Located in the southwestern part of the island of Luzon, Occidental Mindoro is a province that boasts of its rich natural resources, diverse culture, and stunning tourist spots. With its proximity to the city of Manila, Occidental Mindoro has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The province’s unspoiled beaches, lush forests, and majestic mountains offer a wide range of activities for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. In this article, we will explore the top tourist spots in Occidental Mindoro, highlighting the province’s unique attractions and experiences that make it a must-visit destination in the Philippines.
Beach Destinations
Occidental Mindoro is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, with crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and stunning rock formations. Here are some of the top beach destinations in the province:
Abra Beach
Located in the town of Sablayan, Abra Beach is a secluded cove surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and is also a great spot for watching the sunset. The beach is also home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and coral.
Things to Do:
- Swimming and snorkeling
- Sunbathing and beach relaxation
- Watching the sunset
- Exploring the nearby cliffs and rock formations
Calintaan Beach
Located in the town of Calintaan, Calintaan Beach is a long stretch of white sand beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities. The beach is also a great spot for watching the sunset and stargazing at night.
Things to Do:
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Beach volleyball and other beach games
- Watching the sunset
- Stargazing at night
Island Hopping
Occidental Mindoro is home to several islands that are perfect for island hopping and exploring. Here are some of the top islands to visit:
Apulit Island
Located in the town of San Jose, Apulit Island is a small island that is home to a stunning white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. The island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and is also a great spot for watching the sunset.
Things to Do:
- Swimming and snorkeling
- Sunbathing and beach relaxation
- Watching the sunset
- Exploring the nearby coral reefs
Pinagbuyutan Island
Located in the town of San Jose, Pinagbuyutan Island is a small island that is home to a stunning white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. The island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, and is also a great spot for watching the sunset. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Bataan Philippines? Hidden Gems Revealed)
Things to Do:
- Swimming and snorkeling
- Sunbathing and beach relaxation
- Watching the sunset
- Exploring the nearby coral reefs
Mountain Destinations
Occidental Mindoro is home to several mountains that are perfect for hiking and trekking. Here are some of the top mountain destinations in the province:
Mount Iglit
Located in the town of Rizal, Mount Iglit is a dormant volcano that is perfect for hiking and trekking. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is also home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Things to Do:
- Hiking and trekking
- Wildlife watching
- Stargazing at night
- Exploring the nearby forests
Mount Manguao
Located in the town of Rizal, Mount Manguao is a mountain that is perfect for hiking and trekking. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is also home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Things to Do:
- Hiking and trekking
- Wildlife watching
- Stargazing at night
- Exploring the nearby forests
Waterfalls
Occidental Mindoro is home to several waterfalls that are perfect for swimming and relaxation. Here are some of the top waterfalls in the province:
Malabon Waterfall
Located in the town of Sablayan, Malabon Waterfall is a stunning waterfall that is perfect for swimming and relaxation. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Things to Do:
- Swimming and relaxation
- Exploring the nearby forests
- Wildlife watching
- Stargazing at night
Magkakaibang Tubig Waterfall
Located in the town of Sablayan, Magkakaibang Tubig Waterfall is a stunning waterfall that is perfect for swimming and relaxation. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forests and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. (See Also: Open Tourist Spots in Philippines 2021? Ready To Explore!)
Things to Do:
- Swimming and relaxation
- Exploring the nearby forests
- Wildlife watching
- Stargazing at night
Historical Sites
Occidental Mindoro is home to several historical sites that are perfect for history buffs. Here are some of the top historical sites in the province:
Fort Noguera de Villafuerte
Located in the town of San Jose, Fort Noguera de Villafuerte is a historic fort that was built by the Spanish in the 18th century. The fort is now a museum that showcases the history of the province and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Things to Do:
- Visiting the museum
- Exploring the nearby fortifications
- Watching the sunset
- Stargazing at night
San Jose Cathedral
Located in the town of San Jose, San Jose Cathedral is a historic church that was built by the Spanish in the 18th century. The church is now a museum that showcases the history of the province and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Things to Do:
- Visiting the museum
- Exploring the nearby church
- Watching the sunset
- Stargazing at night
Recap
Occidental Mindoro is a province that boasts of its rich natural resources, diverse culture, and stunning tourist spots. From its beautiful beaches to its majestic mountains, the province offers a wide range of activities for adventure-seekers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. In this article, we have explored the top tourist spots in Occidental Mindoro, highlighting the province’s unique attractions and experiences that make it a must-visit destination in the Philippines.
Key Points:
- Occidental Mindoro is a province located in the southwestern part of Luzon.
- The province is home to several beautiful beaches, including Abra Beach and Calintaan Beach.
- Occidental Mindoro is also home to several islands, including Apulit Island and Pinagbuyutan Island.
- The province is home to several mountains, including Mount Iglit and Mount Manguao.
- Occidental Mindoro is also home to several waterfalls, including Malabon Waterfall and Magkakaibang Tubig Waterfall.
- The province is home to several historical sites, including Fort Noguera de Villafuerte and San Jose Cathedral.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs:
Q: What are the top tourist spots in Occidental Mindoro?
A: The top tourist spots in Occidental Mindoro include Abra Beach, Calintaan Beach, Apulit Island, Pinagbuyutan Island, Mount Iglit, Mount Manguao, Malabon Waterfall, Magkakaibang Tubig Waterfall, Fort Noguera de Villafuerte, and San Jose Cathedral.
Q: What are the best activities to do in Occidental Mindoro?
A: The best activities to do in Occidental Mindoro include swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, hiking, trekking, wildlife watching, stargazing, and exploring the nearby forests and historical sites. (See Also: Tourist Spots in Ladakh – Hidden Gems)
Q: What are the best times to visit Occidental Mindoro?
A: The best times to visit Occidental Mindoro are during the dry season, from December to May, when the weather is warm and sunny.
Q: How do I get to Occidental Mindoro?
A: The easiest way to get to Occidental Mindoro is by taking a bus or van from Manila to the town of Sablayan or San Jose, and then taking a tricycle or jeepney to your desired destination.
Q: What are the best accommodations in Occidental Mindoro?
A: The best accommodations in Occidental Mindoro include beach resorts, hotels, and guesthouses, which offer a range of amenities and services, including swimming pools, restaurants, and tour packages.