MANILA, Philippines - When one thinks of Baler, one thing comes to mind: surfing. While Aurora boasts of great waves, sun and sand, this small town is also the home of rich culture, history and nature trips. Whether you find yourself craving for an adventurous, action-filled vacation or a serene spot for a few days of relaxation, Costa Pacifica Baler is a down-to-earth beach hub that radiates with northern charm.
Costa Pacifica Baler prides itself as one of the premier abodes in Aurora that offers a colorful resort experience starting from its hip rooms and suites and its dressed-up facilities from the outdoor pool and restaurants to the kids’ nook and gift shop. The youthful hangout vibe by designer Ed Calma will make you feel at ease the moment you step into the resort and embrace the laid-back lifestyle.
Three years since it opened, this Angara family property has maintained its buzz to attract fun-loving crowds, partly because of Aurora’s numerous activities suited for various personalities and groups.
“Much has been said about the great waves of Aurora, which has been the biggest draw of this small town. However, staying at Costa Pacifica allows you to see and experience so much more in Baler,” says Costa Pacifica resort manager Gerard Canillo.
A stay of at least three nights is ideal to explore the other hallmarks of the province. A short distance and conveniently walkable from Costa Pacifica is the Museo de Baler where one can relive the town’s early days during the Spanish period through its vast collection of memoirs and photographs. After a tour of the museum, head over to the Millennium Tree, a 106-year-old balete tree which just begs to be climbed.
Known as a “secret worth keeping” is the Dicasalarin Lighthouse. There are about 175 steps to take going up, but the 360-degree view of Baler at the top of the lighthouse more than makes up for the effort. Don’t forget to pay a visit to the nearby Artist’s Village, the San Luis Obispo de Tolosa church and the historic site of the Siege of Baler.
With a day that’s full of discoveries and activities, you’ll surely be ready for Costa Pacifica’s numerous food options. For breakfast, try the chunky and garlicky longganisa de baler plus the organic native suman dipped in Nanay Pacing’s peanut butter and coco jam. We promise your day will be off to a fine start.
Since pako or fern abounds in this province, this is where you can find the freshest and most flavorful ensaladang pako garnished with danggit, tomatoes, onions and salted eggs. Another must-try is the seafood kare-kare, which is unbeatable with its thick and luscious peanut butter sauce filled with an assortment of shrimps, mussels, squid and veggies paired with homemade bagoong (shrimp paste). Hearty and heavenly, don’t think twice about making reservations for the buffet at Costa Pacfica’s all-day dining restaurant, the Beach House, where the skillful chefs have put together a menu that hits all the right seasonal notes. As a bonus, the restaurant showcases a magnificent view of the Sierra Madre mountains and Sabang beach, so your dining experience is guaranteed to be a feast for all senses.
At the end of a hectic but exciting day, get a good night’s sleep in Costa Pacifica’s well-appointed and spacious rooms. For outdoorsy types who don’t want to let go of luxe amenities, Costa Pacifica offers a glamping package for only P4,729 per head, inclusive of breakfast, at the private and secluded Dicasalarin Cove. With its beautifully-designed tents and full amenities and even butler service, it is the ultimate sleep-under-the-stars experience.
For inquiries and reservations, contact 0917-8448371 or visit www.costapacificabaler.com.