As temperatures rise and days get longer, there is no other way to spend the summer season than going to the beach. With the Philippines being known to have the best summer go-to spots, we are blessed to have a handful of beach destinations to choose from, especially this coming Labor Day weekend.
Living in a country considered as a haven of beautiful islands, taking respite in a nearby beach destination is definitely a win for those looking forward to a chill weekend with the gorgeous sunset as a backdrop.
Already daydreaming about the sun, sand, and the sea? Drive ahead to these five (5) accessible beach destinations from Manila this coming Labor Day weekend:
1. Batangas
Perhaps the most popular go-to beach spot near Manila is Batangas, the home of some of the nicest beaches in the country.
One of its best-kept secrets is the Fortune Island, which is believed to give you a touch of Greece. This lone island is our country’s very own Athens, located just an hour off the coast of Nasugbu, Batangas. True to what you’ve probably heard, Fortune Island has its way of charming your heart because of the stillness and view that will welcome you once you set foot in it. Intended for a tranquil kind of summer vacation, Fortune Island boasts of powdery white sands and turquoise waters that you can’t help but dive into.
While on the island, you can enjoy several activities like trekking, cliff diving, snorkeling, or you can just simply chill and frolic under the sun.
2. La Union
If you’re looking for that perfect swell for the weekend, your best bet would be to visit the shores of San Juan, La Union. Known to be a haven for surfers, La Union gives you the perfect combination of surf waves and chill beach parties.
This laid-back coastal town also has a wide range of accommodations to fit any budget and an array of restaurants to choose from for your food trip needs. It definitely has everything you need to have a summer to remember, most especially with your barkada.
3, Zambales
In Zambales, you can surf in Crystal Beach or chill in Liwliwa or Capones Island, which is just a boat ride away from Zambales port.
Another attraction that is gaining popularity in Zambales is the Inflatable Island located in the heart of Olongapo City. This floating playground offers a unique beach experience that will further energize your summer adventure. Expect an array of swings, trampolines, monkey bars, slides, wiggle bridges, and ladders to greet you as soon you enter the facility.
An access to the island also grants you the pleasure of chilling at the Bali Lounge for the whole day. Here, you can have a great time hanging around at the beach with colorful umbrellas and bean bags, great for those Instagram-worthy photo ops.
4. Puerto Galera
A known staple for beach-goers down south, it is no question that Puerto Galera is somewhat close to what Boracay can offer. With its white sand and awesome beach parties, this place is definitely no stranger to anyone.
Puerto Galera is one of the country’s top attractions because of its beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes. As it is popularly known as the venue of the annual indie music event, the Malasimbo Music Festival, it lives up to a vibe that will surely nurture your soul and mind – a nice summer feeling to bring back with you in Manila. Drive to Batangas port and take the ferry to the island for a quick weekend escape.
5. Pangasinan
Another beach sans the crowd can be found in the east of Luzon. Patar White Beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan has been dubbed “Boracay of the North” for its smooth white sand. The good thing about going to Bolinao is that it makes it easy for everyone to reconnect with nature with its quaint places, cottages and chill restaurants to choose from.
Labor Day weekend is all about having a good combination of a still morning to dip your toes in the sand and a fun afternoon with a drink in your hand. And don’t worry – there’s plenty of time to firm up your summer itinerary for the coming weekend with these accessible beach destinations worth the road trip.
Any other beach to go to? Share them with us.
