Real, Quezon | DIY Travel Guide
Quezon Province is more than Mount Banahaw, Coconuts and Lambanog (traditional Filipino liquor). Tourist flock to Quezon Province for its festivities like the Pahiyas of Lucban, The island of Balesin, Golden shores of Jomalig, White sand ripples of Cagbalete, hidden beaches of Padre Burgos and more.
There's so much to see or experience in Quezon Province but for now, we will talk about a town named Real. A coastal town located on the eastern side of Luzon facing the Pacific and the 2nd largest town in Quezon Province.
We went there to spend a weekend hoping to catch a wave. With no bookings or reservations, hopped on a mini bus to Real, Quezon and then a trike ride to the campsite.
With luck on our side, Real Coast and Surf, still accommodated our group. The place was fully-booked when we arrived so our spot option was limited.
Sunny day, sea breeze, people at the beach - A perfect summer vibe. 2 things missing; a shade for our tent and the Pacific waves.
Because surfing was not possible that day, we decided to see more of Real. So we went and asked a local trike driver/tour guide to show us Real. With a short trike ride, we reached the entrance to a falls called Balagbag. With no idea what to expect, we went and follow the trail to the falls. After the short walk, the scenic waterfalls showed itself. A 3-tiered falls and a dense forest on both sides.
Crossed the river stepping on rocks to a small muddy path leading to the middle tier. It has a wide uneven platform with shallow water. Downpour of water from the top tier to boulders and rocky ground creates a dramatic white curtain.
From the middle to the lowest tier, there's a 20ft drop. At the bottom, a small basin that is deep enough to do a cliff jump. Seeing local kids jump from it, means only one thing; yeah we did jump from it :D
A short trike ride from Balagbag Falls, is the entrance to Nonok falls. This one requires a longer walk following the river upstream. At the end of the river is a 30ft water fall that plunges straight to a basin. The atmosphere here is a little bit darker since the cove-like basin is surrounded by dense forest and towering cliffs.
Going to the jump spot is a little bit tricky. One must climb the rocks and roots of an old tree at the right side of the falls.
After the cliff jumps and a little bit of swimming, we went back to the campsite and enjoyed the beach.
Now, one of the best part of the trip - Imagine waking up at 6am in your tent facing the beach. You see a view of the calm sea with the sun slowly rising over the horizon. Shining! The sky is painted with a perfect gradient of blue, pink, orange and yellow -- so beautiful that all you can do is watch and let it sink in. – Literally, I just watched the sunrise without even taking a picture or video of it.
Sometimes, it is not the planned things that makes the trip memorable. It is those spontaneous moments. Moments that can open a window to something better, something beautiful.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT REAL, QUEZON
The best time to visit Real, Quezon is during the surf season. This is from October to March. Just be mindful of the weather and avoid typhoons.
WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO REAL, QUEZON
Beach outfit
Swimwear
Sandals / Slippers
Protection from the sun
Dry bag
Tumbler
Camera / Action Cam
Extra batteries / Memory cards
Powerbank
Trash bag
Tent
Camping Gear
Flashlight
Playing Cards
Beach mat
Cooler
Food / Snacks / Drinks
HOW TO GET TO REAL, QUEZON FROM MANILA
To get to Real, Quezon from Manila, the cheapest way is to go to Raymond Bus Terminal in Sampaloc, Manila. Tell the driver you are going to Real Coast and Surf. Alight at the corner before Tignoan Bridge (Near Basketball court). Then ride a tricycle to your campsite / accommodation. Travel time is 5-6 hours by bus.
REAL, QUEZON BUDGET AND ITINERARY
The estimated budget for an overnight camping trip to Real, Quezon is around Php3,000.00. This is computed for a one pax with 6 meals with Php150.00 per meal budget.
If you are with a group, you can lower the cost of the following: Tent and Tour. Also, there are several carinderias / eateries in near Real Coast and Surf. For lower than Php150.00, you can eat a decent meal. See expected costs below:
Costs
Bus Fare - Php200.00/pax
Real Coast and Surf Entrance Fee - Php270.00/pax
Tent Pitching - Php450.00/small tent
Trike Tour - Php300.00 - 500.00/day
Balagbag Falls Entrance Fee – Php20.00/pax
Nonok Falls Entrance Fee – Php20.00/pax
NOTE: Rates indicated above may change.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING REAL, QUEZON
Food
You can order at Real Coast and Surf Food Shack.
You also have the option to cook your own food.
There are several eateries near the campsite.
Food here is affordable.
Cash Basis.
Several ATMs in town proper.
Signal is weak in some in the area.
No Wi-Fi in Real Coast and Surf
Corkage fee for drinks.
Common CR in camp site.
REAL, QUEZON TRAVEL TIPS
Book in Advance
Rates are much lower during weekdays and off peak season.
Check the weather.
If you plan on bringing some snacks and drinks, best if you inform upon check in. They didn’t charge a corkage fee when we brought some alcohol.
The tables in the common area are limited, you can share with other groups.
Follow the House Rules of Real Coast and Surf
Bring cash in tour.
Do not bring valuables.
Clean as you go.
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WHAT’S IN MY BAG?
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