A destination filled with history, breathtaking views, and tranquil beaches
A living monument of valor, gallantry, and heroism. This is how the Department of Tourism (DOT) describes the province of Bataan. Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive away from Manila via North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), this province is popular since it is home to significant historical moments.
No Bataan journey is complete without visiting Mt. Samat, where you can find the 92-meter high memorial cross also known as “Dambana ng Kagitingan” or Shrine of Valor, built to honor the fallen Filipino and American soldiers during World War II. But more than just a historical place, Bataan has a lot more to offer. Here are five must-visit places after you’ve learned your history in Mt. Samat.
- La Jolla Luxury Beach Resort
Every unforgettable trip begins with a good accommodation. One of the best places to stay in Bataan is the La Jolla Luxury Resort. Located in Bagac, Bataan this resort is boasting for its wide beach area filled with fine sand. Its coastline stretches to 300 meters long, surrounded by trees, and caressed by the tranquil waters of the West Philippine Sea.
- Laki Beach
For those who love island life and are escaping to the cell phone and internet signals of the real world, this place is for you. Some said that Laki Beach is one of the finest beaches that is near Metro Manila through land travel. But before you get there, you need to rent a boat. This beach area is home to spectacular rock formations, enchanting lagoons, and crystal-clear waters. But don’t forget that this area has no internet nor cellular signal connection.
- Five fingers
Via the same boat that brought you to Laki Beach, adrenaline junkies and “Game of Thrones” fans will love Five Fingers. From the name itself, this place looks like five fingers when viewed in aerial shots. Here, people who love extreme sports can do cliff diving up to 40 feet high and swim to their heart’s content. Getting on the top of the cliff is truly rewarding because of the majestic views of greeneries and rock formations that are made from limestone. GOT fans can see themselves in Westeros when standing here.
- KDR Adventure Camp
For those who love exclusivity, this one's for you. Located in Orani, Bataan KDR Adventure Camp is a membership-based establishment. Members can enjoy exclusive access to a few hectares of land that is a hidden paradise. Outdoor lovers can enjoy ATV and trail biking activities that run across a natural river. There are also several unique accommodations to stay in such as tree house, glamping, and air conditioned-bahay kubo.
KDR also has a space open to the public where visitors can enjoy a good cup of coffee and food at the Instagrammable inhouse coffee shop, Daniel’s. There are also some activity areas where they can do on-track ATV, biking, buggy, or a simple walking while enjoying the nature and fresh air.
- Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
Located in Bagac, Las Casas is a beach resort, convention center, and heritage destination in one. This place is like a museum of heritage houses that have been salvaged from total ruins by a team of local artisans and craftsmen from Bagac, Bataan. Currently, Las Casas is a home to 63 heritage houses and some of it are open to the public for accommodation.
Under the NLEX’s Lakbay Norte program, these tourist spots are being promoted to help the local tourism industry to bounce back. Make sure to visit these places in your next adventure getaway. Enjoy Bataan!