Baler Hotels

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned surfer or you simply love unwinding at the beach, Baler is a must-visit in your travel list. There are also interesting pieces of natural wonders and Philippine history for you to discover aside from its crystal clear waters.

Baler’s awesome waves made it famous as a surfer’s paradise. This capital of Aurora Province is considered one of the top surf spots in the Philippines, where local and international surf enthusiasts flock.

While most people come to Baler to surf, this small town’s laid-back atmosphere and refreshing sceneries also attract many visitors all-year round. Furthermore, getting to know Baler’s rich culture and history is another great reason to visit.

How to Go

By land transportation

From Manila, you can reach Baler in about five to six hours. Riding a public transportation is the best choice especially if you’re not used to driving along winding roads and rugged terrain.

There are several local bus companies that offer scheduled, daily trips to Baler. You can choose to ride a regular bus such as from Genesis Transport Service. For a comfortable option, the latter offers an executive coach with no stopover. Joy Bus features more legroom and even has its own comfort room.

Getting Around

Travel like a real local when exploring Baler. From two to three wheels, there are many vehicles for you to choose from. Renting a bicycle is perfect if you want a more relaxed way to go around the town. However, getting a motorbike will allow you to check out further destinations and cover more ground.

For those who want to focus on exploring the city without too much hassle, hiring a tricycle is your best option, where the drivers also double as tour guides. Tricycle tour prices vary depending on the places you want to visit.

Tourist Attractions

As a surfing destination, Baler’s beaches are what appeal to many visitors. Check out Sabang Beach, Cemento Beach, Cobra Reef, and Aniao Islets to find the best spot for your weekend adventure.

On the other hand, it’s only in Baler where climbing up a tree makes for a unique travel experience. This is because the Millennium Tree is said to be the largest Balete tree in the entire Asia, if not also the oldest at 600 years old plus. Don’t forget to give it a hug and snap a photo as a reminder of your amazing Baler trip.  

Top Things to Do

Surfing should definitely be high on top of your to-do list, if not the first, when you go to Baler. The place is very much lauded as a great surf spot, after all. The easy waves of Sabang Beach are great for new surfers while the high waves of Cobra Reef (or Dapa) will satisfy any professional surfers or those in it for the adrenalin rush of riding the big waves.

For the easygoing beach lovers, rejoice!  With its long stretch of sandy shoreline, you can just lay back and bask in the sun. If you’re feeling more adventurous, there are still great activities for you to try. Dicasalarin Bay and Lukso-lukso islets are the best destinations for those who want to snorkel as well as Diguisit Beach, where one see different rock formations. Meanwhile, Borlongan Beach and its mushroom-shaped corals are famous for divers.

Are you ready for some land action? Visit some of Baler’s historic spots including the Baler Church, Museo de Baler, and Dona Aurora Aragon Quezon House. You can also hike at Ditumabo Waterfalls (popularly known as the Mother Falls), cross the Tibag-Sabang hanging bridge, or watch the sunset at Ermita Hill.

Where to Eat

Foodies will definitely delight in the scrumptious and reasonably priced local specialties that many of Baler’s restaurants have to offer. One place that stands out is Baler’s Surfer Grill, where they grill their dish under the hood of an old school Volkswagen Beetle.

Other local favorites are Bay Inn’s Restaurant, Bay-ler View, Angela’s Café, and Costa Pacifica (for those who can splurge on food). Each restaurant offers extensive menus that will satisfy whatever you’re craving.

Looking for budget meals? The Rolling Stores serve home-cooked meals or you can also grab a bite at El Teodoro. Their silog meals are a must-try.  

Nightlife

Remaining true to its relaxed atmosphere, the nightlife in Baler is chiller unlike other popular beaches like Boracay. You can jam with your group along the beach while having a bonfire. Or, you can listen to acoustic sessions in one of its local bars like CautiBar and Grill.

If you want to dance and party, Freddie’s Place is a great spot for you to enjoy live music and booze.

Where to Stay

Backpackers and tourists in Baler are treated to a wide selection of affordable hostels, inns, and guesthouses. Among the top favorite accommodations include Hotel-Motel Charlie Does Inn, Aliya Surf Camp, Pacific Waves Inn, and Bahia de Baler.

If you’re the outdoorsy type, camping out in Baywalk Tent City and Cottages is a great way to commune with nature. You can rent a tent from them or bring your own and simply pay a small fee to set it up. There are public restrooms available so you don’t have to worry about your basic needs.

Meanwhile, if you want a hotel in Baler, Costa Pacifica is an alternative. It is a luxury resort that offers air-conditioned rooms and lavish amenities including a gym and a swimming pool for those with a more refined taste.

Travel Tips

• Taking a tricycle tour? Make sure you and your driver/guide both agree on a set fee to avoid mix-ups.

• If you’re traveling by bus going to Baler, be at the terminal an hour or two early so you won’t be left behind as most of them leave on time.

• Prepare an itinerary and stick to it to get the most of your Baler visit.