5 Beach Resorts Near Manila for That Last-Minute Trip

We can all agree that the Philippines is home to some of the best vacation spots in the world -- Palawan, Boracay, Siargao. But spectacular as these are, visiting them requires a relatively long period of planning (as well as plenty of leave days to consume) especially if you live in Metro Manila.

Escaping the city on short notice can be quite the challenge. Check flight sites for deals to visa-free destinations, especially secondary cities with a laid-back charm. Call hotels to book direct, and check social media for local tips. If you choose to stay home, a wave of B&Bs combine culture, history and heritage in historic towns like San Pablo, Laguna and Taal, Batangas.

But if only open water and salt air will do, not to worry. There’s no shortage of beautiful beach resorts near Manila for a quick weekend trip. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, solo or with a special someone, these places have different moods and much to offer weekend travelers. Check out these resorts and enjoy sun, sea and a change of scene to your heart’s content.

San Narciso, Zambales – already there

Perfect for: Surfing

Aside from La Union and Baler, the town of San Narciso in Zambales is a surf spot worth checking out for the weekend. San Narciso’s Crystal Beach is considered one of the closest beaches to Manila and remains a favorite among surf fans. Aside from surfing, the town’s beaches make great venues for skimboarding, too.

How to get there: Drive or take a bus from Cubao or Pasay going to San Narciso. Get off at San Sebastian Church and take a tricycle to the beach.

Approximate travel time: three and a half hours

Masasa, Tingloy, Batangas

Perfect for: Seaside camping

If you want to tune out the hustle and bustle, a weekend off-grid camped on the beach might be just what you need. Located in the sleepy coastal island of Maricaban in Tingloy, Batangas, Masasa Beach is a respite from city life only four hours away from Manila. Weekend warriors simply have to drive down to one of two ports in Batangas –– the Anilao port or the Talaga port –– and hop on a boat to the beach.

This trip is ideal for travelers with a sense of adventure and who look for a nice change of pace, with few manmade structures and fascinating rock formations.

How to get there: Drive, or ride a bus bound for Mabini, Batangas in Cubao or Pasay, then take a jeep to Anilao port. From Anilao port, take a public boat to Tingloy Port. Once in Tingloy, take a tricycle to Masasa beach.

Approximate travel time: four hours

Inflatable Island, Subic Bay, Olongapo City

Perfect for: A water park trip for the family

For a nearby destination perfect for the family or the young-at-heart, plan a drive to Inflatable Island in Subic Bay. Touted as the largest floating water park in Asia, this resort spans 4,200 square meters, filled with giant trampolines, swings, human launchers, and obstacle courses on the sea for fun-loving guests. Aside from the slip ‘n slide fun, you can laze on glam lounge seats on the shore and sip cocktails with a view of the Zambales mountain range beyond the horizon.

How to get there: From Manila, drive along NLEX and then to SCTEX. Once you enter the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, exit at the Kalaklakan Gate, turn left, and drive until you find the Samba Bluewater Resort.

Approximate travel time: three and a half hours

Fortune Island, Batangas

Perfect for: an Insta-worthy weekend

Sometimes, a photogenic destination is all you need for a fun weekend. For that perfect summer-themed post, check out Fortune Island. The resort is located near the coastal town of Nasugbu in Batangas, a popular holidaying spot for city dwellers. An hour’s boat ride from Nasugbu, Fortune Island boasts a mythical appeal straight out of “Circe”, thanks to its powdery white beach and structures resembling Grecian ruins.

How to get there: Ride a bus from Baclaran or Buendia to Nasugbu. From Nasugbu bus station, hire a tricycle to Fortune Island Resort. Pay the fees to charter a boat ride to the private island.

Approximate travel time: three and a half hours

Acuatico, Laiya, Batangas

Perfect for: A nearby luxurious destination

In need of some serious relaxation without having to jet-set? Acuatico in nearby Laiya, San Juan, Batangas lets you enjoy tropical splendor close to Manila. Balinese-style villas offer views of either the mountains or the sea for guests who desire a pause from everyday life. Feel free to swim in its pristine sea waters or its gorgeous infinity pool.

How to get there: Drive or ride a bus bound for San Juan at Cubao or EDSA Kamias. From San Juan, take a jeepney to Laiya or Hugom.

Approximate travel time: three and a half hours