Puerto Galera is a stunning destination that offers a plethora of breathtaking tourist spots to explore. Situated in Oriental Mindoro, Philippines, this coastal town boasts some of the most magnificent beaches, lush green forests, and stunning waterfalls that are sure to leave you mesmerized. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Puerto Galera tourist spots have something for everyone. From diving into the crystal-clear waters of Sabang Beach to hiking through the verdant jungles of Mount Halcon, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained.
So, let’s dive into the must-visit tourist spots in Puerto Galera and discover why it’s a true gem of the Philippines.
1. Tukuran Falls
Tukuran Falls is a popular destination, so it can get crowded during peak season. To avoid the crowds, try to visit during weekdays or early in the morning. Also, be respectful of the environment and leave no trace behind.
From Puerto Galera, head to the town of San Teodoro, where Tukuran Falls is located. You can take a tricycle or hire a private vehicle to take you there. The journey takes around 30 minutes and is quite scenic, passing through small villages and winding roads.
Once you reach the jump-off point, you’ll need to hike for around 20 minutes to get to the falls. The trail can be quite steep and rocky in some places, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.
Once you arrive at the falls, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view of a cascading waterfall surrounded by a natural pool. The water is cool and refreshing, perfect for taking a dip on a hot day. You can also climb up the rocks and jump into the pool, just be sure to do it safely.
As mentioned, wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. You can also bring snacks and a picnic blanket if you want to have a picnic by the falls. Don’t forget your swimsuit and a towel, as well as a waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry.
2. White Beach
White Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Puerto Galera, known for its stunning white sand and crystal-clear waters. If you’re looking for a vibrant and lively beach experience, then White Beach is the perfect destination for you.
White Beach is located in Puerto Galera’s Sabang area and is easily accessible from the town proper. You can take a tricycle or hire a private vehicle to take you there. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes and is quite scenic, passing through small villages and winding roads.
The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops, making it a lively and bustling destination. You can rent a beach umbrella and chairs for a fee or simply lay down a towel and soak up the sun.
Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a towel. You can also bring a change of clothes and a waterproof bag to keep your belongings dry. If you plan on doing water sports, bring a rash guard or a wetsuit. Cash is also recommended as there are no ATMs on the beach.
3. Mount Halcon
The jump-off point for Mount Halcon is located in Barangay Lantuyan, Baco, which is around 2-3 hours away from Puerto Galera. You can take a private vehicle or hire a van to take you there. It’s recommended to coordinate with local guides and the local tourism office to ensure a smooth and safe climb.
The climb to Mount Halcon’s summit usually takes around 3-4 days, depending on your pace and weather conditions. The trail can be quite challenging, with steep and rocky terrain and river crossings. You’ll need to be physically fit and mentally prepared for the climb. It’s also recommended to hire a local guide, as the trail can be quite challenging to navigate. You can also take a dip in the natural pool located near the summit, which is said to have healing properties.
Bring appropriate hiking gear, such as hiking boots, backpacks, and trekking poles. You should also bring enough food, water, and snacks to sustain you throughout the climb. Bring a waterproof jacket or raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable. Other recommended items include a headlamp, a first aid kit, and a camera.
Mount Halcon is a protected area, so be respectful of the environment and follow the Leave No Trace principles. You should also coordinate with the local tourism office and guides for safety purposes. It’s also recommended to climb during the dry season (March-May) when the weather is more favorable.
4. Ponderosa Golf Club
Ponderosa Golf Club is located in Barangay Ponderosa, around 15 minutes away from Puerto Galera town proper. You can take a tricycle or hire a private vehicle to take you there. The journey is quite scenic, passing through lush greenery and hills.
This Golf Club is a 9-hole golf course designed by Graham Marsh, an Australian golf course architect. The course is quite challenging, with undulating terrain and breathtaking views of the mountains and the sea. The course is open to both beginners and experienced golfers.
Ponderosa Golf Club has a clubhouse with amenities such as a pro shop, locker rooms, and a restaurant that serves both local and international cuisine. The clubhouse also has a function room that can accommodate up to 200 people, making it a perfect venue for events such as weddings and corporate events.
Ponderosa Golf Club is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily and on Fridays, it is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It’s recommended to book a tee time in advance, especially during peak season. The course can be quite challenging, so it’s recommended to warm up and practice at the driving range before starting your round. The course also has caddies that can assist you throughout your game.
5. Sabang Beach
Sabang Beach is a long stretch of white sand beach, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning rock formations. The water is clear and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. There are also plenty of water activities available, such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. The beach can be quite crowded during peak season, so it’s recommended to visit during weekdays or during the off-peak season.
Sabang Beach is located in Barangay Sabang, around 10-15 minutes away from Puerto Galera town proper. You can take a tricycle or hire a private vehicle to take you there. You can also take a ferry from Batangas Port to Sabang Beach, which takes around 1-2 hours depending on the weather.
Sabang Beach has plenty of facilities, such as restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. There are also plenty of resorts and hotels that offer accommodations, ranging from budget to luxury. You can also rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels from vendors on the beach.
Aside from water activities, Sabang Beach is also a great destination for hiking and exploring. You can hike to nearby waterfalls, such as Tukuran Falls and Aninuan Falls, or visit nearby islands such as Verde Island and Coral Island.
6. Tamaraw Falls
Tamaraw Falls is located in Barangay Villaflor, around 14 kilometers away from Puerto Galera town proper. You can take a tricycle or hire a private vehicle to take you there. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, passing through scenic hills and lush greenery.
Tamaraw Falls is a 20-meter-high waterfall, surrounded by lush forests and rock formations. The water is cool and refreshing, perfect for swimming and relaxing. You can also take a dip in the natural pool at the base of the falls. There are also plenty of picnic tables and huts available for rent, making it a perfect destination for a picnic or a day trip.
Aside from swimming and relaxing, Tamaraw Falls is also a great destination for hiking and exploring. You can hike to nearby waterfalls, such as Tukuran Falls and Aninuan Falls, or explore the nearby forests and hills. You can also go on a guided tour to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
7. Aplayang Munti or Pebble Beach
The easiest way to get to Aplayang Munti is to take a ferry from Batangas Port to Puerto Galera. The ferry ride takes around 1 to 2 hours depending on the type of ferry you take. From Puerto Galera, you can rent a tricycle or a boat to take you to Aplayang Munti. The ride takes around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the weather and sea conditions.
Aplayang Munti is perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and just relax by the beach. You can spend your days lounging on the beach, swimming in the crystal clear waters, or going on a nature walk in the surrounding forests. You can also rent a kayak or a paddleboard to explore the nearby coves and lagoons.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take a boat ride to the nearby islands such as Verde Island or Ilin Island, where you can go snorkeling or scuba diving to see the colorful marine life and coral reefs. You can also take a hike to the nearby Tukuran Falls, which is located just a few kilometers away from Aplayang Munti.
8. Underwater Cave
Once you arrive in Puerto Galera, rent a boat to take you to the dive site. You can find boats for rent at Sabang Beach or White Beach. The dive site is located in the western part of Puerto Galera, so the boat ride will take around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the weather and sea conditions.
When you arrive at the dive site, you will need to snorkel or scuba dive to reach the underwater cave. If you’re not a certified scuba diver, you can still snorkel and explore the area around the cave.
The underwater cave is a unique and exciting destination for those who love to explore. The cave is located underwater, and you will need to snorkel or scuba dive to reach it. The cave is about 12 meters deep and is filled with crystal-clear water. Inside the cave, you will see stunning rock formations and colorful marine life such as fish, corals, and sea turtles.
9. Aninuan Beach
From Puerto Galera, you can take a tricycle or rent a motorbike to take you to Aninuan Beach. The ride takes around 15 to 20 minutes depending on the traffic and road conditions. There are several beachfront resorts in Aninuan Beach that offer comfortable accommodations and amenities.
Some of the popular resorts in the area are White Beach Resort, Aninuan Beach Resort, and Lalaguna Beach Club and Dive Center. Aninuan Beach is a long stretch of white sand beach with crystal clear water. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and coconut trees, giving it a tropical paradise feel. You can swim, sunbathe, or just relax on the beach.
There are also a few beachfront resorts that offer various activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and island hopping. Check the weather conditions before going to Aninuan Beach. The beach is generally safe for swimming, but always be cautious and follow safety guidelines.
10. Haligi Beach
From Puerto Galera, you can take a tricycle or rent a motorbike to take you to Haligi Beach. The ride takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on the traffic and road conditions. Haligi Beach is a secluded and quiet beach with clear blue water and white sand.
It’s surrounded by coconut trees and lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and unwinding. You can swim, sunbathe, or take a walk along the beach. There are no beachfront resorts or restaurants in the area, so make sure to bring your own food and drinks.
There are no resorts or accommodations in Haligi Beach, but you can stay at nearby beaches such as Aninuan Beach or Talipanan Beach. These beaches have beachfront resorts that offer various activities and amenities.
Bring enough food and drinks as there are no restaurants or stores in the area. Be mindful of your belongings and do not leave them unattended on the beach.
Overall, Puerto Galera is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Philippines. Its warm and welcoming locals, stunning landscapes, and diverse range of activities make it a perfect vacation spot for travelers of all ages and interests.