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Showing posts with label Summer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Summer. Show all posts

You don’t have to brave the dreaded long highway traffic, book expensive flights, or go through the hassle of packing heavy to experience a legitimate summer escape. Metro Manila has hidden tropical pockets, world-class staycation spots, and breezy outdoor spaces that make you forget you're even in the city.

Whether you want a footprint-in-the-sand resort vibe, a refreshing rooftop dip, or a scenic walk, here are 10 curated places, attractions, and accommodations for the ultimate summer escape without leaving Metro Manila:



1. Azure Urban Resort Residences

The Vibe: A literal beach vacation in the middle of the city.

Azure Urban Resort Residences

If you are missing the sandy shores of the islands, this is your closest tropical fix. The resort completely removes you from the city mindset by featuring a massive, world-class man-made white sand beach, a high-energy wave pool, cascading waterfalls, and an open-air beach bar that pumps out pure summer vacation energy.

You can easily book privately owned, fully furnished studio, 1-bedroom, or 2-bedroom condo units complete with breezy balconies. Many of these sleek, modern units look directly down onto the central pool and beach areas, letting you enjoy the full, immersive resort staycation experience.  

Address: Km. 16 West Service Road, Marcelo Green, Bicutan, Parañaque City

Price Range: ₱3,000 to ₱5,500 per night for a condo unit (Good for couples or a small family of 4)



2. Hotel H2O

The Vibe: An immersive, marine-themed ocean sanctuary.

Inside a room in Hotel H2O

Located directly on the breezy edge of Manila Bay, this destination lets you escape the intense summer heat by plunging you straight into an underwater world. It is the ultimate aquatic retreat for families and couples who want to experience the sensation of sleeping under the sea while staying completely cool and pampered.

The hotel is famous for its signature Aqua Rooms, which feature incredible, floor-to-ceiling aquarium walls running right along the beds. You get a front-row seat to hundreds of brightly colored fish and marine life swimming gracefully through the water as you unwind.

Address: Behind the Quirino Grandstand, Manila Ocean Park Complex, Ermita, Manila  

Price Range: ₱4,500 to ₱7,500 per night for a couple; summer family packages with park access start around ₱6,200



3. Okada Manila & Cove Manila

The Vibe: Ultra-luxury tropical paradise.

Bathroom view in a unit in Okada Manila

This destination offers a high-end beach club experience while shielding you entirely from the harsh summer humidity outside. It is perfect for those who want a premium, high-energy summer escape filled with indoor tropical pools, swim-up bars, and world-class luxury entertainment.

The main summer highlight is Cove Manila, a massive, indoor column-free glass dome that encloses a climate-controlled indoor beach park. You can lounge in air-conditioned luxury cabanas, swim in the expansive pool, and enjoy a day-to-night party vibe underneath a massive glass roof.

Address: New Horizon Drive, Entertainment City, Parañaque City

Price Range: Cove Manila day club entry starts around ₱1,000 to ₱1,500 per head; luxury overnight room packages range from ₱9,500 to ₱15,000+ for a couple or family




4. Arroceros Forest Park

The Vibe: A refreshing, shaded nature sanctuary.

Known affectionately as the "Last Lung of Manila," this hidden environmental gem offers an instant escape from the concrete heat of the capital. It provides a peaceful, quiet space to decompress, breathe in fresh air, and listen to the rustle of leaves and wild birds without driving hours out to the provinces.


This 2.2-hectare urban forest park features a dense, mature canopy of over 60 native tree species that naturally lowers the surrounding temperature. Well-paved walkways, charming bridges, and shaded riverside seating areas make it a beautiful, park-like oasis for a slow morning stroll or a quiet nature date.

Address: Antonio Villegas Street, Ermita, Manila (Right next to the Central Terminal LRT Station)

Price Range: Free admission for all visitors

Some other attractions to see and things to do near Arroceros Forest Park:



5. I'M Hotel & I'M Onsen Spa

The Vibe: Modern urban wellness and rooftop relaxation.

If your definition of a summer escape involves total body rejuvenation and escaping everyday stress, this wellness-centric hotel is the answer. It is designed to offer a seamless transition from deep, therapeutic thermal relaxation to vibrant, open-air city viewing once the sun goes down.

I'M Hotel

The property houses the largest urban Onsen Spa in the Philippines, featuring massive thermal pools, steam rooms, and expert massage therapies. Guests can also cool off in their unique acrylic-bottom infinity pool or head up to the Antidote Rooftop Bar to enjoy summer cocktails with 360-degree views.

Address: 7862 Makati Avenue corner Kalayaan Avenue, Makati City

Price Range: ₱5,500 to ₱8,500 per night for a couple (Spa treatments or buffet packages can be bundled for ₱2,000 to ₱3,500 per head)



6. Intramuros Night Walk & Fort Santiago

The Vibe: Historical charm and breezy evening strolls.

Because the daytime summer sun can be punishing, shifting your summer exploration to the evening hours is the perfect travel hack. The historic walled city sheds its daytime heat and transforms into a romantic, breezy, and old-world Spanish-era wonderland under the stars.

Walking around Intramuros

You can take a scenic walk through the beautifully illuminated stone gates of Fort Santiago and the open plazas of Intramuros. The historic architecture catches a wonderful, cooling night breeze blowing in from nearby Manila Bay, making it an excellent spot for evening photography and casual strolling.

Address: Bonifacio Drive, Intramuros, Manila

Price Range: Entry to Fort Santiago is ₱75 per adult and ₱50 for students/kids; overall street walking is completely free



7. Acacia Hotel Manila

The Vibe: Premium, laid-back Southern hospitality.

Heading down to the southern pocket of the metro is the perfect way to leave the dense, high-traffic corridors of the city behind. This hotel offers an unhurried, serene, and family-oriented summer staycation that emphasizes slower mornings and premium comfort.

Acacia Hotel Manila

The property features highly praised, spacious family rooms paired with a stunning outdoor jet pool on the upper levels. It’s a wonderful spot to swim and tan while enjoying a clear view of the Alabang skyline, followed by top-tier dining at their in-house buffet restaurants.  

Address: 5400 East Asia Drive corner Commerce Avenue, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, Muntinlupa City

Price Range: ₱4,500 to ₱7,000 per night (Excellent value for a family staycation including breakfast)



8. The National Museum of Natural History

The Vibe: Educational, architectural awe, and intense air-conditioning.

National Museum of Natural History

When the midday summer sun hits its absolute peak, ducking inside this magnificent cultural complex is the ultimate way to stay cool. It offers a visually spectacular and intellectually engaging escape where families and couples can spend hours exploring without breaking a sweat.

The building is an architectural marvel anchored by the soaring "Tree of Life" central elevator structure that floods the neoclassical space with soft light. Inside, you can wander through multiple floors of world-class exhibits detailing the rich, tropical biodiversity of the Philippines.

Address: Agrifina Circle, Rizal Park, Ermita, Manila

Price Range: Free admission for all local and foreign tourists



9. Bonifacio High Street & Terra 28th Park

The Vibe: Chic, pedestrian-friendly cafe culture.

An art installation in Bonifacio High Street

This master-planned neighborhood is uniquely designed for those who love an active, modern, and highly walkable summer lifestyle. It is the perfect spot to indulge in sweet treats, cold coffees, and outdoor relaxation without the chaotic feel of a traditional enclosed mega-mall.

The area is a sprawling, open-air pedestrian park lined with premium gelato shops, pet-friendly cafes, and interactive green lawns like Terra 28th. Once the late afternoon breeze kicks in, the parks come alive with families, outdoor art installations, and breezy al fresco dining setups.

Address: 5th Avenue, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City

Price Range: Walking and park access is free; budget around ₱300 to ₱800 per head for snacks, coffee, or casual dining



10. Belmont Hotel Manila

The Vibe: Seamless, upscale stay-and-play convenience.

Located directly across from NAIA Terminal 3, Belmont gives you that exciting, high-energy "about to jet off on vacation" feeling without the actual travel stress. It is a fantastic destination for families who want a highly efficient, exciting, and organized urban getaway.


The hotel offers contemporary, pristine rooms paired with a gorgeous rooftop panoramic pool deck that overlooks the airport runways and the city skyline. Guests can easily walk through the air-conditioned Runway Manila bridge to access the endless dining, cinemas, and shopping options over at Newport Mall.

Address: Newport Boulevard, Newport City, Pasay City (Across NAIA Terminal 3)

Price Range: ₱4,000 to ₱6,500 per night for an overnight room stay for a couple or small family



Related Articles


10 Ways to Escape the Summer Heat in Metro Manila


Masasa Beach in Tingloy, Batangas, is one of the most accessible "off-the-grid" tropical escapes near Manila. Known for its clear turquoise waters, unique rock formations, and white (though slightly pebbly) sand, it remains a favorite for DIY travelers looking for a budget-friendly beach fix.



Where is Masasa Beach Located?

Masasa Beach is located on the southern coast of Tingloy, the only island municipality in Batangas. It is tucked away behind rice fields and hills, giving it a peaceful, rustic vibe compared to the more commercialized beaches in neighboring Mabini or Nasugbu.



When to Visit


Best Time: November to May (Dry Season). This is when the seas are calmest and the water is clearest for snorkeling.

Peak Season: Summer months (March to May) and long weekends. Expect crowds during these times.

Off-Peak: June to October (Rainy Season). Boat trips are often cancelled during typhoons, so always check the weather before heading to the port.



Things to Do (Activity Rates)

While the beach itself is the main draw, there are several activities to keep you busy.

  • Snorkeling / Turtle Watching - ₱200 / person
    Includes life vest and mask. You can often see sea turtles!

  • Island Hopping - ₱1,500 – ₱2,500
    Typically visits Sombrero Island and Sepoc Point.

  • Sombrero Island Fee - ₱200 / person
    This is an additional entrance fee paid at the island.

  • Crystal Kayak - ₱150 – ₱200
    For 30 minutes; great for photos.

  • Hiking Mag-Asawang Bato - ₱100 – ₱150
    A guide fee for a short trek with a panoramic view of the island.

  • Entrance Fee - FREE
    There is currently no entrance fee for the beach itself.





Where to Stay (Accommodation Rates)

Tingloy is an eco-tourism zone, so you won’t find high-end luxury resorts here. Instead, the island is famous for its transient houses and homestays.

  • Fan Rooms / Transients: ₱400 – ₱600 per head (Group rates are often cheaper).

  • Air-conditioned Rooms: ₱700 – ₱1,000 per head (Usually requires a minimum of 4–6 people).

  • Private Houses/Rentals: ₱3,500 – ₱6,000 per night (Good for large groups of 10–15 pax).

  • Camping: Tents are generally discouraged for overnight stays on the beach due to local ordinances, but some transients allow camping in their private yards for ₱200–₱300.


Pro-Tip: Most homestays allow you to use their kitchen for free or a small fee (₱100 for gas). It’s best to buy fresh seafood at the Anilao/Talaga Port or the Tingloy Public Market and cook your own meals.




How to Get There

Getting to Masasa Beach requires a combination of land and sea travel.


Step 1: Manila to Batangas Grand Terminal
Take a bus (JAM Liner, DLTB, or ALPS) from Buendia, Cubao, or Alabang bound for Batangas Grand Terminal.

  • Fare: ₱250 – ₱280
  • Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours.


Step 2: Grand Terminal to Port
Take a jeepney bound for Anilao Port or Talaga Port.

  • Fare: ₱50 – ₱70
  • Travel Time: 45 minutes.

Note: Use Anilao Port during summer/dry season; Talaga Port is sometimes used during Habagat (monsoon) season.


Step 3: Port to Tingloy (Ferry)
Register and pay the Environmental Fee (₱100) at the port before boarding a public boat to Tingloy Port.

  • Fare: ₱100 – ₱150
  • Travel Time: 45 to 60 minutes.

Schedule: Boats usually run from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (earlier on weekends).


Step 4: Tingloy Port to Masasa Beach
Once you arrive at the island, take a tricycle to your transient house or directly to the beach path.

  • Fare: ₱60 – ₱120 per tricycle (can fit 3–4 people).
  • Travel Time: 10 to 15 minutes, followed by a short 5-minute walk through the rice fields.



ALSO IN BATANGAS



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.

MASASA BEACH: Guide to Famous Beach in Tingloy, Batangas


If you’re looking for a beach that balances the beauty of a tropical paradise with the raw, adventurous feel of camping, Manuel Uy Beach Resort in Calatagan is the go-to spot. Unlike the neighboring high-end resorts, Manuel Uy focuses on a minimalist "back-to-basics" experience where the main attractions are the golden sunsets and the vast, shallow cream-sand shores.



Where is Manuel Uy Beach Located?

Manuel Uy Beach is situated in Brgy. Santa Ana, Calatagan, Batangas. It sits on the western tip of the peninsula, providing a front-row seat to some of the most stunning sunsets in Luzon.

Manuel Uy Beach Resort


When to Visit


Best Time: Late October to May (Dry Season). The water is calm and the skies are clear, making it perfect for camping.

Avoid: Peak rainy season (July to September), as the resort is mostly open-air with very little solid shelter during heavy downpours.

RELATED GUIDE: 12 Best Places to Visit in Batangas (Tourist Spots and Activities)



WHAT TO BRING FOR BATANGAS

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

Things to Do (Activity Rates)

The resort is a haven for those who love the outdoors. Whether you’re staying for a day or overnight, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the coast.

  • Island Hopping - ₱1,000 – ₱1,500
    Good for 5 pax. Usually visits the Starfish Island and Sandbar.

  • Snorkeling - ₱50 (Gear rental)
    Best spots are reached via the island hopping boat.

  • Swimming - FREE
    The shore is incredibly shallow for hundreds of meters—perfect for kids.

  • Grilling - FREE
    Use of the common grilling stations is free; bring your own charcoal.

  • Cape Santiago Lighthouse - ₱50 (Entrance)
    A 10-minute tricycle ride away. A must-visit historic Spanish-era lighthouse.

 Camping at Manuel Uy Beach Resort

Where to Stay (Camping Rates)

Manuel Uy is strictly a camping-only resort. There are no air-conditioned rooms or private cottages, which is part of its charm. You can either bring your own gear or rent from them.



Entrance Fees


Day Tour: ₱250 (Adult) | ₱178 (Senior/PWD)

Overnight: ₱350 (Adult) | ₱250 (Senior/PWD)

Note: Children 6 years old and below are FREE.


Campsite Fees (If bringing your own tent)


1–4 Pax: ₱200 – ₱250

5–10 Pax: ₱300 – ₱350


Rentals


Tent Rental: ₱500 (Good for 3–4 pax).

Tables & Chairs: ₱250 per set.



How to Get There


Step 1: Manila to Calatagan
Take a bus (DLTB or BSC) or a van from LRT Buendia, Pasay, or Metropoint Mall (Taft) bound for Calatagan.

Fare: ₱180 – ₱230

Travel Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours.


Step 2: Calatagan Town Proper to Resort
Alight at the Calatagan Public Market/Terminal. Before heading to the resort, buy your supplies (water, meat for grilling, ice) at the market as prices are much higher at the beach.

Take a tricycle to Manuel Uy Beach Resort.

Fare: ₱200 per trike (Good for 4 pax).

Environmental Fee: ₱30 per person (Paid at the tourism office near the market or the resort entrance).





Pro-Tips for a Better Trip


Water is Gold: While there are common shower and toilet areas (which are surprisingly clean), fresh water for drinking must be brought in.

No Bonfires: To protect the shoreline, bonfires and fire pits directly on the sand are strictly prohibited.

Charge Your Gadgets: There is a charging station near the security outpost where you can plug in your phones for a small fee (usually ₱20–₱50).

Low Tide: Check the tide app! During very low tide, the water recedes quite far, revealing the "sandbar" but making it a long walk for a swim.

Stilts Resort seen from Manuel Uy Beach


ALSO IN BATANGAS



IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please let us know by leaving a message in the comment box below.


Manuel Uy Beach Resort (Camping and Accommodation Guide)

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Unspoiled beach with white sand and pristine blue waters - Cagbalete Island is your next getaway in the Philippines.



It was mid-May when we visited this beautiful island in Mauban, Quezon Province. We visited Lucban for Pahiyas Festival prior to traveling to the island. (See our Pahiyas experience in video HERE.)

It was late in the afternoon when we were able to get to the tourism office and booked a boat ride to the island.

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You have two options in crossing to the island: you can wait for the public commuter boat to be full or if you are 8 or more, you can just take a private boat. In our case, we took a boat and it was less hassle.


BEFORE GOING TO CAGBALETE ISLAND

Here are the things you must consider before visiting Cagbalete Island in Mauban, Quezon:
  • Have enough sleep prior to the day of the trip.
  • Ready you backpack with your travel essentials.
  • Bring a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated.
  • Full charge your gadgets (phone, camera, GoPro, powerbank, etc.)
  • Don't forget to bring enough money for the whole trip and pasalubong.
  • Cagbalete is an island. Although some of the locals sell groceries, it still better to buy them at least at Mauban Public Market before going there. Budgetwise, the price is cheaper.
  • If you are a group of 8-10 or more, you can just book a private boat for faster and convenient travel to the island.


WHAT TO BRING FOR CAGBALETE ISLAND

Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:

Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:

WHERE TO STAY IN CAGBALETE ISLAND?

There's a lot of resorts in Cagbalete Island. Once you are already in the Local Tourism Office, you can select from the resorts that can accommodate you.

Or if you have your own tents, no need to reserve for rooms or cottages. Almost all resorts offer villas, huts and camping grounds, catering to different group sizes and types of tourists.

Our choice was MVT Sto. Nino Beach Resort. See full details of this resort HERE. Instead of staying for a night, we decided to have it at least 2 nights here. :)


Here are other resorts and accommodation in Cagbalete Island:



MY CAGBALETE ISLAND EXPERIENCE (Activities & Itinerary)

That first night, we just took some rest, prep for dinner and relax by the beach.


The next day? MVT Sto. Nino Beach Resort is facing the Pacific, so we were able to witness a golden sunrise that morning.

Cagbalete Island 2015
Mornings in Cagbalete

Next thing to do is to eat breakfast and took some photo ops to the beach.

The girls enjoy the beach

The weather was perfect! The sea was at very low tide (or no tide at all haha).

Sand riffles during low tide

Cagbalete Island is known for having these beautiful sand riffles.

Grilled liempo and chicken for lunch

Lunch time! We cooked our food we brought with us. We bought our needs from Mauban Public Market before going to the island. 

Afternoon chill time. We spent some time swimming in the beach. Then dinner.

Bonfire and music by the beach

That second night, we sat down around bonfire, chit chat and jam with some acoustic songs we sang and play.

Third day, we ate breakfast and left the island at noon.

Team Basti

Here's a video clip I made for our Cagbalete experience:


THINGS TO DO IN CAGBALETE ISLAND


  • Wake up in the early morning to gaze at the sunrise or don’t go on too much beer drinking just yet just so you could gaze at the beautiful sunset.

  • Go on an island hopping to see the infinite bar of white powdery sands.

  • Explore the secluded mangrove forest

  • Paddle your way through a canoe or kayak

  • Snorkel and see the surviving ecosystem of the world underwater.

  • Chill with a bottle of beer with friends over some overdue catch up conversation or jam session.

Cheapest Flights and Airline Tickets Online Booking

HOW TO GET TO CAGBALETE ISLAND


Via Private Transportation

  1. Take Calamba Exit in SLEX and go straight to Los Banos.
  2. From Los Banos, follow the National Highway passing through the towns of Pila, Santa Cruz, Pagsanjan and Luisiana.
  3. Just before Lucban is a fork, one leading to Lucban Town Proper, and another leading to Mauban Port. Take the latter.
  4. Mauban Port is around 20-30 minutes away from the fork.
  5. Taking private transportation to Mauban, Quezon means faster travel time, flexibility in schedule and quick food trip stop-over in the quaint town of Lucban or other neighboring towns in Laguna. Groups of more than 6-8 people can save more compared to public transportation due to Mauban’s proximity to Manila.


Via Public Transportation

  1. Ride the JAC Liner bus straight to Mauban Port for P270. Note, however, that there are only limited trips every day so we advise that you book beforehand. Travel time is 4-5 hours. Another option is to ride a bus from Cubao or Buendia to Lucena. Manila to Lucena via bus takes around 3-4 hours. Bus fare is P200.
  2. From Lucena Bus Terminal, ride a mini-bus to Mauban Port for P60-70. Travel time from Lucena to Mauban Port is around 1-2 hours.
  3. Upon arriving in Mauban Port, register in the tourism office, pay for the environmental fee of P50/person, and ride a passenger boat to Cagbalete Island for P50. There’s a regular schedule of public boats to Cagbalete Island; however, waiting time varies depending on the number of tourists. On low season, they can limit the trips to two/day. On peak season, waiting time for boat can reach up to 3 hours. Alternatively, you may rent a private boat directly to your resort for P3,500, good for 8-10 people.


BUDGET BREAKDOWN AND EXPENSES

Here are some tips to keep your budget under P1,000:

  • Transportation: P250 for a group of 10. This includes gas, toll fees along SLEX and parking in Mauban. Aside from being inconvenient, public transportation is more expensive in total.

  • Boat to Cagbalete Island: P100 round-trip + P50 environmental fee. Though we hired a private boat, roughing it out for the public boat will help you save around P200.

  • Accommodation: P250/head for tent pitching fee. This already includes the entrance fee. By bringing your own tent, you can cut accommodation expenses by half.

  • Food: P300 each for pre-cooked food and food supplies and drinks bought in Mauban Port. Bringing meals and cooking your own food will help you save even more.

  • Extra: P50 each for grilling fee and rental of cooking utensils.



CAGBALETE ISLAND 2D1N ITINERARY

Here's a sample 2 days and 1 night itinerary for Cagbalete Island:


Cagbalete Island 2015

Day 1

2400 Meet Up Jac Liner Kamias Station
0100 ETD Lucena Grand Terminal
0500 ETA Lucena Grand Terminal
0600 ETA Mauban. Register. Breakfast
0700 ETD Sabang Port
0800 ETA Sabang Port
0900 Resort. Check In
1000 Prep/Cook Lunch
1200 LUNCH
1300 Freet Time. Swim. Snorkel
1800 Sunset Viewing
1900 Dinner. Drinks. Socials
2200 Lights Out


Day 2

0500 Wake Up. Sunrise Viewing
0600 Breakfast
0700 Free Time. Swim. Stroll by the beach. Photo Ops
1000 Pack up
1200 Sabang Port
1300 Mauban Port
1400 Grand Terminal
1800 Home




ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

OTHER MUST-SEE ISLANDS IN THE PHILIPPINES

If you love to travel to the Philippines, here are the beautiful islands to visit on your next trip:


ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA


IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.

CAGBALETE ISLAND DIY TRAVEL GUIDE: Mauban's White Sand Beach in Quezon Province (Things To Do + Itinerary)

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