Top 10 Travel Spots Near Manila for Long Weekend Getaways

Looking to escape Manila’s hustle but still want a quick trip you can do over a long weekend? You’re in luck. From cool mountain views to beachside fun, these spots are all within a few hours’ drive. Each destination has something different—nature, adventure, history, or simple relaxation. Check out this list and start planning your next getaway.

1. Tagaytay, Cavite

Tagaytay is a classic Manila escape. It sits about 1.5–2 hours away, making it easy for a Friday afternoon departure. Cool breeze, scenic views of Taal Volcano, and plenty of cafes and restaurants mean you can chill for hours.

What to Do:

• Visit the Taal Volcano viewing deck at Sky Ranch or Picnic Grove

• Drop by People’s Park in the Sky for panoramic views

• Indulge in fresh strawberries at local stalls

• Try the famous bulalo (beef marrow soup) or kapeng barako (strong local coffee)

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours by private car or bus

• Ideal For: Couples, families, and barkada (group) trips

• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays (less crowded) or early mornings on weekends

• Approx. Budget: ₱2,000–₱3,000 per person (including food and light activities)

2. Pagsanjan Falls, Laguna

About 2–3 hours from Manila, Pagsanjan Falls is perfect for nature lovers. The famous “Shooting the Rapids” boat ride delivers an adrenaline rush as you navigate narrow river channels to reach the falls.

What to Do:

• Experience the traditional banca ride upstream to the falls

• Swim under the waterfall’s refreshing mist

• Rent a bamboo raft to get closer to the cascade

• Explore nearby caves and springs

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 2–3 hours by car via Cavite–Laguna Expressway (CALAEX)

• Ideal For: Adventure seekers and families

• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (November–April) to avoid slippery riverbanks

• Approx. Budget: ₱1,500–₱2,500 per person (including tour fees and lunch)

3. Anilao, Batangas

Anilao is known for snorkeling and diving—just 2.5–3 hours from Manila. Even if you don’t dive, the clear waters and rocky coves make it a relaxing beachside escape.

What to Do:

• Snorkel or dive around coral gardens and marine sanctuaries

• Visit Sombrero Island or Cathedral Rock for underwater photography

• Relax on a day tour at a beachfront resort (many offer day passes)

• Explore small fishing villages and enjoy fresh seafood

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours by car via SLEX–STAR Tollway

• Ideal For: Divers, snorkelers, and beach lovers

• Best Time to Visit: March–May (clearest water)

• Approx. Budget: ₱2,000–₱3,500 per person (including gear rental and boat fees)

4. Subic Bay, Zambales

Subic Bay offers a mix of beaches, forest parks, and family-friendly activities. It’s about 2.5–3 hours from Manila via SCTEX–NLEX. Perfect for a long weekend with a mix of relaxation and adventure.

What to Do:

• Relax at White Rock Beach or Camayan Beach (Ocean Adventure Park nearby)

• Zipline or go on a tree-top adventure in Subic Forest Adventure

• Visit Zoobic Safari or Tree Top Adventure Park

• Shop at duty-free outlets and enjoy waterfront dining at Subic Bay Freeport Zone

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours by car or bus via SCTEX–NLEX

• Ideal For: Families, couples, and barkada with mixed interests

• Best Time to Visit: December–February (cooler, less humid)

• Approx. Budget: ₱2,500–₱4,000 per person (including park fees and meals)

5. Tanay, Rizal

Tanay is about 2 hours from Manila. If you’re into eco-adventures, Masungi Georeserve offers unique rock formations and hanging bridges. Nearby Daranak Falls is great for a quick dip.

What to Do:

• Trek the Masungi Georeserve trail (guided tours only)

• Swim and picnic at Daranak Falls or Batlag Falls

• Explore Sierra Madre foothills and mountain views

• Try local cuisine at small cafes in the town proper

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: ~2 hours by car via Ortigas Avenue and Marcos Highway

• Ideal For: Hikers, nature enthusiasts, and friends seeking adventure

• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (November–April) to avoid muddy trails

• Approx. Budget: ₱1,800–₱3,000 per person (tour fees, transport, meals)

6. Mount Maculot, Batangas

Mount Maculot is a popular day-hike destination around 2.5–3 hours from Manila. The famous “Sugat” crag offers a sweeping view of Taal Lake and Volcano. For serious hikers, the summit at 3,000 feet is challenging but doable in a long weekend.

What to Do:

• Hike to Maculot’s “Sugat” rock face for sunrise or sunset views

• Camp overnight at Parc and Mt. Maculot Base Camp

• Swim at Gintuang Malaki Falls (short trek from jump-off point)

• Explore Batangas’ local markets for fresh produce

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours by car via SLEX–Nasugbu Road

• Ideal For: Hiking enthusiasts and friends who love camping

• Best Time to Visit: Dry season to ensure safer trail conditions

• Approx. Budget: ₱1,000–₱1,800 per person (permit fees, guide, and meals)

7. Laiya, San Juan, Batangas

Laiya is a stretch of white sand beaches about 3–4 hours from Manila. Resorts here range from budget-friendly to mid-range, making it easy to find a spot that fits your style and wallet.

What to Do:

• Relax on white sand beaches and swim in clear waters

• Join island-hopping tours to nearby small islets

• Try water sports like kayaking or banana boat rides

• Sample local seafood at beachfront restaurants

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 3–4 hours by car via STAR Tollway–Lipa–San Juan Road

• Ideal For: Beach lovers and group getaways

• Best Time to Visit: November–May (dry months, calmer seas)

• Approx. Budget: ₱3,000–₱4,500 per person (resort day pass, meals, transport)

8. Caliraya Lake, Laguna

Caliraya Lake is a serene getaway about 2.5–3 hours from Manila. This man-made lake in Laguna offers water sports, fishing, and scenic lakeside cabins for rent.

What to Do:

• Jet ski, kayak, or paddleboard on Caliraya Lake

• Fish for tilapia or carp in designated areas

• Stay in lakeside cottages or glamping tents

• Explore nearby Alta Vista Club for golf and zipline

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: ~2.5–3 hours by car via SLEX–Calamba–Pagsanjan Road

• Ideal For: Couples and small groups wanting a quiet escape

• Best Time to Visit: November–April (mild weather, less rain)

• Approx. Budget: ₱2,000–₱3,500 per person (accommodation, water activities)

9. Taal Heritage Town, Batangas

Taal Town is about 3–3.5 hours from Manila. This historical town boasts well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and a view of Taal Lake. Perfect for a cultural break that’s easy to explore on foot.

What to Do:

• Visit the centuries-old Basilica of St. Martin de Tours

• Walk down Calle Crisologo to see heritage houses and shops

• Climb to the Taal Lake view deck at the Taal Vista Inn

• Sample local delicacies like kapeng barako, lomi, and buko pie

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 3–3.5 hours by car via SLEX–Tagaytay–Taal Road

• Ideal For: History buffs and foodie travelers

• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds on weekends

• Approx. Budget: ₱1,500–₱2,500 per person (food, minimal entrance fees)

10. Anawangin Cove, Zambales

Anawangin Cove is a remote beach in Zambales, reachable by a 3–4-hour drive plus a short boat ride. Its pine-forested backdrops set it apart from typical white-sand beaches.

What to Do:

• Camp on the beach or rent a nipa hut from locals

• Hike to nearby Mount Pandan or Capones Island for views

• Swim or snorkel in the calm waters of the cove

• Enjoy bonfire nights under the stars (permit required)

Additional Info:

• Travel Time: 3–4 hours by car via SCTEX–Subic–San Antonio Road, then 30-min boat ride

• Ideal For: Adventurers and backpackers looking for rustic camping

• Best Time to Visit: November–April (dry season to avoid storms)

• Approx. Budget: ₱1,500–₱2,500 per person (boat fee, camping gear, food)

Ready for Your Next Long Weekend?

These 10 spots prove you don’t need to travel far for a memorable getaway. Whether you want cool mountain air, a refreshing dip, or a dose of history, you can make it happen without missing too many work hours. Grab your friends, plan your itinerary, and hit the road—you deserve it.

This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here