INSIDE CASOBE: AN ALL-IN-ONE BEACH ESCAPADE IN BATANGAS

Batangas is known as one of the go-to tourist destinations near the bustling cities of Metro Manila. Besides being just a two- to three-hour drive away from the metro, it offers a wide array of options for all kinds of travelers—beach lovers, mountain hikers, and even foodies and history buffs.

But what makes Batangas stand out the most are its pristine beaches and diving spots. Recently, Resort Estates Calatagan South Beach, one of the prime resorts in the area, has unveiled new attractions for beachgoers.

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Nestled in the town of Calatagan, CaSoBe is a 15-hectare beachfront resort featuring high-class hospitality and leisure facilities. The property boasts its own lighthouse perfect for sightseeing, as well as a spectacular view of the shores from the villa.

CaSoBe's lighthouse with a 360-degree viewing deck

The hotel rooms closest to the beach are the Crusoe Cabins. With an exterior reminiscent of nipa huts, the cabins are totally different on the inside with its contemporary layout. 

A bird's eye view of the Crusoe Cabins

One of the cabins up close

Each cabin has all the usual amenities: bedroom, living room, kitchen and dining area, and toilet and bath. What probably sets it apart is that it has its own porch terrace. Plus points that it’s pet-friendly, too.

A bedroom with two bunk beds

View of the front porch from inside the cabin

On to one of the most luxurious accommodations at CaSoBe: the Chairman’s Cabin. Dubbed the crowning jewel of the resort, the property is a 300-square-meter cabin made specifically for tycoon Manny V. Pangilinan. Pangilinan is the chairman of the company behind CaSoBe, Landco Pacific, and its parent firm, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation.

How the Chairman's Cabin looks from the outside at night

The villa is a bungalow-style cabin with four bedrooms, including an exclusive suite for Pangilinan. We only got to see three rooms, which are the ones available for booking. The cabin features more than the amenities any guest would need: two living rooms, two dining areas, a kitchen with a countertop, a bathroom, and a terrace with a beachfront view.

One of the bedrooms inside the Chairman's Cabin

The main living room

Kitchen with countertop 

The terrace is my favorite, especially since the cabin is surrounded by greenery, making for a more pleasant scenery—the perfect place to relax and unwind (or even be productive when you feel like it).

View from the terrace

The Chairman’s Cabin is ideal for staycations and social gatherings, but only among small groups, as the maximum number of people allowed per booking is six at the moment.

CaSoBe's own glamping site: Cupola

This next facility is a standout. For travelers craving a unique beach stay, Cupola may be your best option. It houses five domes—each with its own toilet and bath and private jacuzzi—for the ultimate glamping experience.

Cupola features geodesic, dome-shaped accommodations

A maximum of four people are allowed per dome, though you may find it hard to believe at first since the units are really spacious compared to other luxury camping sites. Cupola is slated to open its doors to the public this July.

Cocoons, as its name suggests, consists of mini, cocoon-like units

The colorful pod units called Cocoons, which can accommodate three to four persons each, offer a cozy and comfortable stay.

How each pod unit looks like

Personally, I find its concept fun and refreshing. The rooms, all equipped with glass doors, are adjacent to one another, allowing you to see those in the other pod units if you prefer. At the center of the Cocoons is a lounging area where you can relax or have a bonfire night with the group. The only downside, perhaps, is that guests have to share the public toilets and baths.

The one-of-a-kind aeropods at CaSoBe: Apollo 11

Guests can literally take their trips to the next level with these aeropods. Called Apollo 11, the space-themed pod rooms take inspiration from camper vans—except these have all the amenities you can find in regular cabins.

Living room inside an aeropod

Apollo 11's bedroom

The aeropods can accommodate four people each. Only one pod room is available for booking for now, but the property developers are looking to launch a total of 11 units by the end of 2024.

The beachfront during sunset

Now, here’s the most exciting part. While soaking up the sun and feeling the salty breeze can be relaxing, it’s fun to take things up a notch from time to time. There are basketball and beach volleyball courts for guests looking to play; while those seeking water activities can go snorkeling and island hopping to the so-called Starfish Island and Little Boracay, which are about 20 minutes away from the beach, among other destinations.

Before the sunset painting activity by the beach

CaSoBe also holds various activities for its guests by the beach, such as sunset painting over cocktail drinks, which we got to experience ourselves.

In the middle of Aquaria Water Park's pool is a three-story high slide

It’s not like guests can dip in the sea anytime since the tides could be dangerous. Good thing CaSoBe has a water park for those craving a splash of fun. Aquaria Water Park features pools for both children and adults, making it a recommended option for families. Its highlight is a three-story high slide.

Lunch at The Sands

What's a beach gateway without good food? Whichever meal of the day you’re having, both The Sands and Captain Barbozza Restaurant are sure to make your seaside dining experience satisfying. (Flies are a nuisance, though, in these outdoor restaurants.)

A peek at the Captain Barbozza Restaurant

For nighttime hangouts, Captain Barbozza would be a better pick. It’s a restaurant and bar in one, where you can bond over food and drinks, and even jam with the live band if you want to. I just wish it closes a little later than it does—though guests can enjoy the rest of the night in the comfort of their own cabins or terraces.

CaSoBe's indoor events venue: Canopy

Speaking of indoors, this vast space is for bigger groups looking to hold social gatherings, whether that may be a party, sports activity, or any other event. Canopy can house around 300 people at a time, with two air-conditioned meeting and conference rooms for business purposes.

A portion of the promenade

Touring the resort may not sound as exciting if you have to bear with the scorching heat. But the good news is you can ride a golf cart—just like what we did during our visit. Bicycles are available for free use around the property, too.

What it's like to go around CaSoBe in a golf cart

View of the seaside

Whether you choose to explore on foot or on wheels, you can be assured the fantastic view by the ivory sand beach will always be just a few steps away.

For more details, visit CaSoBe’s website.

2024-07-26T08:19:26Z dg43tfdfdgfd