Matabungkay Beach: A Historical Gem in Lian, Batangas

Rhila

12/1/20236 min read

The History of Matabungkay Beach

Matabungkay Beach, located in the municipality of Lian in Batangas, is a popular beach destination known for its pristine shores and breathtaking views. This coastal paradise has a rich history that dates back several decades.

Originally, Matabungkay was a small fishing village, where local fishermen would cast their nets and catch an abundance of fish. It was named after the Matabungkay tree, a type of mangrove tree that used to thrive in the area. Over time, the beach became popular among locals and tourists alike, attracting visitors from all over the country.

Matabungkay Beach holds a rich history that dates back many years. Located in the Philippines, this beautiful beach has been a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. It was first discovered in the 1950s by a group of American tourists who were captivated by its pristine shores and crystal-clear waters. Word quickly spread about the natural beauty of Matabungkay Beach, attracting more visitors over the years. In the 1970s, Matabungkay Beach became even more famous when it hosted the first-ever International Skimboarding Competition. Today, it continues to enchant visitors with its powdery white sand, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking sunsets. Matabungkay Beach is not just a place of natural beauty, but also a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Matabungkay Beach Today

Today, Matabungkay Beach has transformed into a vibrant tourist destination while still retaining its natural charm. With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets, it continues to captivate the hearts of beach enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Matabungkay Beach is its wide array of water sports activities. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and more. The beach is also an ideal spot for sunbathing, picnicking, and beach volleyball.

Accommodation at Matabungkay Beach

Matabungkay Beach offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler's needs and preferences. From luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly cottages, there is something for everyone.

The resorts in the area provide comfortable rooms, excellent amenities, and stunning views of the beach. Some even offer spa services and recreational facilities such as swimming pools and beachside bars. For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are also camping grounds available.What People Say AboutMatabungkay Beach

Matabungkay Beach has garnered positive reviews from both locals and tourists. Visitors often praise its natural beauty, peaceful ambiance, and friendly locals. Many appreciate the cleanliness of the beach and the variety of activities available.

One reviewer mentioned, "Matabungkay Beach is a hidden gem in Batangas. The sand is so fine, and the water is clear and inviting. It's the perfect place to unwind and relax." Another visitor remarked, "The sunset at Matabungkay Beach is absolutely breathtaking. It's a must-visit destination for nature lovers".

This beach is very famous and saturated because it is quite affordable which makes it , sort of a public place. Just getting through town towards the beach, if you don't already know your way, you will have to go through a checkpoint where they will require a very minimal fee of Php 25 per person which goes towards eco conservation, so they say. Liam is home for the Lian Eco Park which is environmental protection program.

Approximately 3 hours from Manila: Car Rental

Matabungkay beach is approximately a three hours drive from Manila, depending of which part of Manila you are coming from. When you get to Lian, Batangas, using your GPS app, you will to go through town and will be passing through a checkpoint. There will be an entrance fee of Php 25 per person and probably a fee per vehicle. I would say it is pretty minimal. According to them, the fee goes to Lian's eco Program. Liam has an eco Park. However, I am not sure if this fee is related to that. They may suggest accomodation but you are in no way committed to accept. They may ask you to follow a motorbike as guide and may lead you to a particular resort or beach house. Again you are, in no way, required to accept their offer. You will be approached very rigorously by other agents but in our experience they were very courteous and no one twisted our arm, so to speak, to accept services that they offered. Once you go through all the offers and you finally accept their services - everything goes pretty smoothly. There are balsa rentals everywhere. In fact the entire beach is full of them.

Balsa, is a floating cottage that can be towed as far as you want away from the beach. There are no set price. Everything is negotiated. So, if you are generous, that's good for them. You can, also, get a pretty good bargain if you know how to barter (tawad or discount). Tips are voluntary but traditional. Be generous. Tourism is a way of life in Matabungkay. It is their living. Regardless, tip according to the type and level of services you received.

About Lian Eco Park

Lian Batangas Eco Park is a serene and picturesque nature retreat located in the province of Batangas, Philippines. Nestled amidst lush greenery and surrounded by majestic mountains, this eco park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature as they explore the park's well-maintained trails, which lead to breathtaking viewpoints and hidden waterfalls. The park also offers various outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and bird watching, providing opportunities for both relaxation and adventure. With its clean and well-preserved environment, Lian Batangas Eco Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.

What to Do at Matabungkay Beach

Aside from enjoying the beach itself, there are several other attractions and activities to explore near Matabungkay Beach. Nearby, you can visit the Malabrigo Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the coast. The lighthouse is a historical landmark that dates back to the Spanish colonial era.For those interested in marine life, a visit to the Sepoc Beach Marine Sanctuary is a must. Maricaban Island. Sepoc Beach Center is located on Maricaban Island in Anilao, Batangas. It is only accessible by boat because of its location and geographical features. The boat ride from Eagle Point Resort to Sepoc Beach Resort takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Guests coming from Manila can drive or commute to the Batangas beach resort.This protected area is home to diverse marine species and offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, Matabungkay Beach in Lian, Batangas is the perfect destination. Its rich history, stunning beauty, and warm hospitality make it an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Keeping up with our theme of affordable travel and money-wise destinations, Matabungkay certainly fits the bill. As you enter the place from the street, it doesn't seem very attractive and somewhat chaotic. As you get into the water and perhaps having your balsa towed a little distant from the beach itself, the ambiance improved a great deal. It offers lots of water activities such as banana boat ride, boat rides to your choice of destination, snorkelling and many more. You have to dwell more into it and be a little more adventurous and you will have a time of your life. I hope that you will give it a try.