The Island Explorer

One may go to Baler for one reason only. That is to surf. Baler is an emerging surfing destination, following the footsteps of San Fernando in La Union, Daet in Camarines Norte and of course, Siargao. Being closer to Manila, Baler is indeed a growing mecca for surfers old and new.

Whenever people ask me where the best place is nearby Manila, I always mention Baler. It may not be appealing to some, but I have found my place in this secluded town eastern seaboard of Luzon. But Baler is not all about Sabang Beach and surfing. Many find new places to explore, such as mountain and waterfall hikes. Here we explore the most famous waterfall in town, Ditumabo.

Before we begin, I just want to say that I have been to Baler 4 times already this year, since I wrote that first post. I have become so attached to it, that I make it a point to visit the town every month. And during my first time this year, I stayed in Bay's Inn, which I said was laid back and all, but their accommodations are very basic and worn already. 

My next series will focus on a destination that is probably not familiar with everyone except for one thing it is known for - surfing. Yes, let me take you to my new fave destination, Baler, which is roughly 4 to 5 hours drive from Manila.

Since we were technically in Aurora for work, we only spent a night here. So the most I could savor was the beach of Baler. We arrived on a strip by the coast that had very few resorts/hotels. One of them was a new one, called Bahia de Baler. It didn't have a beach front though. We were brought to Bay's Inn. I thought the name of the place was Basin when it was mentioned to me. It was the most popular resort here. I was told there was a resort on top of a cliff at the edge of the bay. Bay's Inn was a quaint beach resort, something you would expect in Aurora. The rooms were old but decent. There were better, newer rooms at the building where the reception area is. We opted to stay nearest to the beach. It had a pleasant terrace where I spent some hours working while hearing the loud yet soothing crashes of waves on the shore. Baler Bay was actually a long stretch, so long I was so tempted to walk or jog back and forth. But since I had no time, I just walked on the beach in f...