Last-Minute Summer Destinations Near Manila for Unplanned Trips

Where: Marigman Road, Antipolo, Rizal

Travel time from Manila: 1 to 2 hours

One of the most popular summer attractions in Antipolo is Bosay Resort, a quick weekend getaway for those who want to cool down without traveling far from Manila. In Bosay, you can choose from 10 different swimming pools. Kids can enjoy the turtle pool, kiddie pool, kiddie pool with bubbles, and disco pool. Meanwhile, adults can take a dip in the private pool with a jacuzzi, therapy pool, infinity pool, Olympic pool, and storm wave pool. Other features of the resort are a restaurant that serves exotic foods and the Bosay Hotel, where guests can stay for the night.

Where: Tanay, Rizal

Travel time from Manila: 1 to 2 hours

Rizal might not have beaches, but what they lack in bodies of water makes up in terms of impressive landforms. Located within Tanay Rizal is Treasure Mountain, where you can find a different kind of sea—a sea of clouds. Since it is situated within the expansive mountain range of Tanay, it offers a spectacular view.

If you happen to look for unique things to do near Manila for summer like sea of clouds sightseeing, you can wait for the sunset instead. If you want to stay overnight, you can choose from tents, lodges, and hut rentals. While visiting, you can rent cottages or tents so you can breathe in the atmosphere. Other activities you can do within the broad vicinity include a rope course to test your endurance. The best part? You won’t have to travel far, as Treasure Mountain is just one to two hours away from Manila.

Where: Mauban, Quezon Province

Travel time from Manila: 3-4 hours

Did you know that there’s a beach near Metro Manila that can compete with Boracay’s beauty? Cagbalete Island’s in Quezon fine white sand beach is often compared to Boracay’s, but its calmer atmosphere makes it different. Just three hours away from Manila, the island spans over 1,640 hectares. Nature lovers would enjoy the wonderful and diverse ecosystem within the area, including different kinds of plants, birds, and marine life.

You also won’t be bored at Cagbalete Island. You can do various activities to your heart’s content: swimming, snorkeling, diving, fishing, bird watching, horseback riding, surfing, and island hopping. You can choose from various hotels and lodges that can cater to your needs and budget when it comes to accommodations.

Where: Baras, Rizal

Travel time from Manila: 1 to 2 hours

Also within Rizal is the majestic Palo Alto Falls. The refreshing and natural waterfall captures the essence of a chill summer destination while the surrounding sprawl of trees and plants showcases the beauty of nature. The falls is located within the Palo Alto Leisure and Residential Estates at Barangay Pinugay, but it is open to outsiders. City folks won’t have to go far, too, since it would only take at least two hours from Manila to get there.

After following a trail will lead you to the 60-foot falls that end in a body of clean turquoise water. Take a dip in the water to cool down from the summer heat. You may also go to the end of the falls for a quick photo-op. When you’re done, you can explore the nearby nature trail and check out rock formations and exotic plants.

Where: Batangas

Travel time from Manila: 1.5 to 2 hours

* Fees vary on where you want to go, stay, and the capacity.

** Some parts of the area have no entrance fee.

There are many things about Isla Verde that can immediately get your attention. But beyond its clear waters, what makes Isla Verde fascinating is that it is located within the Verde Island Passage—the “Center of the Center of the Marine Biodiversity of the World.” This title means that the marine life’s rich biodeversity on the island, making it an ideal tourist spots near Manila.

For tourists, the main attraction is the island hopping experience. In total, there are six islands you can visit: Liponpon, San Agapito, San Agustin East, San Agustin West, San Andres, and San Antonio. Each of these islands has exciting features, such as beaches and mountains. In addition, you can have a stopover at side attractions like the Mahabang Buhangin Beach, San Antonio Beach, Sawang Dive, and Kuweba (cave and lighthouse). Depending on your budget and preferences, there are different accommodations on the island where you can stay.

To discover more summer destinations and weekend getaway spots in or near Metro Manila, check out Yoorekka Magazine.