Our favourite places to stay on this sleepy Cebu island.
Start your journey from Manila by boarding a bus to Iba or Santa Cruz, Zambales. Get off at San Antonio Public Market. From there, take a short tricycle ride to Pundaquit, where boats to the coves are docked. A 30 to 45 minute boat ride will take you straight to Nagsasa Cove. The ride itself is already a treat with views of the coastline and other hidden beaches along the way.
Tip: Travel early in the morning to enjoy calmer seas and cooler weather.
Also read: Balabac Island Travel Guide: Palawan’s Best-Kept Secret
Image credit: Tourists Destinations in the Philippines | official FB page
Nagsasa is all about the slow and simple kind of travel. If you are looking for loud parties or shopping strips, this is not it. But if you want something raw and refreshing, you will love these:
Take a swim in its clear, shallow waters
Camp on the beach and wake up to the sound of waves
Hike up the nearby hills for a panoramic view of the cove
Watch the sunset with no one blocking your view
Enjoy a bonfire and a sky full of stars at night
There is no mobile signal here, so it is the perfect excuse to unplug. Bring a book, take a nap on the sand, or simply enjoy doing nothing for a change.
Image credit: Tourists Destinations in the Philippines | official FB page
There are no shops in Nagsasa Cove, so you need to bring your own supplies. Essentials include:
Food and drinking water
Camping gear or a tent (you can also ask boatmen if they offer rentals)
Power banks and flashlights
Rubbish bags so you can leave no trace
Respect the environment and help keep the beach clean. Locals work hard to protect the area for future travellers.
Image credit: Tourists Destinations in the Philippines | official FB page
Most visitors camp on the beach, which is part of the experience. But if you prefer a proper bed, you can stay in San Antonio or nearby towns and arrange a boat day trip to Nagsasa. Some boat operators also offer overnight packages with tents and food included.
Also read: 7 Reasons to Visit Batanes at Least Once in Your Life
Image credit: Tourists Destinations in the Philippines | official FB page
Nagsasa Cove is the kind of place that stays with you. It is peaceful, beautiful, and unbothered by crowds. Whether you are planning a solo escape, a quiet barkada trip, or a nature-filled weekend, this hidden cove in Zambales is well worth the journey.
So when was the last time you truly switched off? Nagsasa Cove might be the perfect place to start again.
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