I’m sure you’re already feeling the intense summer heat. While I love that we get to experience long days of sunshine, I have to say that the heat can get very exhausting if you don’t find a way to cool down. That’s why I decided to create a list of the best summer destinations near Manila that we’ve tried and loved. I will keep building on this list as we go on more adventures with our kids!
Best Beach Resorts Near Manila
Acea Subic Bay
Price Range: Php 6,000-8,000
Acea Subic Bay is just a 2 to 3-hour drive from Manila via NLEX and SCTEX. They have a long stretch of white sand beach, pools, and lots of amenities that the whole family will enjoy. But, what I love most about this beach resort is that it’s never crowded. Although they allow day trippers, they limit their guest count to ensure that everyone gets that space they need.
Kabayan Beach Resort
Price Range: Depends on the size of the hut you’re going to rent / Also depends if you’re staying overnight or just there for a day trip
Kabayan Beach Resort is perfect for big family getaways and barkada trips because of its spacious huts for rent. What we love about the resort is that when you rent a kubo for your stay, it comes with complete amenities already – like a fully functional kitchen! That said, you can bring in food and cook it right in your hut during your stay.
The sand isn’t as white or as fine as that of Acea Subic Bay, though, so don’t get your expectations up too high.
Best Hotels for Staycations
Seda Nuvali
Price Range: Php 5,000-7,000
When it gets too hot, we head South. One of our favorite hotels in Laguna is Seda Nuvali because of its comfortable rooms, amenities, and proximity to community centers. It’s right smack in the middle of Nuvali so if you want to eat out, see a movie, or stroll, just take a walk outside of the hotel and everything you need is there!
Crosswinds Resort Suites Tagaytay
Price Range: Php 4,000-6,000
If you’re not up for a drive to Baguio, then you’re probably thinking of Tagaytay. Our absolute favorite there is Crosswinds Resort Suites. It’s a little far from the city center of Tagaytay, but I love that it’s all the way in the highlands area because it gives guests an opportunity to really relax and immerse themselves in nature.
It’s not a typical hotel since each room is equipped with a fully functional kitchen where you can cook your own food, a bedroom, and a dining/living room. You can literally just chill the whole time you’re there.
Cloud 9 Hotel and Resort
Price Range: Php 3,000-6,000
Just a quick drive from Manila is Cloud 9 Hotel and Resort in Antipolo. Although the rooms are quite outdated, I enjoy the views and relaxing ambiance this hotel provides. They also have activities that you can try right inside the hotel so it’s great for adventure-seekers too.
Eugenio Lopez Center
Price Range: Php 4,000-7,000
Also in Antipolo is our constant hang-outs whenever we need to calm our minds and get our mindset straight: Eugenio Lopez Center. This is by far my favorite place in Antipolo for food tripping and to enjoy the view of Metro Manila lights. ELC is known as a team building venue, but they have a restaurant and hotel that you can book if you need to go on a quick vacation.
What are your favorite summer destinations near Manila?
Share them in the comments section below!