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The Philippines is blessed with natural wonders - that includes hundreds of beautiful beaches! Each of them has its own beauty in this country. But we are known of having fine white sand beaches.



I've been a fan of white beaches - I'm not talking about the crowded Boracay, but those secluded and off the beaten path in the Philippines. Some are already known by many yet undeveloped - giving you the raw and natural beauty of the place.

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WHAT TO PACK FOR BEACH

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:

So here, we list SEVEN white sand beaches that you should see and visit in Southern Luzon:


1. Cagbalete Island

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

White sand beach at Cagbalete Island

Cagbalete is an island off the east coast of Luzon, Philippines on Lamon Bay. It is part of Quezon Province and administered by the municipality of Mauban.

Location: Mauban, Quezon [ Get Directions ]
Travel Time: 5-6 hours (from Metro Manila)



2. Laiya Beach

This beach in San Juan, Batangas is perfect for weekend getaway for the family, barkada boding or company outing.

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Me at Laiya Beach

Laiya is a 3-hour drive and a popular beach destination near Manila because of its amazing ivory shore and crystal clear turquoise colored sea water.

Location: San Juan, Batangas [ Get Directions ]
Travel Time: 3-4 hours (from Metro Manila)

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3. Masasa Beach

Masasa Beach is arguably the best beach in Tingloy, the only municipality in Batangas that is not on mainland Luzon.

Masasa Beach

Its main island is the fish-shaped Maricaban, off the tip of Calumpang Peninsula separating Balayan Bay from Batangas Bay. Masasa Beach has been famous in recent years.

Location: Tingloy, Batangas [ Get Directions ]
Travel Time: 4-5 hours (from Metro Manila)



4. Calaguas

Calaguas, also known as Calaguas Islands, is a group of islands located in the Philippine province of Camarines Norte.

Calaguas

Calaguas includes the major islands of Tinaga Island and Guintinua Island, the minor Maculabo Island, as well as several other minor.

Location: Vinzons, Camarines Norte [ Get Directions ]
Travel Time: 10-12 hours (from Metro Manila)


5. Manuel Uy

Famous for being an ideal place for beach camping, Manuel Uy Beach Resort offers an excellent place for those who want to rough it out. It is located along the western coast of the Calatagan peninsula.

Manuel Uy Beach Resort

Manuel Uy features a long-mile stretched white fine sand, blue clear waters and dotted with small trees. It's unspoiled beach that will surely give you an exciting backpacking experience.

Location: Calatagan, Batangas [ Get Directions ]
Travel Time: 3-4 hours (from Metro Manila)


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

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6. Alibijaban Island

Alibijaban is a small island located off the southeastern coast of Bondoc Peninsula in the Philippines. It belongs administratively to the municipality of San Andres, Quezon province, and is coterminous with the barangay of the same name.

Alibijaban Beach

The island is known for its pristine mangrove forest and coral reefs. It is also visited for its white sandy beaches and rich bird life.

Location: San Andres, Quezon Province [ Get Directions ]
Travel Time: 12 hours (from Metro Manila)


7. Sabitang Laya

The Sabitang Laya Island is a triangular-shaped famous island in Caramoan. It has two twin beaches, the Sabitang Laya Beach and the other is the Bag-ing Beach.

Sabitang Laya

Like many other islands in Caramoan, Sabitang Laya is specked with jagged cliffs and rock formations, a stunning backdrop.

Location: Caramoan, Camarines Sur [ Get Directions ]
Travel Time: 10-12 hours (from Metro Manila) depending on your choice of route


That's our ultimate list of White Sand Beaches in Southern Luzon! Where do you think you visit first? Let me know in the comments!


ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA


WHERE TO GO NEXT . . .



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. 

WHERE TO STAY IN MANILA
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7 White Sand Beaches in Southern Luzon You MUST Visit!!

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Here are the seven (7) must-visit beaches near Metro Manila!



Most trips are canceled because of the far-off and hard-to-reach locations. But don’t you worry, you won’t miss out on a little vitamin sea and sun-kissed skin as we list down 7 beaches near Manila that you should visit!

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WHAT TO BRING FOR BEACH

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:

1. Liwliwa Beach

When we think of surfing, we probably instantly think La Union and Baler, which unfortunately is a lengthy trip from the Metro. But this beach can suffice your sun-kissed surfing craving without the long travel outside the metro.

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Sitio Liwliwa

The new discovery of surfing enthusiasts might be the solution as Liwliwa Beach is just located in San Felipe, Zambales, inside the sitio called Liwliwa. Just a few hours away from Manila, this is the perfect spot to disconnect from work and all social media interruptions as the signal in the place is quite weak.

Liwliwa beach will surely be enjoyed by surfers and travelers alike because of its amazing waves and uncrowded place. As mentioned by the people who visited the place, Liwliwa is a very “laid-back destination.”

Location: San Felipe, Zambales [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 4-5 hours via Subic



2. Burot Beach

Burot Beach is one Catalagan’s unspoiled and hidden beaches, one of the many coves that lace the western coast of Punta de Santiago. It is suggested that you bring your own tents as this place isn’t modernized. You’ll know that you’re near the place when the asphalt road turned into dirt.

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Unspoiled Burot Beach

Aside from camping, the best activity to do in this place is island hopping. It has an island with white sand, different star fishes and clear water as you go farther from the island.

Take a whiff of the untouched oasis before the whole metro crowd gets a taste of it. Always remember that the early bird gets to enjoy its beauty first.

Location: Calatagan, Batangas [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 3-4 hours via Nasugbu

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3. Puting Buhangin at Kwebang Lampas

If you wish to witness both science and nature at its finest, then you should travel to Kwebang Lampas. Located at Pagbilao, Quezon, Kwebang Lampas is a part of array of beaches in Puting Buhangin.

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Puting Buhangin

As the name suggests, the cave makes every traveler witness the magic of science and nature combined. During high tide, the water goes inside until knee-deep while the perfect view of the sunset awaits when you watch from inside.

Also, its fine white sand gives a gentle touch to the feet and the clear water is the perfect scenery to wash away any stress. Definitely, this will lure you back to it.

Location: Pagbilao, Quezon [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 5-6 hours



4. Colibra Island

The province of Pangasinan attracts tourists because of its Hundred Islands. But aside from this, the city of Dasol in Pangasinan holds a secret nobody has yet to discover.

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Colibra Island

Known as Snake Island, Colibra Island is located at Dasol, Pangasinan. Technically, this place has no snakes, so there’s no need to panic.

Since the place is still undeveloped, bringing your own tent is advised because this place has no cottages. But if you’re looking for a serene beach away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Colibra Island has tranquility and serenity tucked into its shores.

Location: Dasol, Pangasinan [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 5-6 hours


5. Nagsasa Cove

There’s no doubt that Zambales is one of the most blessed places in the Philippines as it scopes in different islands which attracts tourists worldwide and one of its most majestic island would be Nagsasa Cove — the island great for camping trips and soul-searching.

Nagsasa Cove

Decades before, Nagsasa cove was full of rocks but Mt. Pinatubo lashes out good amount of ashes that has given the place a more refined look throughout the years. Years after, agoho trees started to grow, many mistake it as pine trees.

Because of nature’s intervention, Nagsasa Cove became a scenery everyone didn’t expect. Your escapade is like going to Boracay and Baguio at the same time.

Location: San Antonio, Zambales [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 5-6 hours plus boat ride


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

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6. Anilao Beach

Another hidden beauty from Batangas, tourists are going crazy over Anilao Beach because it is fast-becoming as one of the best diving spots near Manila.

Anilao Beach Club

The beach possesses turquoise water that gives a calm atmosphere. Travelers will surely forget every bustle and hassle of the city life.

Moreover, every water sport will be enjoyed and will make their stay worthy and unforgettable. Different underwater species will welcome you as you venture deep into Anilao’s beach.

Location: Mabini, Batangas [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 3-4 hours


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7. Boracay De Cavite

If all your life, all you ever knew as the ‘Boracay’ is that small island located at the northwest tip of Panay Island in Western Visayas region, then maybe it’s time to know about this place.


Welcome to Boracay de Cavite! This grayish beach is located inside Gregorio Lim Marine Base at Ternate, Cavite and is now called Katungkulan Beach Resort. One of the best features of this resort is the stone wall on the side of the cove that also doubles as the perfect IG-post backdrop. However, taking pictures is only allowed at the beach.

And if you love nature, you’ll surely enjoy sightseeing. Apparently, Corregidor Island and Mariveles mountain are visible to the beach which makes family picnics more exciting.

Location: Ternate, Cavite [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: under 2 hours


BONUS!

Other beaches you should check out, too:


Malabrigo Beach

If you’re tired of seeing white sand beaches and prefer something new, Malabrigo Beach at Lobo, Batangas is your best bet.

 
If the other beaches of Batangas is blessed with white and fine sand, Malabrigo probably became the basin of stones and pebbles. The beach is known for its medium-sized pebbles which doubles as an instant foot massage as you walk on it.

Side trips include the Submarine Garden where clear water and live corals are found. The Malabrigo Lighthouse is very accessible to the beach, bring a special someone along because the stunning view is worth sharing.

Location: Lobo, Batangas [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 3 to 4 hours
Where to stay: Punta Verde Resort


Playa La Caleta

When we talk about Bataan, we often think of war and history. But did you know that it is also rich with nature and eco-tourism?


Playa La Caleta is a stretch of 1-kilometer white sand beach cove in Morong surrounded by the lush mountain ridge and coupled with an islet called "Miguelito Island".

This beach cove has a long list of activities that can make your stay loaded with fun. It's a must-visit for all kinds of travelers.

Location: Morong, Bataan [ Get Directions ]
Travel time from Manila: 4-5 hour via land, under 2 hours via boat & land travel


WHERE TO GO NEXT . . .

7 Must-Visit Beaches Near Manila For Weekend Getaway!


The Philippines is a tropical paradise known for its more than 7,000 islands, many of which are fringed by world-class beaches.



Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of exploring several of them — each offering something distinct, from powdery white sand and vibrant marine life to off-grid serenity. Here’s my personal list of the 10 best beaches in the Philippines, based on real visits that left a lasting impression.

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1. Boracay, Aklan

Visited: 2024

After its rehabilitation, Boracay has reclaimed its place as the crown jewel of Philippine beaches. The iconic White Beach is the definition of pristine — ultra-fine white sand, turquoise waters, and unforgettable sunsets. Whether you're lounging in a beachfront café in Station 2 or enjoying a quiet morning stroll in Station 1, there’s something for every traveler.

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Boracay Island after the rehabilitaion

What makes Boracay stand out is the blend of natural beauty with modern amenities. You get the full spectrum — nightlife, water activities like parasailing and island hopping, and peaceful corners for relaxation. It’s a beach that perfectly balances party and peace.



2. Cagbalete Island, Quezon

Visited: 2015

Cagbalete Island feels like a hidden treasure tucked away in Quezon Province. Its shorelines stretch wide during low tide, revealing sandbars and seagrass meadows that sparkle under the sun. The beach is quiet, with only a few local resorts and camping spots that let you enjoy nature without the crowds.


What makes Cagbalete special is the raw, untouched feel — perfect for unplugging. The lack of commercial establishments means starry skies at night, serene mornings, and plenty of space to breathe. It’s a place where time slows down, and you fall into rhythm with the island.




3. White Island, Camiguin

Visited: 2016

White Island isn’t a typical beach — it’s a shifting sandbar in the middle of the sea, with no trees or shade, just pure white sand surrounded by clear water and views of Mount Hibok-Hibok on the mainland. It feels surreal, almost dreamlike, to be on an island with nothing but sun and sea.

White Island

This beach’s charm lies in its simplicity. You go for the views, the snorkeling, and the experience of being seemingly cut off from everything. Arrive early in the morning to catch the sunrise, or late afternoon for golden hour — either way, it’s unforgettable.

Visit my Camiguin Travel Guide to know more.


4. Patar White Beach, Bolinao, Pangasinan

Visited: 2015

Patar Beach offers a rustic, golden-white shoreline that’s long, wide, and perfect for laid-back travelers. With its dramatic rock formations, charming nipa huts, and the nearby Cape Bolinao Lighthouse, it’s a place that mixes natural beauty with cultural heritage.

Patar Beach during the day

What I loved most was the vibe — it’s unpolished in the best way. Locals grill seafood by the beach, kids play in the surf, and time seems to slow down. The sunsets are breathtaking, painting the entire coast in gold and orange hues. It’s an ideal road-trip beach.

Visit my Bolinao Travel Guide to know more.


5. Salagdoong Beach, Maria, Siquijor

Visited: 2014

Salagdoong Beach is best known for its thrilling cliff dives, turquoise water, and bright blue horizon. The cove is surrounded by limestone cliffs and dense trees, offering a secluded feel. The man-made slide and platforms add a bit of adventure to an otherwise serene escape.

Salagdoong Beach, Maria, Siquijor

Siquijor’s mystic reputation adds a layer of intrigue, but Salagdoong’s real magic is its natural beauty. The water is crystal clear, making it great for snorkeling, while the peace and quiet make it ideal for just floating your stress away. It’s an underrated gem.

Visit my Siquijor Travel Guide to learn more.


6. Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro

Visited: 2011

Puerto Galera is one of the more accessible beach getaways from Manila and is a diver’s haven. Sabang Beach caters to divers and nightlife enthusiasts, while White Beach offers more family-friendly fun and water sports. The coral reefs here are incredibly diverse.

White Beach, Puerto Galera

My first experience snorkeling here opened my eyes to the marine richness of the Philippines. Despite its growing popularity, Puerto Galera still holds natural wonders — waterfalls, hiking trails, and offshore islands. It’s a well-rounded destination for both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.


7. Playa La Caleta, Morong, Bataan

Visited: 2018

Tucked away in Bataan’s coast, Playa La Caleta is a secluded eco-resort with a mix of beach, forest, and hilltop views. Getting there involves a short boat ride, but once you arrive, you're met with soft sand, clear water, and the unique “Miguelito” islet just offshore.

Beach bumming at Playa La Caleta


What makes it memorable is its dedication to sustainability. The resort promotes eco-tourism, so expect solar-powered amenities, minimal development, and a strong connection to nature. It’s a great escape from urban chaos, perfect for digital detox weekends.



8. White Beach, San Juan, La Union

Visited: 2017

La Union's White Beach isn’t as powdery as Boracay, but its charm lies in its surf culture and community vibe. San Juan is the heart of surf life in the north — think cool cafés, yoga spots, and sunset surf sessions. The waves welcome both beginners and seasoned surfers.

White Beach, San Juan, La Union

Even if you’re not into surfing, this beach has a magnetic pull. The energy is relaxed yet social, and you can spend your days hopping between beach bars or just lounging under the palms. It’s modern, youthful, and always buzzing in the best way.

Visit my La Union Travel Guide to learn more.


9. Saud Beach, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

Visited: 2013

Saud Beach is what many call the “Boracay of the North,” but it holds a more tranquil, unspoiled vibe. The sand is fine and creamy, and the waters are usually calm — perfect for swimming and simply basking under the sun. Coconut trees line the shore, giving it a postcard feel.


I remember the peace here most — no large crowds, just gentle waves and the scent of sea breeze. The windmills of Bangui and the cliffs of Cape Bojeador are nearby, adding cultural landmarks to your beach journey. It’s remote, beautiful, and utterly relaxing.

Visit my Pagudpud Travel Guide to learn more.


10. Calayo Beach, Nasugbu, Batangas

Visited: 2022

Calayo Beach is one of Batangas' lesser-known treasures. It offers a more local, rustic experience compared to the polished resorts in nearby Punta Fuego or Hamilo Coast. The sand is tan and coarse, but the water is inviting, and the coastal scenery is picturesque.

A nice day at Calayo Beach

Its laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for simple beach outings — no crowds, no noise, just the sound of gentle waves. Island hopping tours from Calayo reveal stunning coves and snorkeling spots. It’s an easy escape that feels far from the chaos of city life.




Each of these beaches offered something unique — from adrenaline-pumping adventures to slow, soul-soothing days by the sea. The Philippines' coastal diversity is astounding, and these ten spots show just how varied, vibrant, and beautiful the archipelago truly is. Whether you're chasing waves, sunsets, or solitude, there’s a beach here waiting to welcome you.


More Beautiful Beaches in the Philippines


The 10 Best Beaches in the Philippines I’ve Been To (So Far)

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Will it be the Phippines' version of Miami Beach?



Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach, commonly known as "Dolomite Beach", is an artificial beach along Manila Bay in Manila, Philippines, created through the process of beach nourishment.


2022 UPDATE

The man-made beach along Manila Baywalk will be reopened to the public on June 12, coinciding with the celebration of the country’s 124th Independence Day, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) said Tuesday.

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Once it reopens, the DENR said it will allow 1,500 to 3,500 persons at a given time inside the 500-meter span of the dolomite beach to ensure that minimum health protocols are strictly followed.

SAVE THIS PIN FOR LATER!

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Manila Bay Coordinating Office (MBCO) Executive Director Jacob Meimban said the dolomite beach reopening is only for visitation, walking, and sunset viewing, and not yet for swimming as water quality is still not within the 100 most probable number per 100 milliliters (MPN/100 mL) standard fecal coliform level.




HOW TO GET TO DOLOMITE BEACH


From PITX

  • To commute from PITX to Manila Bay Dolomite Beach, Ride the Quiapo, Lawton, or Monumento via Roxas Blvd bus. The fare for Aircon bus is ₱25 and the buses operate from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

From Baclaran

  • To travel from Baclaran to Dolomite beach, you can ride the Divisoria jeepney that will pass by Mabini / Harrison and pay the fare of ₱13. Tell the jeepney to drop you off in Pedro Gil / Robinsons Manila. Then walk or ride the tricycle to Roxas Boulevard (fare: ₱20).

From Edsa, North Ave to Taft

  • Passengers coming from North Ave Station going to the Dolomite Beach may ride the MRT to EDSA Taft, then take the LRT going to United Nations (Luneta) or Pedro Gil Station (UP PGH). and then ride the tricycle to Roxas Boulevard (fare: ₱20). If you are planning to walk, it will take you around 20-30 minutes from the LRT station.

From Cubao

  • There are two ways to travel from Cubao to Manila Bay Dolomite Beach, 1.) Ride the LRT / FX / Bus from Cubao to Doroteo Jose (Recto Station) and then ride the jeep bound to Baclaran via Mabini / Harison. 2.) Ride the MRT or EDSA Carousel Bus to Taft Avenue, then follow the EDSA Taft instructions above.

From Quiapo / España

  • The best way to travel from Quiapo / España to the Dolomite beach is by riding the jeepneys heading to Intramuros or Baclaran via Mabini / Harison. Ask the driver to drop you off in Robinsons Manila. You can also ride the jeepneys going to Manila City Hall or UP PGH then take the tricycle going to the Dolomite Beach.

From Guadalupe

  • Commuters from Guadalupe going to the Dolomite beach may ride the jeepney going to Leon Guinto (L Guinto / Bukid) terminating in Taft Quirino Avenue. Once in taft, you can ride the tricycle to Manila Bay.

From Alabang

  • To commute from Alabang to Manila Bay Dolomite Beach, you can ride the Lawton Bus from Starmall Alabang and then take the Bus from Lawton to PITX passing along Roxas Boulevard or ride the PITX Bus from Starmall then ride the Lawton or Monumento Bus via Roxas Boulevard.

From Cavite

  • Passengers from Cavite going to the Dolomite Beach may ride the buses or UV Express van headed to Lawton (direct route) or PITX (cutting trip). From PITX, Ride the Quiapo, Lawton, or Monumento via Roxas Blvd bus.

From Laguna / Batangas

  • For passengers going to Manila Bay Dolomite beach coming from Calamba, take the P2P bus to Lawton then ride the PITX bus via Roxas Boulevard or Baclaran Jeepney via Mabini / Harison. Passengers from Sta Rosa Laguna or Lipa / Batangas City may ride the Bus to PITX and then ride the bus to Quiapo, Lawton, or Monumento via Roxas Blvd bus.

From Bulacan / Quezon Avenue / Kamuning

  • Passengers coming from Bulacan may take the bus to Quezon Avenue / GMA Kamuning then transfer to PITX bus via Taft. Once in Manila City Hall, transfer to a jeepney heading to Baclaran via Mabini / Harison


MANILA BAY REHABILITATION

It is part of an overall integrated coastal zone management aimed at coastal defense of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation project. When completed, the beach will cover a total length of 900 meters of Manila Baywalk.

Dolomite Beach is a project of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). It is a part of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program launched by Secretary Roy Cimatu in January 2019. 

It is an integral part of the integrated coastal zone management aimed at coastal defense of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation. Budget for the project was approved prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.



CRUSHED DOLOMITE FROM CEBU TO MANILA 

Works on the project began in August 2020, when the government issued a permit to Philippine Mining Service Corporation to transport crushed dolomite from Alcoy, Cebu to Manila. Dolomite mining operations were suspended in September 2020.

Dolomite Beach was created through the process of beach nourishment, which a common practice in the creation of beaches around the world. Upon the extraction of debris in the 500 meters (1,600 ft) portion of the baywalk from the Manila Yacht Club to the United States Embassy in Manila, the project proponents dumped two layers of ordinary sand before overlaying it with crushed dolomite.

People visited Dolomite Beach


DOLOMITE BEACH OPENING

The beach was first opened to the public from September 19 to 20, 2020. Afterwards, it was closed again for expansion.

Originally, the beach was to be completed by December 2020, but it was pushed back in 2021. On January 17, 2021, DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda stated that the overlaying of crushed dolomite for a 500-meter portion of the beach will take one to two months to complete.


After the onslaught of Typhoon Vamco (Ulysses) in November, the beach was dumped with garbage, with the DENR denying reports that the dolomite was washed away, saying that black sand was washed in to the beach. After a series of typhoons in late 2020, the DENR replenished the beach with a new batch of crushed dolomite rock.

A new coat of dolomite sand was laid over the beach in April 2021.

On July 18, 2021, the beach was reopened to the public without an announcement. By September 2021, an entrance arch was installed bearing the name of the site: "Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach". The beach was opened again on October 17, 2021.


ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

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DOLOMITE BEACH TO BOOST TOURISM WHILE PROTECTING MANILA BAY

According to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau, the project will benefit tourism, commerce and the environment. It will also protect coastal properties from erosion and storm surges and beach nourishment are preferred projects over hard beach stabilizing structures (such as seawalls and groynes). The Department of Health released a statement that the use of dolomite is not a known health hazard.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has maintained that the dolomite used to create the beach poses no harm to the Manila Bay's ecosystem The laying of dolomite has been suspected as a possible cause for a fish kill on September 17, 2020, near the waters of the Baseco Compound.

The DENR countered the claim, saying that the fish kill happened 5 kilometers (3.1 mi) away from the beach and cited the prevalence of the southwest monsoon at that time, and the presence of a breakwater between the site and adjacent waters of the beach that prohibits the transfer of sand.



A HABITAT TO LIVE ORGANISMS 

As with other beach nourishment projects, the area can serve as additional habitat for a number of species such as sea turtles, as well as sea birds and beach flora. When the beach was first opened to the public, a flock of egrets were seen at the beach area.

In February 2021, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources reported significant drop of fecal coliform level in the waters around the beach.

Fecal coliform level in Manila Bay dropped from 7.16 million most probable number per 100 milliliters (mpn/100ml) in 2020 to 4.87 million mpn/100ml in February 2021, while the fecal coliform level around the beach has dropped from 2.2 million mpn/100ml last January 4 to 523,000 mpn/100 ml on February 8, based on the average count from three monitoring stations. However, the level is still far from the ideal 100 mpn/100ml for coastal waters.


THE GOVERNMENT AND THE CITIZENS' SUPPORT 

The project has received support from the Manila city government led by Mayor Isko Moreno. President Rodrigo Duterte also voiced his support to the project. Likewise, Secretary Roy Cimatu, seeing the throngs of people during the September 2020 opening, said that the project received the overwhelming support of the general public.

On its partial opening in September, people crowded the beach and the nearby area that physical distancing were not properly observed.

Vloggers have been posting positive updates regarding the project, which DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda cited as an "effective way in informing the public" about the project.


... AND CRITICISMS

The project received criticism from activists, environmentalists, and heritage conservationist groups. These criticisms include the timing of the project which was implemented amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns of adverse environmental effects caused by laying dolomite on the polluted Manila Bay.

Three senators also voiced their opposition for the project: Nancy Binay, Risa Hontiveros and Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan. Binay cited the lack of public consultation for the project, as well as the lack of study regarding the effects of the use of dolomite sands. Both Hontiveros and Pangilinan argued that the funds for the project should have been used on public health and relief goods.

Akbayan filed a case for the Supreme Court to penalize the Department of Environment and Natural Resources because of the project, but the petition was junked.

When asked about the criticism that the money spent on the project could have been better spent on response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said that he does not "buy that argument" because caring for the people's mental health is also needed, pointing out that if people will visit the beach, the mental health effects to the people cannot be quantified.



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dolomite Beach

  • What are the operation hours?
    Manila Bay Dolomite Beach is open from 8 AM to 11 AM, and 2 PM to 6 PM daily.

  • How much is the entrance fee?
    There is no entrance fee to visit the artificial beach, which cost a total of P389 million to put up, with P28 million used for overlay of crushed dolomite mineral to be turned into sand.

  • Are children allowed?
    The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) announced on Oct. 25 that children below 12 years old are no longer allowed in the dolomite beach.

  • Do I need to be fully vaccinated to enter the premises?
    No, but face masks are required. Face shields, on the other hand, are optional.

  • Can I visit during the holidays?
    It will be closed on All Saints' Day and All Souls’ Day from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3.

  • How many people can the beach hold?
    The man-made beach can accommodate around 4,000 to 5,000 people at a time.

  • How long can I stay on the beach?
    Visitors can stay on the dolomite beach for five minutes, with a maximum limit of 15 minutes.

    "Meron po tayong five minute rule, maximum 15 minutes depende sa numero ng tao, meron po tayong limitasyon ng individuals na papapasukin," said Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año on Oct. 27, after there had been calls to implement stricter health protocols.

  • What's a good time to visit?
    It varies with each visit, but crowd build-up usually starts at around 5 PM.

    "That is the crucial time because we learned that many want to see the sunset in the bay area,” said Manila Bay Coordinating Office's Jacob Meimban Jr,.

  • Is dolomite good for beach?
    Dolomite will protect coastal properties from erosion and storm surges and beach nourishment are preferred projects over hard beach stabilizing structures (such as seawalls and groynes). The Department of Health released a statement that the use of dolomite is not a known health hazard.

  • Is dolomite sand harmful?
    Despite the fact that the material is typically considered non-toxic in the construction industry, some studies have linked high levels of dolomite dust exposure to respiratory diseases

  • How much does dolomite Beach cost?
    The Manila Bay dolomite beach project costs P389 million, with P28 million used for overlay of crushed dolomite turned into sand. It opened last July, with people allowed on the “sand” for only five minutes.

  • What are the benefits of dolomite sand?
    The DENR chief, who has repeatedly defended the use of dolomite sand against critics, said the dolomite sand actually “cleans the water” of the Manila Bay, prevents erosion, and increases the width of the beach.

  • Can I swim in the waters?
    No, but the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary for Environment and International Environment Affairs Jonas Leones said that it could be possible by the end of the year.

    “Though people are allowed to visit the beach, swimming is still prohibited since there are still ongoing works to make the bay’s water quality fit for swimming,” Leones said. “Apart from making sure that enough dolomite sand has been put in place, we are continuously checking drainage outfalls discharging into Manila Bay."

  • Are pets allowed?
    No.

  • Can I bring food and drinks to eat while watching the sunset?
    No, visitors are only allowed to roam the area and take photos to their hearts' content.


Walking Tour Dolomite Beach Manila

Here’s a sample walking tour in Manila including the Dolomite Beach. You can choose to start off first in the Dolomite beach or have it as the last leg and watch the sunset in Manila Bay. This is a total of 8 kilometer and can be finished in one day. You can end your tour in Intramuros / Manila Cathedral.
  • Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach, Roxas Blvd (Free Entrance)
  • Manila Ocean Park (Entrance Fee: varies)
  • Kilometer Zero / Quirino Grandstand (Free Entrance)
  • Rizal Monument (Free Entrance)
  • Rizal Park (Free Entrance)
  • National Museum (Free Entrance)
  • Liwasang Bonifacio (Free Entrance)
  • Metropolitan Theater (Free Entrance)
  • Jones Bridge (No Entrance)
  • Fort Santiago (Entrance Fee: 75) closes at 5:00 PM
  • Manila Cathedral / Intramuros

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.


DOLOMITE BEACH: Everything You Need to Know About This New Attraction at Manila Baywalk (Operating Hours, Directions & FAQs)

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