Melo Villareal
Your Ultimate 2026 Bulalacao Travel Guide for First-time Travelers
In Oriental Mindoro, Philippines, lies the enchanting municipality of Bulalacao, a name that captivates the imagination, much like the fleeting brilliance of a shooting star. The moment one sets eyes on this picturesque locale, it radiates a unique charm that lingers in the memory as if that first glimpse was a moment of magic captured in time. From its lush landscapes to the inviting warmth of its community, Bulalacao shines with an allure that leaves a lasting impression, making it impossible to forget, even if experienced just for the briefest instant.
The Best Beaches of Bulalacao
As the southernmost municipality in the province, Bulalacao naturally has a scenic, quiet atmosphere. Although it is overshadowed by nearby destinations like Puerto Galera and Mount Malasimbo, Bulalacao is, without a doubt, a place we can genuinely call paradise.
In this engaging Bulalacao Travel Guide blog, we will provide you with an in-depth exploration of budget travel tips tailored specifically for your visit to this beautiful destination. From insightful advice on the must-see attractions and activities to crafting the perfect Bulalacao itinerary, we’ll help you make the most of your adventure without breaking the bank. Additionally, you’ll find essential money-saving strategies, recommendations for the best affordable accommodations, and much more to ensure your trip is both enjoyable and economical. Get ready to uncover the hidden gems and local experiences that Bulalacao has to offer!
How to get to Bulalacao
Here’s a clean step-by-step guide on how to get to Bulalacao from Manila:
Main Route (Most common & easiest)
Manila -> Batangas -> Calapan -> Bulalacao
1) Bus from Manila to Batangas Port
- Ride a bus from:
- Buendia (Gil Puyat)
- Cubao terminals
- Travel time: 2–3 hours
- Fare: around PHP 200+
Tell the driver: “Batangas Pier.”
2) Ferry from Batangas to Calapan
- Ride a RORO ferry to Calapan
- Travel time: 2–3 hours
- Fare: around PHP 300–350
3) Van/Bus from Calapan to Bulalacao
- From Calapan port:
- Ride a van or minibus
- Route: Calapan ? Roxas ? Bulalacao
- Travel time: 3–4 hours total
- May need 1 transfer (Roxas or Pinamalayan)
- Fare: around PHP 300–500
Total Travel Time
- Around 7–10 hours, depending on waiting time
Estimated Budget
- Bus: PHP 200–300
- Ferry: PHP 300–350
- Van/Bus: PHP 300–500
Total: PHP 800 – PHP 1,200+
Alternative (If you have a car)
- Drive Manila to Batangas
- Ferry car to Calapan
- Drive to Bulalacao
Travel time: around 6 hours total
Important Tips
- Take an early morning trip to avoid delays
- Ferries run multiple times daily
- Last vans to Bulalacao may be in the afternoon—avoid arriving late
- Bring cash (limited ATMs in southern Mindoro)
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Best places to stay in Bulalacao
Southdrive Beach Resort
Visit their FB Page
Location: National Road, Sitio Tulali, Barangay Maujao, Bulalacao
Contact: 09778130732
Southdrive Beach Resort is a quiet beachfront retreat tucked along the southern coast of Mindoro, offering a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots. Surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking clear blue waters, the resort creates a calm, tropical atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Guests can stay in cozy rooms or cottage-style accommodations, many with sea or garden views and basic modern comforts.
The resort features amenities such as an outdoor or infinity-style pool, a terrace, and open spaces designed for unwinding by the shore. Its on-site restaurant serves a mix of Filipino, Asian, and international dishes, often highlighting fresh seafood sourced locally.
Known for its laid-back vibe, Southdrive is often described as secluded and serene, making it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking a quiet escape. The friendly and accommodating staff add to the welcoming atmosphere, while activities like island hopping, beach walks, and simple relaxation complete the experience.
Tambaron Green Beach Resort
(Check Rates Here)
Visit their FB Page
Location: Tambaron Island, Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro
Contact: 0919 993 4987
Make the most out of the tropical paradise that is Bulalacao by staying in one of the beachfront cottages of Tambaron Green Beach Resort. Guests staying at the resort can get the chance to spot a green sea turtle (a species that frequents the part of the island), sing to the crickets at night, and get close to nature.
Felipa Lodge and Beach Resort
(Check Rates Here)
Visit their FB Page
Location: San Jose – Magsaysay Provincial Rd, Bulalacao
Contact: 09999912703
Felipa Lodge is your home away from home. It has a nice location near the town center, which means more peaceful nights and greater immersion in the Bulalacao environment. Rooms are mostly made of wood, making air conditioning almost unnecessary.
Things to do in Bulalacao
Trekking in Tree Park, Buyayao Island
Bulalacao is blessed with many hills and cliffs to climb. This is very attractive to urban dwellers (such as myself). Try to trek the 64-hectare Tree Park in Buyayao Island, which is just a few minutes offshore.
Island Hopping
The beaches of Bulalacao are the municipality’s highlights. There are existing tours that are offered on the island. Visiting nearby Buyayao Island, Suguicay Island, Tambaron Island, and several Bulalacao beaches are usually included in local tour itineraries, but some offer island tours to as far as islets in Romblon!
Biniray Festival
If you can, try to catch the two-day Biniray Festival in Bulalacao. The celebration is held to honor Saints Peter and Paul, and also to give thanks to the harvests from the sea. The most iconic part of the festival is the display of extravagantly designed boats that are paraded in Bulalacao Bay.
Sightseeing
As a small, rustic municipality, Bulalacao has plenty of sights that the metro does not and cannot compare to. You can go on a walking tour if the weather is not too hot, and maybe visit Sts. Peter and Paul Church head off to a nearby beach to catch the sunset.
Best time to visit Bulalacao
The best time to visit Bulalacao depends on your priorities, but generally, the dry season is ideal.
Best Overall: November to May (Dry Season)
This is the most recommended period.
- The weather is sunny and stable
- Seas are calm and clear, perfect for island hopping
- Great time to explore nearby islands and beaches
- Peak months: March to May (hottest but best beach conditions)
Ideal for: swimming, snorkeling, island hopping, photography
Shoulder Months: November and May
- Fewer tourists
- Generally good weather with occasional clouds
- Slightly lower prices
A good balance between nice weather and fewer crowds
Rainy Season: June to October (Less ideal)
- Frequent rains and possible storms
- Rough seas, which may cancel boat trips
- Higher chance of travel delays
Still possible to visit, but not ideal for beach activities
Quick Summary
- Best months: December to May
- Best overall conditions: March to May
- Least recommended: August to October
Sample Itinerary and budget
Departure from Manila via land/sea
10:30 AM to 01:00 PM – Manila to Batangas via bus (~Php 200)
01:00 PM to 03:30 PM – Batangas Port to Calapan Pier (~Php 250)
03:30 PM to 06:30 PM – Calapan to Bulalacao van transfer (~Php 250)
06:30 PM onwards – Hotel or inn check-in and dinner (starting at Php 400 per head)
Day 1
09:00 AM to 05:00 PM – Generic island hopping tour (includes meals) (~Php 6,000 to Php 9,000 for large groups)
05:00 PM onwards – return to hotel or inn
Day 2
07:00 AM to 08:00 AM – Visit Sts. Peter and Paul Church (free)
08:00 AM to 09:00 AM – Check out the market for souvenirs (~Php 500)
09:00 AM onwards – Travel back to Manila
Have you been to Bulalacao? Help us improve this 2025 Travel Guide to Bulalacao Blog by sharing your personal Bulalacao travel tips and recommendations 
Also See:
- Exploring the Beautiful Beaches of Bulalacao in Oriental Mindoro
- Big Mountain, Hiatus Kaiyote, Micki Miller, Ruby Ibarra joins Malasimbo Festival 2018
- The Ultimate Siargao Budget Travel Guide 2018
