Want to take a break from city life? Visit one of the many nature attractions near Manila, which are conveniently located in nearby provinces. Explore the beautiful gardens, lakesides, and mountains of Batangas, the rushing waterfalls of Rizal, serene springs of Laguna, and the tranquil seaside of Oriental Mindoro. All these getaways are accessible in just a few hours’ trip from the metro.

 

Unwind and reconnect with nature at these nature destinations near Manila. Be sure to add the following tourist spots to your day trip itinerary!

Top 8 Must-See Nature Attractions Near Manila

• Imelda’s Garden

Sitio Sablay, Brgy. 8, Cuenca, Batangas

Entrance Fee: Php 150

 

This romantic, Instagram-worthy garden overlooks the Taal Lake and mountains of Batangas. Visit early in the morning or just before sunset to witness a breathtaking view from Imelda’s Garden. Take loads of photos, walk among the flower paths, or simply admire the lovely view with your loved one. The garden and events place is located just a few meters from one of the town’s top nature attractions near Manila, Mt. Maculot (which is temporarily closed for reforestation efforts). 

• Tagbakin Lakeview

Walan Wharf, Sitio Tagbakin, Brgy. Halang, Lipa, Batangas

Environmental Fee: Php 20

 

Bask in the serenity of Tagbakin Lakeview, one of the underrated nature destinations near Manila. It is a small lakeside park overlooking Taal Lake. It is well-maintained, with a parking lot, benches, covered pavilions, and a paved walkway. Although it has a modest size, the lakeside park offers a glorious view of the sunset. If you like fishing, pack your rods and equipment because you can catch freshwater fish here. 

• Fortune Island 

Nasugbu, Batangas

Entrance Fee per head: Php 350 (Day Tour) / Php 500 (Overnight)

Boat Fee: Starts at Php 4,000 (Day Tour / Php 4,500 (Overnight)

 

If you have a flexible stay in Batangas, head on over to Fortune Island and marvel at the Greek acropolis-inspired ruins. It is located off the coast of Nasugbu, and you must take a short boat ride to get there. The island was once a private resort until it was developed into the Fortune Island Resort Club in 1995. The Greek ruins, statues, sandy shores, and rolling waves are what make the island worth visiting today. It is one of the popular island nature attractions near Manila.

• Mt. Gulugod Baboy

Mabini, Batangas

Environmental Fee: Php 50

Landowner Fee: Php 30

Guide Fee: Php 500 (1-4 people)

 

If you are in Batangas City, how about a picnic at Mt. Gulugod Baboy in Mabini? Its name roughly translates to ‘pig’s spine’, which reflects the shape of each peak. The hike is beginner-friendly, which kids and senior citizens can enjoy. The path is lined with stone stairs, paved pathways, and assistive roads. At the top of any of the three peaks, you can see an astonishing view of Batangas Bay, Verde Island, Mt. Halcon, Mindoro, Taal Volcano, and even Mt. Maculot.

• Hidden Valley Springs Resort

Calauan, Laguna

Entrance Fee: Php 2,800 (day tour, inclusive of lunch buffet, afternoon snack, full amenities)

 

Hidden Valley Springs Resort is truly a hidden gem. It has a hot and cold spring, and a hidden waterfall, all surrounded by a lush green forest. The vibrant canopy of trees and rushing water will make you feel completely immersed in nature. It is also one of the unique nature destinations near Manila with facilities that blend modern elements with rustic vibes. 

• Hinulugang Taktak Protected Landscape

Daang Bakal Road, Antipolo, Rizal

Entrance Fee: FREE

 

Nestled in the hills of Antipolo City is the Hinulugang Taktak Falls. It is part of a sizable protected area managed by the local government. There is a clean viewdeck where you can watch the broad, towering falls cascade down to a pool. The area has a free swimming pool, gazebos, and hanging bridges. Various activities like walk climbing, rappelling, a canopy walk, and a spider web. Best of all, the facilities are free of charge, but you can make a donation that goes to the maintenance of the area.

• Silonay Mangrove Ecopark

Brgy. Silonay, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro

 

Mangrove conservation areas play a significant role in stabilizing Philippine shores. Calapan City in Oriental Mindoro has their very own Silonay Mangrove Ecopark. It is one of the top nature attractions near Manila, reachable in just an hour and a half via fast craft. This nature sanctuary promotes the importance of mangrove conservation, as well as its benefits for the environment. 

• Harka Piloto Fish Sanctuary

Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro

Boat Fee: Starts at Php 500

 

A tranquil island paradise awaits at Harka Piloto Island, a community-maintained marine sanctuary in Lazareto, Calapan City. It is one of the underrated nature destinations near Manila, offering untainted corals and rich marine biodiversity. It has also become a popular dive spot for visitors and underwater photographers.

 

You don’t have to go too far to experience a fulfilling, rejuvenating nature escape. Slow down and reset your system by visiting vibrant nature destinations near Manila.

 

ALSO READ: 10 Must-See Batangas City Tourist Spots Near the Port

 

Reliable Ferry Booking from Batangas to Calapan with SuperCat

Hop on a SuperCat Fast Ferry to get to various nature destinations in Batangas and Calapan. In just under two hours, you can travel between each city with ease and convenience. SuperCat also offers spacious and comfortable air-conditioned seats, along with a stunning view of the Batangas bay and Verde Island Passage. View our updated schedule and rates here, and book your seat today.

 

META DESCRIPTION

Plan a quick getaway to nature destinations near Manila. From the hills of Batangas to the vibrant marine life in Calapan, here are the top spots you shouldn’t miss.