for Dasmariñas. Immersion in local markets and eateries offers a form of interaction.
  • Language Learning: English is widely spoken.

Festivals & Events

Kawayan Festival

Dasmariñas's annual festival (Bamboo Festival), typically in November. Showcases bamboo-related products and cultural performances.

Local Town Fiestas

Throughout the year, local barangays hold fiestas. These offer lively celebrations, traditional food, and community spirit.

University Events

DLSU-Dasmariñas hosts various events accessible to everyone, including shows and artistic showcases.

Art Workshops

Explore area art and craft activities in community centers.

Music & Dance

Seek out local performances or university-hosted cultural shows.

Festival Participation

Join the Kawayan Festival for unique cultural insight.

Rest & Rejuvenate

Find opportunities for relaxation and personal care within Dasmariñas.

Spa & Healing

  • Health spas: Available throughout Dasmariñas, often in malls or standalone establishments.
  • Hot Springs: No natural hot springs in Dasmariñas. Popular in Laguna province (Los Baños, Calamba) for day trips.
  • Yoga and Meditation: No dedicated retreats in Dasmariñas. Seek in more rural or specialized wellness destinations.
  • Traditional Healing: Practices like Hilot exist but are not typically tourist-oriented services in Dasmariñas.

Local Escapes

Beach and Pool Clubs

Dasmariñas hosts several private resorts with swimming pools, serving local residents for recreation.

Vistaverde Hotel & Resort

One example of a local resort offering a convenient option for a refreshing swim and relaxation.

Urban Retreats

Enjoy massages and beauty services in city spas, offering a quick escape from daily habits.

Wellness Insights

Spa Services

Look for local massage and beauty parlors in malls or commercial centers.

Resort Day Passes

Some local resorts offer day passes for pool access and amenities.

Relaxation Focus

Urban relaxation is the main wellness experience here, rather than nature-based retreats.

Evening Delights

Dasmariñas offers a more subdued nightlife compared to Metro Manila, though options for evening entertainment exist.

Music & Performances

  • Live Music: Some restaurants or bars in business districts feature live acoustic music, especially on weekends.
  • Theater and Performance Spaces: DLSU-D PASC hosts university and local performances. Check their schedule for public events.
  • Clubs for Dancing: Limited dedicated venues. Some bars might feature DJs or a small dance floor.
  • Bar Districts and Pub Crawls: No designated districts or organized pub crawls for visitors. Local bars are spread out.

Late Night Options

/7 Establishments

Fast-food chains and some convenience stores (e.g., 7-Eleven) operate round the clock, offering late-night snacks or supplies.

Karaoke Bars

KTV (karaoke) bars operate late into the night, offering a popular Filipino pastime for groups.

Casual Lounges

Some establishments provide a relaxed setting for evening drinks and conversation without a strong party atmosphere.

Acoustic Nights

Discover local talents in various restaurants and cafes.

University Shows

Check DLSU-D's schedule for concerts or plays.

KTV Fun

Take part in locals in karaoke for a lively evening.

  • Popular local pastime.

Nightlife Advisory

Be careful in all nightlife venues. Always remain aware of your belongings, avoid walking alone late at night, and opt for reliable transportation like ride-hailing apps or trusted taxis.

Retail Therapy

Dasmariñas offers a diverse shopping experience, from traditional markets to modern malls.

Local Finds

  • Traditional Markets: Dasmariñas Central Market for fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: Limited directly in Dasmariñas. The Kawayan Festival might feature bamboo crafts.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: General Philippine souvenirs in malls. For unique selections, shop in Manila or Tagaytay.

Upscale & Ethics

Luxury and Boutique Shopping

Major malls (SM City, Robinsons Place, Ayala Malls) offer various local and global brands. Luxury boutiques are concentrated in Metro Manila.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Support local vendors and artisans. Be aware of fair trade practices. Polite bargaining is acceptable in local markets.

Shipping and Customs

Major couriers (DHL, FedEx, LBC) are available. Be aware of customs regulations and duties for your home country.

Public Market

  • Fresh produce.
  • Local meats and seafood.
  • Prepared foods and snacks.
  • Authentic local commerce.

Local Crafts

  • Bamboo products.
  • Kawayan Festival crafts.
  • Unique handmade items.
  • Support local artisans.

Modern Malls

  • SM City Dasmariñas.
  • Robinsons Place Dasmariñas.
  • Ayala Malls Dasmariñas.
  • Local and international brands.

Shopping Insight

Comfort and Convenience
  • Malls provide an air-conditioned environment.
  • Good for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
  • Ideal during hot or rainy days.
Local Market Tips
  • Bargaining is usual and valid for certain items.
  • Carry small denominations for easier transactions.
  • Bring a reusable bag to reduce plastic waste.

Shopping Logistics

Plan your shopping to balance modern mall convenience with the charm of local markets. Always consider customs regulations if shipping items internationally.

Activity Planning Summary

Must-Do Activities

  • Explore local eateries and street food for authentic flavors.
  • Visit the Immaculate Conception Parish Church for historical insight.
  • Shop at major malls or the public market.
  • Plan a day trip to Tagaytay or Batangas for natural attractions.

Local Experiences

  • Attend the Kawayan Festival if visiting in November.
  • Indulge in a local spa or massage for relaxation.
  • Experience Filipino karaoke (KTV) for evening entertainment.
  • Engage with locals at markets and eateries for genuine interaction.