Batangas beach getaways and vacations were one of the highlights of my teenage years. Close to Manila and still not too touristy.. See our list of the top 10…
Batangas has long been known for a volcano within a lake (Taal Volcanno), Fire trees (caballeros), centuries-old churches, the balisong (butterfly knife) and beaches, beaches and more beaches… You may choose to snorkel in the waters off Ligpo Island or maybe scuba dive the coral reef at Sombrero island. The Batangas has a lot to offer without needing to board a plane and venture too far out of Manila.
Batangas Beach Top Ten List
As a small side note I should mention that the beaches of Batangas are not the picturesque white sand beaches that you find at Boracay. No, these beaches are more of your golden sand, pebbly or even rocky varieties. If you are looking for an ivory-white coastline that stretches out for miles then you are better off going to Boracay. This is not to say the Batangas does not have it’s own charm, beauty and attractions, it has many things you would be hard pressed to find anywhere else…
Batangas is gifted with locations that are both natural and man-made.
10 – MATABUNGKAY BEACH, LIAN
MATABUNGKAY BEACH, LIAN
According to the locals, Matabungkay was “rediscovered” by Germans in the 50s who were wanting a beach retreat within close proximity to Manila.
Everytime we go here we like to spend an afternoon of one of the many rafts that can be hired out. These rafts can be found all over the beach and can be hired out for a few hours, a day or even overnight. Bring food because you can grill or BBQ your lunch on the raft – the owns will provide the grill and charcoal.
9 – VERDE ISLAND, BATANGAS CITY
VERDE ISLAND, BATANGAS CITY
Verde Island is found 45 minutes off the mainland between the islands of Mindoro and Luzon, Philippines. One of the famous attractions of the island is Mahabang Buhangin, a 1km long stretch of white sandy beach (Yes, Batanagas does have a one or two white sand beaches). Another is Cueva Sitio, a subterranean cave that leads from one side of the island to the other.
The island is made up of 6 villages ( Liponpon, San Agapito, San Agustin East, San Agustin West, San Andres and San Antonio). When going to the island it is a good idea to know which village you need to drop off at.
Thought of the day
“I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” –Michael Jordan
“I’m selfish, impatient and a little insecure. I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can’t handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don’t deserve me at my best.” ― Marilyn Monroe
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8 – MALABRIGO POINT, LOBO
MALABRIGO POINT, LOBO
The pebble beach of Malabrigo is not your usual white beach.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, the Batangas manages to surprise you. Malabrigo is one of those offbeat locations you are always glad you found. Now, Malabrigo does have a beautiful stretch of brilliant white beach… but it is not sand. The beach is made of a combination of small to medium sized white pebbles.
If you are wanting to escape the crowds of Laiya (San Juan) and Nasugbu, then the semi- seclusion of Malabrigo beach is perfect for you. Because of this seclusion it has managed to remain practically unnoticed which has helped to preserve it’s beauty.
Also, while there, it is well worth exploring the lighthouse nearby.
To see more check out – Malabrigo Beach Lobo Batangas
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7- SOMBRERO ISLAND, TINGLOY
Sombrero Island
If you’re into scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming or climbing then Sombrero Island has something for you. If you’re a climber or trekker you have probably heard of Mt. Gulugod Baboy in Mabini. If you have already beaten Gulugod Baboy then Sombrero Island should be next on your list. With panoramic views at the peak and lazy waves lapping at the shoreline below, it is well worth the trip and well worth being included in our Batangas Beach Top Ten List.
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6 – MASASA BEACH, TINGLOY
Masasa Beach Batangas
Tingloy Mabini has so many great things to offer, one of them being the almost crystal clear waters of Masasa beach. If you’re also an adventurer you can climb the nearby mountains of Mag Asawang Bato and the Gulugod Baboy.. Or even take a trip to Sombrero Island as well. Completely isolated from the mainland, Tingloy remains relatively untouched by development.
I simply love the people, the sand, the water, rocks, lagoon and the relaxing peace! Although not as beautiful as Boracay or Palawan but certainly does have it’s charm.
Where to stay: There are no resorts or hotels in Masasa Beach. Many visit it on a day tour from Anilao.
5 – ANILAO BEACH, MABINI
ANILAO BEACH, MABINI
Anilao is a barangay in the municipality of Mabini that is more popular as a jump off point for dive sites. Indeed, Anilao’s best assets are hidden under the waves. But its coast hides pockets of sand for those who wish to stay above the surface.
4 – FORTUNE ISLAND, NASUGBU
FORTUNE ISLAND, NASUGBU
Forgotten or not yet discovered?… Fortune Island is a complete mystery to many people and so has not been spoiled yet. The island’s most recognizable and prominent features are the Greek columns, ruins of what looks like a private Villa.
3 – NASUGBU BEACH
Munting Buhangin Beach nasugbu
The beaches of Nasugbu were some of the first beaches in the area to be come developed and privatized. Great for backpackers and tourists as there are resorts everywhere you look. Not so good for the daytripper as you may find yourself crossing private land or entering resort property just to access the beach. Popular beaches in this area include: Tali Beach, Munting Buhangin, Kawayan Cove, Sunset Beach, and Secret Beach.
2 – BUROT BEACH, CALATAGAN
burot beach calatagan
Many people are saying that Burot Beach is closed but it seems only Burot Beach Resort is Temporarily closed.
Burot Beach is a private property and they are keen to remind you of this fact. You will be asked for your ID at the entrance gate and asked to sign a waiver and to pay an entrance fee: 65 Php for day trip and 130 Php for overnight stay. Even though they collect a fee, the bathrooms and overall cleanliness of the area is disappointing. But, if you can see past this then the natural beauty of this area will impress.
Burot Beach is a short cove on the western edge of Punta de Santiago in Calatagan. It is said to have been purchased by SM.
1 – LAIYA, SAN JUAN
Finally we have reached the end of our Batangas Beach Top Ten List and is it any surprise which beach is at number one?
LAIYA, SAN JUAN
Laiya in San Juan, Batangas Philippines
Laiya is one of the most developed beaches in Batangas and you don’t need to stretch your imagination far to see why. Its long and wide stretch of sand, myriad of resorts, facilities to cater to tourists and families alike… It’s a magnet to thousands of tourists especially over summer.
