A well-preserved marine sanctuary and an excellent source of information on indigenous culture – Dibut Bay.

Dibut Bay and adjacent Diotorin Beach lie within the 247-square kilometer beach area of San Luis. They are home to exotic marine species and breathtaking coral gardens that will surely delight snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. In addition, peninsulas and cliffs are formed by tidal actions along the coast, creating impressive silhouettes especially at dusk. One prominent formation is called Birhen because it resembles the image of Virgin Mary praying amidst the crushing of waves onto dramatic rock formations.

Dibut Bay is made even more significant by the fact that it was the landing site of US Submarines, Narwhal and Nautilus, the American carriers that brought armaments and supplies to the local guerrilla movement as they fought the Japanese during World War II. A thriving Dumagat community serves as steward of this well-preserved marine sanctuary and an excellent source of information on indigenous culture.

How to get there

San Luis can be reached via two road networks – the Maria Aurora-Pantabangan Road and the Baler-Bongabon Road. Genesis Transport with terminals in Pasay City and Cubao offers daily morning bus trips from Manila to Baler Central Terminal. Travel time is approximately 7 hours. In addition, provincial buses and van for rent stationed at the Cabanatuan City central terminal ply the Cabanatuan-Baler-San Luis route. Travel time is approximately 4 hours. Tricycles stationed at the Baler Central Terminal take about 20 minutes to reach San Luis town proper.

The Baler Airport is situated in Barangay San Isidro, a short distance from the heart of San Luis town. South Est Asian Airlines (SEAIR) offers charter flights to and from Manila. Flying time is approximately 50 minute.

Getting around

One can take a rented van to navigate nature and culture destinations within San Luis. For short distance travel, the tricycle remains the most practical option. Boat trips can be arranged with the local fisher folk to reach the coastal villages of Dibut, Dibayabay, Dikapinisan and Dimanayat.

A host of tourist facilities can be found in the capital town of Baler, most of which offer standard rooms and food service. During peak seasons, several private residences make their extra rooms available to tourist. Camping is also an option.

• AMCO BEACH RESORT – Bgy. Sabang Baler, Aurora
• BAHIA DE BALER GARDEN RESORT & RESTAURANT I – Bgy. Sabang Baler, Aurora
• BAHIA DE BALER II - Bgy. Sabang Baler, Aurora
• BAY’S INN - Bgy. Sabang Baler, Aurora
• AMIHAN APLAYA LODGE - 103 Bgy Sabang Baler, Aurora
• KAHEA’S LODGE - Bgy. Sabang Baler, Aurora
• MM LODGE - Bgy. Sabang Baler, Aurora
• MORENO LODGE & RESTAURANT - Near New Public Market, Bgy. Suklayin Baler, Aurora
• CARLITO’S INN - P. T. Ong St., Brgy. Suklayin, Baler, Aurora
• ISLA VIRGINIA RESORT - Brgy. Sabang, Baler, Aurora