5 Beach Resorts Near Manila to Look Forward To
Adventure is always within reach -- that is, when we're allowed to go outside. While you're probably itching to fly out to an exotic destination these days, a road trip is already a luxury. Ready to count down the days toward freedom? These beach resorts near Manila are perfect for a quick weekend trip. We all need a break, after all.
Perhaps we can all agree on this: the Philippines is home to some of the best vacation spots in the world, such as the idyllic islands of Palawan, Boracay, and Siargao. But as beautiful as these must-visit beaches are, taking a trip to these destinations requires a relatively long period of planning (as well as plenty of leaves to consume) especially when you live in Metro Manila. Plus, these days, with all the extra travel requirements, they've become way out of reach.
Fortunately, there is no shortage of beautiful beach resorts near Manila, especially with a weekend trip in mind. Aside from the country’s highly popular tourist spots, there are plenty of beaches close by that deserve to be on your travel list. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or a special someone, these places have much to offer weekend travelers – while being a few hours away. Check out these resorts, and enjoy the sun and the sea to your heart’s content.
San Narciso, Zambales
Perfect for: Surfing
Aside from La Union and Baler, the town of San Narciso in Zambales is a surf spot worth checking out for the weekend. San Narciso’s Crystal Beach is considered one of the closest beaches to Manila and remains a favorite among surf fans. Aside from surfing, the town’s beaches make great venues for skimboarding, too.
How to get there: Drive or take a bus from Cubao or Pasay going to San Narciso. Get off at San Sebastian Church and take a tricycle to the beach.
Approximate travel time: three and a half hours
Masasa, Tingloy, Batangas
Perfect for: Seaside camping
If you want to tune out the hustle and bustle of the metro, spending a weekend off-grid while camping on the beach just might be what you need to recharge. Located in the sleepy coastal island of Maricaban in Tingloy, Batangas, Masasa Beach provides a respite from the busy city life, while being only four hours away from Manila. Weekend warriors simply have to drive down to one of two ports in Batangas –– the Anilao port or the Talaga port –– and hop on a boat that will take you to the beach.
This trip is ideal for travelers with a sense of adventure and who look for a nice change of pace, with few manmade structures and fascinating rock formations.
How to get there: Drive or ride a bus bound for Mabini, Batangas in Cubao, or Pasay and take a jeep to Anilao port. From Anilao port, take a public boat to Tingloy Port. Once in Tingloy, take a tricycle to Masasa beach.
Approximate travel time: four hours
Inflatable Island, Subic Bay, Olongapo City
Perfect for: A water park trip for the family
If you are looking for a nearby destination that’s perfect for the family or the young-at-heart, plan a drive to the Inflatable Island in Subic Bay. Touted as the largest floating water park in Asia, this resort spans 4,200 square meters, filled with giant trampolines, swings, human launchers, and obstacle courses on the sea for fun-loving guests. Aside from the slip ‘n slide fun, you can lounge on Instagram-worthy lounges on the shore where you can enjoy cocktails with a view of the Zambales mountain range beyond the horizon.
How to get there: From Manila, drive along NLEX and then to SCTEX. Once you enter the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, exit at the Kalaklakan Gate, turn left, and drive until you find the Samba Bluewater Resort.
Approximate travel time: three and a half hours
Fortune Island, Batangas
Perfect for: an Instagram-worthy weekend
Sometimes, visiting a destination fit for Instagram is all it takes to have a fun weekend. And in case you need a summer-themed photo to post on social media, you may want to check out Fortune Island. Fortune Island is located near the coastal town of Nasugbu in Batangas, a popular holidaying spot for city dwellers. An hour’s boat ride from the Nasugbu coast, Fortune Island boasts of its mythical appeal, thanks to its powdery white beach and structures that resemble Grecian ruins.
How to get there: Ride a bus from Baclaran or Buendia to Nasugbu. From Nasugbu bus station, hire a tricycle to Fortune Island Resort. Pay the fees to charter a boat ride to the private island.
Approximate travel time: five hours
Acuatico, Laiya, Batangas
Perfect for: A nearby luxurious destination
In need of some serious relaxation without having to jet-set? Acuatico in nearby Laiya, San Juan, Batangas lets you enjoy its tropical splendor while being close to Manila. The beach resort’s Balinese-style villas offer spectacular views of either the mountains or the sea for its guests who desire a pause from everyday life. Feel free to swim in its pristine sea waters or its gorgeous infinity pool.
How to get there: Drive or ride a bus bound for San Juan at Cubao or EDSA Kamias. From San Juan, take a jeepney going to Laiya or Hugom.
Approximate travel time: three and a half hours
With the stress of uncertainty, a raging virus, and being cooped up for so long, you deserve something to look forward to. These beach resorts near Manila sate your travel itch, even if it's just for a short weekend. Carve out some quality time with your loved ones by planning a getaway, and strike that much-deserved work-life balance.
