La Luz Beach Resort & Spa

Situated on beachfront grounds, La Luz Beach Resort in Batangas comprises a collection of thatch-roofed buildings. Most public spaces are housed in breezy, beachy open-air pavilions, while guest rooms reside in two-story, cream-colored buildings with external staircases. Spaces are simple and the property shows its age a bit, but it’s kept fairly clean – nevertheless, guests should manage their expectations. Natural materials like wood and bamboo are prevalent, making for a rustic aesthetic. Dining spaces, for example, are housed in open-air pavilions and furnished with wooden picnic tables, breezy white curtains, and ceiling fans suspended from thatched roofs. One of the spaces is right on the beach, with beautiful views over the water.

This privately owned resort has been operating for 30 years, but it was originally meant to be used as a private getaway for just one family. It has expanded since, now offering 40 rooms, but it still remains a family-friendly destination that draws both groups and families, mainly those on a budget. La Luz Beach Resort is also a good day trip idea as well, drawing many day-trippers with its special package rates that include cabana use, lunch, snacks, and more.

The hotel is set on the beach on Tayabas Bay in Hugom, a resort area on the southeast coast of Batangas. There are lots of other hotels in the area that line the beautiful coast here. Batangas City is about an hour-and-a-half drive away, while Manila can be reached in around three hours. From Manila, guests can take buses from Buendia or Cubao to Lipa City (a 90-minute drive), then a jeepney to San Juan. Jeepneys and tricycles are available from San Juan to Laiya Beach, which is about a half-hour drive from the resort. Ninoy Aquino International Airport is around two-and-a-half hours away, but can take longer depending on traffic.

There are a couple of different types of rooms offered here, ranging from standard rooms to lofted ones to large dorms with bunk beds that can sleep up to 16 people. Interiors are simple, with not much by way of amenities, but they’re clean and largely well-maintained. Dark tiled floors and furniture contrast cream-colored walls. Rustic touches include bamboo bed frames. There’s not much in terms of furnishings here – shelves and bamboo ladders to hang clothes on instead of wardrobes or dressers, plus simple wall-mounted shelf-like tabletops paired with stools.

Most of the rooms have terraces/balconies furnished with benches right outside of the front door. Note that lofted rooms have staircases and are not suited for travelers with mobility issues. Amenities are a bit sparse, as there are no TVs or fridges, but all rooms do have air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi, though the connection can be problematic. Simple bathrooms are outfitted with showers. Body wash and shampoo/conditioner are supplied.

Food is included in rates here and served buffet-style in the resort’s dining spaces, although it’s reportedly mediocre. Housed in open-air pavilions, the rustic, breezy dining spaces include one right on the beach. Breakfast, lunch, afternoons snacks, and dinner are all included in rates, but alcoholic drinks are charged extra. Even day trip rates include buffet food – lunch and snacks – but a la carte options are also available (for a fee). There’s also a bar on the beach that serves beer, cocktails, and other drinks.

One of the main attractions here is the beautiful stretch of white-sand beach. It’s the main reason why the property draws day-trippers. The clear, shallow waters are great for swimming, and the pretty shore is lined with padded loungers and umbrellas. Lush greenery borders the beach, and there are shaded cabanas available. There’s a beach volleyball court, plus a variety of water sports are available, like snorkeling, kayaking, jet-skiing, wind-surfing, diving, and banana boat.

The hotel offers a number of other activities and services for a fee, such as bike rentals (fat bikes too), plus there are some excursions like guided hikes and boat trips. Other features at this resort include massage services and a nightly bonfire on the beach. Event space (both outdoor and indoor) is available for rent for various functions and needs such as weddings and team-building events. There are large, two-level private cabanas also available for rent.