Explore these summer destinations—without breaking the bank!

Just beginning to feel the sweltering summer heat but already itching to get your vacation plans in place? Like everyone else, you’re probably concerned about your budget. Don’t worry; there’s no need to scramble and deplete your bank account just to get that well-deserved break.

Below, we’ve rounded up a list of the best summer destinations you can check out that are within your budget—whatever it may be.

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Low cost (P600-P800)

Quezon

Estimated roundtrip fare: P600 per head (LRT Buendia Station to Lucena)

One of the most popular beaches in Quezon is Cagbalete Island. It’s known for its long stretch of creamy white sands and vibrant turquoise waters. You can play and eat by the beach and just enjoy the sun on your back (and every other part of your body). There are resorts around the island but if you want to cut down on expenses and enjoy a truly unique experience on the island, you can always opt to camp out on the beach itself.

Batangas

Estimated roundtrip fare: P600 per head (LRT Buendia Station to Batangas)

Anilao Beach in Mabini, Batangas may not be your first choice as it’s mostly known as a top-notch diving spot but its crystal clear waters and fine sand beaches will convince you otherwise. The payoff is a 4-hour trip for a whole day (or weekend) of beach bumming and island hopping. Go snorkeling and marvel at Anilao’s abundant marine life.

Zambales

Estimated roundtrip fare: P700 per head (Cubao to Iba)

A lot of people bitten by the travel bug head to Zambales eventually—and for good reason. Its famed coves make for great camping sites, enough to fulfill the dream of every camper. You can save big on accommodations and even food costs if you pack your own. You can pitch a tent at Nagsasa Cove, Potipot Island and Anawangin Cave, among others. And while you’re there, go star-gazing, surf at Liw-Liwa Beach and explore Subic.

Bolinao, Pangasinan

Estimated roundtrip fare: P1,00 per head (Cubao to Bolingo)

The 5-6 hour travel time from Manila to the cerulean beaches, spellbinding sunsets and cascading falls in Bolinao, Pangasinan make for the perfect barkada trip. From there, you can visit its top attractions: Patar White Beach, Cape Bolinao Lighthouse and the Bolinao Waterfalls. And while you’re at it, make sure to stop and appreciate its sunsets—it will be the perfect way to top off your trip.

Puerto Galera

Estimated roundtrip fare: P1,200 per head (LRT Buendia Station to Batangas Pier and Batangas Pier to Puerto Galera)

Only 3.5 hours away, Puerto Galera is one of the most accessible and budget-friendly destinations near our bustling metro. With its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches surrounded by lush forests, the coastal town makes a great spot for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and beach bumming. Its main attractions include Sabang Beach, White Beach and Tamaraw Falls. You can also enjoy the lively nightlife should you feel like capping off your vacation surrounded by people and by making new friends.

Bataan

Estimated roundtrip fare: P900-P1,600 per head (Pasay to Balanga or Manila to Orion, Bataan)

A day trip to Bataan will satisfy your craving for history, culture and nature. Seemingly go back in time and explore the historical Mt. Saat and the Dambana Kagitingan—a shrine and its museum built in the memory of the brave people who fought and died during World War II. While you’re there, you can do a detour to Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar, known for its Spanish-Filipino heritage mansions. You can also bask at Bataan’s many scenic beaches in Morong, Bagac and Mariveles.

Spare no expenses (P3,000 and up)

Romblon

Estimated roundtrip fare: P3,000-P8,000 (Manila to Tablas Airport or LRT Buendia Station to Batangas PIer and Batangas to Romblon)

It’s time that people stop sleeping on the “Marble Capital of the Philippines”—Romblon is blessed with three major (and unspoiled) islands! Tablas Island, Romblon Island and Sibuyan Island possess white sand beaches, marvelous sandbars, wild rivers and spectacular rock formations. You can also have a side trip to Fuerza San Andres to see the province’s heritage offerings if that’s more up your alley. Warning though: getting around can be a bit costly, so expect to shell out some money for this trip.

Surigao del Sur

Estimated roundtrip fare: P7,000 per head (Manila to Butan Bancasi Airport and Butuan Bus Terminal to Hinatuan Terminal)

Want something a little more off the beaten path? Head over to Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur for an enthralling escapade in Mindanao. Here, you’ll find the numinous blue waters, known for its flow source and unidentified depth that is the Hinatuan Enchanted River. You can spend your days island hopping, kayaking, snorkeling and swimming in this spot alone.

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Don’t let your budget hinder your dreams of discovering new places and experiencing life through its scenic spots. You can afford to travel; you just need to find the right fit—which should be easy considering how many beautiful spots our country has to offer. Plan and turn your summer trip into the dream you deserve.