It is no question that when a city dweller wants to unwind, they tend to seek an environment that is starkly different from the concrete jungle they are used to every single day.
For that reason, Manilenos tend to flock to less congested neighboring cities by the mountainside or by the beach. In fact, cities like Tagaytay, Baguio, and Batangas have always been recognized as the city dweller’s playground owing to their proximity to the metropolis and while Baguio is considered to be the country’s summer capital, the city of Batangas is slated to become one of NCR’s premier summer destinations. Unlike the powdery sand beaches of Cebu, Palawan, and Boracay, however, the beaches in Batangas do not have fine sand but they are no less amazing and picturesque.
Nasugbu in the province of Batangas, in particular, is known for its array of beaches with azure blue waters. Its proximity to the metropolis is one of the reasons it is popular, but Nasugbu’s beaches are already so well-known by themselves that the place makes a compelling case as a summer destination. Located about a hundred kilometers away from the metropolitan city, Manila, the coastal town of Nasugbu has perfected that balance between modest and modern lifestyle. It is that suburban feel that gives the town its subtle charm–a feat that entices retirees, ex-pats, and Filipino families seeking a change of scenery to take up residence in the area. Nestled at the boundary between Batangas and Cavite, Nasugbu is inevitably composed of diverse landscapes from the rolling terrains that slope downwards to the sea. While the town has no shortage of natural resources and is teeming with history, it is also known for its gastronomical treats.
In fact, Nasugbu is home to the largest sugar milling company in the country which forms a pivotal part in the local economy and to which the local’s sweet and loving disposition is attributed. Some of the delicious sweetened delicacies you can sample from the town are the sweetened coconut, sweetened yam, and of course, the town’s pride, the famous rice cakes. Although known for other outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain climbing, it the town’s string of scenic beaches that thrust it to the limelight. As a result, various beach resorts, as well as lush private beach resorts, have cropped up all over the town–all of which can satisfy anyone’s wish for a summer escapade.
Below are just some of Nasugbu’s beach resorts that are worth the visit come summer season or any time of the year:
1.) Pico Sands Hotel
Tucked inside the 40-hectare tropical sanctuary of Pico de Loro Cove, Pico Sands Hotel combines modern elegance with natural elements. The modern hotel offers luxurious convenience to its clients with its spacious rooms well-equipped with sensible and modern amenities. Apart from having WiFi connection and 24/7 room service, guests are treated to unobstructed views of the sprawling Pico de Loro Mountain or the serene lagoon–depending on which room you get. For early morning meals and late-night cravings, the hotel comes with an in-house restaurant (Pico Restaurant and Bar) that specializes in Mediterranean cuisine and operates around the clock. Individuals who are looking for a more rejuvenating and relaxing experience may opt to book an appointment at the Rain Spa where you can soothe your body and mind with their array of massage and treatments. Alternatively, guests who wish to try physical activities can make use of the other facilities in the hotel which include an outdoor pool, fitness center, tennis court, and children’s activity area.
2.) Club Punta Fuego
Known as one of Nasugbu’s premier exclusive membership clubs, Club Punta Fuego is a luxury private enclave. It is situated along the pristine white sand coast of Nasugbu and offers only the best in terms of leisure experience, convenience and comfort. Taking cue from the famous Fisher Island in Miami, Florida, the private resort blends aspects of nature with modern aesthetics. Rooms are styled in Spanish-Mediterranean architecture–all of which are equipped with basic amenities such as WiFi connectivity, room, and laundry services. To complete the luxurious getaway, the private resort comes with a Yacht Club where you can go sailing as well as a golf course club for those who wish to play a few holes.
3.) Casitas de Victoria
Vacationers who are looking for an unplugged experience and who wish to get away from the city’s perpetual hustle and bustle should look no further than Casitas de Victoria. Nestled in between the exclusive Tali Beach Resort and Punta Fuego Peninsula, the family-owned farm resort has a total area of more than eight hectares. It also features a 25-meter infinity pool that offers a generous view of the sea while you are swimming. The Victoria Pavilion which is the resort’s on-site restaurant offers a variety of farm-to-table cuisine and other beloved food items. As the resort only comes with a few rooms, guests are ensured of privacy and while the rooms do not come with WiFi connection nor is there any TV inside, guests can enjoy unique views of either the mountains, sea, or the resort’s gardens.
4.) Amara Residences
Amara Residences is another luxury private enclave located within the Terrazas de Punta Fuego. It offers an exclusive kind of escapade that allows you to get away from life’s perpetual stress. Inspired by Asian style aspects, the luxurious seaside accommodation offers a simple but lavish condo-styled serviced residence experience. Each room is fitted with basic and sensible amenities such as a lounge area, a balcony with panoramic views of the ocean, a lounge area, and a fully-equipped kitchen. It is the perfect escape for anyone traveling in a group or with their families as rooms can accommodate up to eight persons. Moreover, guests checked-in at the Amara Residences can enjoy all the amenities offered by the Terrazas Beach Club or Club Punta Fuego free of charge.
5.) Calayo Beach Resort
Unlike most resorts that offer modern and foreign-inspired rooms, Calayo Beach Resort offers something a little homey and more rooted to our roots which are traditional Bungalows reminiscent of old Filipino village homes. As it is located on the deep cove of Calayo and surrounded by high cliffs, the resort offers some of the most amazing views of the sea and nature. Bungalow rooms are all equipped with a mini kitchen and can accommodate up to six people. Activities in the resort include horse riding, walking tours, hiking, fishing, snorkeling, and access to a golf course nearby. Other amenities include a garden, spa, and an outdoor pool.
6.) Pamana Beach Resort
Located at the quiet village of Calayo, Pamana Beach Resort is an understated but charming accommodation option. Compared to other resorts, however, Pamana Beach Resort is relatively small in terms of land area. However, what they lack in size they more than make up for in their activities offered for their guests to enjoy. All of the rooms are equipped with basic amenities such as air-conditioning and WiFi connectivity. Guests who wish to explore can book an island-hopping trip to the nearby Lorelie Island or go snorkeling or kayaking on the clear waters of Nasugbu. The resort also has an on-site restaurant that serves an array of dishes and a BBQ facility for guests who wish to cook their own food.
7.) Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa
Offering breathtaking views of the West Philippine Sea, Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa is known to be one of Nasugbu’s premier beach resorts. With rooms adorned in an elegant blend of neutral colors and wood that exude calm and comfort, guests can be ensured of a relaxing stay. Most rooms also offer a generous view of the sea which makes it a welcome sight to wake up to. However, Canyon Cove’s main attraction is its inflatable water park which is said to be the largest in the country. Guests who have checked-in are free to use the inflatable park regardless of age. Alternatively, guests may opt to book other water sports activities such as snorkeling, jet-skiing, kayaking, banana boating and so much more.
8.) RSAM Beach Resort
Another resort that offers an unplugged experience is RSAM Beach Resort. Overlooking the West Philippine Sea, RSAM Beach resort is set on the beachfront and comes with rooms with a balcony where you can drink in the view of the sea. While the resort does not come with an in-house restaurant, guests can buy fresh seafood and produce from the nearby market or from local fishermen and have them prepared and cooked by the staff. The resort offers a myriad of activities to its guests such as water sports activities, fishing, and room massage that come with a fee. The main highlight of booking this resort is the Island Hopping experience offered by the resort where you get to visit other nearby islands and go swimming and exploring in the area.
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Club Punta Fuego | Casitas de Victoria | Amara Residences | Calayo Beach Resort
Pamana Beach Resort | Canyon Cove Hotel and Spa | RSAM Beach Resort
