Where to Go to Bataan: Lhasa Cove at Bagac

Looking for a quiet, low-cost and white-sand beach to swim? Try to explore Lhasa Cove in Bagac, Bataan. It is about 2-3 hours from Manila. It is a small beach camp with white sand and clear waters. A local named Kuya Michael offers a 2 day, 1 night package for only P1800. It includes buffet meals, tent or cottage for the night and a guide from Balanga, Bataan- the province's capital. This is ideal for group of friends or company outings.

How to get there from Manila:

For those using public transportation: 

1. Ride a bus from Victory Liner, Cubao to Balanga or Mariveles Bataan. 

2. From Balanga, ride a shuttle to Morong, Bataan. Inform the bus conductor that you will take off at Bagac. Actually, this won't be a problem. Just inform Kuya Kel the time of your arrival and he will send someone to meet you at Balanga. 

3. From the highway, prepare to hike for about 15 to 20 minutes  to the beach cove. 

You can also use private vehicles. You can still contact Kuya Kel to meet you at Balanga. 

Things to Do: 

The cove is basically a place for quiet relaxation. The water is clear and calm for a swim even at night. The sea floor is also smooth with only small stones and some grass. Sunbathe or take a nap on the hammock along the beach. There are also a few boatmen who can take you around for island hopping for about P100 per pax. You can haggle if you are a big group. They also have horse back riding along the shore. 

At nighttime, Kuya Kel will invite you for some fun social activities. After dinner, you'll be playing 20 questions and truth or dare. Just join them and you'll have fun. 

You don't have to worry about food. Kuya Kel's group will provide you sumptuous buffet native meals. They also have a small store if you missed to bring some necessities. Security is also not a problem. 

Amenities: 

Lhasa Cove is a beach camp. It has no electricity and no luxurious facilities. You can stay at a tent or cottages during the night. They also have basic and common washroom but don't expect high-end amenities. Make sure to bring insect repellant to keep away the small insects at night. Other than that, just bring your clothes and some sense of adventure!

For more information: playalacaleta@gmail.com