Friday, April 7, 2017

Beautiful Baler and Dicasalarin Cove

Baler is a small sleepy town on the Northeastern side of Luzon. Since it directly faces the Pacific Ocean, it has consistent waves mostly year round thus Baler is known for surfing. Sabang beach is where most of the action is - beginners learn how to surf here, there are several resorts and restaurants, and people go walking along the beach and boardwalk.

The Boardwalk at Sabang Beach


Catch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean! Several people are already at the beach at the start of the day. Alot go walking on the beach, some jog, bike or walk their dog.
 The Beach Life - laid back vibe at Sabang beach


But Baler isn't just for surfers as there are several points of interest where one can go. One of these is Dicasalarin Cove. This gem of a place is worth the 30-minute drive from Baler town. Stop at the PAGASA Weather Station on top of the hill for spectacular views of Dicasalarin Cove! This is a good spot to bring out the camera and take photos.
Amazing view of Dicasalarin Cove


There is an entrance fee to enter Dicasalarin Cove as this is privately owned. You can bring your own food and have a picnic at the tree shaded picnic ground areas.  You can also buy food and drinks there but the choices are very limited. A few meters away is the beach! This is really the highlight of the place as it is a secluded cove with clear clean waters and white sand.

Secluded white sand beach and clear blue waters at Dicasalarin Cove


We enjoyed swimming in the cool waters that was refreshing from the hot sun and humid weather. Be wary though because there is no lifeguard.  At the far right end is a lighthouse.  You will need to climb several steps to get there although our group didn't go that far.

Museo de Baler


There are more places to see and visit in Baler but we didn't have time anymore. There's Ditumabo Waterfalls, the 600 year old Balete Tree, Ermita Hill and more! Fortunately we were able to visit Museo de Baler and the historical Baler Church where the Siege of Baler took place.

I love the laid back vibe of Baler and it is a beautiful place that I will keep coming back to.


How to get to Baler:

From Manila, it is about 230 kilometers or roughly 5-6 hours by private car via North Luzon Expressway and SCTEX.  You can also take the bus by Genesis Transport. They have direct trips to Baler and even have a Deluxe bus called Joy Bus with Lazy Boy seats, free snacks and lavatory on board.  Travel time is about 5-6 hours.