It is Holy Week, which means a time to pause, reflect, and recharge. People also take vacations during this time, with beaches being the most common destination.
World-famous islands like Boracay, Palawan, Bohol, Cebu, and Siargao often top the list of go-to places, and they are usually filled with tourists, especially during Holy Week.
The downside is that you need to take a plane to get to these places if you’re coming from Manila.
Worry not, as there are a number of beaches where you can find peace in the midst of pristine nature just a few hours’ drive from Manila.
- Anilao Awari Bay Resort (Mabini, Batangas)
Photo credit: Anilao Awari Bay Resort /Facebook
Take a two- to three-hour drive from Manila and you will reach Anilao Awari Bay Resort, a luxurious vacation place in Mabini, Batangas, that offers complete amenities, particularly an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a terrace, and a restaurant. It provides a breathtaking view of the sea and nearby islands.
Batangas also offers pristine aquatic life for anyone who wants to dive into its waters.
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- Patar Beach (Bolinao, Pangasinan)
Photo credit: ilovepangasinan.com
Patar Beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan, is one of the most famous white-sand beaches near Manila. It is a five-hour drive from the country’s capital, but the wait will surely be worth it once the breathtaking view of the vast sand stretch and the clear blue waters leading to the Lingayen Gulf greet you.
Tagged as the “Golden Beach of Pangasinan,” Patar Beach is an excellent alternative to popular destinations like Boracay and Palawan.
- Hundred Islands (Alaminos, Pangasinan)
Photo credit: Hundred Islands – Alaminos City Pangasinan/Facebook
The Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan, are considered one of Asia’s premiere natural wonders, a national park, and a protected area.
The islands, totaling 124 at low tide and 123 at high tide, are scattered all over the Lingayen Gulf with an area of 16.76 square kilometers, but only four of them are being developed for tourism: Marcos Island, Governor Island, Quezon Island, and Children’s Island.
- Laiya Beach (San Juan, Batangas)
Photo credit: Laiya Beach Resort Batangas / Facebook
Laiya Beach is a common choice for many who are looking for white sand beaches near the capital. Whether you’re planning for a long getaway or a quick beach escape, Laiya surely passes the standards with its fine ivory sands, clear waters, and luxury accommodations.
- Masasa Beach (Tingloy, Batangas)
Photo credit: Atienza Lorna/Facebook
Masasa Beach in Tingloy, Batangas, is famous for its turquoise blue waters that beautifully glisten in the sunlight. It is a perfect choice because its features are reminiscent of Boracay’s scenery.
- Laki Beach, Bataan (Mariveles, Bataan)
Photo credit: Laki Beach / Facebook
A three-hour drive from Manila, Laki Beach in Mariveles, Bataan, is a paradise embellished with ultra-fine sands and crystal clear blue waters. The place is perfect for anyone who wants to escape the city and just bask in the sun and beauty of nature.
