Why Baler, Aurora is Not All About Surfing

When Filipinos talk about local surf spots, they always mention Baler, Aurora. And who wouldn't? A few steps from Costa Pacifica Hotel and the white sands of Sabang Beach is Mahdox Surf School, the town's first surfing institution where a lot of tourists have visited to learn all the basics.

Though surfing is the main attraction in Aurora, this Philippine province has so much more to offer. These include some amazing natural wonders, a museum that offers a trip back in time, and the giant Millennium Tree.

Ditumabo Falls
San Luis, a small village located a few kilometers from the shores of Baler, offers a different kind of water spectacle with the Ditumabo Falls. This amazing site can only be accessed by passing through several wooden footbridges and following a trail of footpaths. Most locals say that it only takes 20 minutes to get there from San Luis' highway, but tourists often disagree. Nevertheless, the beautiful view on the way to the falls is breathtaking.

Dicasalarin Cove
Since the white sand coastline of Baler is commonly flocked by surfers, why not visit Dicasalarin Cove. This secret haven is reachable in around 20 minutes from Sabang Beach. There you can laze around and soak in a magnificent view of quiet blue waters. Going there isn't as easy, however, because the trip entails passing through a long road of zigzags and uphills. Better bring a 4x4 vehicle or rent one.

Museo de Baler
As rich as the town's blue waters is Museo de Baler, home of historical artifacts that date back to the Spanish Colonial period. Some of the items displayed are earthenware from Chinese merchants, a Latin Breviary, a book of Catholic liturgical rites, and a photo exhibit of the 17th century Spanish galleon trade. One of the museum's highlights is the restored presidential vehicle of the late President Manuel Quezon.

Millennium Tree
If it's your first time to explore the attractions in Baler, then you have to ask the kind locals in your Baler hotel or at the place your staying where the Millennium Tree is. They can surely give the exact directions to the place. But listen carefully to their stories afterward because this is no ordinary tree; it's an enormous Balete tree about 200 feet high and 49 feet wide. Balete is an infamous figure in traditional folklore because it is believed to be the dwelling place of dwarves, supernatural beings, and other tree-dwelling creatures.

Cozy accommodations in Baler like the Costa Pacifica Hotel can get you closer to these attractions. Include these gems in your itinerary to experience the different side of Baler.