Puerto Galera Hotels

Want a quick beach escape? Puerto Galera, which is less than five hours away from Metro Manila, is a great option for those who want an exciting and more affordable vacation. Soak up some saltwater, see the underwater sights, and chill on the beach - this is what island living is all about.

Known as “the pearl of Mindoro,” Puerto Galera is an ideal getaway for beach bums and underwater thrill seekers. The area is famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and dive sites. Tourists frequent two locations in Puerto Galera: the diving village of Sabang and the White Beach for the nightlife. Apart from these, the province also boasts of natural and historical attractions.

 

How to Go

By land transportation

Going to Puerto Galera requires a combination of land and sea travel. If you don’t have a vehicle to take you to Batangas Port, where you will ride a ferry going to Puerto Galera, there are buses from Manila that travels to the port of Batangas. Travel time may take up to three hours.

From Batangas Port, you can choose from there different ferry trips available. Take note that Puerto Galera has four entry points, namely Sabang Pier, Muelle Pier, Balatero Pier, and White Beach - so it’s best to double-check your itinerary as to where you will be staying to determine your entry point. In case you pick the wrong entry point, tricycles are waiting to take you to your chosen resort in Puerto Galera.

 

Getting Around

Puerto Galera’s main mode of transportation is public utility vehicles. One of the most prominent is jeepneys which ply Puerto Galera’s roads. In addition, tricycles are another popular form of transport. Drivers are willing to travel long distances and can be hired on an hourly basis. To see Puerto Galera’s other beaches, travelers may also opt to arrange a charter boat.

 

Tourist Attractions

Puerto Galera isn’t just all about beaches, but also historical and cultural landmark. History buffs will enjoy learning more about the province’s culture at the Baclaran Mangyan Settlement and its history at the Excavation Museum, which houses a collection of Siamese pottery which dates back to the 15th and 19th century.

For those who prefer the beach life, Puerto Galera’s famous White Beach should be your destination. Its sand is similar to Boracay, making it ideal for swimming. The peak season begins in March and lasts until May. Moreover, the beach is also a popular spot for concerts and festivals. Another alternative to White Beach is Sabang Beach, where tourists can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving activities.

Outdoor thrill-seekers, on the other hand, will enjoy exploring Puerto Galera’s Tamaraw Falls, a 423-foot waterfall located by the roadside. Meanwhile, those who love taking a hike will be glad to know that Puerto Galera is also home to the “Mountain Trail” or Tabinay-Talipanan Trail, which is a great introduction to the other mountains of Mindoro.

 

Top Things to Do

Puerto Galera is home to 32 beaches, making it an ideal location for activities such as island hopping, snorkeling or diving. Meanwhile, those who want a more secluded and relaxed environment can opt for Talipanan Beach and Punta Guarda Beach.

It is also an excellent choice for scuba diving activities since the province is a protected marine sanctuary. There are about 35 dive shops in the province and is just a 10-minute boat ride from Sabang Beach. The best dive spots to view coral and marine life are between 20 meters to 60 feet.

Apart from the abundance of natural wonders, Puerto Galera is also home to Ponderosa Golf Club. It is a 9-hole, par 3 golf course sitting on an elevation of 2,000 meters above sea level. Golfers will be challenged with its terrain of jungle pushing on all sides, together with a sweeping panoramic view of Puerto Galera. If golf isn’t your cup of tea, you can also try a three-day yachting course at Puerto Galera Yacht Club. It offers basic, intermediate, and advanced sailing courses.

 

Where to Eat

Because Puerto Galera is a resort town, there are plenty of dining options for hungry travelers after a day of taking in the sights. Restaurants often range from serving international fare to Filipino favorites as the province attracts a lot of tourists.

Craving for juicy and yummy meet? Papa Fred’s Beach Steakhouse Beach Resort’s famous beef steaks will make your mouth water and your tummy happy. The Verandah’s Australian wagyu steak is also a must-try. For a more laid-back outdoor dining and budget food, the Bikinifloating Bar or Relax Thai Restaurant is your destination.

 

Nightlife

Nightlife options do not fall short in Puerto Galera. As the sun sets, the partying begins. Sabang Beach is a haven for watering holes, discos, and various entertainment options.

The popular Mindoro Sling drink was created in White Beach, so travelers planning a visit here should not miss ordering a glass or two of the drink. However, families traveling to the province should note that nightlife on Sabang beach is not kid-friendly.

 

Where to Stay

Puerto Galera offers a variety of accommodations ranging from upscale to budget-friendly. When planning your trip, take weather into consideration, most especially during the rainy season from July to November. If you want to stay at a hotel in Puerto Galera, consider booking a night (or two!) at Buri Island Resort and Spa. It is the province’s only 4-star boutique spa resort   

 

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