Sights: Surf's Up - BAGASBAS, LA UNION, BALER

I'm no pro surfer nor am I an expert of doing it, I'm not even an amateur. I'm just a beginner who enjoys hitting and riding the waves whenever I get the chance to. The thrill of getting up on the surf board to ride a wave is truly addicting. Here are some of the top surfing  places in Luzon that I got to surf at, all my views and opinions are based on what I experienced.

Surf's Up

Bagasbas is located in Camarines Norte, this was the first spot where I first tried surfing. The beach stretch long and wide, the waves came one after the other. During the time I was there , the waves were a good two to three feet high. Most of the accommodations in the area are inns,  cheap and very basic. At night, there were a lot of people walking and hanging out around the shore holding bottles of beer.

Bagasbas Beach

The Waves at Bagasbas

Learning the Basics

Catching a Wave

Upon the mention of La Union, the favorite spot of beginners would be in San Juan. The beach shore itself is pretty short compared to the other two spots. Among all the three beaches, I felt that this is the perfect place for beginners to try out surfing, waves were only one to one point five high when I was here. There are a variety of accommodation which can be found here, from simple affordable rooms to nice looking villas.  At night, there are a lot of bars that plays hip tunes and offers different alcoholic beverages. This surf beach would be the perfect choice for people looking to have a great night life.

San Juan, La Union

Long Ride

Sunset at San Juan

"Let the good times roll...Cheers!"

Among all three, Baler was the most challenging surf spot for me. The first time I tried surfing here, the rough  waves were three to four feet high . Compared to the other two, Baler has the longest shore line. Just like L.U., Baler offers different choices for accommodations and as of the moment a hotel is being built. At night, most of the area gets really peaceful and quiet though you can still grab a beer or cocktails at nearby restaurants and resorts.

Baler Aurora

Conquering a Wave

All of the three surfing beaches has excellent fine sand and pristine waters. Rental of surf boards with instructors cost around Php400 per hour. The best time to surf for beginners starts from the month of March to November. To check out how high the waves are, visiting www.magicseaweed.com is very helpful.  One has to remember that these are surfing beaches, if the waves gets really high swimming is not advisable.

From the three surfing spots that I've been to, my favorite would be Baler, Aurora. I've already been here three times and I'm still planning to go back anytime soon. Though it is the hardest surf spot for me,  I really liked how peaceful and quiet the town is plus the locals are friendly and very laid back.

A Good Morning in Baler, Aurora

Surfing is just an awesome experience. The excitement of standing on the board while cruising forward as you feel the gush of the crashing waves from behind is incredible. It feels like being one with the waves but at the same time conquering it. So enough talk,  grab you board shorts and put on your rash guard cause its Surf's Up!!!

How the Pros Do It!!! (shot in Baler)