Published on Mar 18, 2025 5 min read

Affordable Baler: The Ultimate Low-Cost Travel Itinerary

Baler, a coastal gem in Aurora, is a haven for adventure seekers and beach lovers. Famous for its world-class surfing, breathtaking rock formations, and deep historical roots, this town offers both excitement and tranquility. The best part? You don’t need a big budget to experience its beauty. With smart planning, affordable lodging, and cost-effective travel options, you can explore Baler without overspending.

Whether you're surfing the waves, hiking to waterfalls, or exploring its rich history, there are so many things you can do in the town without spending too much. A cheap trip to Baler is not only possible—it's an adventure waiting to happen.

Getting to Baler Without Overspending

Going to Baler from Manila is easy and economical if you go about the right way. The cheapest method is by bus, with the available options being Genesis Transport's Joy Bus and regular air-conditioned buses. The Joy Bus costs a bit more but has the advantage of being non-stop, with more comfortable travel. If you are cutting corners to save, traveling on a regular bus and making stopovers help cut costs. The trip is approximately five to six hours, so overnight travel can save you the expense of one night's lodging.

Once in Baler, hiring a tricycle for the day is the most convenient way to get around. Tricycle drivers provide tour packages that visit several places at a third of the price of private vans. You can also share a ride with other travelers to share the cost. When you're staying close to Sabang Beach, most of the places are within walking distance, and you can minimize transport costs.

Where to Stay: Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Baler has a range of affordable accommodations, making it easy to find a place that fits your budget. Staying near Sabang Beach is ideal since it keeps you close to restaurants, surf schools, and major attractions. Budget lodges, hostels, and homestays provide simple yet comfortable rooms, with dormitory-style stays available for as low as PHP 300 per night. Some guesthouses also offer shared kitchen access, helping travelers save even more by preparing their meals.

For groups, booking a basic fan room or an affordable Airbnb can significantly cut costs when split among travelers. Many local accommodations also offer discounts for extended stays.

Camping is a great option for a more adventurous experience. Some beachfront resorts allow guests to pitch tents for a minimal fee, offering a budget-friendly way to enjoy the natural surroundings. Falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves under the stars makes for an unforgettable stay—all while keeping expenses low.

Food Finds: Eating Cheap Without Sacrificing Flavor

Baler has no shortage of good food at reasonable prices. The town has local eateries, carinderias, and small restaurants that serve delicious Filipino meals for as low as PHP 50 per dish. If you want to eat on a budget, look for places that locals frequent—they usually offer the best value.

For breakfast, bakeries and small cafes serve cheap yet filling options like pandesal with coffee or arroz caldo. For lunch and dinner, turo-turo stalls sell rice meals with meat, seafood, and vegetable options. If you’re craving fresh seafood, head to the public market and buy ingredients to cook at your accommodation, especially if your lodging has a shared kitchen.

If you want to experience Baler’s popular restaurants without spending too much, go during lunchtime when prices tend to be lower. Some places also offer group meals that are more affordable when shared.

A 2-Day Budget Itinerary for Baler

A well-planned itinerary ensures you experience Baler’s best sights while staying within your budget. Here’s a sample two-day itinerary that covers major attractions without unnecessary spending.

Day 1: Surf, Waterfalls, and Rock Formations

Start your morning by renting a surfboard at Sabang Beach, where lessons are available for beginners. Surfing in Baler is relatively cheap, with board rentals and instructor fees bundled together at affordable rates. If surfing isn’t your thing, you can just relax by the shore and enjoy the view.

By midday, take a tricycle to Ditumabo Mother Falls, also known as the “Mother Falls.” The trek is easy and rewards you with a refreshing swim in a natural pool. There’s a small entrance fee, but the experience is worth it.

After lunch, visit Diguisit Rock Formations and enjoy the scenic coastline. This area is perfect for photo opportunities and is free to visit. Before sunset, head back to Sabang Beach and enjoy the golden hour by the shore.

Day 2: History, Museums, and More Sightseeing

Begin your second day with a visit to Baler Church and Museo de Baler. Entrance fees are minimal, but the museum offers a deep dive into Baler’s history, including its Spanish colonial past and famous residents.

Next, visit Ermita Hill for a panoramic view of Baler Bay. This place is known for its historical significance, as it's where locals fled to escape the tsunami that hit Baler in 1735. Afterward, drop by the Balete Tree, also called the "Millennium Tree," the largest in Asia. For a small environmental fee, you can enter its hollow trunk and take cool photos.

Before heading back to Manila, grab a quick meal or buy souvenirs at the public market, where you’ll find affordable dried fish, keychains, and other keepsakes.

Conclusion

Baler offers a memorable and budget-friendly travel experience for anyone eager to explore its natural beauty and rich history. With affordable transportation, inexpensive accommodations, and delicious local food, you can make the most of your trip without overspending. By planning your itinerary wisely and taking advantage of free or low-cost attractions, Baler can be enjoyed by travelers of all budgets. Whether you’re a surf enthusiast or a nature lover, this charming town provides a wealth of experiences, all while ensuring you stay within your budget. Baler truly proves that adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.