Disclaimer: This was way back in 2018. There might have been some changes on prices and accommodations.
If you’re up for an outside-the-comfort-zone beach experience, Isla Verde is a good place to start.
“Outside-the-comfort-zone” does not mean that the stay will be less enjoyable, it just means you’ll be experiencing more of the outdoors than you might be used to.
The Surface Interval resort at Isla Verde is not as well-known as Pico de Loro or the Stilts, primarily due to its accessibility. Apart from the usual long drive to Batangas, another adventure awaits where you’d have to take a 30-minute boat ride to get to the island. This makes it different from other beach resorts located just along the shore. That takes “away from reality” to a different level.
Accommodations
For the accommodations, there is the choice between settling in their hotel (P400) or by renting a space on the sands near the shore inclusive of a big hut, a hammock, wooden chairs and enough space to set up multiple tents (P100) – both overlooking the beach.
The island experience
Why did we choose the outdoor accommodation? It was recommended to us and honestly, I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
Waking up to a beautiful hotel room is nice but waking up to the beach waves and the first view outside the tent is the beautiful shore is a must-experience as well. You would really feel like you’ve escaped into a dream.
Not to mention how clear the water was and how fresh it felt. There really was no need for a filter, and even the photos won’t do it justice. My time in the water never seemed to be enough. We stayed in the water for almost the whole time we were there, only getting out to eat, take a break, and when it was time to settle in for bed.
The next morning, we just washed up, drank some coffee/hot chocolate and went straight to the water again.
Apart from the beach, I won’t forget the ambiance that Isla Verde offered. It had such tranquility, especially during the sunset/golden hours – so far, the most beautiful sunset I have ever witnessed. One of the reasons that it’s still my favorite beach experience up to this day.
The downsides
The boat ride – It was around 30 minutes long and crowded. Since the boat is scheduled throughout the day, they’ll try to fit as much as the boat can. There were even some seated on the roof. It costs at around P100 each at that time.
Shared bathroom – Not having your own hotel room also meant not having your own bathroom.
The tap water tasted salty from what I remembered. (Advisable to bring own water as an alternative)
Security – As mentioned, we were not checked in the hotel, so while the other visitors were minding their own business like we were, you still can’t be 100% sure that your belongings are safe. We just went into our tents and slept there with the tent zipper as our only “lock”.
No restaurants and shops – This means additional baggage for your own food, toiletries, etc. While that added to the “island experience”, it’s still something we can’t get used to right away.
Just don’t forget to clean up after yourselves. Put away your trash properly, and keep the island clean.
Final verdict
If you love spending most of your time at the beach itself, then it is ~heaven~. Especially for big groups. However, if you are more focused on the hotel experience and free breakfast routine, then I wouldn’t recommend this.
No Comments