It was quite a long road trip. After more than five hours of travel, we finally arrived at Isla Vista Resort in Candelaria, Zambales. It was still dark and way too early in the morning, but we were greeted by the warm smile of Ma’am Irma, the resort’s manager.
She really made us feel at home, and she assisted us with our rooms so we could catch some much-needed sleep.
I knew I had to rest, but it still took me a few minutes to finally doze off. I was just thinking about a lot of things. I was happy to be back in Zambales, a place that holds many memories. As I lay on the bed thinking about my past trips, I realized that most of them has something to do with my love life. Haha Yes, most of my trips to Zambales were with my ex. We visited many islands, from Magalawa to Hermana Menor Island and more!
Those trips were all about nurturing a relationship. But this time is different. I’m going to explore Zambales and create new memories on my own terms. (enter dramatic music. char!)
Actually this time, I’m with my fellow travel bloggers for an awesome stay at Isla Vista Beach Resort in Zambales!
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The Food, the Pool and Amenities
When I woke up at around 6 AM, I was excited to try out the resort’s breakfast, especially since I guess we were all hungry from the long journey. The staff served us Tapsilog, a classic Filipino breakfast dish that never disappoints. What a nice way to start the day! Eating a delicious meal while sipping on a cup of coffee and enjoying the refreshing morning breeze.
Just beside the restaurant is a beachfront bar where you can enjoy some drinks with a stunning view of the ocean.
After our breakfast, we decided to explore the pool area. The pool is huge surrounded by trees and has plenty of lounge chairs. This is definitely a perfect place to soak up the sun and also cool off on a hot day. While my fellow bloggers decided to swim, I just simply lounged there with my cold fruity drinks.
We spent most of the morning simply relaxing in the resort’s serene and peaceful ambiance. It was nice to see other guests and families too, enjoying themselves in the cottage area.
During lunchtime, we were served some delicious Filipino dishes such as Sinigang, Chopseuy, Shrimp, and a unique dish made of Squid and liver spread. Oh man, the Squid dish was delicious! Of course, our early dinner by the beach with lots of seafood was also unforgettable.
The Rooms
Isla Vista offers a wide range of accommodation that suits everybody’s needs and budget. Whether you’re a couple, family or big group, the resort has got you covered for a comfortable beach vacation.
I stayed in an air-conditioned room with my fellow travel blogger. It has two beds, a hot and cold shower, a TV, and a refrigerator. It was comfortable, and a nice place to rest after exploring the beach.
The rest of our group stayed in a huge Beach House with 4 air-conditioned rooms and a spacious living room. It has a cozy vibe, suitable for families or groups up to 10 persons. We also spent a lot of time at the Beach House while chatting with blogger friends and singing our hearts out in the videoke. We enjoyed every bit of it!
What made our stay even better was the dedicated service staff assigned to us. Don really made sure that everything was taken care of for us to have an awesome stay.
Room rates usually start at P2000 good for 2 pax. While the beach house price is 7,900 with a dedicated attendant and good for 10 people.
READ THE BLOG POST: Zambales: The Ultimate Surfing & Glamping Destination
The Beach and Water Activities
At Isla Vista Resort, you’re in for an exciting beach vacation, whether you’re the adventurous type or if you prefer a more laid-back getaway. Guests can try snorkeling, swimming or island hopping to explore some nearby islands.
If you just want to stay at the resort, you can enjoy a game of beach volleyball, billiards or board games. You can also read a book while lounging at the pool overlooking the stunning view of the beach.
As for us, we tried beach volleyball with a huge ball, and it was a lot of fun, hilarious yet exciting!
If you’re in for more adventure, you can book an island-hopping tour. The resort offers tours to the nearby islands of Potipot and Magalawa island, which both boast crystal-clear waters and creamy white sand beaches.
In the afternoon, we did a tour to Potipot island, but unfortunately, it was still closed. So we just took some awesome photos at some shallow parts in front of the island. There’s still no definite update as to when Potipot will once again open to the public.
The next morning, we visited Magalawa Island. It was my second time on the island, and I enjoyed reminiscing some memories of my past trip. Wow!
This time I enjoyed swimming by the beach, basking in the sun while waiting for the signal to go back to the resort to have our lunch.
Magalawa still remains as pristine and beautiful as ever. I really recommend you book a tour here from Isla Vista Resort.
Overall Experience
It’s so nice to be back in Zambales, and this time with friends in the blogging community.
Isla Vista is truly a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Not only was I able to unwind from this weekend getaway, I also had a blast trying out some activities, especially the island hopping tours. I’m also glad to be back in Magalawa too.
Thanks sa photo, Madam Lariza.
If you want to discover more of the islands of Zambales, while having a comfortable stay with good amenities and top-notch customer service, then book your vacation at Isla Vista Resort. Let’s all create some new memories with our families and loved ones, especially this summer.
Honestly, I would love to bring my family and barkada here in the future.
Contact Information
Isla Vista Beach Resort
Address: Ealdama St. Km249, Uacon, Candelaria, Zambales, Candelaria, Philippines
Contact Number: 0917-514-9007 / 0920-969-6845
Email: isla_vista_resort@yahoo.com
website: islavistabeachresort.com/
Note: Thank you to Isla Vista Resort staff, especially to Ma’am Irma for the warm hospitality.
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