Montemar Beach Club (Bagac, Bataan)

Montemar Beach Club is an exclusive resort off the coast of Bataan.  It is actually a "members only" beach resort but on some occasions, "non-members" are allowed to experience what is meant for the privileged few. Before visiting the resort, it is best to call and make a reservation.

Depending on traffic conditions, this resort can be reached after more or less a three-hour drive from Manila via the NLEX and SCTX. Another option is to simply take the San Fernando Exit and the Lubao Bypass Road. Navigate the Bataan Provincial Highway and follow the signs to Bagac. Along the way, markers of that infamous "Death March" of World War 2 reminds travelers on the historical significance of this place. On the way to this resort, we saw signs leading to Mount Samat otherwise known as the "Dambana ng Kagitingin" symbolized by the big cross on top of the mountain and the turtle sanctuary. 

The travel is a smooth ride through a relaxing countryside of rice fields bounded by mountains. The momentary views of cliffs is a warning of some dangerous ravines mandating us to drive carefully. 

Kilometer zero of the Death March sign ushered us to turn left towards the direction of Montemar Beach Club. After traveling on a concrete road, we saw the entrance of the resort. The guard on duty courteously inquired on our business and after a brief security check, we were told to register at the front office. The front office is a short drive with signs along the way. 

Have I already said that this resort is "exclusive"? While avoiding being redundant, I think this primarily describes Montemar. It is a resort with practically its own beachfront. The cove, as if protecting the entire coastline, ensures privacy. The brown sands of the beach are fine and ideal for walking barefoot immediately creating those usual but fleeting footprints. 

According to the map, the beach caters to the West Philippine Sea - a primordial news item where we all have to be updated. The sea is calm during our whole visit which makes it ideal for swimming. However, whatever the temperament of the sea may be, safety is always a priority. Until the buoye, the water is more or less four feet deep. But, there are areas where the sands underneath a cave in creating a sudden plunge and depth. This is very dangerous, especially for non-swimmers. But, those who know how to swim should likewise take extra precaution against accidents. It is advisable not to swim alone. There are lifeguards at the beach and swimming is only allowed until 6 pm.

The resort has three swimming pools. However, one of the pool is reserved exclusively for "members and their guests". Prior to or after swimming in the beach and depending on the intensity of the sun, we swam at the pool fully enjoying our time and the resort. There were few guests during our visit. There were times that we have the beach or pool for ourselves.  The resort also has a conference and a function room - a great venue for corporate and family gatherings. For those who want to sweat it out, there is a tennis, basketball and beach volleyball courts. 

There is a very relaxing tree house inside the resort. I enjoyed reading my favorite novel in it. The cool breeze and the nice views from this tree house provided that much-needed respite and a canopy of sorts from the scorching heat. The tree house is a very good place to stay while waiting for the afternoon.

Inside the resort is a restaurant where there are courteous and attentive staff. They serve food which you can actually eat and enjoy but be ready to pay a higher price than the usual.   I think this is expected. Food inside a resort is expected at a higher price.

Montemar Beach Club is very near famous landmarks such as the Mount Samat National Shrine or the "Dambana ng Kagitingin".  This Shrine of Valor honors the bravery of Filipino and American soldiers during World War 2; the turtle sanctuary or the "Pawikan Conservation Center"; and the "Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar" which showcases Filipino Heritage Houses.