The coast is clear at Camaya

The mercury is rising, the sun is shining, and the students are rejoicing — summer is definitely here. After months of being cooped up in classrooms, and of sleepless nights doing projects and studying for exams, the summer vacation is a welcome break.

What better way to spend these two months of warmth and sunshine than spending a day at the beach? I can almost taste the salty seawater and feel the sand under my toes.

But I’ll have to wait a few more days. Unlike most people, I still have school. However, the moment I finish my last exam in April, I know where I’m headed.

For those lucky souls out there who are already enjoying their respite from textbooks and quizzes, I know many of you are thinking of going to Boracay, Subic or Palawan. Sure, these are lovely places, but don’t expect much breathing room; they will be teeming with tourists, local and foreign, this time of year.

If you like the white sands of Boracay, the short trip to Subic, or the wildlife of Palawan, then you will absolutely love Camaya Coast.

Located in Mariveles, Bataan, this coastal development by Earth and Shore Leisure Communities Corporation is truly a sight to behold. Fine, light-colored sand leads to the cleanest, bluest ocean water one could ever see. A backdrop of the lush forest adds to the beach’s charm.

Who would’ve thought that Bataan had such a wonderful place tucked in among its green mountains and hills? Bataan is most famous for being a historically significant province. This fact has not been ignored by the creative minds behind this development.

The name itself, Camaya Coast, has an equally historic background — the town of Mariveles was once called Camaya. Plans are underway for historical tours from the road where the infamous Bataan Death March occurred to Corregidor Island.

National history is not the only thing being preserved by the development. The natural surroundings are preserved as well. Although construction for the beachside residences has already begun, much of the forest has been left intact.

One of the main focuses of the developers is to create an eco-tourism destination that combines a commercial resort with an ecologically friendly adventure facility.

Visitors can enjoy trekking through the rolling hills of Mariveles, and hiking to the natural waterfalls. Wildlife still thrives in the tropical paradise. I myself saw some wild goats climbing up the same trail I was following toward the waterfalls. Boars, turtles and Philippine eagles also call this place home.

Among the immaculate surroundings is a river that meanders through the vegetation. Seeing and bathing in it is a unique experience. There are also coves along the coast that are ready for exploring.

The scenery is gorgeous. Views of the South China Sea, as well as the image of the sandy beaches and crystal waters, are inspiring. It’s no surprise that renowned painters like Rafael Cusi are fans of this Mariveles seaside attraction. 

From relaxation by the shore to adventures among nature’s many marvels, Camaya Coast has it all. For me, the fun factor is in the balance of mountain and beach that can be so rarely found. I can choose whether to play volleyball or Frisbee on the shore, swim or kayak in the water, or to bike through the trails in the forest. Rappelling courses have also been set up.

The adventures begin even before setting foot on the coast itself. Reaching the area is an interesting journey. By land, it is a three-hour trip from Manila, followed by a 15-minute ferry or bangka ride.

These are just some of the activities planned. A summer camp will be set up for kids aged two to 12. Basketball courts, tennis courts and other sports facilities will also be built.

By 2010, the residential units (yes, residential. Can you imagine living by the seashore of this place I just described? Ahh… Heaven) will be turned over to their owners. Units are now for sale at very affordable prices. It is another one of the goals of the developers to provide people with this nearby haven at a cost that won’t bust open their bank account.

Day trips can be arranged so that you can experience this glorious strip of sand and sea for yourself. Once the community has been established, the whole area will be open to both residents and visitors.

Camaya Coast is a private beach, which means it will never be dirtied by or crammed with wave after wave of humanity. Peace and quiet while enjoying the sun and surf: sounds good to me. I think I’ve found my new summer getaway.

Now the only problem is coming up with the cash to invest in a beach house. Until then, I’ll just have to wait until Camaya Coast opens its doors to vacationers.

For inquiries and reservations, you may visit Camaya Coast’s EDSA showroom at G/F Prudential Bldg., Annex No. 31, EDSA Mandaluyong City. You may also call 539-1960, 535-1593 or 0917-6CAMAYA, e-mail info@ camayacoast.com or check out their website at www.camayacoast.com.