When I think of Tarlac, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood summers spent on the wide farms of Sta. Ignacia, Tarlac, where my mom was born. Those days were filled with climbing kamachile trees, savoring kaimito fruits, and enjoying the ice cream my grandfather would bring home after a long day at the farm.
Fast forward to today, after living in Pampanga, I’ve been able to explore more of Tarlac’s hidden gems, especially the lesser-known spots that are perfect for nature lovers like myself.
If you love uncrowded places and serene escapes, here’s a list of some of the best tourist spots you can visit in Tarlac:
Goshen Resort & Hotel
First on our list is Goshen Resort, a truly one-of-a-kind destination in Tarlac. Its Roman-inspired architecture makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another era—imagine towering columns, grand statues, and an arena-style swimming pool. It’s like a mini Colosseum, perfect for snapping Instagram-worthy photos or simply wandering and marveling at the design.
Conveniently located near Clark, it’s an easy stop if you’re visiting Pampanga and want to schedule a quick visit. They also offer overnight accommodations, a pool, a café, and festive seasonal events like their Halloween and Christmas Village.
Isdaan Floating Restaurant
After closing during the pandemic, Isdaan Floating Restaurant reopened in 2022, and I couldn’t have been more excited! Before discovering San Jose, this was our go-to spot for a mix of good food and fun. Our favorite dish is Mama Chit’s Special, a combo of Filipino favorites like lechon kawali, fried tilapia, and fresh Ilocano veggies.
The place is also known for its playful vibe, especially for kids, and don’t forget the famous Tacsiapo wall, where you can throw plates to release your frustrations!
New Clark City Sports Complex
Originally built for the Southeast Asian Games, New Clark City Sports Complex has become a favorite spot for locals like us who enjoy walking, cycling, and jogging. During our visit, we were captivated by the modern amenities seamlessly blended with lush greenery. It has also hosted events like hot air balloon festivals and night markets, and with the New Sacobia Bridge, getting here from Pampanga is a breeze!
Khaku Cafe
After visiting New Clark City, there are plenty of restaurants nearby to check out. We’ve tried Hilltop Restaurant, and the food is delish.
But one of our absolute favorites is Khaku Cafe—it’s our go-to comfort spot. I don’t need to rave about it much since it’s already a popular tourist stop in Tarlac. However, if you’re not a local, you definitely should pay it a visit.
Our favorite dish is their sausage meal, which comes with a refreshing lemonade. When it comes to drinks, I’m a fan of their green apple ade. Their chips are also amazing, and you can’t go wrong with anything from their dessert display. We usually skip the coffee here since it opens at 3 PM, and I don’t want to lose sleep!
Dueg-Kapya Ken Talna
Our very first adventure in Tarlac was our ride to Dueg. When we visited two years ago, the uphill off-road trail was steep and slippery—we nearly slid off the path! It was quite the challenge, but I wouldn’t call it misfortune. On the way down, it started raining heavily, and to make matters worse, our brakes gave out. We ended up getting lost in the downpour.
Thankfully, nothing serious happened, and instead of returning via the highway, we were diverted to San Jose. This unexpected detour led us to discover several hidden gems, which have now become our regular go-to tourist spots!
RDC Nature Farm
After discovering San Jose, RDC Nature Farm was the first tourist spot we visited. It gained popularity during the pandemic, with many visitors raving about its “New Zealand” vibes. We were instantly captivated by the resort’s natural beauty. Plus, there’s the charming Cafetana coffee shop where you can savor delicious coffee and mocha while soaking in the relaxing atmosphere.
RDC offers camping and day tour huts for those who want to fully immerse themselves in nature. There are plenty of scenic backdrops for photos, and if you’re feeling adventurous, they also have ATV rentals. For an even more stunning view, head to the nearby Baag View Deck—the highest point in San Jose. While the road up is steep, the breathtaking panorama makes it well worth the journey.
Monasterio de Tarlac
Before the rise to fame of RDC, Monasterio de Tarlac was the go-to destination for riders in San Jose. It’s the perfect spot for a Sunday ride, offering not just a chance to pray but also to admire the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding mountain vistas.
The area is lined with numerous cafés and eateries, ensuring that riders who often hit the road early won’t have any issues finding a delicious breakfast upon arrival. Once you’ve refueled, you can explore a variety of picturesque spots perfect for photography, allowing you to capture every moment. Additionally, there are souvenir shops where you can pick up a little something to remember your visit.
Mudita Glamping Resort
Mudita is a charming glamping site set amidst a serene farm landscape. We recently visited to dine at their in-house restaurant, Trattoria Altrove, and we were captivated by the tranquil atmosphere.
The beauty of the place, coupled with its peaceful ambiance, makes it a perfect getaway, and we can’t wait to return. Mudita is equipped with a range of amenities, including a stunning swimming pool and expansive walking grounds for nature lovers like us who enjoy exploring the outdoors.
Limiac Park
Located near the boundary of Sta. Ignacia and San Jose, Limiac Park is famous for its scenic hanging bridge, which has gone viral in several reels. It’s a great place for a quick day trip, with an affordable entrance fee and a refreshing swimming pool. If you’re looking to beat the heat in Tarlac, this is the place to be!
After enjoying the pool, don’t miss Kafe Sotero, one of the newest coffee shops near San Jose. I highly recommend everything on their menu—it’s one of our favorite cafés too!
So, if you’re like me and love discovering the uncrowded, nature-filled side of Tarlac, these are some of the top spots you can visit. Let me know if you have any suggestions for our next trip!