Anilao, Batangas | Snorkeling Trip at Pier Uno Dive Resort

Our destination is Anilao, Batangas - A world class dive site that is pretty close to Manila. It is located in Mabini Peninsula. We planned a quick getaway to Anilao so that our friends from India; Nerendra and Jay can experience swimming and snorkeling.

We started our journey from Makati. Drove for around 3-4 hours to Pier Uno Dive Resort in Anilao, Batangas. A family owned resort with a beach access and an outdoor pool.

After we’ve checked in, ate lunch and decided to do a snorkeling tour.

From the resort, we hopped on a motorized “Bangka” to the snorkeling spot.

The typical island hopping scene; continuous rumbling sound of the motor, sea breeze and the splash of the water. It was around 5 – 10 minutes boat ride to the snorkeling spot.

Then, rumbling slowly fades in the background and the boat glides smoothly on the blue-ish green water. You can tell that the water is clear because you can see schools of fishes and corals from the boat.

As soon as the boatman anchored the boat, I wasted no time and jumped straight into the sea.

The moment I submerged under water, everything changed; my heart beats slower and slower. From an amped feeling my mood shifts to a more relaxed one. Watched schools of fishes swimming near our boat.

Also, practiced free diving while having fun with the bunch. Not everyone knows how to swim or even snorkel. What matter is that everyone enjoyed the moment.

We went back to Pier Uno and spent time on their outdoor pool.

Then, we had some snacks and played cards while the sun slowly sets over the horizon.

The next morning, went on the beach for a short swim before heading back to Manila.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO ANILAO, BATANGAS

Anilao, Batangas is open all year round but the best time to visit is during summer. This is from March to May.

WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO ANILAO, BATANGAS

• Beach outfit

• Swimwear

• Sandals / Slippers

• Protection from the sun

• Snorkeling Gear

• Fins

• Dry bag

• Tumbler

• Camera / Action Cam

• Trash bag

• Playing Cards

• Food / Snacks / Drinks

HOW TO GET TO ANILAO, BATANGAS FROM MANILA

The fastest way to get to Anilao, Batangas from Manila is by car. From EDSA, exit to SLEX then to CALABARZON/STAR Expressway. Then take Batangas City exit. At the rotunda, exit at Bauan – Batangas Provincial Road. Before the Diversion Road Flyover, stay on the right. Then turn right on Palico – Balayan Batangas Road. Follow the Bauan – Batangas Provincial road and turn left on Mabini Road. Follow the road until you reach the Mabini Circumferential Road then turn right. Travel time is around 3-4 hours.

Another option is public transportation. Take a bus bound to Batangas Pier via CALABARZON in Buendia. Alight in Batangas Grand Terminal. Travel time is 3-4 hours.

Then ride a jeepney to Anilao. Travel time is around 1 hour. In Anilao, ride a trike to your resort/accommodation.

ANILAO, BATANGAS BUDGET AND ITINERARY

The estimated budget for an overnight stay in Anilao is around Php7,000.00. This is computed based on Pier Uno Standard room for a one pax.

 If you are with a group, you can lower the cost of the following: accommodation, gas and toll fees. Also, there are plenty of resorts and restaurants with affordable prices. See expected costs below:

•  Gas – Php1,000.00

• Toll Fees

  • SLEX Filinvest to Calamba - Php91.00

    • SLEX

  • SLEX to STAR Tollway - Php25.00

  • STAR Tollway to Lipa - Php95.00

    • STAR Tollway

• Pier Uno Dive Resort

  • Package

•  Bus fare – Php200.00 estimate

• Jeepney – Php50.00 estimate

• Tricycle – Php50.00 estimate

  NOTE: Rates indicated above may change.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING ANILAO, BATANGAS

• Food

  • Buffet is included in the package.

  • Brought some snacks and drinks. No corkage fee charged.

• Credit card is accepted but do bring cash just to be sure. There are plenty of ATMs in the town proper.

• Signal is not a problem in this area.

ANILAO, BATANGAS TRAVEL TIPS

• Skyway is your friend especially on weekends.

• Schedule your trip as early as possible to avoid traffic.

• Book in advance.

• There are plenty of resorts in the area. Expect the place gets crowded during long weekends and summer.

• Best to use a floating stick or bobber with your GoPro in water activities.

• Clean as you go.

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WHAT’S IN MY BAG?

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See you on my next adventure…. Peace!