Exploring the beaches of Aurora

May 25, 2010 Travel

"Quezon?"

That's the usual response I receive when I mention I'm headed to Aurora.

Aurora, established as a province in 1979 with Baler as its capital and primary attraction, is accessible via challenging mountain roads winding through the Sierra Madre Mountains.

Since 2007, Aurora has held a special place in my heart, largely due to the warm hospitality extended by the Ma. Aurora Outdoors Club and the Aurora Offroaders Club. And my go-to activity there? Beach bumming!


Sabang Beach, Baler



This is undeniably one of the country's most popular dive spots. While I may not be a surfer, I like coming here to frolic with the waves and enjoy the delectable offerings at Bay's Inn, all accompanied by some ice-cold beer. It's the perfect vantage point to sit back, relax, and marvel at the impressive skills of the surfers as they masterfully ride the waves. 

Digisit Beach, Baler


This served as our campsite during our TREK (Trails to Empower Kids) project last December, a special place where I also celebrated my birthday. It's a good spot with impressive rock formations, providing the perfect backdrop for those picturesque moments. 

The resort we chose might not have had rooms, but it offered fresh water and clean comfort rooms. We opted to rent cottages for our hammocks and social area, while most of us chose to stay in our tents.

Nearby, there are waterfalls to explore, along with the PAGASA station and Ermita Hills, offering breathtaking views of Baler and the surrounding towns.


Dicasalarin Bay



This spot holds a special place in my heart. The initial glimpse of the beach, visible from the road slicing through the mountains, never fails to take my breath away. 

While nobody can claim ownership of the beach itself, access to the resort/artist village is under the stewardship of the Angaras, necessitating prior arrangements for entry. Visitors at Bahia de Baler can obtain a gate pass for access. Beyond the azure waters and white sand beach, guests can ascend the peak at the rightmost edge of the cove to revel in a breathtaking vista.

Dinadiawan




Travelers traversing the main highway toward the northernmost towns of Aurora are greeted by an unmissable stretch of beautiful white sand beach. This picturesque spot offers a fabulous view of the Pacific Ocean, framed by the lush Sierra Madre mountains as a breathtaking backdrop. 

While there are resorts dotting the area, there are still a few spots for picnics that don't entail entrance fees, just token fees for the landowners. It's a serene and inviting destination for those seeking a tranquil escape.

Dipaculao



This spot is about an hour from Baler, and its rocky shores offer various activities for those who love underwater adventures and exciting cliff-diving. 

This marine protected area is a favorite among divers. Besides underwater activities, guests can explore Dibutunan Twin Cave by renting a banca from local fishermen. A cliff diving site is also available.

Casapsapan Beach, Casiguran

This beach exudes enchantment even before delving into the mermaid legends that the welcoming Mayor of Casiguran generously shares with visitors. This is a cove with a beach of white sand and cool sea water.

Despite the waters not being overly deep, caretakers have thoughtfully placed a buoy to serve as a warning and marker for swimmers due to the beach's unpredictable tides and some underwater currents.

Visitors can now rent cottages here for Php 750.00 a night, ensuring a comfortable stay. As an added delight, Casiguran never fails to impress with its fresh catches, leaving visitors savoring the flavors of the sea. Yumm!


Dilasag Beach


Nestled in the northernmost reaches of Aurora, this paradise may be quite distant and challenging to reach, but such is the nature of true blissful getaways. A leisurely stroll from the white sand beach leads to a picturesque grassland, a hill offering breathtaking views of the beach, and further down, a beach adorned with captivating rock and coral formations alongside natural pools.

An hour's journey from Dilasag brings you to Dinapigue, Isabela, home to yet another pristine white sand beach, completing the allure of this remote and idyllic retreat.

Kelly is a public relations professional and entrepreneur whose projects have assisted multinational organizations, small and medium enterprises, government officers, international organizations and non-governmental organizations. She is partner-consultant of RubyComm-K.Austria, a public relations management and consultancy company. Kelly is also a former government employee having served at the Department of Tourism for two years. Being mountaineers, Kelly and her friends travel by land, sometimes on rough roads and trek for hours to give a new lease of hope to students. She is co-founder of the group TREK or Trails to Empower Kids.

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