There are plenty of reasons to visit the Philippines – incredible food, a warm, hospitable culture, and of course, the beaches! Known for their white sand and crystal-clear waters, beaches in the Philippines draw thousands of travellers each year looking to soak up the sun. While many will head to Puerto Princesa or Boracay for their seaside fix, there are also some fantastic beaches near Manila!
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What’s So Special About Manila?
The vibrant, thriving capital of the Philippines, Manila is a beautiful combination of the old and new. European-style architecture stands next to traditional temples and shop fronts, adding to the eclectic vibe of this unique location. The weather here is temperate year-round and makes for the perfect urban adventure for keen explorers.
The city itself is filled with delightful baroque churches, hidden markets, and exciting secrets around every corner. While there aren’t many beaches in Manila, Philippines, there are plenty of lovely shores and coves just outside of the reaches of the outer suburbs. Visitors can take part in water sports like snorkelling and skiing, or just relax on the sandy beaches of these magical spots during their stay.
If you’re keen to get out of the city for the day, let’s talk about 10 of the best beaches and beach resorts near Manila!
10 Must-See Beaches Near Manila To Visit
Calatagan, Batangas
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 130 km (81 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: Around 2.5 to 3 hours by car
⏳ Best Time to Visit: December to May, during the dry season
This beach near Manila is famous for its crystal waters and white sand, and visitors travel from near and far to experience the views over the ocean. However, one of the most popular tourist draws is the incredible marine life that calls Calatagan home – look for dugongs, dolphins, and even the occasional whale surfacing off the coast. Snorkel, dive, and swim amongst some of the most pristine marine environments in the world – if you’ve got a waterproof camera, make sure to take some photos!
🏨 Accommodation: Several beachfront resorts offer a range of accommodations, from luxury villas to budget-friendly cottages.
🦞Dining: Local eateries and fine-dining restaurants are available, serving both Filipino and international cuisine.
If you want to spend a little more time at this Manila beach, there are plenty of resorts lining the shores. Sip cocktails in luxury, then head down to the sandy shore and relax in the Philippines’ sun. There are plenty of fine-dining restaurants here, too, so make sure to sample some of the delicious local fare during your stay.
Nagsasa Cove, Zambales
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 170 km (105 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours by car, plus a boat ride
⏳ Best Time to Visit: November to April
This beach is not only famous for its sand, but also its native plants. Agoho trees surround the cove, and massive hills created by the dormant volcano mean that panoramic views are available – so long as you’re keen on a hike! For those who want something a little more unique, the stunning Nagsasa Falls are around a one-hour walk from the main cove, and provide a great chance to take some enviable holiday snaps.
🏨 Accommodation: Camping is popular here, with facilities available. Traditional nipa and bamboo huts can also be rented.
🌊 Activities: Boat charters from Manila are available, making it accessible for day trips or overnight stays.
If you want to get out on the water, Nagsasa Cove can be accessed by boat, with charters leaving from Manila daily. While this beach can be done as a day trip, we recommend taking advantage of the camping and traditional accommodation options available. Many beach resorts near Manila are hyper luxurious, but Nagasa Cove offers the chance to sleep under the stars or rest overnight in nipa and bamboo huts.
Laiya Beach, Batangas
📍Distance from Manila: Approximately 140 km (87 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: Around 3 hours by car
⏳ Best Time to Visit: December to May
One of the nearest beaches from Manila on this list, Laiya Beach is famous for its crushed shell and coral shores, as well as turquoise waters straight off a postcard. The area is also home to some of the best beach resorts near Manila, with luxury accommodation and water sports like kayaking and scuba diving just part of the itinerary for many visitors.
🏨Accommodation: A variety of resorts are available, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly options.
🌊 Activities: Water sports equipment is readily available for rent.
Don’t let the high-end reputation scare you from visiting – there is also plenty of budget accommodation and free activities available for those who wish to travel more frugally.
Cagbalete Island, Quezon
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 230 km (143 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: 3 hours by car to Mauban, followed by a 45-minute boat ride
⏳ Best Time to Visit: December to May
On Cagbalete Island, you aren’t limited to relaxing on the sand – instead, get involved with some of the unique activities available around the beach! From horseback riding along the shores to cruising along the Mangrove River and swimming in Hagdan-Hagdan Falls, there is something for every budget and preference on this magical isle.
🏨Accommodation: Both luxury and budget-friendly resorts are available. Camping is also an option for the more adventurous.
📝 Note: Due to its growing popularity, it's advisable to book accommodations in advance.
In years past you may have struggled to find accommodation on Cagbalete – however, due to the popularity, many luxury and budget resorts are now located along the shores. If you don’t feel like staying overnight, there are regular charters from the Port of Manila – it will take around 3 hours to get there, so we recommend finding a bed for the night!
Subic, Zambales
📍Distance from Manila: Approximately 130 km (81 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: Around 2 to 3 hours by car
⏳ Best Time to Visit: November to April
For the keen scuba divers, Subic is known for being one of the best locations for wreck diving in the Philippines. Due to the extensive coral reefs, many clipper ships from as far back as the 1700s have wrecked themselves near the shore and provide ample opportunity for underwater explorers to dive the remnants. However, if you don’t feel like heading beneath the surface, the shallow reefs and abundant marine life make for a perfect afternoon of snorkelling and discovery.
🏨 Accommodation: A range of options is available, from five-star resorts to basic accommodations.
🌊 Activities: Diving enthusiasts will find numerous dive shops offering equipment and guided tours.
Many visitors will be looking for a beach resort near Manila in order to justify the trip out to Subic - you can take your pick from five-star luxury through to basic comfort accommodation options in this quaint beachside location.
Anilao, Batangas
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 120 km (75 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours by car
⏳ Best Time to Visit: November to May
Like Subic, Anilao is famous for its dive sites, and is home to world-class wrecks in Devils Point, Twin Rocks, and Secret Bay. Bring your own gear, or hire some from the many scuba schools and dive shops located on the shores of this beautiful Manila beach. For beginners, you can also take lessons from experienced instructors, or multi-day courses designed to get you comfortable with the beautiful marine wonderland.
🏨 Accommodation: Various resorts and guesthouses line the shores, catering to different budgets.
🌊 Activities: Island-hopping tours can be arranged through local operators.
If you want to get off the sand, Anilao is also close to attractions like Mount Gulugod Baboy – perfect for a half-day of hiking! Soar above the seaside and surrounding jungle for panoramic views over the area. Visitors wanting to get on the water instead of in it can choose to do an island-hopping tour for a day, with guides taking you to some of the most well-kept secret spots in the Philippines.
White Beach, Puerto Galera
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 130 km (81 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: 2 to 3 hours by car to Batangas Port, then a 1-hour ferry ride
⏳ Best Time to Visit: November to May
White Beach is widely considered to be the jewel of Puerto Galera, and is famed not only for its natural beauty but its vibrant nightlife. Lined with bars and beach resorts, White Beach is constantly heaving with families, groups of friends, and partygoers looking to have a good time. No matter what time of year you visit, there is bound to be an event or festival spilling onto the shores.
If partying isn’t your vibe, there are fantastic options for adrenaline junkies to get their fill. Try parasailing in the rushing morning winds, or rent a jet ski for an afternoon of fast-paced racing against your friends.
While you can visit White Beach as a day trip, we predict that you’ll take one look and want to extend your stay! Resorts here fill up quickly, so make sure to plan ahead and book appropriately.
Burot Beach, Batangas
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 120 km (75 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: Around 3 hours by car
⏳ Best Time to Visit: November to May
Burot Beach is a secluded spot known for its tranquil environment and clear waters. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.
🏨 Accommodation: Camping is popular here, with basic facilities available.
🌊 Activities: Swimming, beachcombing, and stargazing are common activities.
Masasa Beach, Batangas
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 140 km (87 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: Around 4 hours by car and boat
⏳ Best Time to Visit: November to May
Masasa Beach is a hidden gem located on Tingloy Island. Its clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a favorite among snorkelers and beach enthusiasts.
🏨 Accommodation: Homestays and camping options are available for visitors.
🌊 Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, and island hopping are popular here.
Nagbalayong Beach, Bataan
📍 Distance from Manila: Approximately 150 km (93 miles)
🚗 Travel Time: Around 3 hours by car
⏳ Best Time to Visit: November to April
Nagbalayong Beach is known for its annual Pawikan Festival, celebrating marine turtle conservation. The beach's natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it an ideal spot for relaxation.
🏨 Accommodation: Beach resorts and homestays are available for visitors.
🌊 Activities: Swimming, turtle watching, and beach sports are common activities.
So there you have it – 10 of the best beaches near Manila! After the beach you can grab food at some of Manila's best restaurants or explore tourist spots and if its nighttime you could just go enjoy Manila's nightlife!
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