Baler: Waves, History and Nature

I just had a weekend getaway with my college friends in Baler, Aurora. Mico found a great tour package for our trip at Vacation Deals. For less than 3,000 pesos we were able to enjoy the best of Baler for 2 days.

Surfing Through the Waves

The number one reason, I think, why people visit Baler is to surf. And that is actually the first activity we did. 

General surfing lessons before we start

Aside from the general lessons we need to learn about surfing, we were able to have our own instructor for a 1-on-1 lessons.

Kuya B2, my instructor, is teaching me the
proper way to stand on the board

After about less than 5 minutes of 1-on-1 surfing lessons on the shore, the challenge of conquering the waves begins...

Bumping into other surfers is just part of your surfing experience.

Photo op with my instructor after surfing. Kuya B2 is one of the good instructors from Mahdox Surf School.

I have DOMS (Delayed Onset of Muscle Soreness) all over my body right now due to surfing. Never in my life did I imagine that one day I’ll try surfing. I’m not really into water activities but trying it is worth it!

Baler for the Non-Surfers

Not into surfing? Don't worry because Baler has a lot to offer! There are other activities you can do and places to visit while in Baler.

Balete Park

You will definitely be amazed to see a gigantic, 600-year old Balete tree.

It's kinda creepy inside the Balete tree

Our tour guide, Kuya Ronnie, in his buwis
buhay act just to take a photo of us

                     

Baler is also rich when it comes to history and to know more about its past you need to visit the following places:

Baler Church

This church is dedicated to San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and is said to be the site of the "Siege of Baler".

Near the gate of the church is a sculptor of a hand holding a baby and below it is a prayer written for children killed inside their mother's womb.

Doña Aurora's House

This one is a replica of  the house of President Manuel Quezon's wife

A glance of what's inside the house of Doña Aurora...

Below the house is where you'll find President Quezon's car.

Our National costumes is also displayed outside the house.

Old Municipal Hall of Baler

Quezon Memorial Park

At the center of the park, you will see a statue of Manuel Quezon and the exact location of this piece is where the house of his family was once located.

At the side you will find a replica of the house where President Quezon grew up.

Museo de Baler

Located just behind President Quezon's statue is the Museo de Baler. 

Inside the museum you'll see different artworks and artifacts that exhibits the province's rich history.

Some of the paintings and artifacts you'll find in the museum

This one is a really nice artwork including the models, of course

Costumes used by Anne Curtis and Jericho Rosales in the movie "Baler" will also be found in the museum.

                         

Nature has its own way of taking your stress away and Baler do have a lot of scenic views to relieve your stress.

Ermita Hill
The hill serves as a refuge for the locals when Baler was hit by a tsunami. Now, the hill isn't just a safe haven but a tourist spot as well.

Our tour guide points out the places that
can be seen at the top of the hill

Cobra Reef and Baler Fish Port

Baler Fish Port

There's nothing much to see in the fish port but we wouldn't miss to take a group selfie.

Diguisit Falls

This one is easy to access because it is located along the highway of Baler.

Diguisit Rock Formations

We just make the most out of this beautiful place!

         

   

                 

Mother Falls (Ditumabo Falls)

If you want adventure and still want to enjoy nature, you must not miss going to Mother Falls. Going to the falls isn't easy, you need to ride a tricycle on a bumpy (really bumpy I must say) road and trek along wet and rocky trail.

Proof that the road is really bumpy

         

Food and bottled water is not allowed but don't worry there are stores along the way and you can drink a cool and fresh water for free!

           

Before meeting the Mother falls you need to meet first the baby.

About more or less than an hour of trekking, we finally say hello to Mother Falls!

Group picture!

We are definitely young, wild, and free!

If you're into history, nature, and adventure Baler is the right place for you! And for a hassle free trip you can visit the facebook account of Vacation Deals (click here) for their promo. 

*Photo credits to Carla, Mavic, and Lanie