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If not Siargao, Baler in Aurora is arguably on top of anyone’s mind when speaking of surfing. The place has drawn both tourists and locals to experience the swelling waves at Sabang Beach. Can’t blame them; Baler, after all, has an irresistible charm that will make anyone want to come back for more.

I went to Baler for the first time four years ago and I was given the chance to re-visit the place during the Lakbay Norte 8 trip organized by the North Philippines Visitors Bureau. I am happy that it remains the quiet and laid-back town I adored when I first learned how to surf and got hooked to it! Surfing aside, I also discovered more spots to see, restaurants to dine in, accommodations to stay in, and activities to do around the area. Check them out here:

Where to Go in Baler

Baler Heritage Walk

Baler has a rich history. It has witnessed a lot of events that shaped the country from the pre-colonial era to the present. Plus, it is the beloved hometown of former President Manuel Quezon.

If it’s your first time in Baler, the Heritage Walk should really be on your itinerary. Visit Doña Aurora Aragon Quezon House, San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Church, Museo de Baler, and the iconic Baler 400 Years Monument near the “BALER” landmark. Don’t forget to take home amazing stories!

Ditumabo Falls

A Baler trip wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Ditumabo Falls located in Barangay Ditumabo, San Luis, Aurora which is less than an hour away from Baler. Since they’re the biggest waterfalls in Aurora, they’re also known as the ‘Mother’ Falls.

You can hire a tricycle to take you there; but before actually reaching the falls, you’ll need to trek and cross rivers for about an hour. This is perfect for those who are adventurous! The trail is relatively stony and slippery, so precaution is advised. It is also best to wear comfortable outdoor clothes and reliable shoes that can get wet.

Joker’s Hideaway

Another destination close to Baler is Joker’s Hideaway, where they currently have a promo allowing you to play unli golf for only 50 pesos! It is located at Purok 7, Barangay 2, Maria Aurora, Aurora.

This new tourist destination features 16 different mini golf courses ranging from beginners courses to expert courses. Adults, teens, and even kids will enjoy this! I honestly thought I would would get bored easily; but several minutes later, I realized I couldn’t get enough of playing and aiming for the hole! For inquiries, call 09198582974.

Azbahaen Leisure Farm Resort

Did you know that there’s a farm resort in Baler? I didn’t know this until I visited Azbahaen Leisure Farm and Resort located in Tabing Ilog, Barangay Reserva in Baler.

We visited their winery where they produce Bignay Red Wine, which is known to help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease when drank in moderation. Aside from the farmhouse, they also have a bee house, an orchidarium and ornamentals, an herb garden, rice fields, and their own fish pond where they grow organic tilapia. If you opt to stay for a night or two to rejuvenate and to experience the farm life, they also offer accommodations in dormitories, cottages, and lodging houses. You may reach them at 09283701909/09184716677.

Baler Fish Port for Buoyancy Water Sports

Baler never ceases to surprise me. Exciting water sports and activities by Buoyancy Water Sports are now available at Baler Fish Port, as well. Lose your voice screaming for fun while riding banana boats, UFO couch, Flying Fish ride, Torpedo, and Jumbo ranging from Php250 – Php1000 per person. Make sure to bring your thrill-seeking friends and family members! For inquiries, contact them at 0927 453 1286 or visit their Facebook page.

Dicasalarin Cove

If you’re not into surfing and just want to enjoy a quiet, out-of-the-way beach; visit Seasta Beach Resort and take a boat tour to Dicasalarin Cove. The 30-minute cruise, which is said to be the first boat tour service in Baler, will give you picturesque views and a destination of turquoise waters that really wows.

Tucked on the right side of the cove is The Lighthouse if you don’t mind climbing a stairway up to the hill for a beautiful view of the whole cove.

Check out the next page to know where to eat!

Where to Eat in Baler

Mumunsi Chocolate Cafe

Another place and activity I didn’t know that Baler has is the chocolate making at Mumunsi Chocolate Cafe located at Barangay Suklayin, Baler, Aurora. In this dessert shop, you can taste chocolates, chocolate dishes, and drinks made from cacao harvested in Aurora. Hooray for local chocolate!

We got to watch how they make their chocolate and tried some of their bestsellers, such as their rendition of Tsokolate de Batirol, fresh garden salad with chocolates, and this chocolate molded like a real leaf. Their chocolate confections are also a great idea for pasalubong! You may reach them at mumunsichocolate@gmail.com or visit their Facebook page.

Kubli Bistro

If you’re craving good food and cocktails, visit Kubli Bistro. They offer mouthwatering dishes of mixed cuisine that you can enjoy after a day of surfing or touring. Kubli rice is definitely something you should order before anything else!

Photo courtesy of Mac Dillera of NPVB

Cobra Reef Resort

Lunch by the beach? Visit Cobra Reef Resort in Cemento Beach and you’ll get to watch hardcore surfers show off their skills while eating your lunch. They can also arrange a buffet for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and team buildings.

Our view while eating lunch. (Photo courtesy of Mac Diller of NPVB)

During our visit, our lunch was prepared by Yellow Fin Bar and Grill. We had grilled liempo, steamed vegetables and bagoong, seafood, and fresh fruits. Yum!

Bike Kings Kitchen

Bike Kings Kitchen is located at Aurora St, Poblacion – just a few steps away from Museo de Baler. It was put up because of the owner’s love of bikes. The restaurant is embellished with their own bikes. Even the stools on the second floor are bike-like!

They offer delicious and affordable comfort food such as Beef and Broccoli, Stir-fried Shrimps, Fried Lumpiang Shanghai, Pansit, and more. I bet you’ll ask for more than one cup of rice here!

Boardwalk Restaurant

Up for a special dinner? Go have it at Boardwalk Restaurant located inside Bay’s Inn Resort. The restaurant serves a buffet of various Filipino specials such as Bagnet Kare-Kare, Pansit, and Laing.

Tip: Try out their freshly-baked cheese roll from their bakery overlooking the beach!

The place is well-lit and adorned with urbane chairs and tables. Overall, it’s difficult not to take a photo before eating your meal here. Have lots!

Move on to the next page to check out where to stay in Baler!