The Philippines is a tropical archipelago, so it’s no wonder that there are many accessible beaches from its busy capital Manila and the whole National Capital Region. Escape the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle and jump into the warm embrace of the beach towns of Batangas, Quezon, Zambales, Pangasinan, Bataan, and even Mindoro (Puerto Galera)!
For the weary but mighty weekend warriors, getting our weekly dose of Vitamin Sea is all we need to recharge for another week’s battle. So, let’s go to the beach, shall we? Here’s a list of some of the beaches near Manila. Note that this list is not ranked, and the numbers are just there for easier reference.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! If your are traveling soon and still on the planning stage, you can also visit our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Here, we compiled travel essentials, including immigration requirements and all our recommended hotels and tours. Just visit this page: TPT Masterlist. We have a compilation for destinations around the world.
1. Laiya
Popular all year round but busiest during the summer months, Laiya Beach generally refers to the beaches along the southern coast of San Juan, particularly those spanning the barangays of Laiya-Ibabao, Laiya-Aplaya, and Hugom.
These beaches are typically characterized by coarse beige to light brown sand that is often taken for white. At the westernmost end lies a cluster of rock formations known as the Hugom Rock Formation and Fish Sanctuary, located near La Luz Beach Resort. You can climb to the top for scenic views of the sea, the long stretch of sand, and the rugged coast on the other side of the rock formations.
As one of the most developed beach destinations in the area, Laiya offers numerous hotel options, from public to private gated resorts and budget to high-end resorts. Laiya is also the jump-off point for hikes to Mount Hugom and Mount Daguldol, drawing sun chasers who opt for a hike-and-swim itinerary, starting with an early morning hike, then heading to the beach after the descent.
Location: San Juan, Batangas
How to Get to Laiya: From Manila, get on a bus to San Juan, Batangas. From San Juan town center, ride a jeepney or charter a tricycle to your resort or Laiya/Hugom public beach (landmark is The Henry Resort). Travel Time is 3-4 hours.
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2. Verde Island
Situated south of the Batangas mainland in the Verde Island Passage — the “Center of the Center of Marine Shorefish Biodiversity”, Verde Island has a raw beauty that appeals to those who prefer the less touristy beach destinations. More of a humble fishing village than a bustling resort town, it offers only basic tourist facilities and accommodations. Mahabang Buhangin and Cueva Sitio are the island’s main attractions.
Mahabang Buhangin features waters with a beautiful gradation of blue waters, a mix of fine and coarse light-colored sand, and a few rocky shores toward the northern end. From here, you can also see the giant Montemaria statue on the mainland. The departure point to Verde Island is Batangas City’s Tabangao Port for public boats or Barangay Ilijan for private boats. The usual stops for public boats are Sitio Sampalucan and Mahabang Buhangin, both located in Barangay San Agustin West (Kanluran).
MORE INFO HERE: VERDE ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Batangas City, Batangas
How to Get to Verde Island: From Manila, board a bus to Batangas Grand Terminal. At the terminal, take a jeepney to Bagong Palengke. From there, ride another jeepney to Tabangao Port (amihan season) or Ilijan Port (habagat season). Tell the driver to drop you off at the port. Then, look for the designated boat to Verde Island. A small paddle boat will take you to the main boat. Note that there’s only one public boat per day from Tabangao Port to the island, leaving at 9AM (but be there earlier). The journey takes 4-5 hours.
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3. Masasa Beach
Masasa Beach is nestled on the southern side of Tingloy, an island municipality in Batangas off the southern coast of the Mabini peninsula. It is a magnet for travelers who are seeking new beach destinations. Although it is no longer exactly under the radar, it still retains much of its raw charm despite some development. It enchants beachgoers with its off-white sand and clear waters that display varying hues on a bright, sunny day.
The setting-off point for Masasa Beach depends on the season, but it’s definitely in Mabini, Batangas. Head to Anilao Port in Barangay Anilao during the amihan season (November to April) and to Talaga Port in Barangay Talaga during the habagat season (May to October). Boats bound for Tingloy either ferry passengers to Tingloy Port or directly to Masasa Beach. There are also resorts in Anilao and neighboring barangays that offer private boat trips to Masasa Beach.
MORE DETAILS HERE: MASASA BEACH TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Tingloy, Batangas
How to Get to Masasa Beach: From Manila, take the bus to Batangas Grand Terminal. From there, ride a jeepney to Anilao Port. From the port, board a ferry to Tingloy (Montenegro Lines or Tingloy Ferry). Once you get off the ferry, take a tricycle to Masasa Beach. Note that the tricycle will only dropp you off at the trail head to the beach. After that, you still need to walk to reach Masasa Beach. You can also choose to ride a habal-habal. The travel time is about four hours.
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4. Sepoc Beach
Sepoc Beach, also sometimes called Sepoc Island (although not really an island), lies on the western end of Maricaban, the largest and main island of Tingloy in Batangas. The beach is privately owned and managed by Eagle Point Resort. However, other public tour boats can still moor several meters offshore for snorkeling. The sand is not fine but a mixture of coarse sand, weathered corals, and broken shells. One side of the beach is framed by the rocky cliffs and a rugged shoreline.
A hilltop viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the beach and the sea. On a clear day, even Sombrero Island can be seen from here. Again, since it’s a private beach, access to the viewpoint as well as restrooms and dining hall is possible by booking Eagle Point Resort’s Sepoc Beach Tour.
READ MORE HERE: SEPOC BEACH TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Tingloy, Batangas
How to Get to Sepoc Beach: From Manila, ride a bus to Batangas Grand Terminal. Then, take a jeepney to Anilao Port or Mabini town center. From there, charter a tricycle to Eagle Point Resort. At the entrance gate, a service van will pick you up and will take you to the reception area. Confirm your Sepoc Beach Tour booking. Then, a boat will take you to Sepoc Beach. The journey takes around four hours.
5. Sombrero Island
Sombrero Island’s most recognizable feature is its grassy, rocky hill that resembles a hat (sombrero), hence the name. It is visible from Sepoc Point and the peak of Mount Gulugod Baboy on a clear day. The island is often visited as a side trip, a lunch stop, or a snorkeling site. It is fringed with light-colored sand mixed with pebbles and crushed corals, so it’s best to wear protective footwear like aqua shoes. The surrounding waters are clear, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling; however, waves can sometimes get strong, so wearing a life vest is recommended for safety.
The long wooden hut with tables provides shelter and a dining area for tourists on the island. Many resorts in Mabini, particularly in Anilao and nearby barangays, offer boat trips to Sombrero Island and other attractions in the area. On our last visit, an entrance fee of P200 was required if you set foot on the island. Since we were only there to snorkel, we did not dock; instead, we stopped a few meters offshore. We were fortunate — and ecstatic — to spot a sea turtle, along with vibrant corals and a variety of marine life!
Location: Tingloy, Batangas
How to Get to Sombrero Island: From Manila, board a bus to Batangas Grand Terminal. Then, rode a jeepney to Anilao Port or Mabini town center. From there, hire a tricycle to take you to your chosen resort. Book a tour to Sombrero Island. If you secured a Sepoc Boat Tour at Eagle Point Resort, you can add Sombrero Island to your itinerary. The travel time is approximately four hours.
6. Fortune Island
Fortune Island is famed for its cinematic Grecian-style ruins crowning the limestone cliffs on the island’s southern tip, overlooking the sea and enticing tourists with its nostalgic atmosphere. Situated off the coast of Nasugbu in Batangas, it was once an exclusive luxury resort. However, due to the lack of a reliable freshwater source and the costly maintenance, operations eventually became unsustainable. It officially closed down in 2006.
Today, the island remains privately owned and is now managed by Fortune Island Resort in Barangay Wawa on the mainland. The resort serves as the official jump-off point to the island, so visitors must stop there first to register and pay the necessary fees before heading to the island.
Fortune Island also features a cliff diving spot, resort ruins, and a beach camping site. Its shoreline is composed of beige-white sand with varying textures — fine, coarse, and small shingles. The waves can become strong at times, so always be careful when swimming.
MORE INFO HERE: FORTUNE ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Nasugbu, Batangas
How to Get to Fortune Island: From Manila, take a bus to Nasugbu. From the town center, ride a tricycle to Fortune Island Resort in Barangay Wawa. Register and pay fees. Hop on the boat that will take you to Fortune Island. The journey takes 3-4 hours.
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7. Calayo Beach
With its many beaches and coves, Nasugbu is one of the popular resort towns in Batangas. Some of its beaches and coves are nestled inside exclusive seaside villages and private community resorts like Tali Beach, Hamilo Coast, Canyon Cove, and Punta Fuego. Others, however, are easily accessible to the public and do not require membership. One of these is Calayo Beach.
This fishing village is steadily developing into a beach destination in Batangas. Its shoreline is blanketed with fine, light brown sand and lined with residential houses, as well as budget to mid-range resorts.
Calayo Beach serves as one of the departure points for nearby attractions such as Bituin Cove, Layag-Layag Beach, Kayraang Cove, Santelmo Cove, and Taytayin Cove. Aside from swimming, activities offered at the beach include island hopping/boat tours, cliff diving, fish feeding, and camping, among others.
Location: Nasugbu, Batangas
How to Get to Calayo Beach: From Manila, take a bus to Nasugbu. The fastest route is via Kaybiang Tunnel from PITX. Then, get off at Barangay Looc court. Remind the driver or conductor of your stop. From there, take a tricycle to Barangay Calayo beach area. The travel time is about three hours.
8. Bituin Cove
Bituin Cove, also known as Hannukah Beach, is just one of the many sand pockets tucked along the jagged coastline of Nasugbu. Most visitors are beach campers looking for a laid-back and less touristy campsite. The cove can be reached by boat from Barangay Calayo or Barangay Papaya in about 15 minutes.
The shore is fringed with thick vegetation, providing shade for campers, and is carpeted with coarse, light-brown sand mixed with shingles. A few basic facilities are available, including a concrete building for big groups, open huts, A-frame nipa huts, picnic tables, restrooms, and a small sari-sari store. The remains of the abandoned concrete dock add to the area’s rugged character.
Although the beach itself may seem basic and plain at first glance, the underwater scenery tells a different story. Besides camping and swimming, visitors can also go kayaking, snorkeling, or trekking to a viewpoint overlooking the cove. It is also a good spot to watch the sunset if you are planning to stay overnight. The entrance fee is P300 for a day tour and P500 for an overnight stay.
MORE DETAILS HERE: BITUIN COVE TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Nasugbu, Batangas
How to Get to Bituin Cove: Just follow the steps from Manila to Calayo Beach. From Calayo Beach, take an island hopping tour that includes a stop at Bituin Cove. The usual boat tour covers three destinations. If you are a large group, you can just book a private tour. The journey takes around three hours.
9. Kayraang Cove
Devoid of manmade structures and tourist facilities, Kayraang Cove (Cayraang Cove) is a protected area located in Barangay Papaya. Its pristine shore is covered with a mixture of fine and coarse, light-colored sand. The waters are generally shallow, which is good for swimming. However, be careful during high tide or when the waves are strong, as the sandy seabed can suddenly shift and create deeper sections.
The cove is private property and is not usually included in the island-hopping itinerary in Nasugbu. That was the case during our visit, although we have since heard that joiner and exclusive tour packages to Kayraang Cove are now being offered. When we visited, we were only allowed to swim near the shore but were not permitted to dock and explore farther inland.
Location: Nasugbu, Batangas
How to Get to Kayraang Cove: Just follow the steps from Manila to Calayo Beach. From Calayo Beach, take an island hopping tour that includes a stop at Kayraang Cove. The tour usually covers three destinations. You can just take a private tour if you are a big group. The travel time is approximately three hours.
10. Santelmo Cove
Santelmo Cove is one of the thirteen coves within Hamilo Coast, a premier coastal lifestyle and residential development by Costa del Hamilo Inc., a subsidiary of SM Prime Holdings. Access to the beach is through Pico Sands Hotel or Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club. Guests are advised to book ahead of time, as slots are limited.
Santelmo Cove is an exclusive beach destination for guests seeking a tranquil summer escape. It sits next to Pico de Loro Cove, originally called Cutad Cove, which serves as its jump-off point. From there, the boat ride to the cove takes about 10 minutes.
This pristine cove is also a protected marine sanctuary and a nesting site for sea turtles. Although it is privately owned, non-members and non-Pico guests are still allowed to moor offshore for snorkeling. This was exactly what we did on our last visit.
Location: Nasugbu, Batangas
How to Get to Santelmo Cove: Again, access to Santelmo Beach is through Hamilo Coast. You can book a stay at Pico Sands Hotel and avail of the Santelmo Private Beach tour. But if you just wish to snorkel around the area, you can just follow the steps from Manila to Calayo Beach. From Calayo Beach, take an island hopping tour that includes a stop at Santelmo Cove. The tour usually covers three destinations. You can just take a private tour if you are a big group. The journey takes about three hours.
BOOK PICO SANDS HOTEL HERE!
11. Tali Beach
One of the earliest coastal areas in Batangas to be developed, Nasugbu is still one of the province’s most popular beach destinations. Among its private seaside communities is Tali Beach Subdivision, which is home to several beaches and a cliff jumping spot.
The main beach is also called Tali Beach, while the other beaches within the subdivision include Sunset Beach, Secret Beach, Barrier Beach, Palm Beach, Coral Garden Beach, and Marina Beach. The cliff-jumping site is located near Sunset Beach. Boat rentals are available, along with water sports equipment like kayaks, paddleboards, and more.
If you wish to access Tali Beach and other beaches inside this gated coastal community, you may coordinate with registered members or residents who rent out their properties. Please note that you must comply with the rules and regulations set by the management, the Tali Beach Homeowners Group.
Location: Nasugbu, Batangas
How to Get to Tali Beach: Guests are required to present a vehicle pass (or a copy of Authorized Pass) at the gate to enter the subdivision, so the best way is to travel by car. From Manila, take the CAVITEX route, passing through Kaybiang Tunnel. Tali Beach Subdivision is located in Barangay Balaytigui. Entrance gate is along Ternate-Nasugbu Road. The travel time is around three hours.
12. Manuel Uy Beach
Nestled on the west coast of the Calatagan peninsula, Manuel Uy Beach features a long, wide stretch of cream-colored sand that caters to beach campers. This is perfect for those who have no problem roughing it out. It is devoid of luxury and offers only basic amenities, including shower and toilet rooms, grilling stations, a paluto (cooking) station, a small sari-sari store, the management office, and a staff station.
Although rugged in appearance, the property is well-maintained, with parking space and a lifeguard station positioned near a steep drop-off in the water several meters from the shore. During our visit, the staff would use a megaphone to warn swimmers whenever they got too close to the edge.
Manuel Uy Beach also serves as a jump-off point to Starfish Island, a sandbar, and a snorkeling site.
READ MORE HERE: MANUEL UY BEACH TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Calatagan, Batangas
How to Get to Manuel Uy Beach: From Manila, go to DLTB Buendia Terminal or PITX, then get on a bus to Calatagan. Alight at the town center or near Calatagan Public Market. From there, hire a tricycle to Manuel Uy Beach. The journey takes 3-4 hours.
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13. Stilts Calatagan
Located next to Manuel Uy Beach, Stilts Calatagan has established itself as one of the sought-after beach wedding destinations near Manila. It is best known for its iconic overwater bungalows, which resemble the water villas of the Maldives. This sprawling private beach property boasts not just one, but three beaches: Serenity Beach, Harmony Beach, and Destiny Beach.
Serenity Beach, the closest to Manuel Uy Beach, is the area designated for guests who wish to go beach camping. Harmony Beach is the longest of the three and features fine, fair sand. It hosts the water villas and the resort’s Infinity Pool. Destiny Beach normally accommodates the resort’s day tour guests. It offers an interesting combination of sandy and rocky shoreline.
MORE INFO HERE: STILTS CALATAGAN TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Calatagan, Batangas
How to Get to Stilts Calatagan: From Manila, head to DLTB Buendia Terminal or PITX, then board a bus to Calatagan. Get off at the town center or near Calatagan Public Market. And then, charter a tricycle to Stilts Calatagan. The travel time is 3-4 hours.
14. Calatagan South Beach (CaSoBe)
Calatagan South Beach (CaSoBe) is a seaside community development by Landco. It features around 500 meters of sandy shore, where guests can also bask in the natural beach setting while sunbathing, lounging, or simply waiting for the glorious sunset. You can access this sandy strip through Aquaria Water Park, CaSoBe’s beachfront resort.
Despite having “water park” in its name, it is pretty much like an upgraded, family-friendly beach resort, featuring a three-story-high slide with a six-foot-deep landing pool. Other amenities include swimming pools (cove pools), a kiddie pool, three dining spots, cabanas, and picnic tables.
If you wish to spend a night or two, you may book a room through the resort’s accommodation partners — Crusoe Cabins and Cocoons. Whichever you choose, your room booking already includes access to the resort’s amenities, the water park, and the beach.
MORE DETAILS HERE: AQUARIA WATER PARK TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Calatagan, Batangas
How to Get to Aquaria Water Park: From Manila, make your way to PITX or DLTB Buendia Terminal, then ride a bus to Calatagan. Alight at the town center or near Calatagan Public Market. And then, hail a tricycle to Aquaria Water Park. The journey takes 3-4 hours.
BOOK CRUSOE CABINS OR COCOONS HERE!
15. Matabungkay
Matabungkay Beach, located in the town of Lian, enjoyed its golden era from the 1950s to the early 1990s. It was once “the” place to be for company outings and was especially popular among expats and businessmen looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Manila. From a humble fishing village, it flourished into a thriving resort village offering year-round activities. Although it is no longer as flashy as it once was, Matabungkay remains one of the well-known beach destinations in Batangas.
The public beach, with fine ash-colored sand that appears almost white under the glaring sun, is still the most popular stretch. It continues to attract local tourists, thanks in part to its iconic floating bamboo raft cottages dotting its waters. The beach is also lined with numerous commercial establishments and resorts — mostly budget-friendly resorts, but there are a few upscale options as well.
Location: Lian, Batangas
How to Get to Matabungkay Beach: From Manila, you can get on a bus bound for Lian/Calatagan from PITX or DLTB Buendia Terminal. Alight at the junction of Lian-Calatagan Highway and Matabungkay Road. At the junction, take a tricycle to Matabungkay Beach. The travel time is 3-4 hours.
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16. Malabrigo
Located in the town of Lobo, Malabrigo is one of the unique beach destinations in Batangas. Instead of sand, its shoreline is strewn with smooth stones and pebbles, making it ideal for those who do not want to deal with sand getting into their hair or swimwear. Its relatively secluded location also draws people looking to avoid the crowds typical of more popular beaches. But hey, there are still sandy spots in certain areas, particularly the ones developed and cleared by resorts.
Another notable attraction is the Malabrigo Point Lighthouse. In the past, visitors could freely access and explore the historic lighthouse, but today, tourists can only admire it from the outside. From the lighthouse, there’s a trail leading down to the beach.
Location: Lobo, Batangas
How to Get to Malabrigo: From Manila, DLTB Buendia Terminal has direct trips to Lobo at 9AM and 6PM. If you can’t get there on time, you can board a bus to SM Lipa. From there, take a modern jeepney to Lobo. Alight at the plaza or near the public market. And then, charter a tricycle to your chosen resort in Barangay Malabrigo. The journey takes 3-4 hours.
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17. South Beach
Corregidor is a historic island, strategically located at the mouth of Manila Bay. Nicknamed the “Gibraltar of the East” and commonly referred to as “The Rock”, it is the largest fortified island among those that once formed the harbor defenses of Manila.
Amid the barracks, batteries, and other wartime remnants, the island also cradles South Beach, an unassuming beach that, although not blanketed with fine white sand, still exudes a serene atmosphere. There are other beaches on the island, but this one has relatively calmer waves and is generally more suitable for wading or swimming — if you still have time.
Interestingly, the shore is littered with medium-sized pebbles known as “bloodstones”, so called because of their red markings, which resemble splatters of blood.
Location: Corregidor Island, Cavite
How to Get to South Beach Corregidor: In the past, there were ferries departing from Manila. But for now, the best option is to join a group tour. Currently, most tours use Bataan as the jump-off point. Tours departing from Cavite City are seasonal. You can check the Cavite City Tourism Facebook page for the latest updates and announcements. The travel time is 3-4 hours.
18. Anawangin Cove
The coves of Zambales, especially those in San Antonio, possess a distinct feature: shores carpeted with volcanic ash deposited by Mount Pinatubo during its 1991 eruption. Since then, the ash, together with the towering Agoho trees, has transformed and softened the once rugged, rocky landscape of the coves. The lush greenery makes it an excellent site for beach camping. Due to its proximity to Pundaquit, the main jump-off point to the coves of San Antonio, Anawangin has become the most popular among tourists.
You can trek to a nearby hill for a picturesque view of the cove and its surroundings. Enjoy your time bonding with friends, meeting fellow campers, or just chilling and doing nothing at all. If you are up for more adventure, you can hike one of the nearby peaks of Mount Pundaquit.
The inland creek (inlet) is especially scenic when filled with water. However, during the peak summer season, it can dry up completely. Keep in mind that summer is also the busiest and most crowded time of the year.
READ MORE HERE: ANAWANGIN COVE TRAVEL GUIDE
The agoho trees and inlet of Anawangin.
Location: San Antonio, Zambales
How to Get to Anawangin Cove: From Manila, take a bus bound for Iba or Santa Cruz in Zambales. Get off at the San Antonio Public Market, then take a tricycle to Barangay Pundaquit. Inform the driver that you are going to Anawangin, so he can drop you off at the jump-off point. From Pundaquit, you can charter a boat to Anawangin. Alternatively, you can book an island-hopping tour if you want to visit other nearby attractions, including Nagsasa Cove, Capones Island, and Talisayin Cove, among others. The journey takes 4-5 hours.
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19. Nagsasa Cove
Relatively quieter than the more popular Anawangin Cove, Nagsasa is another camping destination in San Antonio. Although it shares many of Anawangin’s features, it retains its charming, rugged vibe, thanks to its more remote location. It is much farther from Pundaquit, the usual jump-off point, making it feel more secluded and less crowded.
The cove is framed by picturesque hills, which grant breathtaking views of both the cove and the surrounding area. The easiest and most popular viewpoint is on a nearby hill, with a trailhead at the rightmost end of the shore if you are facing the main campsite.
Other activities you can enjoy here include stargazing, watching the sunset, meeting other campers, playing beach volleyball, board games, or card games, listening to music (but keep the volume down, especially at night), and more. You can also trek to Nagsasa Falls or explore the inlet area.
Remember that the cove can still get crowded during peak season, especially in summer, but generally not as busy as Anawangin.
MORE INFO HERE: NAGSASA COVE TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: San Antonio, Zambales
How to Get to Nagsasa Cove: From Manila, board a bus bound for Iba or Santa Cruz in Zambales. Alight at the San Antonio Public Market. From there, hail a tricycle to Barangay Pundaquit. Tell the driver that you are heading to Nagsasa, so he can drop you off at the jump-off point. From Pundaquit, you can rent a boat to Nagsasa. Alternatively, you can book an island-hopping tour if you want to visit other nearby attractions, including Anawangin Cove, Capones Island, and Talisayin Cove, among others. The travel time is 4-5 hours.
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20. Silanguin Cove
Due to its remote location, Silanguin Cove is the least crowded among all the sand pockets in San Antonio, Zambales. Like its sister coves, it has ash-gray to light-gray sand. But unlike the others, it has shallower waters, making it ideal for swimming.
Its fertile ground has also blessed Silanguin with lush vegetation, providing ample shade for day-trippers and overnight campers alike.
Location: San Antonio, Zambales
How to Get to Silanguin Cove: From Manila, ride a bus bound for Iba or Santa Cruz in Zambales. Get off at the San Antonio Public Market, then take a tricycle to Barangay Pundaquit. Let the driver know that you are going to Silanguin Cove, so he can drop you off at the jump-off point. From Pundaquit, you can charter a boat to Silanguin. Alternatively, you can book an island-hopping tour if you want to visit other nearby attractions, including Nagsasa Cove, Capones Island, and Talisayin Cove, among others. The journey takes approximately five hours.
21. Talisayen Cove
Nestled between Anawangin and Nagsasa, Talisayen Cove is often overlooked as a beach and camping destination. But what it offers is a sense of tranquility that is uncommon for a place so close to the main jump-off point. Talisayen benefits from being a wallflower, quietly carving out its own niche for those in search of a more peaceful beach getaway in the area.
A long stretch of light gray to off-white volcanic ash lines the shore, set against a chain of mountains that dominates the landscape. Rows of lush Agoho trees form a wide green curtain between the beach and the mountains.
There is also an inlet at the foot of a hill on the northern end of the beach — the leftmost side if you are facing the mountains.
Location: San Antonio, Zambales
How to Get to Talisayen Cove: From Manila, board a bus bound for Iba or Santa Cruz in Zambales. Alight at the San Antonio Public Market. From there, ride a tricycle to Barangay Pundaquit. Inform the driver that you are heading to Talisayen, so he can drop you off at the jump-off point. From Pundaquit, you can rent a boat to Talisayen. Alternatively, you can book an island-hopping tour if you want to visit other nearby attractions, including Anawangin Cove, Capones Island, and Nagsasa Cove, among others. The travel time is 4-5 hours.
22. Capones Island
Located about 20 minutes off the coast of Pundaquit, Capones Island is the largest of the three islands comprising the Capones group. The other two are Camara Island and the islet attached to its northern shore.
Most of the island is dominated by rocky cliffs, laced with off-white sand and rocky shorelines. On the western side stands the lighthouse. Although visitors are not allowed inside, you can still hike up to the lighthouse and admire the panoramic view of the island and the sea.
Capones is small enough to explore in less than a day. Make sure to wear a comfortable pair of footwear, as some parts of the island are rocky. It’s best to get a guide who knows the way around the island.
Keep in mind that the waves can become rough in the afternoon, which is why some day trip boats leave earlier.
Location: San Antonio, Zambales
How to Get to Capones Island: From Manila, board a bus bound for Iba or Santa Cruz in Zambales. Get off at the San Antonio Public Market, then hail a tricycle to Barangay Pundaquit. Tell the driver that you are going to Capones Island, so he can drop you off at the jump-off point. From Pundaquit, you can charter a boat to Capones. Alternatively, you can book an island-hopping tour if you want to visit other nearby attractions, including Nagsasa Cove, Anawangin, Camara Island, and Talisayin Cove, among others. The journey takes 4-5 hours.
23. Crystal Beach
Like many of the beaches in Zambales, Crystal Beach in the town of San Narciso is blanketed with volcanic ash that can appear almost white under the bright sun. But beyond lounging by the shore, its main draw is the powerful waves that beckon surfers to its waters.
It is home to The Kampsite, which has steadily become one of the favorite beach camping and team-building destinations in the province. The Agoho trees give the campsite its relaxing atmosphere, inviting visitors to take a quick nap or simply laze around without a care in the world.
If you are looking for a raw and off-the-beaten-path surfing destination in Zambales, you might also want to check out Liwliwa Beach in the town of San Felipe, just north of San Narciso.
Location: San Narciso, Zambales
How to Get to Crystal Beach: From Manila, get on a bus bound for Iba or Santa Cruz. Alight at the San Narciso Municipal Hall or San Sebastian Church. From there, take a tricycle to Crystal Beach Resort. The travel time is 4-5 hours.
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24. Cagbalete Island
Situated off the coast of Mauban in Lamon Bay, Cagbalete Island boasts a pristine, wide stretch of golden sand and clear turquoise waters. Its low tides make the beach especially safe for kids and for those who are not strong swimmers.
The island’s raw beauty is characterized by its graceful Agoho trees and mangrove forest. One of its most notable highlights appears during low tide, when the receding waters leave behind uniform, zen-like patterns etched across the sand by the waves.
Aside from its beaches, Cagbalete also supports rich marine life and a variety of bird species, making it a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts, too.
Location: Mauban, Quezon
How to Get to Cagbalete Island: From Manila, board a bus to Lucena Grand Terminal. At the terminal, take a bus or van to Mauban. Then, hire a tricycle to take you to Mauban Port. From here, register first, then you can get on the public boat (10AM & 4PM) or charter a private boat to Cagbalete Island’s Sabang Port. The journey takes about five hours.
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25. Borawan Beach
Situated on the eastern coast of Pagbilao Chica Island, Borawan Beach is still part of Padre Burgos. The town’s pier serves as the usual jump-off point to the beaches of both Pagbilao Grande Island and Pagbilao Chica Island.
Giant rock formations adorn the beach, forming small natural shelters where non-swimmers usually hang out. You can also climb the rocks for a better view of the entire shoreline, but be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear, as the surfaces are sharp and uneven.
The beach we visited during our last trip was a small pocket of sand littered with rock formations. It can get really crowded, especially during peak season, and jellyfish may occasionally be spotted in certain parts of the water during summer. Located south of is another sandy strip that is home to Borawan Island Resort.
Location: Padre Burgos, Quezon
How to Get to Borawan Beach: From Manila, board a bus to Lucena Grand Terminal. At the terminal, take a jeep or van to Padre Burgos. Tell the driver to drop you off at QCRB Bank Padre Burgos branch. Then, hire a tricycle to take you to the Padre Burgos Pier. Charter a boat to Borawan Beach. Alternatively, consider booking a boat tour with stops at Borawan, Dampalitan, and Kwebang Lampas (Puting Buhangin). The travel time is around five hours.
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26. Dampalitan Beach
Located in Padre Burgos, Dampalitan Beach lies on the southern end of Dampalitan Island, just east of Pagbilao Chica Island across Tayabas Bay. It is one of the beach camping destinations in the area.
The beach features a long stretch of whitish sand lined with trees, most notably the tall and whimsical Agoho trees. Along this shaded stretch, you can easily find a spot to pitch your tent.
The designated swimming area is enclosed by a net barrier, protecting swimmers from jellyfish, which are common during the summer months. On the southeastern end of the beach, a rocky shoreline provides an interesting backdrop for photo sessions.
One of the highlights of visiting Dampalitan Beach is witnessing the sky change from blue to warm orange, and eventually, to a fiery red at sunset. If booking an island-hopping tour, some boats stop first at Puting Buhangin before proceeding to Dampalitan Island.
Location: Padre Burgos, Quezon
How to Get to Dampalitan Beach: From Manila, ride a bus to Lucena Grand Terminal. At the terminal, take a jeep or van to Padre Burgos. Ask the driver if he can drop you off at QCRB Bank Padre Burgos branch. From there, hail a tricycle to take you to the Padre Burgos Pier. Charter a boat to Dampalitan Beach. Alternatively, you can book a boat tour with stops at Borawan, Dampalitan, and Kwebang Lampas (Puting Buhangin). The journey takes approximately five hours.
27. Puting Buhangin Beach
Marking the southern tip of the Pagbilao Grande Island in Tayabas Bay, Puting Buhangin is best known for its pale, almost white sand. You will know you have arrived when you see the towering chimney-like structures of the Pagbilao Power Station dominating the skyline.
When we visited years ago, the cove was a common lunch stop for boat tours and a side trip for campers staying at other beaches in the area, like Dampalitan Beach. The small cove can be explored from end to end in under five minutes. Today, however, visitors may only dock on the western side to access Kwebang Lampas, as the beach itself is currently closed to the public.
Kwebang Lampas is a small sea cave with openings on both ends. Just take extra caution when entering because the rocks can be sharp and slippery.
You can easily cover Borawan, Dampalitan, and Kwebang Lampas in one trip. You can also ask your boatman to make a stop at Biliran Sandbar. It is visible only during low tide, so timing is important if you want to include it in your island-hopping itinerary.
Location: Pagbilao, Quezon
How to Get to Puting Buhangin Beach: From Manila, get on a bus to Lucena Grand Terminal. At the terminal, ride a jeep or van to Padre Burgos. Tell the driver to drop you off at QCRB Bank Padre Burgos branch. Then, hire a tricycle to take you to the Padre Burgos Pier. Charter a boat to Borawan Beach. Alternatively, consider booking an island-hopping tour with stops at Borawan, Dampalitan, and Kwebang Lampas (Puting Buhangin). The travel time is about five hours.
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28. Laki Beach
Laki Beach is one of the pristine coves of Mariveles in Bataan. It features a shoreline of fine, cream sand fringed with coconut trees. Some sections have rocky formations where both tourists and locals go cliff jumping, while the clear water entices beachgoers eager to swim and soak up the sun. You can rent a cottage, a room, or a tent. But if you are traveling on a shoestring budget, you can just bring your own tent or beach blanket.
If you are into trekking, you can climb up a hill from the beach to enjoy the view of the cove and its surroundings, including Mount Mariveles. Although the beach is less developed than other coves in the area, it can still attract large crowds on weekends, holidays, and during the summer season. The entrance fee is P300 for a day tour and P400 for an overnight stay. There are also tour packages that combine Laki Beach and Five Fingers Cove.
Location: Mariveles, Bataan
How to Get to Laki Beach: From Manila, board a bus bound for Mariveles from Cubao or Pasay. Then, alight at Mariveles town center. You can ask the driver or bus conductor to drop you off at the Municipal Hall. From there, hire a tricycle to Porto in Barangay Balon. Get on a boat to Laki Beach or book a cove-hopping tour that includes Laki Beach in the itinerary. The journey takes around five hours.
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29. Camaya Coast Beach
Camaya Coast is a coastal residential and commercial development in Mariveles, Bataan. The 500-hectare seaside community features residential properties, business establishments, boutique hotels, a golf course, a mall, resort facilities, a water park, and a beach.
Camaya Coast Beach is located at the southern end of the estate. It flaunts a wide stretch of shoreline with fine beige sand, perfect for beach bumming. You can also enjoy various activities, such as the Inflatable Islands, kayaking, beach volleyball, Frisbee, and biking! Water sports are available too, including banana boat rides, jet skiing, and donut tow rides. And if you are up for more adventure, head over to the Aqua Fun Water Park!
You can visit on a day tour or stay for a night at the on-site Aqua Fun Hotel. The pass typically includes access to Camaya Coast, the beach and infinity pool, Aqua Fun Water Park, Inflatable Islands (subject to availability), and use of tables, chairs, and restrooms, among others.
You can book via their website. If you’re only planning a day tour, Klook also offers Camaya Coast Day Pass.
✅ GET CAMAYA COAST DAY PASS HERE!
Location: Mariveles, Bataan
How to Get to Camaya Coast Beach: The fastest option is to book a day tour by ferry package. From Manila, the ferry ride takes 1.5-2 hours. By land, the most convenient option is by private car. But if you will travel by public transportation from Manila, take a bus bound for Mariveles from Cubao or Pasay. Then, get off at Mariveles town center. You can ask the driver or bus conductor to drop you off at the Municipal Hall. From there, charter a tricycle to Camaya Coast. The travel time is approximately five hours.
BOOK AQUA FUN HOTEL CAMAYA COAST!
30. Puerto Galera
Puerto Galera, meaning “Port of Galleons”, served as a safe harbor for Spanish galleons during the colonial era. Crowning the northern tip of Oriental Mindoro, it faces the Verde Island Passage and is about an hour boat ride from Batangas Port. From a humble town that relied mainly on fishing for livelihood, Puerto Galera has developed into a first-class municipality, with tourism now serving as a major driver of its economy.
It boasts world-renowned diving spots, several beach destinations, verdant mountains, waterfalls, and cultural sites. These attractions, along with their accessibility, continue to draw both local and foreign tourists. For beach lovers, here are three of the most visited beaches in Puerto Galera: White Beach, Aninuan Beach, and Sabang Beach.
White Beach is the OG! This popular stretch of fair sand is the center of the town’s tourism scene, with a wide range of accommodations, food options, and a lively nightlife. Next to it is Aninuan Beach, which offers a more laid-back experience and fewer crowds. Meanwhile, Sabang Beach is a top pick for divers, serving as the main jump-off point to multiple dive sites in the area. It has a well-established diving scene, with most dive resorts located here.
Other beaches are Bayanan Beach, Talipanan Beach, Tamaraw Beach, Small La Laguna, Big La Laguna, Haligi Beach, and Long Beach. Some of these can be reached by taking a boat tour.
MORE DETAILS HERE: PUERTO GALERA TRAVEL GUIDE
Location: Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro
How to Get to Puerto Galera: From Manila, board a bus bound for Batangas Pier. Alight at Batangas Pier, then proceed to the ticket counters. Purchase your ferry ticket (roro or fastcraft) and pay the terminal fee. Board your ferry. From Balatero or Muelle Port, charter a tricycle to your resort. The journey takes 4-5 five hours.
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Updates Log
2026 4 23 – First uploaded
Photos by: Asta Alvarez, Yosh Dimen, Vins Carlos, and Mariah Cruz
