Starting of classes can be pretty stressful, and everyone seems so busy again especially if you have kids who are going to school. This has made us to decide to relax and explore new places once more, just before the start of the classes. As what Herodotus said “If a man insisted always on being serious, and never allowed himself a bit of fun and relaxation, he would go mad or become unstable without knowing it.”
Even if summer break is almost over, that does not mean relaxation cannot continue. We still have opportunities to enjoy a quiet day and sunshine at the beach. If you really want it, you still have time to pack your things, swimming gear, sun block and drive away like my family and I headed to Barangay Laiya in San Juan Batangas where different white sand beach resorts are located. This place, as we have heard of, is one of the favorite tourist destinations especially during the summer and also a favorite place to unwind.
This is the first time that my family got to see Laiya. Prior to this, we would only read about it from magazines, sometimes watch it featured in TV programs. I would see a white beach and clear waters, and noticed that it’s not as populated as other resorts frequented by tourists. Thus, Laiya is a good destination for a family holiday or during summer if you want beaches but with not too many people.
Main Lobby
Acua Bar
Oceano restaurant
Gladly, the relaxation and privacy we were looking for were found in a 21 beachfront rooms and villas of Acuatico Beach Resort and Hotel. Acuatico is a recipient of TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 2012, 2013 and 2014. For me, the resort has delivered on a combination of destinations, activities and romantic hideaways. Amenities like beautiful infinity pool and white beach are present. where you can do some watersports like kayaking and banana boating, for instance. A spa is also among its facilities if you want some massage. Indoor games like billiards and ping pong tables are available if you want to unwind. For dining, the Oceano restaurant serves buffet meals, plus Acua Bar which is located in the middle of the infinity pool. It offers an extensive selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Estancia
Infiniti Room
Inside Infiniti Room
We can only hope that the beds can be made a little bigger to accommodate adults and their kids.
How to Get There:
Aquatico is located 140 km or 87 miles south of Manila, a 3 hour drive depending on the traffic situation. I drove there without any traffic and it took me 2 and 1/2 hours, but it took us 3 hours on our way home. We were stuck for almost 30 minutes in an under construction bridge in Ibaan. In this situation, waze application is very helpful during that trip. There are two ways to get there, that is, by taking Lipa or Ibaan Exit which I took.
Take the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) all the way to the new South Luzon Toll Way (otherwise known as the Alabang-Calamba-Sto. Tomas Toll Way) then go straight ahead to the Star Toll Way entrance. Be advised that you do not have to exit SLEX because the 2 highways are now connected. You may choose to take the Lipa Exit or Ibaan Exit.
Ibaan Exit from Star Toll Way:
About 45 km drive on the Star Toll Way, you will see San Jose-Ibaan Exit (after the Lipa Exit). After passing the toll booth, turn left and drive 2.5 km. You will reach an intersection with a sign pointing to Rosario. Please turn left at this intersection. After turning left, the Municipal Hall of Ibaan will be on your right, while a church will be on your left. After passing the church on your left, you will reach a forked road. Turn right at the road sign pointing to San Juan. Drive 8 km along this road to Rosario town proper.
Once you reach Rosario town proper, drive past the Jollibee and South Star Drug store outlets at your left. This road leads all the way to San Juan town proper, which is about 23 km away. When you see the sign leading to the Batangas Racing Circuit, turn left and head straight for San Juan town proper.
After entering San Juan town proper, drive past Jollibee and Dunkin Donut to your right and head for the Municipal Hall of San Juan. Turn right immediately after the Municipal Hall of San Juan. This is the main road of Laiya. Drive for approximately 23.5 km (25 minutes).
More Photos of Acuatico Beach Resort here
Things to consider beforehand
Laiya in San Juan is home to lots of beautiful beach resorts, so it is better to research first and compare which resort is cheaper or affordable and which would serve what you really want in your getaway.
How about you? Which one resort in Laiya do you think is worth visiting, and why?
Acuatico Beach Resorts Official website here
Acuatico Room Rates and Reservations:
Manila Sales & Reservations Office:
Unit 142, G/F Mile Long Building
V.A. Rufino corner Amorsolo Street, Makati City Philippines1223
Office Hours |
|
|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | (8:00 am to 7:00 pm) |
| Friday | (8:00 am to 6:00 pm) |
| Saturday | (8:00 am to 12:00 noon) |
Telephone Numbers:
(+63-2) 892-7577 to 79
(+63-2) 869-0236
Office Mobile:
Globe: 0927-6807835
Smart: 0939-9548463
For weekend inquiries, please contact the Resort at:
Smart: 0928-8543849
Saturday (12:00 noon to 7:00 pm)
Sunday (6:00 am to 7:00 pm)
Email: reservations@acuaticoresort.com.ph
