Things To Do
in Aurora
Aurora province sits along the Pacific coast of Central Luzon, blessed with rugged mountains, lush forests, and pristine beaches. The provincial capital, Baler, is famous for its surfing heritage and a charming town center with a storied past. The landscape ranges from the dramatic Sierra Madre to sheltered coves and roaring waves, inviting outdoor adventures and relaxed island vibes.
Visitors can savor fresh seafood, learn about local culture, and slow down in a less-traveled corner of Luzon.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Baler via scenic road from Manila and feel the lush mountains rising around you. Check into a cozy beachside inn with local bamboo accents. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline, breathing in the salt-laced breeze.
Head to the local public market to sample freshly caught fish and tropical fruits. Chat with friendly vendors and learn about regional delicacies like kinilaw and suman. Stroll through the town plaza and admire Spanish colonial-era buildings and the old church.
Dine at a seaside restaurant serving succulent grilled seafood with coconut rice. Watch fishermen hauling in their nets under a pastel sunset. End the day with live acoustic music at a beachfront bar.
Begin your day with invigorating surf lessons at Sabang Beach, guided by experienced local instructors. Feel the rush as you catch your first waves against a backdrop of lush jungle. Sip warm banana hot chocolate from a beach shack between sessions.
Relax on the fine golden shore and join a beach volleyball game with other travelers. Explore tide pools where tiny crabs and colorful starfish lurk. Grab a fresh coconut and lie under swaying palm fronds.
Wander to a nearby stall for an authentic Filipino dinner of adobo and ginataang gulay. Watch the surf reflect moonlight and listen to the rhythmic ocean roar. Invite new friends to a bonfire for stories and marshmallow roasting.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🧭Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Groceries for basic week | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and surf culture in Baler
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Great seafood and natural scenery
- Accessible from Manila and nearby hubs
- Limited high-end nightlife
- Rural infrastructure can be spotty in remote areas
- Seasonal weather risks like typhoons
- Some areas require long drives from Manila
- "Kamusta po?" - Hello/How are you?
- "Salamat po." - Thank you.
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Paalam po." - Goodbye.
Places to Visit in Aurora
Visit one of these nice places.
A long stretch of white sand with dramatic waves and surfers; sunrise light makes for classic silhouettes.
A scenic coastline with rock formations, green cliffs, and a rustic fisherman's ambiance.
Colonnaded vantage point overlooking Baler and the Pacific—great for panoramic townscapes.
Historic church with a charming plaza; ideal for architecture and street photography.
Food in Aurora
Aurora Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw fish marinated with vinegar, calamansi, chili, and onions; best enjoyed with a cold drink and local rice.
Must-Try!
Freshly grilled fish from the day's catch, often served with calamansi and shrimp paste.
Tangy sour fish soup made with tamarind and local vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh seafood, fruits, grilled snacks (banana cue, fish balls), and regional produce; great for an inexpensive, local bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting churches; use polite phrases like 'po' and 'opo'; always ask permission before taking photos of people or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Aurora
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included; small tips for hotel staff or taxi drivers are common.
Cash is widely accepted in markets and rural shops; many establishments in Baler accept credit/debit cards, but carry cash for smaller vendors; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season runs roughly from November to May with warm, sunny days—perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploring.
June to October brings tropical rain showers and higher humidity; coastal conditions can be windy and seas rougher, so plan water activities carefully.
July to September can bring typhoons; always check weather updates and have flexible plans.
Aurora at Night
Hiking in Aurora
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail to a dramatic waterfall; popular for day hikes near San Luis.
Ridgetop hikes and forest trails along the mountains that border the province; scenic viewpoints and biodiversity.
Airports
How to reach Aurora by plane.
Major international/ domestic gateway in Pampanga; about 2.5–3.5 hours by road to Baler depending on traffic.
Main gateway to Manila; longer drive to Baler but frequent connections and services.
Alternative option with shorter drive to northern Aurora towns; seasonal flights may vary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily Filipino families living in coastal towns and rural barangays; strong fishing and farming communities.
People employed in surf schools, guides, market vendors, and accommodation services.
Smaller groups linked to the Sierra Madre foothills; cultural heritage is present in some locales.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A hallmark of Baler’s coastal culture; surf schools along Sabang Beach attract beginners and experienced surfers.
A widely played sport in communities and schools; local courts are common.
Popular on beaches and in community centers; casual tournaments occur seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aurora.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can navigate by choosing vegetable-based dishes, tofu or egg dishes, fruits, rice, and local vegetable sides; ask for kinilaw without fish, and request no fish sauce where possible.