Into the Blue - Dicasalarin Cove

Baler is the capital of the Aurora province popularly known as the surfing mecca of the country. Blessed with spectacular geographic formations from mountain range to panoramic beaches, definitely there's more to Baler besides being the country's prime surf spot.

One of Baler's hidden attraction is Dicasalarin Cove. The secluded white sand beach is located at the foothills of Sierra Madre mountains meeting the waves of the Pacific Ocean. From the top entrance going to the cove,  you will be greeted with a breathtaking view of Dicasalarin as a stunning vista of contrasting colors awaits. The cove is actually privately-owned by Sen. Angara but open to guests staying in Bahia de Baler who avail of the tour package that comes with a gate pass. For those who are not staying in Bahia, a 300.00 Php per head is required, make sure to get the gate pass from Bahia de Baler before going to Dicasalarin Cove.

 Heart-shaped landslide.

Picnic tables are set-up under the shade of various trees (Balibago,Pandan,Kad-dil etc) which serve as al fresco dining spot in the cove. The beach is bordered with rock formations on both sides while the wide white sand beach complements the blue sky.

 The Mini Pool

In the left side of the cove you have to scramble across the rocky shores to enjoy skinny dipping in the "mini-pool". For some reason the crashing of waves against the rock formations is actually pleasing as I want to see sing Panic! At the Disco's  New Perspective.

I feel the salty waves come in. I feel them crash against my skin 

There's also a river delta right across the gate of the cove,where fresh water coming from the  mountains meets the ocean. For a thrilling view of the cove you might want to try climbing the peak on the rightmost part of the cove. The trek to the peak will take 15-20 minutes from the beach.

So there goes our short stint in Dicasalarin Cove. If you want to get away from the maddening crowd of Sabang Bay try visiting Dicasalarin Cove in Baler.

GETTING THERE:

There are two ways to get to the Dicasalarin cove either  by land or by sea. Although both offer different spectacular view of Aurora I suggest the first option since the coastal water in Baler is rough, remember that the waves here are for surfing. A private van is highly recommended as a mode of tranportation going to the cove because roads are zig-zag and some roads are not that yet well paved. Travel time will take 30-45 mins from Sabang Beach.

As mention Dicasalarin Cove is privately-owned by Sen. Angara, ask personnel from Bahia de Baler before going to the cove.  A fee of 300.00Php/pax should be settled in Bahia de Baler. Don't forget to secure the gate pass.
 

Packed lunch is also recommended to save time although you can cook your food in the cove's dining area.

BUDGET:

300Php - Entrance  (6000/20 pax)

85Php -  Packed lunch from Bay's Inn (1700/20 pax)

385Php/pax
 

Bahia de Baler

http://www.bahiadebaler.com/

Joan or Kim at 0908-982-7064 or 0908-732-0672


**all photos by Chad