LAKWATSERANG PINAY GOES TO…

Good day Voyager! So here are the places where I went and it will surely leave you breathless and overwhelmed! Each destination has a description of the place and my travel guide for you.

BORACAY ISLAND, AKLAN

Boracay Island in the Philippines is paradise for certified beach and sun-worshippers around the world. Hailed by Yahoo Travel and BMW Tropical Beach Handbook as one of the world’s best beaches, Boracay continues to entice beach loving tourists to its sun bleached shores of powder-soft white sands that never get hot even in the afternoon sun. Boracay Island has more than a dozen beaches and many coves. The most famous and popular boracay beach is the almost four kilometres long White Beach, which has been named several times as one of the best beaches in the world. Most of the foreign tourists who had been here have made Boracay their yearly destination. Others have chosen to live on this haven.

SEE MORE OF BORACAY

Boracay is really a place you have to experience yourself. So elsewhere on this site you will found useful information that allows you to:

Plan your boracay vacation using detailed hotel and resort information.
Participate in a variety of activities and sports ranging from hiking, island trekking,scuba diving, beach hopping, volleyball, golf, sailing, cliff jumping, skimboarding,windsurfing, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing and kite boarding.
Learn about boracay festivals, boracay history, souvenir shopping, boracay timeshares, boracay arts, spa retreats, where to dine and party all night long.
Discover Boracay Island Philippine tropical flora, scenic viewpoints, and lesser known yet idyllic beaches and caves.

Weather in Boracay, When to Visit

Boracay’s high season occurs between October and May, coinciding with local students’ summer break. The temperature rises to 82-100° (28-38°C), moderated by cool winds from the east.

These winds have totally different effects on White Beach and Bulabog Beach – during the peak season, White Beach has a pleasant, calm climate, while Bulabog Beach receives the brunt of the incoming wind. That’s why watersports enthusiasts find their thrills at Bulabog Beach during the peak season.

Getting Around Boracay

In the old days, Boracay visitors disembarked from Stations 1, 2 and 3 on White Beach. Today, most visitors arrive via Cagban Port in peak season, or Tambisaan Port during low season.

A motorized tricycle can take you from either port to your Boracay resort. Trip length depends on where your resort is located, but you will pay a flat rate of PHP100-250/US$1.90-4.90 per motorized tricycle – the lower range for hotels in Station 3, Angol and Manoc-Manoc; the higher range for resorts in Diniwid, Yapak and Puka Beach. To save on tricycle fare, you can split your fare with others going the same way.

A shared ride – i.e. bus-style with other passengers – costs about PHP10/US$0.20. If you want the whole tricycle to yourself, pay about PHP50/US$1. Tricycles in Boracay are tricked out to accommodate seven passengers, but may not venture beyond the roads (i.e. no tricycles on the beach).

If you want to explore other beaches in Boracay, you can hire a tricycle by the hour for about PHP150-500/US$3-11.

WHERE TO STAY IN BORACAY

White Beach, the busiest, most crowded, and arguably the most stunning beach on the island. This has the highest concentration of accommodations. It is also the longest beach, split into three stations. Stations 1 and 2 are located in Barangay Balabag, while most of Station 3 is in Manoc-Manoc. Stations 2 and 3 are where most shops and bars are located. Filling the island’s western coast, White Beach is also the best and most accessible place to watch Boracay’s glorious sunset.
Bulabog Beach, another long stretch hugging the eastern side of the island. The sand here isn’t fine, but it is also very accessible and is most well-known as the jump off point for many exciting water activities.
Diniwid Beach is a short patch of sand north of White Beach’s Station 1, separated only by a promontory. Although seemingly isolated, there is a cemented walking trail along the beach that connects Diniwid to White Beach. You’ll also find a few resorts and hostels here.

IS BORACAY SAFE?

Yes, Boracay is generally safe.

Like many touristy destinations, there are a couple of overcharging practices, but scams are not as rampant as in other beach destinations in Southeast Asia.

But it’s always best to keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave them just anywhere.

WHAT OTHER THINGS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN BORACAY?

NO smoking
NO drinking of alcohol
NO illegal drugs
NO pets
NO littering
NO loud music
NO fire dancing
NO pitching of umbrella
NO beach beds/chairs

Also, taking sand as souvenir is illegal, so empty that vial and don’t be a sand thief.

Always remember: Take nothing but pictures. Kill nothing but time. Leave nothing but footprints.

HOW TO GET TO BORACAY

MANILA TO BORACAY

Kalibo Airport is farther, requiring around 2 hours of travel time, but fares to Kalibo are much cheaper.

KALIBO AIRPORT TO CATICLAN

Here’s what we recommend:

PACKAGED BUS/VAN TRANSFER SERVICE. If, for whatever reason, you don’t want to do the transfers on your own, a good option is to book a packaged transfer service. Aside from the comfortable transfer from Kalibo Airport to Caticlan, the price also covers the boat crossing, terminal fee, environmental fee and HOTEL transfer. You will also be assisted through the sometimes confusing process at the jetty port. This is great for those traveling to Boracay for the first time and traveling with kids or elderly. You can book them on Klook too for only P490 (van) or P480 (bus).

CATICLAN TO BORACAY

If you’re flying straight to Caticlan Airport, ride a tricycle to Caticlan Jetty Port. Fare: P50 to P75 per person (depending on the number of passengers). At the jetty port, follow the steps below.

If you’re coming from Kalibo Airport, take a van or bus to Caticlan Jetty Port. Then follow these steps.

At Caticlan Jetty Port, look for the Registration Area in the tents set up outside the terminal building. You’ll then be asked to write down your name on a logbook. This is used to monitor the number of tourists visiting Boracay.
Proceed to the Verification Area. Here, you’ll need to present proof of accommodations or hotel booking. Remember, if you’re spending at least one night in the island, hotel booking is REQUIRED.
Pay the fees. Proceed to the payment windows. Decide whether you want to take the cheaper pumpboat or the bigger but pricier Oyster Ferry, where you’ll need to settle the following: terminal fee (P100), environmental fee (P75), and boat fare (your choice: pump boat P25-30 or oyster ferry P100). You’ll settle all these at once but you’ll be given separate receipts.
Enter the port building. You’ll have to go through a security check. Proceed to the Passenger Waiting Area and wait for boarding.
When it’s time for boarding, find your boat and queue up. Travel time is 10-15 minutes.
Take a tricycle to your hotel. You will be taken to Cagban Port or Tambisaan port. Either way, you will find tricycles waiting for passengers in the area. They can take you to your hotel or resort in White Beach for P100-P150 per ride.

TOP BORACAY BUDGET HOTELS & GUESTHOUSES

Boracay Balcony Inn.
Zuzuni Boutique Hotel
Bluewaves Beach House
Hampstead Boutique Hotel Boracay
Sur Boracay
Jeffrey S Hotel

CHILLAX Flashpackers Boracay
Frendz Hostel Boracay
Chill Out Hostel
Boracay Backpackers
My Hostel
Hostel Avenue

PALAUI ISLAND, STA. ANA, CAGAYAN

If you’re looking for a beach destination in the north, Palaui Island is a noteworthy addition to your itinerary. It has beautiful beaches, fetching views, cool waters for swimming, and other attractions that make your trip worth it. Palaui Island is a place built by wind, sculpted by waves and nurtured by time. Discover the distinct charm of its scenic ragged terrain; chorus with the howling music of its gigantic waves; explore and experience the mystique of Palaui Island.

SEE MORE OF PALAUI ISLAND

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Tuguegarao Airport (Cagayan)

By Air

There are flights from Manila to Tuguegarao.
Once in the city, leave the airport and wait by the highway for buses or vans bound for Sta. Ana.
The next step after arriving at Sta. Ana is to get on a tricycle that will take you to the port of San Vicente.
After arriving at the port, look for boats that will take you to the tourist spots. Rental prices will vary depending on where you want to go.

By Land

There are buses bound for Tuguegarao from Manila that costs around P600 one way.
Once you arrive at Tuguegarao City, look for the vans that travel to Sta. Ana, Cagayan.
The next step after arriving at Sta. Ana is to get on a tricycle that will take you to the port of San Vicente.
After arriving at the port, look for boats that will take you to the tourist spots. Rental prices will vary depending on where you want to go.

You have to pay P50 at the tourism office before leaving. A boat can accommodate up to 8 people max. You may end up spending approximately P3000 to P3500 for combination day trips and around P3800 to P4000, if you plan to do an overnight trip.

Entrance Fee and Other Charges

Entrance Fee: For Anguib Beach – P100 (Day trip); P150 (Overnight); Cape Engano – P50
Camping Fee: Camping is not allowed anymore.
Cottage Rental Fee: P2000 – P3000 (The rates only apply to Anguib Beach. There’s no accommodation offered in Cape Engano yet, but you may ask about homestays in Punta Verde)
Guide Fee: P300 (4 pax)
Standardized Tour Rates: Punta Verde (P1000); Anguib Beach (P1500); Cape Engano (P1800); Crocodile Island (P500); Pugo Moro (P500); Siwangag Cove (P1500); Puzurubo (P1800)

Don’t Miss

Some of the places to add to your itinerary include Cape Engano, Anguib Beach, Crocodile Island, and Punta Verde.

Don’t Forget

Palaui is a getaway destination, meaning you’ll need to bring cash, food, and drinks before going.
Preferably do your shopping and cash withdrawals while in Tuguegarao City and/or at Sta. Ana.

If You Have More Time and Budget

After exploring Palaui Island, spend more time exploring the attractions near Tuguegarao such as Callao Cave, the centuries-old churches of Tumauini and Tuguegarao, and the Pinagcanauan River.

Where to Stay

If you have other places to visit in Cagayan and opt to do day trip rather than spend overnight on Palaui Island, the municipality of Sta Ana offers plenty of choices. Here are some of the top hotels in Sta. Ana according to Agoda users (as of June 2017).

Avalon Beach Club
Country Inn Hotel and Restaurant
Jotay Hotel
RAI Atrium Suites

ILOCOS SUR AND NORTE

Take a tour of Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur where you can relieve that stress and take away all your worries, even just for a while. The views will surely take your breath away and make your heart flutter.

ILOCOS NORTE

Ilocos Norte is known as a northern tourist destination, where one can find upper class hotels and beach resorts famous among expatriates and locals seeking for a quiet place to travel. It is a province rich not only in its attractions but also known for its delicacies.

ILOCOS SUR

Ilocos Sur is a treasure trove of history and culture which is a truly amazing destination for fans of Philippine history. Ilocos Sur provides an intimate window to the colorful and oftentimes turbulent colonial past of the Philippines- a must go destination for people who want to see a different face of the Philippines as well as for those who want to understand the country, its myriad cultures and rich heritage a little bit closer than what is normally written in history books. Ilocos Sur is perfect for families, honeymooners and students of history and photography for its unravalled heritage treasures

SEE MORE OF ILOCOS

ILOCOS NORTE

Fast Facts

Public Transportation: Jeepneys, Tricycles, or Vans
Languages/Dialect: Ilocano, Tagalog, and English
Payment Options: Cash and credit/debit cards are accepted.
Known For: Bangui Windmills, Paoay Church, and Empanadas

Best Time to Visit

If you really want to get in touch with the local culture, then head over during the month of June for the Empanada Festival in Batac and then go to Laoag City for the Pamunlinawan Festival in February.

You may also opt to go when it isn’t the rainy season (typically the -ber months), as the rains may dampen your tours around the city and cause bigger and rougher waves at Pagudpud. Though, if you want to go surfing – this may be ideal for professionals catching a ride off the Badoc Coast.

How to Go to Ilocos Norte

BY AIR

To get to Ilocos Norte by air, you can take a 45 minute flight from Manila via Philippine Airlines or Cebu Pacific. You will land at Laoag City International Airport, which also receives chartered flights from China and Taiwan.

BY LAND

The best way to get to Ilocos Norte’s capital, Laoag City, by land is via bus. There are several lines that can take you (Florida Bus Line, Partas Liner, Baliwag Transit and Fariñas Transit) with the trip taking you up to eight to nine hours.

BY SEA

While there is no ride that specifically ends in Ilocos Norte, Star Cruises’ Superstar Virgo has made Laoag one of their home ports before continuing on to Hong Kong and Kaohshiung.

Getting Around Ilocos Norte

Try out local transportation options like tricycles and jeepneys for an affordable way to get around. If you ever feel like you’re lost, friendly locals can help you with directions. You can also rent out vans for a whole day and they can take you to all the top tourist destinations in your itinerary without hassle.

Things to Do in Ilocos Norte

Climb to the top of Cape Boreador Lighthouse and catch awesome panoramic views of Ilocos Norte.
Drive along the famous Patapat Viaduct and take photos of the country’s fourth longest bridge.
Go sand boarding and ride a 4×4 at the Sand Dunes.
Swim and soak up some sun at Saud Beach in Pagudpud.
Pay a visit to Sta. Monica Church, the largest Church in the region.

Tourist Spots in Ilocos Norte

Bangui Windmills: These windmills are truly a unique must-see in the region. As you drive along Bangui Bay, you’ll notice that there are more than 20 turbines set up along the coast.
Kapurpurawan Rock Formation: Through thousands of years, the strong waves along Bangui Bay have helped form this stunning natural wonder.
Malacanang of the North: The former official residence of the Marcos family during his presidency, their old home has been transformed into a museum.

Paoay Church: Don’t forget to drop by one of the oldest and most beautiful churches in the country. Paoay Church also known as San Agustin Church, was inspired by a mix of oriental, gothic, and baroque architecture.
Sinking Bell Tower: This Spanish era bell tower was built on soft and sandy foundation, which is the reason why it sinks and how it got its name.

Where to Eat in Ilocos Norte

Herencia Restaurant (Ilocano Cuisine): If you’re looking for a great place to get great Ilocano food, go to Herencia’s and try out their classic Pinakbet and their famous pizza!
BergBlick Restaurant (German and Filipino Cuisine): Get a taste of unique German and international food and head to this restaurant, which name means “mountain view”.
Batac Riverside Empanadahan (Ilocano Steet Food): Your visit won’t be complete without trying Ilocos Norte’s famous Empanadas! These delicious orange treats are fried with bean sprouts, eggs, and longganisa. Depending on the variation, they usually cost no more than P50.

Where to Stay in Ilocos Norte

Rivermount Hotel and Resort: This 4-star hotel and resort is located in the town of Sarrat with a beautiful view of the Padsan River. Families and friends can enjoy the hotel’s very own pool and restaurant.
Alta Vista Ilocandia: Enjoy the perks of both white sand beach with clear blue waters and the backdrop of a scenic mountain range at this seaside hotel.
Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel: The only five star hotel in Ilocos Norte, Fort Ilocandia exudes luxury with its stunning brick walled structures and classic interiors.

ILOCOS SUR

Best Time to Visit

The best time to go to Vigan and in Ilocos Sur in general is during the fiestas and other celebrations as the town comes alive with different activities. A trip during the clear summer months as well affords a stunning bluest of skies – perfect for those postcard perfect photogenic shots of the Kasanglayan.

Nightlife

Ilocos Sur nightlife centers on the restaurants and cafes in Vigan. What could be more romantic than dinners in a colonial café? It’s best to take a step back and take in the ambience of the past quaffing a bottle of that famous Ilocano sugarcane wine – Basi.

How to go to Ilocos Sur

By Bus

Buses are the cheapest way to travel to Vigan. There are many bus lines to choose from, but their prices do not differ that much from one another.

For those coming from the following locations in North Luzon, here are some suggested ways to get to Vigan:

From Clark International Airport in Pampanga – Take the shuttle service or a taxi to Dau Bus Terminal where you can ride a bus for Vigan. Travel will take 7 to 9 hours.
From Baguio – Take buses to Laoag and get off in Vigan. The travel time is around 5 hours.
From Abra/Tuguegarao – GMW and Florida Liner bus lines have trips that stop in Vigan.

By Private Car/Van

From Manila, Vigan-bound vehicles, both public buses, and private cars should take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) route. These highways also serve passengers going to other provinces in Northern Luzon. Going to Vigan from Manila will take roughly 8 to 10 hours. You can also hire private van tours that will take you directly to Vigan from destinations in Luzon.

By Flights

Air travel to Vigan is a quick solution if you’re short on time but willing to shell out more. There are no direct flights, but you can fly from Manila to Laoag Airport and ride a bus to Vigan. The entire trip will take around 3 hours. If you’re coming from Visayas or Mindanao, fly to Manila first then to Vigan.

Getting Around Vigan City

Vigan Travel Guide: A Preserved Heritage City in Ilocos Sur

The main tourist spots of Vigan like Calle Crisologo are within walking distance and can be explored by foot or riding a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage). Other attractions will need to be explored by riding different public and private transportation options, depending on your preference and budget. Here are your options when discovering the tourist spots of Vigan City:

Budget Accommodations

Escolta’s Homey Lodge: a basic accommodation without many amenities (though they have free Wi-Fi!). It’s located right in the heart of Calle Crisologo, so you pretty much have everything you need.

Metro Vigan Inn: This pet-friendly budget hotel has two locations, with the closest one to the City Center just across Plaza Salcedo. All rooms come with air-conditioning and are inclusive of breakfast. There’s also full and secured parking space for those who would be driving to Vigan.

Cordillera Inn: The rooms at Cordillera Inn are clean and straightforward. They offer both air-conditioned and fan-cooled rooms. A night’s stay comes with a breakfast of Vigan longganisa, tapa (cured beef), or daing (dried fish).

What to See and Do

Revisit History at Calle Crisologo

The cobblestone streets and Spanish-style homes are what made Calle Crisologo in Vigan one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. It’s a walk down memory lane that would give you an idea of how people from the colonial era saw Vigan.

Visit the Bantay Bell Tower

Bantay Bell Tower serves the nearby Saint Augustine Parish Church. It was established in 1950, making it one of the oldest in the Ilocos region, and was used during the colonial era as a watchtower against pirates, thus the name bantay or “to guard.” Climb up and enjoy an awe-inspiring view of neighboring towns.

Try Pottery and Weaving at Pagburnayan

Along Liberation Boulevard are factories and stores of handmade earthenware. The area is more commonly known as Pagburnayan from the root word burnay or clay pot. Here, you can try cultural activities like pottery and weaving. The pots or jars are made from bantog clays that are dug from the western side of the city.

Go Museum Hopping

There is no shortage of history lessons here in Vigan thanks to its many museums. As a city that prides itself on its historical and cultural significance in the Philippines, there are several museums that best explain Vigan’s past.

Get Educated at Baluarte Zoo

Baluarte Zoo houses both native and exotic animals like lions, tigers, monkeys, camels, deer, ostrich, ducks, kangaroos, and a variety of birds. It also houses a butterfly sanctuary. It’s ideal for visiting early in the morning to watch the animals being fed and released in the open field.

Local Cuisine

Ilocos Empanada – This delicacy is made with a mixture of grated green papaya, mung bean sprouts, shredded carrots, whole egg, and skinless Vigan longganisa. All wrapped in a dough of rice flour that is then deep-fried to get a crusty shell. Irene’s Empanada in Plaza Burgos is one of the go-to places for this sinful but heavenly and cheap delicacy.
Bagnet – Deep-fried crispy pork belly cooked in its fat. Best eaten with Sukang Iloko (local vinegar).

HUNDRED ISLANDS, ALAMINOS, PANGASINAN

The Hundred Islands of Alaminos City is probably the most popular tourist spot in Pangasinan. It is a group of approximately 123 islands and islets scattered over Lingayen Gulf, believed to be formed more than two million years ago.

Just around five hours away from Manila, Hundred Islands is an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. A cheap and fun way to experience the tropical Philippines be it as a day tour or an overnight trip, camping or staying in the accommodations on four developed islands – Quezon Island, Governor’s Island, Marcos Island and Children’s Islands.

With more than hundred islands harboring white sand beaches, caves, limestone rocks and cliffs, and rich marine life, Hundred Islands guarantee a well worth escape in this part of Pangasinan.

SEE MORE OF HUNDRED ISLANDS

How to Get to Hundred Islands

Alaminos City is the gateway to the Hundred Islands National Park. It is around five hours by public bus from Manila.

Victory Liner, Solid North Bus, Dagupan Bus, Five Star Bus and Philippine Rabbit have multiple trips daily to Alaminos City. Aircon bus fare as of January 2018 is approximately P400 one-way Manila to Alaminos, while ordinary (non-aircon) bus fare is around P350.

From Alaminos City proper, ride a tricycle going to Barangay Lucap’s Lucap Don Gonzalo Montemayor Wharf, this is where the Tourism Information Center is located. Tricycles charge P15 per person and depart when full, chartered rate is around P100 per ride good for five to six passengers.

Day Tour (Entrance Fee: P30 per person / Environmental Fee: P40 per person / Insurance: P10 / person)
Small Boat (1 to 5 persons) – P1,400
Medium Boat (6 to 10 persons) – P1,800
Big Boat (11 to 15 persons) – P2,000
Overnight (Entrance Fee: P30 per person / Environmental Fee: P80 per person / Insurance: P10 / person)
Small Boat (1 to 5 persons) – P3,000
Medium Boat (6 to 10 persons) – P3,800
Big Boat (11 to 15 persons) – P4,500

Where to Stay in Hundred Islands

Quezon Islands, Governor’s Islands and Children’s Islands have cottages and rooms that can be rented for those who want to stay indoor. Rates start at P1,500 for a twin room, P2,000 for a family room and P2,500 for a big room. Picnic tables and cottages are also available for rent starting at P200 per day. Those who prefer to pitch a tent may choose from any of the islands allowed for camping. Camping fee is P200 per tent per night.

What to Do in Hundred Islands

Island hopping and boating
Beach bumming
Jump off the 20-feet high cliff of Marcos Island
Trek to the peak of the cliff in Governor’s Islands to see the unobstructed view of the park
Dive or snorkel to see the giant clams, coral areas and variety of tropical fishes
Camping
Water Sports:
- Helmet Diving: P400/dive (15 minutes)
- Banana Boat Ride (max 7 pax): P250/pax
- Kayaking (max 2 pax): P250/hour
- Snorkeling Gear Rental: P250/set (mask,snorkel, aqua shoes and life vest)
- Jet Ski: P1,000/15 mins and P2,000/30 mins
- Parasailing: P2,000/solo ride and P3,000/2 person
Other Activities:
- Governor Island Zipline (546 m): P250/jump
- Quezon Island Zipline (120 m): P100/jump
- Wall Climbing: P50/pax
- Rappelling: P50/pax
Sunset/sunrise
Visit the beaches of the neighboring towns – Bolinao, Tondol, Caboangaoan, Agno and Dasol (Culebra and Tambobong)
Drop by at Our Lady of Manaoag Church considered by Catholic as a miraculous church

Tips

The best time to go here is from November to April or during dry months
Mobile signal is available
The ideal time to leave Manila is at 12 midnight to reach Barangay Lucap by 6AM and to start island hopping early

BALER, AURORA

Mention Baler and the first thing that will pop in everyone’s mind is surfing! And this without a doubt is true because Sabang Beach is a real surfer’s paradise. But more than surfing, the town is increasingly becoming popular not only to surfing enthusiasts, primarily because of its natural beauty, historical significance and other attractions.

Baler is the capital of the province of Aurora. It is situated on the east coast of Luzon, fronting the roaring waves of Pacific Ocean and enclosed by the mountains of Sierra Madre. The town’s relative isolation has preserved much of its historical sites, cultural heritage and tradition that are all deeply rooted on its vibrant past.

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How to Get to Baler

Manila to Baler

Genesis Transport Service is the only bus company that plies directly from Metro Manila to Baler. Their Baler bound buses are located in their Cubao Terminal.

Genesis offers two types of bus service for the Baler:

The executive luxury bus called Joy Bus, a non-stop service trip with snacks on a sleeper bus with Wi-Fi, a bus stewardess, blankets, pillows and a morning kit. There are at least three trips a day, with travel time of five hours and P750 (November 2014 rate) fare. Advance reservation is required.
The regular air-con bus that travels six to seven hours for a fare of P450, advance reservation is not necessary.

Going Around and Away

Tricycle is the common mode of transport in Baler, minimum fare is P10. It is also the cheapest mode of transportation in touring the town. A tour of Baler can be arranged for as low as P700 (March 2013 rate) for a trike that can sit at most four passengers. The tour includes the attractions around the Poblacion (Baler Museum, Dona Aurora Aragon Quezon House, Baler Church and Plaza), Ermita Hill, Fish Port, Lukso-Lukso Islet, Anao Islet, Diguisit Falls, Mother Falls and the Old Balete Tree.

Buses, vans and jeepneys going to Cabanatuan, San Luis, Maria Aurora, Dipaculao, Dinalungan, Casiguran and Dilasag are stationed in Baler Central Terminal while the Genesis buses to Manila are in their own terminal near the public market.

Baler is also connected to the northern towns of Dipaculao, Dinalungan, Casiguran and Dilasag by commercial boat. There are public boats that depart from its own port known as “Duungan”, but trips are only possible when the sea is calm.

Where to Stay in Baler

Accommodation in Baler ranges from budget inns to posh hotels and most of them are located in Sabang Beach, the popular surfing spot.

For solo backpackers, Jam and Jen’s Lodge (Contact Number: +639215983588 /+639162001731) offers single fan room for as low as P700 per night. The place is along the street parallel to the beach, right beside Costa Pacifica. On non-peak season, you can get the room for as low as P600. They also have rooms for two guests. The place is equipped with free wi-fi.

For groups, June Samano Homestay (Contact Number: +639297163292/+639081042043) is a good choice for those in budget. They have rooms that are big enough for five persons for as low as P2,000 per night. The place is along the beach and right beside Bayler Inn. Free wifi too!

Where to Eat in Baler

When in Baler, dining should not be a problem. The major hotels in Sabang have their own restaurants that are open to public. Kubli Bistro, Crash Pad Baler, Aliya Surf Cam Restaurant, Bayler’s Inn, Bay’s Inn Hungry Surfer Restaurant and Baler Surfer’s Grill are some of the most popular restaurants in the area.

My personal favorite is Kubli Bistro with their good pizza, paella and other Mexican and Filipino foods. Bayler’s Inn is also worth a try with their Tuna Carbonara and Longanisa Aglio Olia Pasta as well as their Chocnut Turon Ala Mode. If you are into buffet, Chef Jerry Shan’s Place in the plaza is the place to be for only P199 per person. Night life is limited to restaurants along Sabang Beach.

What to Do in Baler

Surf! Surf! Surf! Most resorts offer board rental and tutorial, add to this are the stand alone kiosks along the beach, The standard rate is P350 per hour for the use of surf board and service of a guide. For board rental only: P200 per hour; P400 for half day; and P800 for whole day,
Scuba diving/Snokeling
Other water sports: paragliding, paddle boarding, kayaking
Tour Baler by visiting these attractions: Aniao Islet, Canawer, Dicasalarin Cove, Mother (Ditumabo) Falls, Ampere Beach, Diguisit Beach, Dinadiawan Beach, Ermita Hill, Aurora Aragon Quezon House, Museo de Baler, Baler Church, Cunayan Falls, Centuries-old Balete Tree
Try rappelling in Digisit Fals
Explore the beaches, caves, waterfalls and other attractions of the neighboring town of Dingalan, Dicasalarin, Casiguran, Dipaculao, San Luis and Dilasag.
Go camping in the secluded beaches and coves
Trek Mt. Udok, Mt. Pamazam-pazam, Mt. Anacuao and Mt. Maaling-Alin

Tips

All mobile operators have mobile signals.
There are ATMs in town.
Most establishments accept credit card and debit card but not traveler’s check.
If you are into surfing, the best months to visit Baler are from July to December. During summer and dry months, the waves may be smaller but still surfable.