Baler, Aurora is famous for being one of surfing destinations in the Philippines aside from La Union.
It is located at the north-east and the town’s coast is facing the Pacific Ocean. It will take you a 5 to 6-hour drive from Quezon City before you can reach the town of Baler.
Aside from being a popular destination for surfers and tourists, Baler is also rich in history which you can find in every corner of Baler.
Here are some interesting places that you can visit:
Sabang Beach
Sabang beach is surfer’s paradise. You can rent a surf board for an hour or two. If you do not know how to surf, you can get a short lesson from experienced surfers whom you can find along the beach.
Ditumabo Mother Falls
It is an hour trek going to this beautiful waterfalls of Baler. You will be amazed at how clear the water is aside from being cold and relaxing! You will definitely enjoy the water flowing over the edge of a steep, high mountain and falling right into you. If you are interested in visiting this magnificent view, you should prepare your trekking slippers, bottled water and an entrance fee of Php 30 (per person). You must be accompanied by experienced tour guides.
Zabali’s Old Light House
It is very fulfilling if you reach the top of the light house. You will get to see the coast of Baler from a hill where the lighthouse is located. Before you can enjoy this majestic scenery, you will hike for about 20 – 30 minutes (depending on your pace). Wear a suitable footwear that is good for hiking. If you don’t want to get sunburn, apply sunblock or wear long sleeves. There is no entrance fee here.
When you descend from the hill, a couple of popsicle and ice cream vendors will greet you – a cool way of ending your lighthouse visit.
Baler’s Hanging Bridge
The hanging bridge is a steel-cable over the waters of Tibag-Sabang river. Even though we did not experience to cross the bridge (it was being repaired due to the damage from a typhoon) we still manage to get some photo. There are also souvenir shops in the area where you can buy your ‘pasalubongs’.
Museo De Baler and Aurora Ancestral House
The Museo De Baler and Aurora Ancestral House will take you back in time. In Museo, you will see various artifacts such as Chinese porcelains and photos of the life of Manuel L. Quezon. You will know the history of the Siege of Baler and many more. While in Aurora’s house, you will see the family’s old fixtures and stuff being used during their time. You will also learn how Manuel Quezon courted Aurora, his wife as well as get a glimpse of their life together.
There are places you may want to visit as well like Ermita hill, Dicasalarin Cove, the 600-year old balete tree and many more.
How to get to Sabang, Baler, Aurora
By Private Vehicle
If long driving is your hobby, this is a perfect chance for you. You may use Waze or Google Maps for your navigation.
By Bus
There are regular aircon and Joybuses that go directly to Baler like Genesis bus liner. You may get your ticket online via pinoytravel.com.ph. The price varies depending on the service class like for regular aircon, the ticket cost is Php 550 with travel time of 6 – 7 hours while the Joybuses which will give you a more comfortable non-stop ride is ranging Php 650 – 730 and with the travel time of 5 – 6 hours.
Where to stay
There are many accommodations that you can choose from and they are located right on Sabang beach. Your options are transient houses or luxurious resorts. Since most of the time, we are out either surfing or visiting good places within Baler, we prefer to stay in a low-cost but accommodating and relaxing place like Baler Getaway – Ultimate Adventures. Aside from accommodation, they provide transport (Manila to Baler to Manila) and food services, tour to different places and lessons/guidance on surfing. They have different promos and packages which may suit your budget.
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