Bataan is an accessible and popular destination. Visitors can easily reach this province from Manila by either public or private transportation. Buses from Cubao to Mariveles or Balanga cost up to around P200 or more one way, depending on where you’re going in the province and if you’ll need transfers. You have the option to take the ferry and substantially reduce travel time to less than an hour. The port where the ferries depart is in Pasay, the fare is P450 if you book online and P799 if you walked in. Bataan’s popularity isn’t just because of its accessibility, but also because it has historical, cultural and natural attractions.
If you’re planning to visit soon, here are things to do and attractions to include in your itinerary.
WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?
Las Casas
Enter a wormhole that takes you back in time with a visit to Las Casas. This complex is home to many traditional homes, old-style churches, and colonial epoch structures. Its cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages will elicit a sense of nostalgia from visitors. You can go as a day trip or spend a night or so in one of the houses turned into hotels. Take a stroll on the beach after walking around or go on a boat tour. Las Casas is also a popular photoshoot destination for weddings and pre-nups. A heritage tour costs P1850 during weekdays and P2500 during weekends.
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Mount Samat
Mount Samat is where you’ll find the Dambana ng Kagitingan โ a landmark that honors the fallen American and Filipino soldiers that fought Japan during World War II. On your way up to the towering cross, you’ll see beautiful views of Bataan and the surroundings. Drop by the World War II Museum to learn about the province’s place in history.
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Pawikan Conservation Center
This center does its part in conserving the sea turtle species that live in the area. Poachers turned conservationists patrol the beach to protect the turtles that lay their eggs on the shore. After the animals lay their eggs, the workers and volunteers move the eggs to the Center until they are ready to hatch. You can join the baby turtles’ releasing into the sea during the right season. You may call Mr. Manolo Ibias, leader of the Bantay Pawikan, at +63 921 630 2842 for inquiries.
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Hike Tarak Ridge
Naturelovers can enjoy the great outdoors by going on a day trip to Tarak Ridge. This mountain makes you break a sweat to and earn a glimpse of its stunning views. Tarak is part of Mt. Mariveles, and you can follow other trails for a more challenging and longer hike. The ridge has a raw but beautiful, picturesque appearance. You have the option to go to the peak or call it a day after the ridge. Thereโs a campsite in the Papaya River or along the ridge if you plan to spend the night. To reach the jump-off point, board a bus bound for Mariveles and alight at Barangay Alas-asin, fare is approximately P280.
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Morong
If you’re looking for a quick beach getaway, Morong is the place to go. The cream-colored shore and turquoise waters make for an ideal, relaxing vacation. Go swimming, play volleyball or Frisbee, sunbathe, do water sports or just chill during your stay. Morong is home to many beachfront resorts for different budgets.
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Sisiman Bay
This beautiful destination in Bataan has a pebble beach, gorgeous sunset, and fetching picturesque landscapes. Its spectacular cliffs and views of the sea provide you with plenty of photo opportunities. Go on a short walk up to San Miguel Peak for more stunning views of the province. Wait until the blue hour to catch the skies turn into a haze of orange and red before getting dark. Get on a bus bound for Mariveles, and upon reaching the town, hire a tricycle to take you to Sisiman.
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Five Fingers
This beach and cove destination got its moniker โ you guessed it โ because of the finger-like shape it takes. Here you’ll see stunning coves, cliffs and sea views along with beaches that have turquoise waters. The highlights of your trip include the coves and caves of Talain, Pulong Kawayan and Apatot, Laki Beach, Nagbintana Arc, and the cliff diving spot of Tinanlakan. Apatot has a gray sand shore and a beautiful landscape. Laki’s cream-tinged beach makes for an idyllic and relaxing backdrop. Satisfy your thrill-seeking self by jumping off a cliff at Tinanlakan.
There are many tour operators offering day trip packages from Manila. However, DIY is possible. Board a bus bound for Mariveles, the fare is around P280. Once there, hire a tricycle to Porto for P75. At the port, you can hire a boat with boatman/guide for P2500 day trip; P3500 if you want to spend the night.
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Where to Stay in Bataan
You’ll have several options across the budget spectrum for accommodations in Bataan but will also depend on what you want to see and do. If you want to be near the beach, Bagac and Morong are ideal places to spend a couple of nights in. You’ll find beachfront resorts here.
If you want to stay somewhere in town or the city, Balanga and Mariveles are possible choices. There are possible accommodations near the center, convenience stores, attractions, and restaurants.
If you are planning an overnight stay in Bataan, here are some of the best hotels according to Agoda users, in no particular order.
- Vista Venice Resort. โ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar Hotel. โ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- La Vista Inland Resort. โ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Phi-phi Beach Hotel & Island Resort. โ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
For more options, search here: Bataan Hotels
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