Beaches Near Manila For A Weekend Of Sun, Sand, And Surf

Explore stunning beaches near Manila offering beauty, charm, and relaxation.

Looking for a sandy vacation in the Philippines? Here are the top beaches near Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. Manila is the second most populated city in the country. While known as the trade and finance centre of the country, Manila is also a great place to visit for a beach excursion. These beaches are the gift of nature to mankind that will leave you awestruck by their beauty and charm. So, without further ado, let’s explore the best beaches near Manila.

Top 10 Beaches Near Manila

Here are the 10 best beaches near Manila that you must visit. Whether you’re visiting for adventure or relaxation, these beaches have it all!

1. Laiya Beach, Batangas

Laiya Beach is among the best beaches near Manila offering soft sand and clear waters.

Photo: Teamjonalynviray / Wikimedia Commons

If you are looking for a picturesque beach that offers some very thrilling water activities, may I suggest you visit Laiya Beach in Batangas? The beach is famous for its white sand that shines beautifully in the sunlight. It is also famous for its rich marine life that is found in the clear blue water. At Laiya Beach, you can take part in various activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, and snorkelling.

Distance From Manila: 140 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: Take a bus or van to San Juan, Batangas, or drive privately via SLEX and STAR Tollway

2. Nagsasa Cove

Nagsasa Cove with pristine beaches near Manila and crystal-clear blue waters.

Photo: Ronronpalma / Wikimedia Commons

Nagsasa Cove is a secluded beach near Manila, known for its pristine shoreline, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking mountain backdrop. The cove was formed from the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991, depositing ash and minerals that created its unique greyish sand. The Nagasasa Cove offers camping, trekking, and stargazing opportunities to its visitors, making it a favourite for nature lovers and adventurers.

Distance From Manila: 156 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: Take a bus to San Antonio, Zambales, then a tricycle to Pundaquit Beach, and rent a boat for a 1–1.5-hour ride to the cove

3. Pundaquit Beach

 Pundaquit Beach is among the beaches near Manila for boat trips and water sports adventures.

Photo: Ramon FVelasquez / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Pundaquit Beach is a serene coastal destination. Known for its fine grey sand and clear blue waters, it serves as a popular jump-off point for island-hopping tours to Anawangin Cove, Nagsasa Cove, and Capones Island. Scenic mountains surround the beach, offering a picturesque view and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, surfing, and camping. It’s easily accessible from Manila, making it a great weekend getaway for beach lovers and adventure seekers.

Distance From Manila: 167 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: To reach Pundaquit Beach from Manila, take a bus to San Antonio, and Zambales, or drive privately via NLEX and SCTEX for approximately 4–5 hours

4. Anilao Beach

Anilao is among the greatest beaches near Manila, known for vibrant marine life.

Photo: Ramon FVelasquez / Wikimedia Commons

Anilao Beach is a popular destination known for its clear waters, diverse marine life, and excellent diving spots. It is often considered the birthplace of scuba diving in the Philippines, attracting divers and snorkelers with its vibrant coral reefs and rich biodiversity. This white sand beach near Manila is also ideal for kayaking, island hopping, and underwater photography. Just a few hours from Manila, Anilao is a convenient getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a serene coastal escape.

Distance From Manila: 125 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: Drive south via SLEX and STAR Tollway to Batangas City, then follow signs to Mabini (Anilao), or take a bus to Batangas City and a jeepney or tricycle to Anilao Beach

5. White Beach

White beach in Manila is popular as the powdery sand beach, perfect for sunbathing.

Photo: Eugene Alvin Villar / Wikimedia Commons

White Beach in Puerto Galera is a popular tropical destination in the Philippines known for its powdery white sand, vibrant nightlife, and crystal-clear waters. It offers activities such as snorkelling, jet skiing, and banana boat rides, making it ideal for adventure seekers. The beach is also famous for its lively bars and restaurants, perfect for socialising. With stunning sunsets and a relaxed atmosphere, White Beach is a must-visit for beach lovers.

Distance From Manila: 148 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: To reach White Beach in Puerto Galera from Manila, take a bus or drive to Batangas Pier, then ride a ferry to Puerto Galera, and take a tricycle or walk to White Beach

6. Talisayin Cove Beach

Talisayin Cove Beach is one of the beaches near Manila with serene waters.

Photo: Ramon FVelasquez / Wikimedia Commons

Talisayin Cove Beach, located in Zambales, Philippines, is a hidden paradise known for its serene atmosphere, soft greyish sand, and crystal-clear waters. Unlike its more popular neighbours, Anawangin and Nagsasa Coves, Talisayin offers a quieter escape with stunning mountain backdrops and pine-like Agoho trees. It’s an ideal spot for camping, swimming, and stargazing, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers seeking peace and solitude.

Distance From Manila: 190 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: To reach Talisayin Cove Beach from Manila, take a bus to San Antonio, Zambales, and rent a boat for a 30–45-minute ride to the cove, or drive privately and rent a boat from Pundaquit

7. Halfmoon Beach

Halfmoon Beach, a secluded beach with calm waters and stunning natural magnificence.

Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons

Halfmoon Beach, located in Batangas, Philippines, is a serene and picturesque spot known for its crescent-shaped shoreline. The beach offers a calm, turquoise sea, ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. Its uniqueness lies in its peaceful, less crowded environment compared to other best beaches, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway. The surrounding greenery enhances its natural beauty, offering a tranquil retreat for nature lovers.

Distance From Manila: 158 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: To reach Halfmoon Beach from Manila, take a bus to San Antonio, Zambales, and rent a boat to Halfmoon Beach, or drive privately and rent a boat from Pundaquit

8. Masasa Beach

Masasa Beach is a peaceful beach with crystal-clear waters and scenic mountain views.

Photo: Joshmagtunao / Wikimedia Commons

Masasa Beach, located in Tingloy, Batangas, is a serene getaway known for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and calm environment. It’s a peaceful alternative to crowded beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach’s uniqueness lies in its remote location, accessible only by boat, offering a tranquil escape amidst green landscapes. The area is also ideal for snorkelling and appreciating vibrant marine life.

Distance From Manila: 139 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: To reach Masasa Beach from Manila, take a bus to Batangas City, then a jeepney or van to Anilao, followed by a boat to Tingloy, and finally a tricycle or hike to Masasa Beach

9. Burot Beach

A glimpse of Burot Beach, an undisturbed beach with soft sands and a peaceful atmosphere.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Burot Beach, located in Batangas, Philippines, is a serene getaway known for its stunning coastal beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This secluded beach features powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. What makes it unique is its unspoiled charm, perfect for picnics and strolls. Visitors enjoy its calm, relaxed vibe, away from the crowds, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking peace.

Distance From Manila: 139 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: To reach Burot Beach from Manila, take a bus to Calatagan, Batangas, then hire a tricycle to the beach, or drive privately via SLEX and STAR Tollway for approximately 3 – 4 hours

10. Nagbalayong Beach

Nagbalayong Beach is a calm, hidden beach offering a tranquil escape and magnificence.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Nagbalayong Beach, located in Morong, Bataan, Philippines, is a serene and less crowded destination. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and clear waters, it’s ideal for swimming, picnics, and beach sports. The beach is unique for its unspoiled natural beauty, with surrounding hills providing a scenic backdrop. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil escape from the busy city life, making it perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Distance From Manila: 186 km
Best Time To Visit: November to May
How To Reach: To reach Nagbalayong Beach from Manila, take a bus to Morong, Bataan, then hire a tricycle to the beach, or drive privately via NLEX and SCTEX.

When planning your next beach getaway near Manila, these top 10 beaches near Manila offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for relaxation, adventure, or exploring hidden gems. From the pristine sands of Batangas to the serene shores of Bataan, there’s no shortage of stunning locations to unwind. Plan a trip with TripXL for a smooth and exciting beach escape!

Cover Photo: Aaron Burden / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Popular activities include swimming, snorkelling, diving, beach volleyball, water sports such as jet skiing, and exploring nearby islands.
Yes, there are several beaches near Manila, such as Calatagan and Nasugbu, where you can camp and enjoy the outdoors.
The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is dry and cooler.
Beaches in Batangas, such as Calatagan, Nasugbu, and Anilao, are perfect for quick weekend getaways due to their proximity to Manila.
Yes, Corregidor Island and the nearby islands in Batangas, such as Maricaban Island, offer island-hopping experiences.

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