5 Beaches Near Manila for Barkadas

Lucky Alabado

0 Shares

For the long weekends ahead!

1) San Juan, La Union

Photo by Kyla Paler

Otherwise known as Elyu, San Juan beach is a long stretch of sand which boasts of hipster hostels and delicious hole-in-the-walls. Some of the popular choices for accommodations are Flotsam & Jetsam, The Circle Hostel, and San Juan Surf Resort. For food, don’t miss out on what they call best chicken in town from Sabong Fried Chicken and the heavenly Flat White from El Union Coffee. But more than that, the beach is also known for waves perfect for surfing beginners. Have fun day out in the sun and come nightfall, sit on one of the beach side bars and slowdown with a bottle or two.

Photo by Louise Sumudivila

Photo by Suzette Glorioso

2) Laiya, Batangas

Photo by Lucky Alabado

Looking for a relaxing afternoon and a white sand beach? Laiya in Batangas is your best bet. The shore is lined up with budget to high-end resorts as well as houses that can be rented for big groups. While you’re there, enjoy getting a tan, snorkelling, or diving, or simply swimming. Think of Boracay, but relatively more quiet.

3) Liwliwa, Zambales

Photo by Waltz Siy

Another chill place to hangout is Liwliwa in Zambales. The shore is a unique ash-gray color and the water is also perfect for surfing from August up to March. Here, you feel as though you’re in secluded forest surrounded by beautiful pine tree foliage. There are numerous hostels around so there’s no need to worry about where to stay. Bring a guitar and some chips, the vibe is perfect for bonfires.

Photo by Lucky Alabado

Photo by Kyla Paler

4) Tali Beach, Batangas

Photo by Colleen Vidal

Feel at home at one of Tali Beach’s cozy guesthouses. Here, expect to find the peace and quiet that you and your barkada deserve after a long week. It’s only about 3 hours away from Manila and offers picturesque views of the ocean crashing against the rocky shore. It may not have the most fine sand, but you’ll most likely have the entire place to yourselves.

Photo by Colleen Vidal

5) Patar Beach, Bolinao

Photo by Ja Ilagan

Drive further north to Bolinao, Pangasinan where you’ll find Patar Beach. Dubbed as Boracay of the North, this coastal beauty is lined with fine, white sand and several resorts. It’s also dotted with rock formations and nearby, you can marvel at the famous Bolinao Lighthouse. It’s quite a distance from town, so make sure to pack all your essentials and snacks. Also, be careful with sea urchins, they’re quite a delicacy here.