Summer is in full swing, and we’re willing to bet that you’re craving for just two things: an ice-cold drink and a nature trip. So, if you’re considering a getaway beyond the realms of Boracay, Palawan, or Siargao, then you’ve come to the right place! We’re excited to share a list of our favourite beaches and resorts near Manila, streamlining your plans to finally add some colour to that long-overdue vacation with your loved ones.

Best Resorts Near Manila

1. The Farm at San Benito – Lipa, Batangas

There’s no better time to embrace the beauty of nature than summertime–there’s the scorching sun in the middle of the clear blue skies. Not only that but a nature trip is also shown to reduce stress levels, give plenty of vitamin D, and put you in a more relaxed state of mind. If these are the things you are exactly looking for this summer, The Farm at San Benito is here to bring you exactly that. Just 90 minutes’ drive south of Metro Manila is the spectacular eco-sustainable destination in Lipa, Batangas. The Farm at San Benito is home to 52 hectares of beautiful greenery. This said paradise is complete with a stunning view of the Malarayat mountain range. It is also surrounded by majestic natural landscapes and fresh air. You will be able to fully immerse yourself in the positive and refreshing energy of Mother Nature!

A quick weekend retreat focused on holistic medical wellness 

A simple visit to nature is therapeutic in itself, but The Farm at San Benito can elevate that experience further. This resort boasts a team of highly knowledgeable and skilled health professionals to support you throughout your wellness journey. With internationally trained and licensed integrative medicine doctors, supported by a team of licensed health professionals including nurses, physiotherapists, spa therapists, nutritionists, living food chefs, yoga teachers, sound healers, and fitness coaches, you’ll be well on your way to achieving optimal well-being during your healing summer holiday.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with your family, on a group retreat, or attending a corporate function, if you have specific health concerns, you’ll find the perfect programme for you at The Farm at San Benito. The best part is that they are covered by CIGNA Global International Health Insurance, as well as programs for Sleep Recovery, Menopause, and more!

That being said, we honestly believe that The Farm at San Benito is truly the perfect getaway destination—it’s luxurious, fun-filled, and healing all at the same time.

2. Pico Sands Hotel – Nasugbu, Batangas

A modern seven-story hotel with stunning views of mountains and a tranquil lagoon

Batangas is really popular not only due to its proximity to the city but also because each town in this province has something unique to offer. While The Farm at San Benito in Lipa is proud of its healing lush greenery, this beach resort in Nasugbu, Batangas, is famous for its sandy coastline hugged by tranquil waves. When someone mentions Nasugbu, there’s a beach resort that immediately comes to mind: Pico de Loro Cove. It is a place that seems right out of a picture postcard. And there, after two and a half hours drive from Manila, stands the Pico Sands Hotel–a modern oasis. It is a tropical contemporary seven-story hotel that offers spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities and captivating views of the lush mountains and tranquil lagoon.

This beach resort in the Philippines lets you score a memorable summer getaway–you can play bowling, billiards, basketball, and racquet sports at the country club! But if you prefer outdoor activities, they also allow you to rent jet skis, banana boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and more. But one of the highlights of booking a stay at Pico Sands Hotel is Santelmo Cove. It’s one of the beaches located in Hamilo Coast, but it’s a protected area. Meaning that this cove is not open to the public unless you book a tour package!

The tour package offered by Pico Sands Hotel also includes a Sunset Cruise, making it perfect for couples or besties this summer. We recommend bringing along some wine and cheese to indulge in while enjoying the magical orange sky view.

3. Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort – Calatagan, Batangas

One popular destination for beach resorts in the Philippines is Batangas, and among them, Stilts Calatagan Beach Resort in Calatagan, Batangas Province, stands out. Located just three hours away from Metro Manila, it offers a beach getaway that relaxes your mind from the bustle of the capital city. There’s nothing quite like the summer experience at its private stretch of white-sands with the background of blue turquoise water! The breeze and tranquil ambiance also makes it the perfect setting to spend a weekend with your loved ones.

If you’re traveling in large groups, the best option is to book a stay in their Floating Cottages. You’ll feel like having a summer vacation in the Maldives! The beach resort houses five large cottages, and each one has a master’s bedroom, guest room, loft and living area. It’s truly the perfect arrangement for overlooking the beach while enjoying the comfort of staying together in one place that feels like a home away from home.

But for those looking for a unique nature stay, then our pick is the Tree Houses. The beach resort has the Serenitree and Eternitree types, but altogether they are a treehouse sanctuary nestled in their Serenity Beach area. With their breathtaking view and serene surroundings, these tree houses offer a cosy haven for guests who appreciate life’s simple joys!

4. Lilom Resort – Anilao, Batangas

A homely ambiance perfect for unwinding

When life becomes too hot for us to handle, we seek solace in “lilom.” Lilom, a Filipino local term meaning “under the shade,” is the inspiration behind this beach resort’s name. Lilom is a quaint family-run beach resort nestled in San Teodoro, Mabini (Anilao), Batangas, Philippines. With its mature trees dotting the property, it exudes more of a guesthouse charm than a conventional beach resort. So, if you’re looking for a homier vibe for your weekend escape, then this place is just right—rustic, relaxed, and laid-back.

There are several types of accommodations available here, but our favourite is Satcho’s House. It’s named after Satcho, the dog who used to frequent this little hut! This highly sought-after beachfront hut features two private porches and a hammock overlooking the sea. Perfect for couples, it boasts a double-sized canopy bed, air conditioning, and an ensuite toilet with a hot shower. It’s also one of the most luxurious rooms you can book among the best beach resorts near Manila, so if you’re looking to splurge a bit this summer, then this is the perfect option. Although it may be a bit pricey, we believe it still offers the best value for money since the rates include the following meals: buffet lunch, buffet dinner, buffet breakfast, a welcome drink, afternoon snack, sunset cocktails, plus government taxes!

5. La Chevrerie Resort and Spa – Anilao, Batangas

For those already planning a trip to Anilao, Batangas but looking for a luxurious stay instead of the typical homely vibe offered by beach resorts like Lilom, La Chevrerie Resort and Spa is the best choice. This beach resort in the Philippines seamlessly blends comfort and style, recreation and relaxation, simplicity and indulgence. Moreover, it provides a rustic yet luxuriously grand holiday escape, making it the ideal destination for a dream tropical vacation. The best part? La Chevrerie is a 5-star resort, ensuring that you’ll experience complete luxury during your summer stay.

And if diving is on your agenda, you’re in luck! Anilao is a renowned diving destination, and La Chevrerie offers a premium diving experience right on-site. So, if you’re eager to explore the depths this summer, you should definitely consider checking it off your bucket list here.

6. Haya Resort – Botolan Zambales

Another popular beach destination near Manila is definitely Zambales. If you’re planning to visit soon, consider checking out Haya Resort. This nature resort offers the perfect opportunity to experience and appreciate nature this summer! They provide a wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities such as a pool, outdoor playground, restaurant, and more. And being a popular beach resort in the Philippines, it naturally offers a spectacular view of the beach! Not only does it boast great facilities, but our favourite aspect of this resort is definitely their rooms—each one is designed with your needs in mind, ensuring they are clean, spacious, modern, and equipped with everything you need.

7. Kamana Sanctuary Spa Resort – Subic, Zambales

Can’t decide between a trip to the lush rainforests or the azure waters of the sea? No need to worry because we’ve found the perfect place for you! Kamana Sanctuary Spa Resort in Subic, Zambales is renowned for three things: majestic mountaintops, beautiful sunsets by the bay, and lush rainforests. That is because this beach resort is nestled between an old-growth rainforest and the gentle Nabasan Bay, Kamana Sanctuary. And since it is surrounded by nature, it surely offers shelter from the hectic noise and frantic pace of the city. Speaking of facilities, every modern comfort has been thoughtfully provided in each room to ensure only one thing: you leave refreshed and recharged this summer!

8. The V Farm – Bamban, Tarlac

Intimate gathering this summer? Why not! We know summer is about having fun and being carefree outdoors, but many of us prefer to quietly bask in the sun with their closest ones. For this type of summer getaway, we recommend going to The V Farm in Bamban, Tarlac. One of the best beach resorts near Manila, it lets you settle in and enjoy private time with your family or friends. What’s more, the farm has open spaces perfect for small celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion! And for overnight stays, they have family rooms and suites for 2, which are perfect for couples or best friends’ night out.

9. Twin Lakes Hotel – Tagaytay

Tagaytay is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations to visit during summertime (and all year round, actually). That is because Tagaytay takes pride in its scenery and cooler climate provided by its altitude. Plus, Tagaytay overlooks Taal Lake in Batangas and provides views of Taal Lake through its various vantage points situated in the city. But if you visit here, we recommend staying at least overnight. Since Tagaytay is really popular and near the metro, it can get a bit crowded, especially on weekends. 

Our top pick for accommodations is the Twin Lakes Hotel. Recognised as the “Best Hotel Development in Asia” and “Best Hotel Development” at the 2018 PropertyGuru Asia & Philippines Property Awards, Twin Lakes Hotel offers a haven of tranquility where the warmth of Filipino hospitality intertwines seamlessly with nature’s splendor. Regarding the rooms, we absolutely love them! Each one is generously spaced, boasting around 34 sqm and is furnished with modern amenities for your stay. So for a luxurious retreat in a much cooler climate this summer, Twin Lakes Tagaytay is the best choice.

10. Taal Vista Hotel – Tagaytay

Another accommodation in Tagaytay that we love is Taal Vista Hotel. It’s a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life! We were particularly enchanted by their cosy rooms and impeccable service amidst the stunning vistas that only Tagaytay can offer. While the rooms were a highlight, we were also captivated by the ALTA Ridge Bar. Here, you can indulge in a delightful dining experience amidst the refreshing Tagaytay cool breeze. You can just take in the breathtaking views of the city lights as you savour mouthwatering grilled meat, delectable fresh seafood, and a wide selection of handcrafted drinks from their menu. And if you’re in Tagaytay to fully relax, then you shouldn’t miss their Rain Spa. You can relieve tension and stress with rejuvenating spa packages that will leave you feeling refreshed.

FAQs: Best Beach Resort Near Manila

When is the summer season in the Philippines?

Summer in the Philippines typically starts in March and lasts until May. However, as we all know, the Philippines generally experiences hot and humid weather throughout the year. Sometimes, it can also be sunny during the rainy seasons–or the other way around. Nonetheless, if you’re planning to visit these beach resorts near Manila, it’s advisable to always check the weather forecast for thunderstorms, typhoons, and the average temperatures. During March and May, it can get extremely hot and pose potential dangers.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy during the summer in the Philippines?

Again, peak summer may pose potential dangers, especially if you’re exposed to the sun for too long. That’s why we recommend activities such as visiting lake parks or having picnics in lush areas to minimise exposure to the heat. For those who still wish to enjoy the beach resorts near Manila, we recommend booking a stay of at least 2 to 3 days instead of just day trips. This way, you won’t feel pressured to swim all day under the scorching sun just to make the most of entrance fees. Remember, safety comes first!

Can I expect crowded tourist spots during the summer in the Philippines?

Definitely. Expect the beaches to get crowded during this season. Generally, many destinations become overcrowded, especially on weekends and holidays. We advise planning your trips in advance and avoiding walk-ins as much as possible. Additionally, consider looking for less crowded destinations, especially if you prefer a quieter holiday.

What are the best times to visit beaches in the Philippines during the summer?

As we mentioned earlier, we highly recommend booking at least a 2-night stay at beach resorts. During this scorching heat, it’s advisable to swim early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn’t too harsh. This allows you to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid sunburn while still experiencing the beauty of the coastline. 

Can I still enjoy outdoor activities during the summer if I’m not a fan of hot weather?

Of course! Consider exploring cooler highland destinations like Tagaytay, where temperatures are milder due to higher elevations. Additionally, you can participate in activities such as nature walks, birdwatching, or visiting waterfalls. While these are outdoor activities, they allow you to stay cool even in hot weather since you’ll be surrounded by nature.

Conclusion

The way we see it, summers in the Philippines tend to be more irritating than fun for most Filipinos, especially those living in the Metro. It becomes unbearably hot, prompting many to seek ways to alleviate the heat and sweaty feeling.  That’s why it’s important for all of us to plan our trips accordingly for a smooth holiday without adding fuel to the fire. Right now, start asking yourself: what do I want to do and where do I want to go? The sea? The farm? The mountains? The forest? Whichever you choose, we hope this article was able to provide recommendations and help you plan your long-awaited summer getaway on these beaches and resorts near Manila.

LThis post was brought to you by The Wedding Vow.

Disclosure: All opinions remain the writer’s own. There may be paid or sponsored mentions in the above article, but we believe in honesty of relationship, opinion, and identity. We will only recommend services that we have tried and tested ourselves or have done extensive research and find them to be useful recommendations. The order of listing may not represent product ranking in terms of quality. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright & disclosure policy.

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