Surfing is not new in the Philippines anymore. When talking of surfing, one may come to think of Siargao in Mindanao. In Luzon, there are two popular surfing locations. One in San Juan, La Union and the other is in Baler, Aurora. This is a simple Baler Travel Guide for everyone’s reference.
THE DRIVE
Baler is a 5-hour drive from Manila. There are two access roads in going to Baler. One is in Bongabon and the other is in Pantabangan. As of now, the roads in Bongabon are under repair/construction however it is the shorter way to go to Baler. The roads in Pantabangan are well-paved. It is also a scenic route with the view of the Sierra Madre Mountains.
When planning for a Baler getaway, there are lots of tour agencies nowadays who are organizing trips to Baler from Manila at a cost ranging from Php 2,500 to Php 3,000. You may also contact them personally and arrange your trip with them. You can have them customized as well.
However, if you want to do-it-your own, it is also very much possible. If you are from Manila or from the south, Genesis Bus Line does have regular trips to and from Baler. In fact they also have the so-called Joy Bus, a luxury bus, regularly serving the route. For a sure schedule and rates, you may also help yourself contact Genesis Bus Company.
If you come from the north or other locations in Luzon, at Cabanatuan City Terminal, there are bus companies also having trips going to Baler. I am not sure on the schedules and rates. There are other modes of transportations like vans from Cabanatuan City serving the route.
I drive to Baler twice already and I am still enjoying the drive. I love the scenic route along the Sierra Madre Mountains. You don’t really need an SUV or 4 x4 in going to Baler. Sedan will do. The roads also are well-paved so nothing to worry about. Please don’t overload your car; there are road portions of steep climb.
From Manila, we take NLEX then SCTEX. We exit at Tarlac City taking the Santa Rosa road, and then take a left at the junction going to Aliaga. From there, I drive straight going to Maharlika Highway and take right turn in going to Rizal, Nueva Ecija. From Rizal, take the route to Pantabangan. Follow the provincial road ahead and it will take you to Maria Aurora and finally to Baler.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodations in Baler are also not a problem. You may choose from hotels, hostels, inns, rooms for rent and even homestays. Rates vary depending on the number of persons. One thing for sure, a room worth Php 800-1500 for 2 persons is already a very good one. Try to search also on the internet and check for some accommodations in Baler, there are lots to choose from.
I have stayed once at Costa Pacifica in 2013, the high-end hotel owned by the Angara’s. We were 5 and we paid Php 8,000++ for a double room with a buffet breakfast for all of us. It was big and very comfortable. For this price with all the amenities, I should say it’s a good rate.
My next stay is at Pacific Waves Inn in 2015, also near the beachfront. The should-be 5pax room that we book for Php 2,500, only two of us came. It’s a basic room without breakfast but complete with aircon and bathroom. No amenities available yet a short walking distance to the beach. It’s also a good one.
THINGS TO DO
- SURFING – the number one activity when in Baler. Nothing to worry if you do not know how to surf. Trainers are available at the beach. For an hour, Php 300-500 are the rates depending on how much you have agreed.
- DICASALARIN COVE – one of the haven of the Angara’s is this beautiful Dicasalarin Cove. It’s quite far. Private cars can go there, the road is steep. Entrance fee is Php 300/person.
- ERMITA HILL – another feature of Baler. Located along the road going to Dicasalarin Cove.
- DITUMABO MOTHER FALLS – a very nice waterfalls. A short 30-minute walk from the parking lot. Located in San Luis, Aurora. When getting here from Baler, you may hire a motorcycle for Php 500; your driver can also be your tour guide.
- BALETE TREE – along the highway between Baler and Maria Aurora. I suggest you may drop at this tree upon leaving Baler.
- NIGHT LIFE – there were bars near Costa Pacifica, help yourself to choose.
- MUSEO DE BALER – if you’re into history, Baler also is rich in it. Visit Museo de Baler at the center of town.
- GERRY SHAN’S PLACE – a very affordable eat-all-you can meal. Don’t expect for a Viking-like food and restaurant, they serve local/Pinoy delicacies.
With all these activities, you can do it on a weekend. Learn to organize well and manage your time wisely.
Enjoy! 🙂
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This is really helpful, thanks.