Top 17 Best BATAAN TOURIST SPOTS + Things to Do
Tourist Spots in Bataan + Top Things to Do in Bataan Province
Bataan is a province located in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines. It is known for its rich history, pristine beaches, and natural wonders. Bataan played a significant role in World War II, and many of its tourist spots are related to this historical event. Visitors can explore the museums and memorials dedicated to the brave soldiers who fought in the war.
Aside from its historical significance, Bataan is also home to numerous natural attractions that are worth visiting. From majestic mountains to stunning beaches, there’s so much to explore in this province. Visitors can go hiking, camping, or swimming in some of the most beautiful and unspoiled spots in the Philippines. Bataan is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which visitors can sample in the many restaurants and food stalls around the province.
Historical Sites in Bataan
Bataan is a province in the Philippines that is rich in history, especially during World War II. The province is home to several historical sites commemorating the heroism and sacrifice of the Filipino, American, and Japanese soldiers during the war. Here are some of the must-visit historical sites in Bataan:
Mt. Samat Shrine photo via Bataan.gov.ph
Shrine of Valor
The Shrine of Valor, also known as the Dambana ng Kagitingan, is a historical landmark atop Mount Samat in Pilar, Bataan. The shrine commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of the Filipino and American soldiers who fought in the Battle of Bataan during World War II. The highlight of the shrine is the Memorial Cross, a 92-meter-tall structure that offers a panoramic view of the province.
Bataan World War II Museum By Makubex1985 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 , cc
Bataan World War II Museum
The Bataan World War II Museum is located in Balanga City, Bataan and showcases the events that led to the fall of Bataan during World War II. The museum features dioramas, photographs, and artifacts that depict the battle of Bataan and the Bataan Death March. The museum also houses a library that contains books and documents related to the war.
Surrender Site Marker in Balanga Bataan By Makubex1985 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0 , cc
Surrender Site Marker
The Surrender Site Marker is a historical landmark located in Balanga City, Bataan, where the Filipino and American soldiers surrendered to the Japanese forces on April 9, 1942. The site features a monument that depicts the surrender of the soldiers and a marker that bears the names of the Filipino and American soldiers who fought in the battle of Bataan.
This marker is the starting point of the Death March.
Zero Kilometer Marker
The Zero Kilometer Marker is a historical landmark located in Mariveles, Bataan that marks the starting point of the Bataan Death March. The marker indicates the distance that the Filipino and American soldiers had to walk from Mariveles to San Fernando, Pampanga during the march.
Philippine-Japan Friendship Tower by Makubex1985 via Wikimedia cc
Philippine-Japan Friendship Tower
The Japan-Philippines Friendship Tower is a historical landmark located in Bagac, Bataan that symbolizes the friendship between Japan and the Philippines. The tower was built to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Bataan Death March and the end of World War II. The tower features a plaque that bears the inscription “Friendship Beyond War, Beyond Time”.
Natural Attractions in Bataan
Bataan is a rising eco-tourism destination with a diverse range of natural attractions. The province is home to majestic mountains, stunning beaches, grandiose waterfalls, and vast dipterocarp forests with rich biodiversity. In this section, we will explore some of Bataan’s most popular natural attractions.
Bataan National Park near Mabayo, Morong By Sindre Helvik, CC BY 3.0 , cc
Bataan National Park
Bataan National Park is one of the most preserved tourist spots in Bataan. The park is one of Central Luzon’s last ecological frontiers and home to numerous wildlife species, including giant fruit bats, deer, civet cats, eagles, and monkeys. The park is a perfect destination for nature lovers and hikers who want to explore the natural wonders of Bataan.
Balanga Wetland and Nature Park By Judgefloro – Own work, CC0 , cc
Balanga Wetland and Nature Park
Declared as a community-based ecotourism zone, the Balanga Wetland and Nature Park is one of the must-visit tourist spots in Bataan. Located in Barangay Tortugas, the park is home to migratory birds that flock the area during the “-ber” months. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, nature walks, and picnics in this serene and scenic park.
Five Fingers Cove
Five Fingers Cove is a hidden gem in Mariveles, Bataan. The cove features five limestone cliffs that resemble fingers, hence the name. Visitors can explore the cove by hiking or taking a boat ride. The cove also offers a stunning view of the West Philippine Sea, making it a perfect destination for nature photography.
Limutan Falls
Limutan Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Bataan. Located in Bagac, the falls offer a refreshing escape from the heat and humidity of the province. Visitors can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and taking a dip in the cool and clear waters of the falls.
Dunsulan Falls
Dunsulan Falls is another popular waterfall in Bataan. Located in Pilar, the falls offer a breathtaking view of nature. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, and picnicking in this serene and scenic spot.
Mount Natib by Chris Newhall via Wikimedia cc
Mount Natib
Mount Natib is one of the highest peaks in Bataan and a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. The mountain offers a challenging but rewarding climb, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the mountain’s diverse flora and fauna.
Natsu Lagoon
Natsu Lagoon is a hidden paradise in Bagac, Bataan. The lagoon features crystal clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and picnicking in this serene and scenic spot.
In conclusion, Bataan is a province rich in natural wonders and attractions. Visitors can explore the province’s majestic mountains, stunning beaches, grandiose waterfalls, and vast dipterocarp forests with rich biodiversity.
Cultural Heritage of Bataan
Bataan is a province in the Philippines that boasts a rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the province can explore various cultural sites and learn about the Filipino craftsmanship that has been passed down from generation to generation. Here are some of the top cultural heritage spots to visit in Bataan:
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar
Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar is a heritage resort that features restored Spanish-Filipino houses from the 18th to 19th century. This heritage site is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines, and visitors can explore the houses and learn about the history of each one. The resort also offers various activities such as river cruises, cultural shows, and workshops on Filipino crafts.
Pawikan Conservation Center in Morong Bataan by Ramon FVelasquez via Wikimedia cc
Pawikan Conservation Center
The Pawikan Conservation Center is a must-visit spot for those interested in the conservation of endangered species. This center is dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles, particularly the Olive Ridley sea turtle, which is known to nest in the beaches of Bataan. Visitors can learn about the life cycle of these turtles and the conservation efforts being done to protect them.
