Crystal Beach Resort in Zambales - Crystal Beach Resort in Zambales.

We visited on a Saturday for a day trip from Manila. We left around 6am and arrived around 10am. (The return trip took over an hour longer due to traffic.) I searched online for a beach where we could surf, and Crystal Beach came up. Since it was our first time, we decided to visit because they offer lessons for beginners. It seems you can book online, but we decided to just walk in. Upon arrival, we found out at the reception that we couldn't enter the sea immediately due to high waves. Naturally, we couldn't start our surfing lesson right away either. However, after checking with the instructor, we were told that lessons would be possible around 2pm. We debated waiting for over 4 hours but decided to relax on the beach and wait since it was a rare opportunity. The entrance fee to the beach is 700 PHP per person. (There is also a deposit, but it will be refunded if you show the receipt when you leave.) We also received a 200 PHP coupon per person that could be used for food and drinks on the beach. There are villas available for day use or overnight stays. (In my opinion, the prices are a bit high.) We relaxed on the free shaded chairs available on the beach, watched the sparkling beach (which might be the origin of the name Crystal Beach), walked along the sandy shore, and had lunch at the beach restaurant. At 2pm, we checked again but were told we still needed to wait due to high waves. Finally, around 3:30pm, we were able to start the lesson. We were provided with long-sleeve wetsuits for surfing. We were taught the names of the different parts of the board, how to get on, and how to stand up on the board for about 15 minutes on land. Then we headed to the sea with the instructor. From lying on the board to being taken to the right spot in the sea and standing up at the right moment, the instructor assisted us thoroughly. However, I could only stand on the board for about 1-2 seconds. After about 30 minutes, the lesson ended. It was a very good experience. I think this is a great location for beginner surfers close to Manila. Even for those who don't surf, it's worth visiting to relax by the sea and refresh your mind and body away from the hustle and bustle of the city.