February 27, 2018

Except Beaches: 7 Summer Destinations near Manila

For many, summer is the perfect time to go out and bask in the sun—often on a bed of sand as wave after wave touches your toes. We love the beach! We do recognize, however, that there are many other fun things to do when the sky is clear and the sun is dazzling. We have around three months of summer—that’s about 12 weekends for us, working professionals, to get out and have fun. We can’t just stick to the beach when there are many other worthy summer destinations, can we?

For those who want to stay dry or steer clear of jellyfish—or just try a different activity other than swimming for a change—check out these summer destinations near Manila that should be on your bucket list this summer. Let’s get out there and make the most out of the sunny season!

Tagaytay

When you hate the prickling heat of the sun, where do you go? Tagaytay! As the second summer capital of the Philippines, Tagaytay offers Metro Manila dwellers a very accessible refreshing break from the stress of the urban climate. In just a two-hour drive, you can already experience cooler air and amazing natural scenery that is sure to give you the passion recharge that you need.

For your Tagaytay bucket list:
1. Eat at a restaurant with a view of Taal Volcano and Lake.
2. Play at Sky Ranch.
3. Eat the most sought-after bulalo (beef shank soup).

Also read:
One Day Guide to Tagaytay City, the 2nd Summer Capital of PH
Best Places to Eat Bulalo in Tagaytay

Nuvali

IMAGE Nuvali Facebook page

Located in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, less than two hours away from Manila, Nuvali is an ideal destination for groups of friends and families because there are many fun activities here that are best enjoyed when you’re with people close to you. It is a vast commercial and recreational development by Ayala Land that houses various restaurants and retail shops, as well as recreational facilities like a wake park, a biking trail, and a man-made lake.

For your Nuvali bucket list:
1. Rent a bike and cycle around Nuvali.
2. Conquer the obstacles and challenges at Camp N.
3. Watch the sunset by the man-made lake.

Also read:
One Day Guide to Nuvali
P2P bus service launches Makati-Nuvali route

Batangas

Mt Batulao summit sunset nasugbu batangas camping IMAGE Byaherong Barat

Did you know that aside from its beaches, Batangas is also blessed with numerous mountains? This province just two to three hours away from Manila attracts not only beach bums but also many adventure-seekers and nature-lovers. Many of its mountains are beginner-friendly, like the popular Mt. Batulao and Mt. Maculot. You can take various trails with scenic views and even find some waterfalls along the way!

For your Batangas bucket list:
1. Catch the sunrise on top of Mount Batulao.
2. Visit the twin waterfalls in Laurel: Ambon Ambon and Malagaslas.
3. Enjoy Batangas Lomi and Barako coffee like a local at a local eatery.

Also read:
Tips for first-time hikers/mountain climbers
5 Waterfalls Near Manila that You Must Visit

Pampanga

Photo of the Crater of Mt. Pinatubo

While many amazing travel destinations have long existed in Pampanga, hot air balloon festivals have become the most highly anticipated in this province in the recent years. This summer, the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival will be held in March, featuring not only a show of colorful hot air balloons but also performances by famous local artists. While you’re in Pampanga, you can also do a side trip to Mount Pinatubo and SandBox outdoor adventure park.

For your Pampanga bucket list:
1. Join the festivities at the Lubao International Balloon and Music Festival 2018.
2. Trek to the crater lake of Mount Pinatubo.
3. Play at SandBox.

Also read: Destructively Beautiful: Mount Pinatubo

Laguna

About three hours away from Manila, Laguna is also a famous summer destination for people who want to take a dip. There aren’t beaches here, though—there are natural springs and private resorts. When you get to Calamba, you will already find a lot of people waving “private pool” signboards along roadsides. Besides the spring resorts, Laguna is also home to the popular Mount Makiling in Los Baños, Enchanted Kingdom in Sta. Rosa, and the Tsinelas Capital that is Liliw.

For your Laguna bucket list:
1. Relax overnight at a hot spring resort.
2. Play at Enchanted Kingdom.
3. Shop for locally-made shoes and bags in Liliw.

Also read: Liliw, Laguna: The Tsinelas Capital of the Philippines

Rizal

Just two hours away from Manila, Rizal province harbors stunning bodies of water that are not beaches but are nonetheless perfect for a refreshing swim. There are many private resorts with scenic views and waterfalls, the most famous of which is Hinulugang Taktak in Antipolo. Since Rizal is a mountainous province, the weather here is also relatively cooler and natural views are also breathtaking.

For your Rizal bucket list:
1. Bathe in Hinulugang Taktak in Antipolo.
2. Trek at Masungi Georeserve.
3. Go on a food trip at Antipolo’s most romantic restaurants.

Also read:
Weekend Travel Guide to Antipolo
New Night Trail in Masungi Georeserve: Things You Only See After-dark
Hinulugang Taktak

Bataan

Bataan is one of the top destinations when you want to tune into nature and learn about the country’s rich history. The ruins, tunnels, and canyons serve as a reminder of the events that transpired on this land during the World War II. While beaches are also a famous tourist attraction in Bataan, you can also find a number of waterfalls and wetlands that are worth exploring, especially when you seek a peaceful retreat.

For your Bataan bucket list:
1. Tour around historical landmarks like the Death March Marker and Dambana ng Kagitingan.
2. Visit museums.
3. Play with animals at Ocean Adventure.

Also read: Think about history and go to Bataan and Corregidor

Written by Rizelle “Rei” Leaño