The Visayas region boasts some of the best beaches in the Philippines, with Boracay’s White Beach and Bohol’s Alona Beach attracting tourists worldwide. However, with over 7,000 islands, Luzon, the country’s largest island, has its share of beautiful and picturesque beaches.
Best Beaches in Luzon: Patar Beach, Bolinao, Pangasinan
Patar Beach is in the North Western part of Lingayen Gulf in Pangasinan and stretches for about 500 meters. Although several resorts are along the shoreline, the southernmost part of the beach is open to the public. Because of its location facing the West Philippine Sea, Patar Beach boasts an exceptional sunset view. Additionally, you can discover stunning rock formations and experience powerful waves along the southern coast.
The natives consider Patar Beach to be a natural gem of the North, particularly for those who appreciate nature and love the beach. In addition, it’s an excellent vacation spot for visitors who want to escape the noise and activity of the city and seek a peaceful place.
Saud Beach, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte
Pagudpud is a stunning coastal town in the northernmost part of Ilocos Norte. The city boasts Saud Beach, famous for its serene white sands, privacy, and ample accommodation options. You can unwind under the shade of coconut trees while listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing to the shore.
If you’re planning to visit Pagudpud, Victory Liner is one of the bus lines in Manila that offer direct trips to the town. However, traveling by land could take at least 12 hours, so you might consider taking a plane instead. Cebu Pacific has flights to Laoag City, which usually take only 45 minutes. You can take a tricycle from the local airport to the nearby bus terminal to catch a bus that passes through Pagudpud.
Anawangin Cove, San Antonio, Zambales
Anawangin Cove is about 4 to 5 hours away from Metro Manila. The cove resulted from the devastating eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991. The beach was initially rocky but now features white to grayish sand from the Pinatubo eruption. In addition, the area is now filled with Agoho trees, creating a peaceful and picturesque environment for nature enthusiasts.
Best Beaches in Luzon: Sabang Beach, Baler, Aurora
Baler, Aurora is a famous surfing destination in the Philippines. It is situated near Manila, making it a convenient option for tourists. Sabang Beach is a popular spot for surfing, and several surfing schools and instructors are available. Genesis bus line offers daily trips to Baler that take 5 to 6 hours, dropping you off directly in town from where you can take a tricycle to the beach area with your friends.
Subic Beach, Matnog, Sorsogon
Subic Beach in Matnog is a different location from Subic Bay in Zambales. It boasts clear waters and stunning pinkish-white sand. The beach has a tranquil and calming atmosphere since there are few developments and visitors, but it might be different in the future as it is getting more popular among tourists.
You ride the bus from Manila to Sorsogon, the southernmost province in Luzon. Numerous bus lines provide rides to Matnog, Sorsogon, which can take 12 to 15 hours, so brace yourself for a tiring journey. Alternatively, you can fly from Manila to Legazpi City in Albay and take a shorter bus ride to Sorsogon. Upon reaching Matnog, you can hire a tricycle to take you to the local port, where you can rent a boat to travel to the beach.
Best Beaches in Luzon: Masasa Beach, Tingloy, Batangas
Masasa Beach is on Tingloy Island, a short distance of under an hour from Anilao Port. The waters surrounding the beach have diverse marine life due to its location near Verde Island Passage. This area is the most abundant part of the Coral Triangle, known for being the heart of the world’s marine biodiversity.
Laiya Beach, San Juan, Batangas
Batangas, located just a few hours drive from Manila, is a top choice for weekend travelers, especially those itching for a beach getaway. It’s considered one of the most accessible beach destinations in Luzon, with Laiya Beach in San Juan, Batangas, being one of the most well-known spots in the area due to its development and ease of access.
To get to San Juan:
- Hop on an ALPS Bus for a direct trip from Manila.
- Once you see the Municipal Hall, disembark and catch a jeepney or tricycle heading to Laiya.
- If the ALPS Bus schedule doesn’t work, take a bus to Lipa and then a van to San Juan.
Gota Beach, Caramoan Islands, Camarines Sur
Nestled in the Caramoan Islands in Camarines Sur, Bicol Region, Gota Beach presents an ultimate retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. This beach is in a village resort with the same name. The village is a world apart from the rest of the town, and the refreshing air and surrounding hills make it an idyllic escape.
To reach the beach, take a bus from Manila to Sabang Port in San Jose, Camarines Sur. From there, board a boat to Guijalo Port and then proceed to the town center of Caramoan on foot. Gota Beach is just a short walk away from there.
Best Beaches in Luzon: Urbiztondo Beach, San Juan, La Union
San Juan is a popular destination for surfers, thanks to its best beaches, such as Sabang and Urbiztondo, which offer multiple surf spots for all skill levels. If traveling from Metro Manila, expect around four hours to reach La Union.
La Union is a fantastic beach location in the northern part of the Philippines. San Juan, a first-class municipality, is renowned for its surfing and swimming opportunities. The beach area is so captivating that it has served as a location backdrop for movies such as Flotsam and I’m Drunk, I Love You.
Getting to La Union from Manila is easy; local bus services like Virion and Dominion offer multiple daily trips. Disembark at San Fernando and take a jeep or tricycle to Urbiztondo Beach.
Mahabang Buhangin Beach, Calaguas Group of Islands, Camarines Norte
Spanning 3km, Mahabang Buhangin is the most well-known beach in the region, boasting fine, white sand and crystal-clear water that remains pristine irrespective of the weather. Therefore, since no resorts, hotels, or eateries exist, it is an ideal spot to unwind and soak up the tranquil surroundings while admiring the breathtaking scenery of the water and hills.
To get to Mahabang Buhangin from Cubao, take a bus to Daet. Once you reach Daet, you can take a van to your desired jump-off location. You have two options for routes, Vinzon and Paracale. Vinzon is the quicker route, taking only 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the port, you can take a boat to Mahabang Buhangin.
Final Thoughts
Often overshadowed by its bustling capital and mountainous provinces, Luzon’s beaches make perfect getaways, whether for a short break from the city or a more extended vacation with loved ones.
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