Introduction to Anilao Batangas
Located in the coastal municipality of Mabini in Batangas province, Anilao Batangas is one of the most iconic beach and diving destinations in the Philippines. Just a 2- to 3-hour drive south of Metro Manila, Anilao is widely celebrated for its stunning marine biodiversity, world-class dive sites, and accessibility, making it a favorite weekend getaway for both local adventurers and international divers.
So, where is Anilao Batangas exactly? Tucked between the Verde Island Passage and Balayan Bay, it sits on the Calumpan Peninsula of Anilao Mabini Batangas, a scenic region known for rugged coastlines, volcanic rock formations, and rich coral reefs. This quiet barangay is the launchpad for underwater explorations, island-hopping tours, and nature hikes.
With its strategic location and thriving marine ecosystem, Anilao became a pioneer of diving in the Philippines. It offers a perfect blend of underwater adventure and laid-back coastal charm. Whether you’re a seasoned diver, a snorkeling enthusiast, or a casual traveler seeking tranquility by the sea, Anilao delivers a memorable experience.
For first-time visitors looking at the Anilao Batangas map, youāll find it nestled at the southwestern edge of Luzonāwhere natural beauty meets easy accessibility. Anilao is the gateway to the vibrant marine life of Batangas.
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How to Go to Anilao Batangas
From Manila to Anilao Batangas
Wondering how to go to Anilao Batangas from Metro Manila? The trip is remarkably convenient and can be done via public or private transportation. Anilao, part of Mabini, Batangas, is about 120 kilometers from Manila and typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and route.
By Public Transport
Bus
From Manila (Buendia or Cubao terminals), board a Jam Liner, ALPS, or Ceres Transport bus bound for Batangas City Grand Terminal.
Travel time is about 2.5ā3 hours.
Fare: approximately ā±200āā±250, depending on your starting point.
Jeepney
At the Batangas City Grand Terminal, transfer to a jeepney bound for Mabini/Anilao.
Duration: around 40 minutes.
Fare: around ā±40.
Tricycle
From the final jeepney stop, usually at Anilao Port, take a tricycle to your resort or chosen beach destination.
Fare: ā±60āā±80, depending on distance.
From Cubao
If youāre coming from Cubao, Jam Liner and Ceres Transport operate regular trips to Batangas City. Expect slightly longer travel time due to location, averaging 3ā3.5 hours. Bus fares are similarāaround ā±220āā±250.
By Private Transport
Traveling by private car is ideal for comfort and flexibility.
Route: SLEX ā STAR Tollway ā Batangas City Exit ā Mabini ā Anilao Port
Estimated duration: 2.5ā3 hours
Fuel + toll cost: Around ā±800āā±1,200 one-way
Alternatively, many resorts offer private van transfers from Manila, priced at around ā±5,000āā±6,000 per trip for up to 6 persons.
Whether youāre commuting from Manila or Cubao, reaching Anilao Batangas is part of the adventureāand the scenic drive is an added bonus.
Best Time to Visit Anilao Batangas
When planning a trip to Anilao Batangas, timing is everythingāespecially if youāre after clear skies, calm seas, or the best underwater visibility. This tropical destination in Anilao Mabini Batangas enjoys a warm, humid climate year-round, with two main seasons: dry and wet.
Climate and Seasons
Dry Season (November to May): Ideal for beach hopping, diving, and island tours. Expect sunny days, calm seas, and great underwater visibility.
Wet Season (June to October): Marked by frequent rain showers and the southwest monsoon. While diving is still possible, visibility may be reduced, and trips may be canceled due to weather.
Peak vs. Off-Peak
Peak Season: December to April. These months draw in tourists for the holidays and summer breaks. Resorts are usually fully booked, and prices are at their highest.
Off-Peak Season: June to early October. Fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates, but there’s a risk of unpredictable weather and limited dive trips.
Best Time to Dive in Anilao Batangas
The best time to dive in Anilao Batangas is between November and May, when the water is clearer and currents are manageable. Visibility can reach up to 20 meters during the dry months, perfect for both macro and reef diving.
Travel Tip
Photographers and underwater enthusiasts should aim for January to March, when marine life is abundant and visibility is at its peak.
Budget travelers may prefer June or October, catching the tail ends of the wet season for lower rates with fewer weather disruptions.
Anilao offers something in every seasonābut picking the right time can elevate your experience from great to unforgettable.
Anilao Diving and Water Activities
Diving in Anilao Batangas
Often dubbed the birthplace of Philippine scuba diving, Anilao diving offers a spectacular underwater playground that attracts divers from around the world. The warm, clear waters of Anilao Batangas make it a year-round diving destination, but it truly shines during the dry season from November to May.
Diving Conditions and Marine Life
With visibility ranging from 10 to 20 meters and water temperatures hovering between 26ā30Ā°C, diving in Anilao Batangas is ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. The area is part of the Coral Triangle, known for its remarkable biodiversity. Expect vibrant coral gardens, steep walls, macro critters, and occasional pelagic sightings. Common sightings include nudibranchs, frogfish, pipefish, pygmy seahorses, and flamboyant cuttlefish.
Popular Dive Sites in Anilao Batangas
Twin Rocks: A must-visit for its vibrant reef life and schooling fish.
Cathedral Rock: A famous site with a submerged cross and excellent coral coverage.
Secret Bay: A muck diving haven for macro photographers.
Mainit Point: For advanced divers looking for strong currents and pelagics.
These Anilao Batangas diving spots are easily accessible from most local resorts, often just a 5- to 15-minute boat ride away.
Dive Courses and Certification
Many resorts in Anilao offer PADI and SSI certification courses. The Open Water Diver course generally runs for 3ā4 days and costs between ā±24,000 to ā±26,000, inclusive of gear and instruction. Refresher and Advanced Open Water courses are also available for certified divers looking to level up.
Dive Packages and Gear Rental
For certified divers, fun dives are available in packages:
2 boat dives: ā±2,500āā±3,000
3 boat dives: ā±3,800āā±4,200
Gear rental rates (per day):BCD: ā±300āā±400
Regulator: ā±400āā±500
Mask and fins: ā±100āā±200
Full gear set: ~ā±1,000
Dive resorts like Eagle Point, Planet Dive, and Dive Solana have in-house dive shops, experienced instructors, and gear rental facilities that make Anilao diving seamless and professional.
Anilao Batangas Free Diving & Snorkeling
Not a certified diver? No problem. Anilao Batangas free diving and snorkeling are excellent alternatives for exploring its underwater wonders without tanks. The coastal waters are calm, clear, and teeming with marine life, making it a hotspot for breath-hold divers and casual snorkelers.
Free Diving in Anilao
Anilao has become increasingly popular among the freediving community, thanks to its depth accessibility, visibility, and dedicated schools.
Top freediving schools: Freedive PH, Seazoned, and Anilao Freedivers
Beginner courses: ā±4,500āā±6,000 per day (includes gear, instruction, safety sessions)
Recommended sites: Twin Rocks, Arthurās Point, and Secret Bay for calm depths and visibility
Snorkeling Spots and Rates
If youāre interested in Anilao Batangas snorkeling, head to:
Sombrero Island: Coral-rich reefs and colorful fish
Sepoc Beach: Clear, shallow waters ideal for families
Maricaban Strait: Rich coral gardens close to shore
Most resorts offer rental gear at ā±150āā±300/day. Some also provide guided snorkeling trips by boat (ā±2,000āā±3,000 for groups of 4ā6).
Whether you’re a scuba enthusiast, a freediver, or just curious about reef life, Anilao Batangas is your gateway to one of the Philippines’ most vibrant marine ecosystems.
Beaches in Anilao Batangas
While Anilao Batangas is best known for diving, it also offers serene beach experiences perfect for relaxation, family bonding, or a sun-soaked adventure. Though Anilao itself is rocky and rugged along its main shoreline, several nearby islands and coastal spots are home to some of the most scenic and swimmable beaches in Anilao.
Masasa Beach
Located on nearby Tingloy Island, Masasa Beach is often hailed as the best beach in Anilao Batangas for those seeking a long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Itās a favorite among budget travelers and backpackers.
Activities: Swimming, beach camping, snorkeling, and stargazing
Accessibility: Ride a boat from Anilao Port (ā±100āā±150 one-way); then trek 10ā15 minutes to the beach
Entry Fee: Free (some areas may have minimal fees for cottage use or tent pitching)
Sepoc Beach
Sepoc Beach, privately managed by Eagle Point Resort, offers exclusivity and pristine conditions. Itās a small cove surrounded by limestone cliffs, ideal for those seeking privacy or company team outings.
Activities: Beach games, kayaking, snorkeling, and picnic lunches
Accessibility: Boat transfers arranged by Eagle Point Resort
Entry Fee: Day tour packages available through the resort (approx. ā±2,500 per person with lunch and boat ride)
Sombrero Island
Shaped like a hat (hence the name), Sombrero Island is a charming coral islet perfect for a half-day beach trip. The beach is relatively narrow but surrounded by shallow reefs, making it a snorkeling paradise.
Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, boat picnics, photo ops
Accessibility: Boat tours from Anilao or resort-affiliated trips (ā±3,000āā±4,000 per group of 4ā6)
Entry Fee: Environmental fee of around ā±25āā±50 per person
These coastal gems show that beaches in Anilao go beyond diving. Whether itās an island escape at Masasa, a peaceful cove at Sepoc, or vibrant reefs off Sombrero Island, each beach offers a distinct flavor of tropical beautyāmaking Anilao Batangas a versatile destination for beach lovers.
Things to Do in Anilao Batangas
When it comes to what to do in Anilao Batangas, most people immediately think of scuba diving and snorkelingāand rightfully so. But beyond the vibrant reefs and marine life, Anilao offers a surprising range of activities both on land and sea. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or a laid-back explorer, Anilao has something for everyone.
Water Activities Beyond Diving and Snorkeling
1. Kayaking
Glide across the calm coastal waters of Anilao in a kayak for a peaceful, panoramic view of the sea. Some resorts offer kayak rentals for around ā±200āā±300 per hour, with tandem options for couples or families.
2. Island Hopping
A highlight of any Anilao itinerary, island-hopping tours take you to scenic nearby islands such as Sombrero Island, Sepoc Beach, and Maricaban Island. These trips often include swimming, snorkeling, and beach picnics.
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Boat rental: ā±3,000āā±4,000 per group (4ā6 pax)
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Duration: 3ā5 hours
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Tip: Book with local boatmen at Anilao Port or through your resort.
3. Sunset Boat Tours
Some resorts offer sunset cruises for guests looking to relax with a view. It’s a perfect way to end a day in Anilaoāwith a warm sea breeze and a golden sky.
Land-Based Adventures and Cultural Highlights
1. Mt. Gulugod Baboy Hike
This scenic ridge hike offers 360Ā° views of Balayan Bay, Batangas Bay, and even Mindoro on clear days.
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Trail difficulty: Easy to moderate
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Duration: 1.5ā2.5 hours to the summit
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Best time: Early morning or late afternoon for cool weather and fewer crowds
Gulugod Baboy, which translates to āPigās Spine,ā is a favorite among beginner hikers and offers some of the best photography spots in Anilao.
2. Local Markets and Cultural Sites
Drop by the Mabini Public Market to experience local life and buy fresh seafood or Batangas specialties like kapeng barako and dried fish. For culture seekers, small chapels and coastal barangays give you a glimpse into traditional BatangueƱo life.
3. Photography and Scenic Spots
With its dramatic coastlines, volcanic hills, and tropical sunsets, Anilao is a dream for photographers. Donāt miss sunrise on Mt. Gulugod Baboy or golden-hour shots at the beachside piers near Anilao Port.
When planning your trip and asking yourself what to do in Anilao Batangas, think beyond the oceanāyouāll discover a destination rich in nature, culture, and unexpected charm.
Where to Stay in Anilao Batangas
Choosing where to stay in Anilao depends on your travel styleāwhether you’re a passionate diver, a family on vacation, or a backpacker on a budget. Known for its marine biodiversity and laid-back coastal atmosphere, Anilao Batangas accommodation options range from rustic cottages to all-in-one dive resorts, with something to fit every travelerās budget.
Dive Resorts in Anilao Batangas
If youāre in Anilao to dive, staying in a full-service Anilao Batangas beach resort with an on-site dive center is the most convenient option. These Anilao resorts cater specifically to scuba divers, offering guided fun dives, certification courses, and gear rentals.
Recommended Dive Resorts:
Eagle Point Beach and Dive Resort
A classic resort in Anilao Batangas, this property features cliffside rooms, two pools, and its own beachfront. It offers dive packages, island-hopping tours, and even day trips to Sepoc Beach.Room rates: ā±4,000āā±7,000 per night
Dive packages: from ā±3,050 for two dives
Planet Dive Resort
Known for its proximity to Twin Rocks, Planet Dive is popular among serious divers and underwater photographers. Their in-house instructors are PADI-certified.Room rates: ā±3,000āā±5,000 per night
Full-board meal options available
Dive Solana Resort
A boutique dive resort with a more serene, luxury feel. Offers both scuba and freediving packages.Room rates: ā±5,500āā±8,000
These Anilao Batangas resorts typically include free boat transfers to dive sites and full dive gear rental. Booking direct often yields better rates or free upgrades.
Affordable Resorts in Anilao Batangas
For travelers watching their wallets, there are several affordable resorts in Anilao Batangas that provide comfort and easy beach access without breaking the bank.
Budget-Friendly Picks:
Anilao Backpackers
A modest hostel-style stay perfect for solo travelers and backpackers.Dorm beds from ā±500, private rooms from ā±1,200
Shared kitchen and common lounge
Casa Marikit Lodge
Clean and simple, with great views of the ocean.Rates: ā±1,200āā±2,000
Offers basic snorkel rentals and island tour bookings
Meaco Hotel ā Mabini
Located along the highway with easy access to Anilao Port.Rates: ā±1,800āā±2,500
Ideal for short stays or transits
These hotels in Anilao are often favored by budget-conscious divers and weekenders looking for a practical home base.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
If youāre traveling with kids or a large group, several Anilao resorts offer spacious rooms, recreational areas, and safe beach access.
Seaās Spring Resort
One of the few resorts with a large swimming pool and hot spring-fed spa.Room rates: ā±4,000āā±6,000
Features: Waterpark, playground, buffet meals
Bentrina Diving Resort
Quiet and relaxed, with family suites and an in-house restaurant.Room rates: ā±3,500āā±5,000
Good for beginner diving families
Casita Ysabel
A serene, eco-friendly choice with lush gardens and a pebble beach.Ideal for families looking for a nature-inspired retreat
Whether youāre searching for a full-service Anilao Batangas beach resort, a convenient base for diving, or a cozy and affordable resort in Anilao Batangas, the area offers diverse accommodations that bring you closer to sun, sea, and coral.
Dining Options in Anilao Batangas
Dining in Anilao Batangas is a relaxed and flavorful experience that reflects the regionās coastal roots and BatangueƱo culture. While most upscale Anilao resorts offer full-board meal plans, exploring local eateries and casual restaurants is highly recommended for a more authentic taste of the area.
Top Restaurants and Eateries
Eagle Point Resort Restaurant ā Offers Filipino and Western cuisine with a view of Balayan Bay. Great for group meals and sunset dining.
Casa Italia ā A quaint Italian-Filipino fusion spot known for its pasta, grilled meats, and wood-fired pizza.
Resto Veranda ā A casual cliffside dining area that serves seafood, pancit, and Batangas lomi.
Celinaās Lomi House ā For a local favorite, this eatery in Mabini is known for its thick, hearty Batangas-style lomi, a must-try noodle dish.
If youāre in town, the Mabini Public Market also offers grilled seafood stalls and fresh catch of the dayāideal for those staying in accommodations with kitchen access.
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bulalo ā A rich beef marrow soup, perfect after a dive.
Sinigang na Isda ā Tamarind-based fish soup that highlights local flavors.
Kapeng Barako ā Strong native coffee known for its bold aroma.
Grilled squid and bangus (milkfish) ā Freshly caught and served with vinegar dip.
Dining Costs
Budget eateries: ā±80āā±150 per meal
Mid-range restaurants: ā±250āā±500 per person
Resort dining: ā±500+ per meal (buffets or plated)
While dining options may be limited compared to big cities, Anilao Batangas offers hearty, home-style meals that perfectly complement your beachside escape.
Practical Information and Tips
Planning a trip to Anilao Batangas? Beyond booking your resort and dives, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit. Hereās what every traveler should know.
Essential Packing Tips
Reef-safe sunscreen ā A must for protecting marine life during dives or snorkeling
Aqua shoes or sandals ā Many beaches in Anilao have rocky shorelines
Quick-dry clothing and swimwear ā Great for water activities and humid weather
Waterproof dry bag ā To protect electronics during island hopping
Light jacket or shawl ā For breezy nights or early hikes
Local Etiquette and Cultural Notes
Locals in Anilao Mabini Batangas are warm and hospitable. A friendly smile and simple Tagalog phrases like āSalamatā (Thank you) go a long way.
Itās polite to address elders with āpoā or āopo.ā
Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas, as communities are generally conservative.
Dress modestly when outside the beach or resort areas.
Safety Advice
Follow your dive guideās instructionsācurrents in some Anilao Batangas diving spots can be strong.
Wear a life vest for snorkeling and boat tours, even if youāre a good swimmer.
For hiking Mt. Gulugod Baboy, go early to avoid the heat and pack water, a hat, and insect repellent.
Money and ATMs
Most resorts accept credit cards, but smaller establishments and tricycle drivers prefer cash.
ATMs are limited in Mabini. Itās best to withdraw cash in Batangas City or Manila before heading to Anilao.
Always carry small bills for tipping and local purchases.
Being well-prepared ensures you can fully enjoy everything Anilao Batangas has to offerāwhether youāre under the sea, on the trail, or soaking in the view.
Anilao Batangas vs. Laiya: Which is Better?
If youāre torn between a weekend in Anilao Batangas or Laiya, both located in Batangas and just a few hours from Metro Manila, it all comes down to what kind of beach escape youāre after. So, which is betterāAnilao or Laiya? Letās compare.
Anilao Batangas: For Divers and Adventure Seekers
Best for: Scuba divers, snorkelers, underwater photographers, and nature lovers
What to Expect: Rugged coastline, vibrant marine life, coral reefs, and dive resorts
Pros:
Premier dive sites with easy access from shore
Freediving and snorkeling hotspots
More budget-friendly lodging options
Cons:
Most beaches are rockyānot ideal for sunbathing
Nightlife and entertainment are minimal
Laiya, San Juan Batangas: For Families and Beach Loungers
Best for: Families, couples, and casual beachgoers looking for soft sand and clear waters
What to Expect: Long stretches of white sand beaches, resorts with full amenities, water sports
Pros:
Powdery sand beaches perfect for swimming
Family-oriented resorts with pools and restaurants
More accessible beach for kids
Cons:
Fewer diving options and marine biodiversity
Resorts tend to be more expensive during peak season
Verdict:
Choose Anilao if your goal is world-class diving, underwater photography, or a peaceful nature escape.
Go for Laiya if youāre after soft sand, shallow swimming areas, and a more resort-style vacation.
Still wondering which is better, Anilao or Laiya? It dependsāadventure or relaxation? Diving or beach lounging? Either way, Batangas wonāt disappoint.
Suggested Itinerary for Anilao Batangas
Whether you’re in Anilao Batangas for a weekend dive getaway or a nature retreat, hereās a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. This 3-day plan blends water activities, sightseeing, and good foodāideal for couples, families, or solo travelers.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
7:00 AM ā Depart from Manila or from Cubao
10:30 AM ā Arrive at resort in Anilao Mabini Batangas, check-in
12:00 PM ā Lunch at the resort or try bulalo at Celinaās Lomi House
2:00 PM ā Island hopping: visit Sombrero Island and Sepoc Beach
5:30 PM ā Sunset viewing at the pier or beach
7:00 PM ā Dinner at the resort restaurant
Day 2: Diving or Snorkeling Adventure
6:30 AM ā Light breakfast
8:00 AM ā Two morning dives (e.g., Twin Rocks, Cathedral Rock)
12:00 PM ā Buffet lunch
2:00 PM ā Snorkeling or kayak rental
4:30 PM ā Optional spa session or nap
6:30 PM ā Dinner by the sea at Resto Veranda
Day 3: Hike and Departure
5:30 AM ā Sunrise hike at Mt. Gulugod Baboy
9:00 AM ā Breakfast and check-out
10:30 AM ā Last-minute shopping at Mabini Public Market
12:00 PM ā Head back to Manila
This sample itinerary offers a balance of activity and relaxationāhighlighting exactly what to do in Anilao Batangas in just a few unforgettable days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to get to Anilao Batangas?
To reach Anilao, travelers can take a bus from Manila or Cubao to Batangas City Grand Terminal (ā±200āā±250), then transfer to a jeepney bound for Mabini and alight near Anilao Port. From there, a short tricycle ride brings you to your resort. For convenience, private vans or cars from Manila take about 2.5 to 3 hours.
What are the best beaches in Anilao?
While Anilaoās main coastline is rocky, nearby islands offer stunning sand beaches. The best beaches in Anilao include Masasa Beach on Tingloy Island, Sepoc Beach (accessible via Eagle Point Resort), and Sombrero Islandāall perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and day trips.
When is the best time to dive in Anilao?
The best time to dive in Anilao is from November to May, during the dry season. Water visibility is excellent, ranging from 10 to 20 meters, and marine life is at its peak.
Where to stay in Anilao for all budgets?
For budget travelers, options like Anilao Backpackers and Meaco Hotel offer rates under ā±2,000. For a more luxurious experience, try Eagle Point Beach Resort or Dive Solana, which provide full-service dive amenities and stunning views of Balayan Bay.
Whether diving, relaxing, or exploring, Anilao Batangas welcomes all kinds of travelers.
Conclusion & Call to Action
From world-class coral reefs and epic diving adventures to scenic hikes and island-hopping escapes, AnilaoĀ BatangasĀ truly captures the best of coastal travel in the Philippines. Whether youāre a seasoned diver, a weekend warrior, or simply craving a beachside escape close to Manila, Anilao delivers with its rich marine biodiversity, laid-back vibes, and variety of accommodations for every type of traveler.
Its proximity to the city, stunning underwater landscapes, and access to both thrilling and relaxing activities make it a must-visit destination. From the rocky shores of Anilao Mabini Batangas to the soft sands of Masasa Beach and the panoramic views atop Mt. Gulugod Baboy, the region offers more than just a diveāit offers a journey.
Have you explored Anilao? Share your photos, stories, and favorite moments online using the hashtag #ExploreAnilaoBatangas and inspire others to discover this incredible slice of Batangas paradise. See you by the reef!
