Beaches in Lian and Calatagan, Batangas: Just Waiting to be Explored

The Philippines being an archipelago has a very wide coastline making this country truly a destination haven for beach bums. Oftentimes, locals and foreign tourists look for pristine beaches in the Visayas or as far as Mindanao because these islands are really famous for white sand beaches and turquoise water.

Playa Calatagan

But for those who are staying in the capital city, Manila, and are looking for a perfect spot to relax, bask in the sun and wade in crystal-clear water, there is no need to look far because there are a lot of equally wonderful beaches that are waiting to be explored. Driving two to three hours north or south of Manila, you will find white sand beaches that are very affordable.


Here, I will be presenting the beaches in Lian and Calatagan, Batangas.


Lian, Batangas

To get to Lian, Batangas, ride a bus from Araneta Centre, Cubao or Pasay Rotonda (whichever is more convenient for you). Look for the signage, NASUGBU via LIAN, Batangas (approximate fare is Php155). Remind the conductor to drop you at LIAN. Proceed to the market and look for the jeepney station to MATABUNGKAY. Ride jeepney to Matabungkay (approximate fare Php 20). Note: Always ask the local people for direction. They're very friendly and helpful.


Matabungkay Beach Resort

Matabungkay Beach at Night

It was late at night when I arrived in this place and the first thing that struck me was the calmness of the beach. The water was perfectly still.  The gentle illumination from natural lighting focused my attention to the roofed rafts that are widely scattered some 10-30 meters away from the shore. And this made me long for the morning to come.

Roofed Raft

Day started very early in Matabungkay. This was something positive for me because it meant having a hot native soup, called bulalo, in one of the stores along the beach front. The blast of the morning sun and the invitation of the crystal clear water made that irresistible dip into the sea simply inevitable.

Matabungkay Beach

Finally, I had the chance to explore those striking rafts that had been inviting me since the night I arrived. By the way, you don't need to swim in order to reach those rafts. The long intertidal zone in Matabungkay is very ideal for non-swimmers who just desire to frolic or learn how to swim. This also makes it safe for kids and the presence of those rafts adds additional security in case of fatigue.

There were also local fishermen who offered island hopping tour that time, but based on our experience, I wouldn't recommend it. First, we did not go to any island and the trip was a very short two hours. It's not worth the price.


Calatagan, Batangas

Calatagan is one of the most frequented towns in Western Batangas. The town is blessed with good sceneries, happy people and historic landmarks. To get to Calatagan, ride a bus either from Pasay or Lawton (approximate fare is Php 180). Look for the signage CALATAGAN. Ask the bus conductor to drop you at Calatagan Public Market. From there, hire a tricycle to the beach resorts of your choice.

Stilts

Stilts Calatagan

If you're looking for a more secluded beach resort, Stilts is for you. The resort has other amenities that are not found in Matabungkay. For example, it has this gorgeous swimming pool and a lovely restaurant overlooking the beach.

Swimming Pool

The Restaurant

Extension of the Restaurant Overlooking the Beach

Frankly, the resort captivated me when I entered its gate. The manicured garden and the friendly staff will surely make you feel welcome.

The Garden

Beach Front and Beach Cottages

The resort has two types of cottages: the floating cottages (hence, stilts) and the beach cottages. If you have the budget, try the floating cottages. What's exciting about the floating cottages is that when you open your door, you immediately step out of the sea! Isn't that wonderful?

Floating Cottages

Playa Calatagan 

Further down south of Calatagan is Playa Calatagan. Please do check their website for accommodations because originally this is a membership-only beach resort, but i have been reading that public can use the beach area except the pools. I was also reading that they're constructing a complex for public use, so it's best to check their website.

Playa Calatagan 

Why should you go to Playa? The beach is so pristine! It's not crowded so you can have a very peaceful afternoon sunbathing. Aside from that, it also has a restaurant that offers exquisite food.

Playa Calatagan