Calaca Church: Nurturing Faith and Legacy of St. Raphael the Archangel in Batangas
It is with Raphael the Archangel that the 184-year-old Spanish Colonial era church in Batangas gets its name. The Calaca Church is more commonly known
Nasugbu, Batangas
Nasugbu, Batangas
A Coastal Haven of Serenity and Adventure
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- Nasugbu, Batangas
Nasugbu, a captivating destination in Batangas, beckons as an enchanting retreat, located just 95 kilometers from Manila. The town unfolds with vast landscapes bordered by the South China Sea, offering diverse outdoor adventures and a rich agricultural tapestry. From scenic hikes to serene beach escapes, Nasugbu presents a perfect blend of nature and history. Visitors can explore Grecian-inspired ruins, pristine shores, and hidden gems, making Nasugbu a multifaceted gem in the heart of Batangas.
Explore the Philippines through my lens as we venture into Nasugbu, Batangas with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll guide you on an interactive tour, revealing the behind-the-scenes of capturing the shots shared here. Let’s dive into this visual journey together and uncover the wonders through my lens!
Let’s explore the PHILIPPINES through my lens as we journey on a photo slideshow to Nasugbu, Batangas. Join me in this visual adventure and discover the wonders captured through my lens! Check out the shared slideshow here.
Batangas emerges as one of the closest getaways from Metro Manila, celebrated for its captivating beaches and invigorating breeze. Within Batangas, Nasugbu, especially, is a sought-after destination, particularly for those who fancy coastal living and engaging in activities like diving and fishing in a serene environment. A mere 77 kilometers (48 mi) from Batangas City and 95 kilometers (59 mi) from Manila, Nasugbu beckons as an ideal retreat.
As the largest town and the second-largest municipality in Western Batangas, Nasugbu sprawls across a total land area of 27,851 hectares. Nasugbu is surrounded by neighboring municipalities, bordered by Maragondon, Magallanes, and Alfonso in Cavite to the north, Laurel, Calaca, and Balayan in Batangas to the east, and Lian and Tuy in Batangas to the south. Its western boundary meets the South China Sea, completing the scenic panorama of this delightful destination.
Check out the video for more highlights. See what I’ve captured through my lens with Point of View (POV) photography. Using a body cam, I’ll take you on an interactive tour, showing you behind-the-scenes moments of capturing the shots shared here.
Check out the video below for additional features. Explore what I’ve captured through my lens in this cinematic slideshow.
Upon entering the town via the national highway, visitors are greeted by vast fields of sugar cane, corn, and rice, accompanied by picturesque hills and mountains. Central Azucarera Don Pedro, one of the country’s largest sugar producers, is situated here, contributing to the local economy. The terrain gently descends towards the South China Sea, adding to the town’s scenic beauty.
Nasugbu’s main industries revolve around agriculture, encompassing sugarcane, rice, corn, vegetables, coconut, and fruits, thanks to its rolling terrain and coastal location. Additionally, the town thrives in aquaculture.
Being the home of a major sugar milling company, Nasugbu plays a vital role in sweet production, shaping a significant part of the local economy. The Nasugbu public market proudly showcases at least 10 unique rice cake varieties exclusive to the area, along with common varieties found elsewhere in the country. Even those less inclined toward culinary pursuits in Nasugbu take pride in crafting various sweets, including delicacies like sweetened yam, sweetened coconut, and similar treats.
Nasugbu’s origin lacks historical documentation, with the earliest written records dating back to the establishment of the Parish of St. Francis Xavier by the Jesuits in 1852.
Fast forward to August 3, 2007, when President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo issued Executive Order 647, designating Nasugbu, renowned for its white sand beach resorts, as a special tourism zone. This zone encompasses popular spots like Punta Fuego and Mounts Palay-Palay, home to Mount Pico de Loro.
Discover a multitude of destinations ideal for hikers and divers. A journey up Mt. Batulao in Nasugbu, provides an opportunity to connect with nature along a beginner-friendly trail. The two to three-hour hike culminates in breathtaking views of Batangas from the summit, with the warm breeze adding to the experience.
For a more laid-back trek, one can opt for Mt. Talamitan, the “younger sibling” of Mt. Batulao, also located in Nasugbu. Tailored for hiking beginners, the trail features open grasslands where observers may catch a glimpse of farm animals. Starting the hike early in the morning is advisable to avoid the intense afternoon sun.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the Grecian atmosphere at Fortune Island, situated on the coast of Nasugbu, Batangas. The picturesque setting against Greek-inspired ruins and the vibrant blue sea makes it a perfect backdrop for photos. Fortune Island offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff diving, attracting sun worshippers and campers alike. Formerly a private island hosting a luxury resort, operational challenges, particularly the lack of a reliable freshwater source, led to its closure in 2006. The island’s limestone cliff still showcases remnants of its grandeur in the form of Grecian pillars and statues.
Although now a popular destination among campers and sun enthusiasts, Fortune Island was once a well-kept secret among divers. Its rocky terrain, a limited stretch of sand, and the presence of shipwreck diving sites, including the Dutch warship Mauritius that sank in 1600, make it an intriguing choice for those seeking both adventure and serenity.
For those seeking an untouched beach camping spot in Nasugbu, Batangas, Bituin Cove is worth considering. This beach features coarse beige sands and a vibrant marine life, offering the option to rent tents or open cottages for a night under the stars.
Punta Fuego, another captivating Nasugbu beach, boasts white sands and clear waters. With historical significance as the site of the Battle of San Diego in the 1600s, it is now managed by upscale companies like Club Punta Fuego. The area offers various activities, including snorkeling, wakeboarding, banana boating, golf, and a spa for relaxation.
For a less explored Nasugbu gem, travelers can head to Calayo Beach. They can experience the simple charm of rural life while lounging on its light brown sands, surrounded by lush greenery. Calayo Beach, a public beach with budget to mid-range resorts, serves as a gateway to even better beaches like Pulo Island, Kayraang Cove, and Bituin Cove.
Known locally as Pulo-pulo, Pulo Island or Loren Island is just 20 minutes from Calayo Beach. This piece of paradise offers a fantastic island escape with beige, pebbly sands, two beaches, and what appears to be a sandbar connecting to another rocky islet.
Tali Beach, a well-known summer destination in Nasugbu, Batangas, has been a favorite among travelers, especially those seeking the thrill of cliff-jumping. The beach, nestled within a private subdivision, limits access to residents and their guests, emphasizing the importance of knowing someone on the inside.
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For those without a direct connection, the solution is simple: renting a house for a night provides entry, or alternatively, a day tour through a local agency. Exploring beyond Tali Beach, Layag-layag Beach in Brgy. Papaya is gaining attention from weekend warriors in Manila, offering opportunities for camping and snorkeling.
In the realm of picturesque retreats, the Transfiguration Chapel, affectionately called Caleruega, stands out. Although not historically significant, it has become a popular choice for weddings and retreats. Perched atop a hill adorned with gardens, it provides a breathtaking view of the Batangas countryside, featuring the dominating presence of Mt. Batulao in the landscape.
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