Puerto Galera Travel Guide: White Beach, Sabang, Diving and Tourist Spots

The road trip began while most of Metro Manila was still asleep. At 3 in the morning, our small caravan of cousins rolled out of Marikina with a private vehicle packed with bags, snacks, and the kind of excitement that only a beach trip can bring. The plan was simple. Drive south to Batangas Port, board a Ro-Ro ferry, and cross the water to Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro.

The drive itself felt like the prelude to an adventure. From C5 we connected to SLEX and then the STAR Tollway, watching the city lights slowly give way to darker highways and quieter towns. With light traffic at that hour, the trip took roughly two to three hours. By the time we reached Batangas Port, the sky was beginning to hint at dawn and the terminal was already buzzing with travelers bound for island escapes.

First time to bring in a
car on a Ro-Ro ship.

Boarding the Ro-Ro ferry was a first for me. Unlike typical passenger boats, these ferries carry both people and vehicles, which made the trip convenient for our group since we had a car with us. The crossing to Balatero Port in Puerto Galera took just about an hour, short enough to feel relaxed yet long enough to appreciate the open sea.

One unexpected hero of the trip was the small 7-Eleven store inside the ferry. It served a strong, bold Americano, just the kind I expected from 7‑Eleven and exactly what I needed after a very early wake up call. A word of advice though. If you plan to drink coffee during the crossing, be prepared. The restroom cubicles are tiny and far from comfortable. I ended up holding my bladder like a champ until we finally touched land. Once off the ferry, we hopped into the car and headed to our home for the next four days, Scandi Divers Resort at Big La Laguna Beach.

La Laguna Beach, particularly the Big La Laguna area, is known more for diving than for traditional beach lounging and swimming. Now here is the funny part. I do not dive at all. But one of my cousins is an avid diver and Puerto Galera has long been on their favorites list, so that is how I found myself checking into one of the area’s well known dive resorts.

Big La Laguna Beach, where Scandi Divers Resort is located.

Scandi Divers Resort itself has built a strong reputation among the global diving community. The property features a full in house PADI dive center that offers courses ranging from beginner level all the way to divemaster certification. Serious divers appreciate access to more than forty nearby dive sites, technical diving options, and dedicated dive boats that head out daily into the surrounding waters.

It is easy to see why divers keep coming back to Mindoro. The waters around Puerto Galera are part of a marine corridor known for vibrant coral reefs, steep drop offs, and an impressive variety of marine life. Divers talk about colorful reef gardens, sea turtles cruising by, and the occasional reef shark or schooling fish turning the water into a living aquarium. Even for someone like me who does not dive, just hearing the stories over breakfast made it clear that there is an entire world thriving just beneath the surface.

It is clearly a resort designed with divers in mind. Most of the guests during our stay were foreigners who had come specifically for the underwater experience. The facilities are professional and well organized, though the room rates, food, and drinks lean toward the higher side compared with many other local leisure resorts in the province. Honestly, the resort's food and amenities are not exceptional for its rate but then again, the focus is more on the specialized dive-specific amenities, underwater adventure, accessibility and safety.

The beach itself, however, may surprise first time visitors. Big La Laguna has a narrow shoreline, and the sand quickly gives way to rocks once you step into the water. Swimming is not really its strongest feature. During my walks along the shore, I also noticed quite a few stray dogs roaming around the area. Being partly residential, the neighborhood is a mix of resorts and homes, which also made me quietly wonder about local sanitation systems and drainage. For beach swimming and relaxed dining, we found ourselves heading elsewhere most of the time.

That elsewhere was White Beach.

The now tiled promenade at the White Beach in Puerto Galera

White Beach is easily the most famous stretch of sand in Puerto Galera, and it is not hard to see why. I had last visited more than a decade ago, and the transformation since then is impressive. The beachfront now features a lively promenade lined with resorts, cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The atmosphere feels festive without being overwhelming.

During the day the beach becomes a playground of sun seekers and swimmers. The sand is wide and inviting, and the water is clear and shallow enough for long leisurely dips. One thing to know though is that the shoreline turns pebbly once you step into the water, with small sharp rocks scattered underfoot. I quickly realized barefoot was not going to work. After a few tentative steps and a lot of wincing, I gave in and bought a pair of aqua shoes from one of the shops along the strip, along with a banig, a large plastic picnic mat. Problem solved. With my feet happily protected, I was free to spend hours floating in the water, wading by the shore, sprawling on the mat, or hopping from one beachside restaurant to another.

Evenings at White Beach bring a different kind of energy. As the sun dips into the horizon, the lights along the promenade begin to glow and the restaurants fill with diners enjoying grilled seafood, tropical drinks, and the warm sea breeze. The crowd is a mix of local travelers, international tourists, and weekend adventurers escaping the city.

If you are looking for something louder after dinner, Sabang Beach is the place to go. Sabang has long been known for its nightlife scene. Bars, clubs, and music venues keep the area buzzing well into the night. It is a completely different personality from the laid back charm of White Beach, but that contrast is part of Puerto Galera’s appeal. You can spend the day swimming in the sun and then shift into party mode once darkness falls.

Sabang Beach

Beyond the beaches, Puerto Galera also offers several worthwhile stops for travelers who want to explore a bit more of Mindoro’s natural and cultural side.

One of the easiest excursions is Tamaraw Falls, located along the scenic road that winds through the mountains outside town. The waterfall cascades down a tall rock face into a stream below, creating a cool and refreshing sight, especially after a warm coastal morning. Vendors nearby sell local snacks and souvenirs, and many travelers pause here for photos before continuing their journey.

Tamaraw Falls

Another interesting stop is the Puerto Galera Mangrove Conservation and Eco Tourism Area. Wooden boardwalks allow visitors to walk through the mangrove forest while learning about the vital role these ecosystems play in protecting coastlines and supporting marine life. It is a peaceful break from the busy beach scenes and a reminder that Puerto Galera’s beauty extends beyond its shoreline.

For a touch of history, Muelle Cultural Heritage Park offers a glimpse into the town’s past. Located near the old pier area, the park features monuments and markers that commemorate Puerto Galera’s role as a historic harbor for ships traveling through the region. The area is quiet, scenic, and perfect for a short reflective stroll while looking out at the water.

By the end of our four day stay, Puerto Galera revealed itself as more than just a beach destination. It is a place where diving enthusiasts, beach lovers, night owls, and curious explorers can all find their own rhythm.

From a pre dawn road trip out of Marikina to coffee on a Ro-Ro ferry and sunset swims at White Beach, the journey had all the ingredients of a memorable island escape. Like most good trips, it left me already wondering when I might return for another round of sea, sand, and Mindoro sunshine.

Looking back, that Puerto Galera trip turned out to be more than just a beach escape. It quietly marked the beginning of something personal. Somewhere between the early morning ferry ride, the long beach walks, and the endless swims at White Beach, I realized I had reached the heaviest I had ever been. It was not a dramatic moment, just an honest one. By the time we packed up and headed back to the city, I had already made a quiet promise to move more, eat better, and take my health seriously. Funny how a simple island trip can do that. Sometimes the journey home begins with a tan, a pair of aqua shoes, and a small decision to start taking better care of yourself.

Tan line first. Waistline later.

At the White Beach,
wearing my aqua shoes.

OMAD, RWR, Indoor Walking: My Mall Workout Routine

One of the unexpected parts of my fitness routine is that most of my favorite workouts happen in malls. Yes, malls. My two main routines, RWR and indoor walking, are usually done where people normally go shopping or hunting for food. For me, they double as a surprisingly practical fitness playground.

RWR Workout at the Parking Lot
of Robinsons Place Antipolo

The timing also works perfectly for my OMAD schedule. These days, my one meal a day happens around 11 AM. Yes, I moved it again, IYKYK. Adjustments are part of the lifestyle.

By the time I finish my workout, cool down, and change into a dry shirt, most of the restaurants are already open. Sometimes I even have enough time to buy groceries before sitting down for my meal. A productive morning followed by a satisfying OMAD is always a win.

OMAD at Prime Steak House
after the RWR Workout at the Parking Lot

Another reason I enjoy doing my RWR at Robinsons Place Antipolo is the variety of restaurant options waiting nearby. If I feel like loading up on protein, Prime Steak House Unlimited is a solid stop. When a buffet mood strikes, Vikings Luxury Buffet and Tong Yang are always tempting. I still keep my calorie deficit in mind and stay within the general rhythm of my diet program, but that does not mean missing out on good food. A few thoughtful choices and sensible portions usually do the trick. After a good workout, enjoying a satisfying meal is part of the experience too. Balance keeps the routine realistic and much easier to stick with. Self care, self love.

OMAD after Indoor Walking at the Mall

For certain cravings though, I sometimes shift locations. If I am in the mood for my favorite pork leg bihon or authentic Chinese flavors, I head over to Robinsons Metro East. That is where I usually do my indoor walking before settling down for my OMAD at Mann Hann.

OMAD at Mann Hann
after Indoor Walking
at Robinsons Metro East

OMAD at Mann Hann: Pork Leg Bihon,
Fresh Lumpia, and Sweet and Sour Pork

Another bonus there is the chance to check out the art displays at the Silab Art Reach Training Center. Their resident artists are persons with disabilities, and the works they produce are always inspiring to see. It is a small but meaningful stop that adds a creative touch to an otherwise routine fitness day.

Art is Love ❤️

While doing my indoor walking at Robinsons Metro East, I stumbled upon something that made those laps a lot more entertaining. A playful novelty store called KKV caught my eye, packed with quirky finds from Korea, Japan, and China. Imagine Miniso, Sanrio, Blue Magic, and Watsons all rolled into one lively space. Naturally, I wandered in. Browsing the aisles quickly turned into a fun way to rack up a few extra steps, and yes, a few things came home with me too. I picked up dried seeds, flowers, and lemon to mix into my tea, along with scented candles to keep my OMAD calm and zen. I got inspired by the green cardamom seeds a friend recently gave me, which I crush into green tea for that fragrant, citrusy lift and its health perks. Moments like that make the routine feel less like exercise and more like a pleasant detour during the day.

On days when convenience wins, though, I simply do my indoor walking at SM Taytay since it is closer. After my laps, I usually head straight to Zark’s for my OMAD. Speaking of Zark’s, I also want to give a quick shout out to the branch manager at SM Taytay, for going out of her way to keep regulars happy and satisfied.

OMAD at Zark's

Recently, we tried Zark’s newest addition to the menu, the Mozza Sticks in cheese flavor. In theory, it sounded great. Mozzarella sticks coated in breading and rolled in orange cheese powder. Unfortunately, the first batch we received was a bit disappointing. The breading was too thick and slightly undercooked, and the mozzarella inside did not deliver that glorious gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all expect. In fact, the sticks were oddly empty on both ends.We shared our honest feedback with one of the wait staff, not expecting much beyond a polite apology. To our surprise, the manager herself came over almost immediately. She apologized and insisted on preparing a replacement personally.

Mozza Sticks in Cheese Flavor

Mozza Stick in Salted Egg Flavor

Crispy and Savory with a
Good Cheese Pull

One Happy Camper

Soon after, we were served another batch of Mozza Sticks, this time in salted egg flavor, and this version was done right. The coating was oil based salted egg rather than powdered cheese like the flavoring used in some potato snack counters. The breading was crispy and properly cooked, and the mozzarella filled the entire stick from end to end. Best of all, it delivered the satisfying cheese pull that makes mozzarella sticks worth ordering in the first place.

That simple gesture made a big difference. Restaurants that actually listen to customer feedback and address concerns immediately deserve recognition. Good food is important, but good service builds loyalty.

Moments like that remind me why Zark’s remains a strong contender in the burger scene. The brand has had its share of challenges, including the infamous incident during their eighth anniversary promo in 2017, when burgers were sold for only eight pesos. The overwhelming turnout led to chaotic crowds and near stampede situations in several branches. Despite that rocky chapter, the brand managed to move forward and maintain a loyal following.

Today, Zark’s still delivers what many customers come for. Bold burgers, satisfying comfort food, and that unapologetically indulgent menu that pairs perfectly with a serious workout routine. If you are looking to reward yourself after a long RWR session or a solid round of indoor walking, their menu easily covers both your protein requirements and the occasional carb loading moment.

And that really is the beauty of turning malls into your fitness playground. You get a safe and convenient space to move, easy access to restrooms and groceries, air conditioned halls for indoor walking, and plenty of food options once your workout is done. It turns a simple routine into something sustainable and enjoyable.

For me, it keeps the discipline going. When the workout is easy to start and the reward is already waiting nearby, consistency becomes a lot easier to maintain.

So the next time you head to the mall, you might want to skip the escalator, take a few laps, and make the place work for your fitness goals too. Your steps add up, your routine stays on track, and your well earned OMAD tastes even better.

Or you can always run and walk around your own neighborhood. Just make sure to prepare your OMAD before heading out, keeping in mind a complete and balanced meal that aligns with the timing of your routine. That way, when you get home, your reward is already waiting. A good workout followed by a well planned meal makes the effort feel even more worthwhile. 

Simple bagoong rice, chicken adobo, steamed kangkong, sunny side up eggs, and ripe mango for dessert keep me inspired as I do my RWR around our neighborhood where the streets are ideal for training because they are sloped and gently rolling. Instead of being flat, they follow a natural, wave like landscape with short, steep climbs and descents that make the workouts more engaging.

Whatever fuels your routine and keeps you motivated toward your goals is what truly matters. Health journeys should feel enjoyable, not punishing. Keep it real and sustainable by weaving your routine into the things you already enjoy, whether that is strolling through art displays, exploring restaurants, or simply taking a few mindful laps around the mall. When movement blends naturally with the experiences you look forward to, staying consistent becomes much easier. After all, this is not just a program or a phase. It is your lifestyle.

RWR in the neighborhood
at around 6AM

OMAD, Home Cooked
Balance Meal: 2 pc Chicken Adobo. 
Steamed Kangkong, Fresh Tomatoes, 
Alamang Rice, Double Yolk Sunny Side Up,
Sweet Mango, and Oolong Tea