(photo via Instagram, @zenmenow)
Sabang Beach is a two-kilometer stretch of gray sand famous among surfers. Known by some as the birthplace of surfing in the Philippines, the waters of this sprawling shore provide frequent waves that make it one of the best surfing spots in the country. Sabang Beach provides different surf spots depending on the surfer’s experience level.
(photo via Shutterstock, @Kristian Maglalang)
Privately owned by the Angara family, Dicasalarin Cove is like a scene off some Hollywood movie. The place is breathtaking! The white sand beach is highlighted by the rock formations, while the clear blue waters reflect the majestic mountains and hilltops that surround the Dicasalarin Cove.
(photo via Shutterstock, @soft_light)
Baler is best known for its water sports. So aside from surfing, you should try Snorkeling as well! There are several snorkeling spots in Baler you should dive into, especially south of Baler. One of the best snorkeling sites would Dicasalarin Bay, with its reef untouched by fishing. You’ll find colorful corals and undersea creatures near the shore reef! Other Baler snorkeling spots include Cemento Beach, Diguisit Beach, Lukso Lukso Islets and Anlao Islets.
(photo via Shutterstock, @Shanti Hesse)
Created for the locals of Sitio Zabali, the Baler Hanging Bridge was not meant to be a tourist spot. However, because of its uniqueness, it has been frequented by guests over the years. It is made with steel cables, ropes, and wooden planks and is not for the faint of heart. The overpass runs atop the Tibag-Sabang River -- and while the view is stunning, the height may be a challenge for some. Still, crossing the Baler Hanging Bridge should be one of the things to do in Baler.
Ditumabo Falls is the biggest waterfall in Baler. It has a drop of 140 ft and cool blue waters. While the rocks are a bit slippery, this doesn’t stop guests from diving off the cliffs into the waters. Completing the adventure is a 30-minute trek to the spot.
(photo via Flickr, @Shubert Ciencia)
Not known to some, Baler is a historical municipality in the heart of the Aurora province. And while there are enough recreational activities to sink your teeth into, looking back at its rich heritage is one of the best things to do in Baler. No better place to do this than in Museo de Baler. Established in 2002, the museum showcases the over 400-year history of the area. It also houses historical artifacts dating back to the Spanish era, a look at the Siege of Baler as well as art pieces dedicated to the site.
(photo via Commons, @Ramon FVelasquez)
Dona Aurora Quezon has been a pillar of the province which was named after her. The wife of President Manuel L. Quezon has been revered by locals for her humanitarian efforts, being the first chairman of Philippine Red Cross among her other projects and volunteer work. During her reign as First Lady, she helped establish learning centers, churches and helped re-establish the Church of Baler which was left in ruins by war.
Climbing up the Ermita Hill should be on your things to do in Baler list! The two-hectare expanse provides a scenic view of the Pacific Ocean, the town of Poblacion and Casiguran Bay, while the well-maintained grass serves as a perfect picnic spot. Aside from its beauty, Ermita Hill is a historical landmark for the municipality of Baler. During a great tsunami in 1735, the hill served as refuge for survivors as most of Baler was washed out. During the Spanish era, a watchtower was built atop the hill to see oncoming attackers.
(photo via Shutterstock, @Kim David)
About a 30-minute drive from Baler‘s town proper is Balete Park which is best known for the Millennium Tree. A 600-year old Balete Tree with a height of 213 feet, it has a crown diameter of 197 feet, requiring over 60 grown men to circle its trunk. It is the biggest Balete Tree in Asia and has been one of the most visited tourist sites in the province.
(photo via Commons, @Ramon FVelasquez)
If visiting San Luis Obispo de Tolosa Parish is not in your list of things to do in Baler, then what is? The Catholic church built in the 18th century is the most historic and iconic landmark in the town. It is the site of the Siege of Baler wherein 50 Spanish soldiers and four officers took refuge in the church, declining to surrender to the American army even after the proclamation of Philippine independence 15 days prior. They stayed in the church for over a year, refusing to believe that the Spanish army has already surrendered to the Americans. In 1899, the soldiers raised their white flags and were permitted to return to Spain.
Where can you find a multi-level waterfall right beside a highway? Well, in Baler you can. A must on your things to do in Baler list, the Diguisit Falls is just a few steps away from the Baler highway and is a stunning three-level cascading falls. To reach the second and third levels of the waterfall a short trek through the muddy and slippery boulders is needed, but it’s all worth it. A pool in the third level allows guests to swim the fresh cool waters. Those who’d prefer to skip the trek can enjoy the waters in the first level.
(photo via Commons, @Ramon FVelasquez)
Among the must try things to do in Baler is scuba diving! While the town may be best known for its surfing spots, but during summer time, it also offers great diving sites. What’s great about Aurora is there are still untapped and yet to be discovered diving areas in the province. For experienced divers, they might just be the first to find untouched reefs further in the province’s coast.
(photo via Facebook, @BalerSurferGrill)
Immerse yourself in true Baler-experience at Baler Surfer Grill. Merging the three best things about the town -- Surfing, Beach, and Food -- the restaurant overlooking Sabang Beach has already become one of the top Baler tourist spots with locals and tourists lining up to dig in. Not to mention, the food is delish but dirt cheap. Surf, Eat and Enjoy!
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