Botolan, Zambales | Sundowners Beach Villas | Travel Guide
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In this trip, we drove up north to Zambales for a beach getaway. Zambales is located in the western part of Central Luzon facing West Philippine Sea. A popular tourist destination near Manila. Known for Mt. Pinatubo, beaches and coves.
Before heading to the resort, we did a quick detour to San Antonio, Zambales. Hidden in this fishing village is Casa San Miguel, a center for arts that also operates as a bed and breakfast, event venue and a café.
The café of Casa San Miguel is called Café Virtuosi, an alfresco café with a view of a garden. They serve pizzas, pastas and other dishes, making it a nice spot to have a meal before continuing our road trip.
Sundowners Beach Villas
We stayed at Sundowners Beach Villas in Botolan, Zambales, known for its luxury white private villas and pool. It is one of the more popular beach resorts in the area.
Side Trip to Angeles, Pampanga
On our way back, we made a side trip to Angeles, Pampanga and tried 25 Seeds, a Filipino restaurant by Chef Sau del Rosario.
It was a pretty packed road trip. Starting with a quick stop in San Antonio, a beach stay in Botolan, some surfing and pool time, and finally a food trip in Angeles before heading home.
Tip: There were local fishermen selling freshly caught crabs and shrimps. You can grill it or ask the resort staff to cook it for you.
WATCH THE FULL VLOG HERE
2nd visit to Botolan, Zambales
We had another opportunity to visit Botolan, Zambales, and this time, we chose Kalinto Resort as our beachside sanctuary to slow down, relax, and recharge.
Before heading back to Manila, we decided to try Café Servando, which is just a few meters away from Kalinto Resort. It was a convenient stop for a quick meal before hitting the road.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BOTOLAN, ZAMBALES
Botolan, Zambales is open all year round but the best time to visit is during dry season. This is from November to May. My recommendation is to visit from November to March for a pleasant cool climate.
If you are into surfing, the surf season is from September to February.
From March to May, it is summer in Philippines and temperature can be scorching hot.
WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO BOTOLAN, ZAMBALES
Beach outfit
Swimwear
Rash guard / Wetsuit
Sandals / Slippers
Protection from the sun
Dry bag
Camera / Action Cam
Trash bag
Food / Snacks / Drinks
Speaker
Cards
Beach Mat
Towels
Toiletries
HOW TO GET TO BOTOLAN, ZAMBALES FROM MANILA
To get to the Botolan, Zambales, the best way is via car. From EDSA, drive north and take Balintawak exit to NLEX. Then, take the NLEX-SCTEX route and exit at Tipo. From Subic – Tipo Expressway, turn right to Rizal Highway. At the end of Rizal Highway, turn left at Manila Ave. Then, right turn to Dewey Ave. Exit Kalaklan Gate and turn left at the end of Dewey Ave. Follow the National Highway until you reach Botolan. Turn right to Felix Manalo Road. Left turn at the end of the road then turn right.
If you are coming from cities south of Manila, best to take the Skyway NLEX-SLEX connector.
Travel time from Manila to Zambales is 4-5 hours.
BOTOLAN, ZAMBALES BUDGET AND ITINERARY
The estimated budget going to Botolan, Zambales via car:
Gas – Php1,500.00
Toll Fees
NAIA Skyway Entry - Php35.00
NLEX - SLEX Connector - Php264.00
NLEX Balintawak Entry - Php60.00
NLEX - SCTEX - Tipo Exit - Php500.00
NOTE: Rates indicated above may change without prior notice.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING BOTOLAN, ZAMBALES
Purok 5, Brgy, Botolan, Zambales, Philippines
0917 1333007
No corkage on food and drinks
pet-friendly
Card is accepted.
No ATMs near the area.
Signal is weak in this area. They have free WIFI but don’t expect too much.
Beach is not child-friendly. Strong waves and currents.
BOTOLAN, ZAMBALES TRAVEL TIPS
Skyway is your friend especially on weekends.
Schedule your trip as early as possible to avoid traffic.
Book in advance.
Use Google Maps or Waze for easier navigation to the resort.
Did you know that the coastline of Zambales is a nesting grounds for sea turtles? The nesting season is from September to January.
Since Botolan, Zambales is not a top surfing destination, this means lesser crowd. Best spot to learn surfing. The beach is also great for skim boarding.
CLEAN AS YOU GO
ADDITONAL INFORMATION
Evangelista St, Brgy. San Miguel, San Antonio, Zambales, Philippines 2206
+63 2 8551 1003
25 Seeds
Check them out on FB: @25seeds
2F Dycaico Ancestral House, Barangay Sto. Rosario 2009 Angeles City, Philippines
0977 786 4966
WHAT’S IN MY BAG?
If you want to know more about the cameras, gadgets and travel essentials I use, check out “MY GEAR”
Exploring Mirador Heritage and Eco-Spirituality Park.