Lobo, Batangas

A seasoned traveler I know gives a rave review of Punta Malabrigo, Lobo, Batangas. Better than popular beaches in Batangas, like that in Nasugbu, Laiya, Lian, and Mabini, so he says with a mega plus point of a light house.

I've been here twice so it goes withouth saying that I like this beach. For both trips, we took the long hard road to Lobo. The first time, we took the most "direct" route via public transportation. The bus ride to Batangas City is smooth and hassle free but the jeepney ride to Lobo and tricycle ride to Malabrigo is a challenge, with so many roads under construction, giant pot holes, long and winding road, what a relief when we arrive at our destination. The second time, we brought a car with us but via different road passing by the coastal towns of Batangas. The road seems unpassable, but it is. There is indeed a road to Lobo via the Shell Refinery route. We were already passing thru the shorelines, good thing it was low tide and thanks to the signature pebbles of Batangas but made it 'easier' for our sedans to pass. It was a totally wrong choice of ride, we should have brought at least a pick up truck.

So here we are in Punta Malabrigo. What makes it different? Its a pebble beach. Water is clear, no sand in the shoreline, purely pebbles. You can collect as many pebbles as your conscience will allow. You need slippers to walk in here, not that it will hurt your feet since its not coral sand, but so that you can walk thru easily. You will have the view of an open sea for at least 180 degrees.

A plus would indeed be the lighthouse. There is always an enchantment brought about by a lighthouse esp with an old one like this. Overlooking the open sea, you will find serenity and exclusivity in this place. Exclusivity? Until 2008, there are very few travelers who goes here for the beach, we dont know for the next 3 - 5 years, it might be the next Anilao.

There is indeed something about this place that makes you want to go back. Not so near. Not so far. Totally off the beaten track. For now.