THE coastal town of Iba, Zambales is a hot spot of beach resorts that never go out of season, especially for the beach lover. About 210 kilometers north of Manila, Iba is easily accessible for tourists and urbanites.
In fact, Victory Liner Inc. buses offer trips to Iba that leave daily from Caloocan, Cubao, Sampaloc and the Pasay terminals.
Here are the top 10 must-visit beach resorts in Iba, Zambales, which can be accessed via a tricycle ride once at the town proper:
10. Marimar Beach Resort
Marimar nestled in Bangantalinga in Iba is really all about giving an unpretentious beach experience. The place is just right for a no-frills relaxation beside the sea, with numerous coconut trees lining close to the shore and cottages that give the perfect setting for lunch or picnic. There is also a function hall ideal for various occasions, as well as air-conditioned rooms, to stay the night. Room rates range from P2,000 to P4,000 depending on the number of people to be accommodated.
9. Beach Valley Resort
Beach Valley is ideal for a weekend trip with the barkada on a tight budget. Located at Lipay-Dingin, near the Iba Airport, the resort provides a minimalist and a quiet environment away from the bustling urban life of the town. The rooms are cozy and comfortable with their bamboo exterior. There is also a cottage under a shade of trees good for barkada picnics. The air-conditioned rooms costs P2,500 good for three to four persons.
8. Monte Carlo Beach Resort
Also at the Dingin area, Monte Carlo is one of the more popular choices for travelers seeking the French Riviera experience. High class but affordable, the resort combines Mediterranean and tropical flavors in its design. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxing, and the amenities spacious. The living room leads to a terrace overlooking the South China Sea and beneath are seats shaded by lush coconut trees. There is also a minibar perfect to be
enjoyed after a long day out at sea. Room rates range from P1,500 to P2,500.
7. Island Grace Beach Resort
Island Grace is just adjacent to Iba Airport but is nonetheless quiet with a hacienda-like feel to it. The small 24-hour restobar and karaoke are also ideal for hanging out, or barkadas can sweat it out playing beach volleyball at the beach front. The resort might seem small, but it packs some of the basic amenities that a traveler needs. Accommodation rates range from P1,500 to P5,500.
6. Ambay Iba Beach Resort
A beautiful garden oasis by the sea, Ambay Iba feels like a deserted tropical island. Greeting visitors is a pine tree at the entrance, and various garden plants and vine cover the pathways. It’s relaxing and calming, and the huts and rooms feel cool and cozy because of the nipa roof. Nipa cottages under coconut trees near the beachfront complete the Zen experience. There is also a function hall for special occasions. Room rates come at P2,000.
5. White Castle Beach Resort
One of the most popular, White Castle is always crowded every weekend with guests coming from all over Luzon. Unique in this resort is the inclusion of a kiddie pool and the beachfront is especially a pleasant view that can be seen from the resort’s main cottage. Its function hall at the roof top gives a panoramic view of the South China Sea, as well. Accommodations are offered at P1,800 to P5,000.
4. Tampisaw Beach Resort
A secluded and also a sought-after one, Tampisaw has a swimming pool and one of the best shorelines. A couple of cabanas line the resort and the level of comfort given here makes staying the night a must for total rest and rejuvenation. Appreciating sunsets at Tampisaw is all the more a soothing experience amidst its cabanas. Accommodations start at P1,500 to P4,400.
3. Tanyaw Beach Resort
Tanyaw offers a five-star hotel beach experience. From a luxurious r oom interior, to an air-conditioned conference room and a chic minibar, it promises to give the finest scenery, food, fun and ambiance. Their rooms are also affordable, starting at P2,500 to P3,000.
2. Palmera Garden Beach Resort
Palmera Garden is renowned for its fine-dining and delectable dishes. The resort has two restaurants that serve a vast array of national and international cuisines: “Bahay Kubo” that gives a view of the South China Sea and “Para sa Atin”, which is right at the beach front. The resort also has a convention facility, swimming pool, gardens, sports amenities and a halo-halo bar. Accommodation rates start at P2,200 to P4,400.
1. Bakasyunan Resort and Conference Center
Topping the list is Bakasyunan, and the resort is in every way a perfect vacation and team-building spot at Amungan in Iba. Guests can lose track of time because of its numerous, quality-crafted amenities like the infinity pool, private karaoke room, poolside restaurant, minigolf courses, hanging bridge and high-rope crossing and more. The rooms for accommodation are equally refreshing and elegant. Room rates start at P1,800 to P4,000.