Masasa Beach is a hidden gem located in the province of Tingloy, Batangas, Philippines. It is a secluded, pristine beach that is known for its crystal clear waters, white sandy shores, and breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving as it is home to a diverse array of marine life.
How to Get to Masasa Beach
The beach can only be accessed by boat, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more secluded and peaceful vacation. The boat ride to the beach takes about 30 minutes from the town of Tingloy and is a beautiful journey through the crystal clear waters of the Verde Island Passage. The boats are operated by local fishermen who know the area well and are happy to take visitors to the beach.
To get to Masasa Beach, you will first need to make your way to the island of Tingloy. The easiest way to do this is by taking a ferry from the port of Batangas City. The ferry ride takes approximately 2 hours and departs regularly throughout the day. Once you arrive on Tingloy, you will need to take a tricycle to the jump-off point for Masasa Beach. The tricycle ride should take about 20-30 minutes.
Alternatively, you can also take a boat from Anilao, Mabini, Batangas to Tingloy. The boat ride takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the boat and the sea conditions. However, this option is only available during the summer season when the sea is calm and the waves are low.
Once you reach the jump-off point, you will need to hike for about 30 minutes to reach the beach. The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, but it can be steep in some areas. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks with you.
If you are planning to stay overnight, there are a few homestays and resorts located near the beach. These accommodations are basic but offer comfortable accommodation and great views of the beach. It is recommended to book in advance, as the beach can get quite busy during peak season.
Upon arriving at Masasa Beach, visitors are greeted with the sight of crystal clear waters and white sandy shores. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills and is a perfect spot for relaxing and soaking up the sun. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The beach is also home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs.
Where to Stay
Masasa Beach has a variety of accommodation options available, including resorts, hotels, and beach cottages. Some popular options include:
- Masasa Beach Resort – This resort features beachfront cottages with private balconies and sea views. Amenities include a restaurant, swimming pool, and water sports equipment rental.
- Aninuan Beach Resort – This resort offers a variety of room options, including beachfront cottages and bungalows. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.
- Tamaoyan Beach Resort – This resort features beachfront cottages with private balconies, as well as rooms in the main building. Amenities include a restaurant, bar, and water sports equipment rental.
- Masasa Beach Cottages – This is a group of simple and affordable cottages, each with its own veranda and sea view, perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.
- Masasa Sea View Inn – This budget-friendly inn offers simple, clean rooms with sea views. Amenities include a restaurant and bar.
How to Get Around on Masasa Beach
When it comes to traveling on the island of Tingloy, the best way to get around is by tricycle. Tricycles are readily available and can take you to most places on the island. They are also relatively inexpensive, with fares ranging from PHP 10-30 depending on the distance.
Another option for transportation is to rent a motorbike or scooter. This is a great option if you are planning to explore the island and visit other beaches. However, it is important to note that the roads on the island can be quite rough and steep in some areas, so it is important to have a valid driver’s license and to be comfortable riding on rough roads.
Things to Do
The beach is also a great spot for those who enjoy hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. The hills surrounding the beach are home to a variety of plant and animal life, and there are several hiking trails that lead to the top of the hills, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding islands.
One of the most popular activities at Masasa Beach is snorkeling and diving. The crystal clear waters and diverse marine life make it a perfect spot for these activities. There are several local operators who provide snorkeling and diving equipment and guide visitors through the best spots to see the marine life. The coral reefs around the beach are home to a wide variety of fish and other marine life, making it a perfect spot for those who are interested in marine biology.
For those who are looking for a more active vacation, there are several other activities available at Masasa Beach. Visitors can go kayaking, paddleboarding, or even try their hand at fishing. The local fishermen are always happy to teach visitors how to fish and will even take them out on their boats to try their luck.
What to Eat on Masasa Beach
The beach is also home to several local restaurants and bars where visitors can enjoy delicious seafood and tropical drinks. The local cuisine is a blend of Filipino and Spanish flavors and is known for its fresh seafood and delicious grilled meats. Visitors can also enjoy the local music and dance performances, which are a regular feature at the beach.
Filipino cuisine is a unique blend of indigenous, Malay, Chinese, and Spanish influences. There’s plenty of this as Masasa Beach. Some popular dishes include:
- Adobo: a dish made with meat (usually chicken or pork) that is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and black pepper, then cooked until tender.
- Sinigang: a sour soup made with tamarind, vegetables (such as tomatoes, onions, and okra), and meat (usually pork or fish).
- Lechon: a whole roasted pig that is a popular dish at parties and celebrations.
- Kare-kare: a stew made with oxtail and vegetables, and flavored with peanut sauce.
- Lumpia: a type of spring roll filled with meat (usually pork or shrimp) and vegetables.
- Halo-halo: a dessert made with shaved ice, evaporated milk, and a variety of ingredients such as sweet beans, fruit, and jelly.
At the beach, seafood is a popular choice. Some seafood dishes you will find are:
- Kinilaw: a dish similar to ceviche, made with raw fish marinated in vinegar, ginger, and chili peppers.
- Tuna: grilled or fried tuna is a popular dish at the beach.
- Grilled Squid: often seasoned with soy sauce, calamansi, and chili pepper and often served with rice
As always, it is recommended to try the local delicacies, ask locals or visit local restaurants for the best experience.
Overall, Masasa Beach is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to escape the crowds and enjoy a secluded and peaceful vacation. The crystal clear waters, white sandy shores, and diverse marine life make it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
The surrounding hills offer visitors the opportunity to hike and explore the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an active one, Masasa Beach has something for everyone.
