Manila Gateway
Almost every Philippines surf trip starts here. Metro Manila has no surf, and this zone does not pretend otherwise: it is the logistics page for the night before and after, with stays near the airport, food, transfers, board-bag rules and honest guidance on getting out to the 12 Philippines zones, including the 2026 change that moved Cebgo and AirSWIFT turboprop flights from Manila to Clark.
Straight talk: Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you book through them, Secrets of Surf Travel earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link places and people we'd use ourselves, and coverage is never for sale. Those commissions are what keep this site running and fund the next trip.
Some vacation-rental search links on this page (marked "Search Vrbo rentals," "Search Booking.com stays," or "Search Agoda stays") are affiliate links. Every vendor link below is still a plain courtesy link. As more partnerships come online, more links may earn us a commission; the promise above holds either way.
Real, specific safety context: The Manila International Airport Authority warns about fake taxi rate cards and unauthorised drivers: use the marked taxi lanes or counters, a pre-booked transfer or a ride-hailing app, and report overcharging to the airport hotline 8877-1111. Typhoon season runs with the rainy season from June to November, and the national weather service raises Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals 1 to 5, so tell your airline and hotel early if a signal is raised over Luzon. Dengue mosquitoes bite by day, so use repellent and long sleeves. In an emergency call 911.
Getting There
Which airport. Metro Manila's main airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), in Pasay City, with four terminals numbered 1 to 4. The terminals are separate buildings and not walkable to each other.
Which terminal. The airport authority's list, dated 10 March 2026, puts Philippine Airlines at Terminals 1 and 2, Cebu Pacific and most Gulf, European and North American carriers at Terminal 3, and AirAsia Philippines, PAL Express and Cebgo at Terminal 2. Terminals were reported to be changing from 29 March 2026, with a new Terminal 4 taking AirAsia Philippines domestic flights and some Cebu Pacific domestic flights, so read the terminal on your own ticket and do not rely on any list alone.
Entry. Register for eTravel, the free Philippine travel information system, at least 72 hours before you travel (advisory dated 5 October 2026). The Bureau of Immigration describes visa-free visitors as admitted initially for 30 days, with an initial extension of 29 days. Which nationalities qualify and the passport-validity rule are not stated on the Bureau pages we could read, so check with the Department of Foreign Affairs or the Bureau; one embassy page lists a passport valid for at least six months after departure and an onward ticket.
Clark as an alternative. Clark International Airport lists Genesis point-to-point buses to NAIA at PHP 450 each way, with taxis at the arrivals exit and the Grab pickup at Bay 8. Clark matters more now that Cebgo and AirSWIFT turboprop flights have moved there (see Getting Out to the 12 Zones).
Distances. No official figure was found. A 2026 transfer guide gives 30 to 60 minutes off-peak and 60 to 90 minutes or more in rush hour from NAIA to Makati, BGC or Manila alike.
Ground Transport
- Official coupon taxis are the safe default. Use the marked counters and lanes, and read the posted rate card. A 2023 guide gave zone fares of PHP 330 to 440 to Makati, PHP 330 to 530 to Taguig (BGC), PHP 440 to 670 to the Intramuros area and PHP 150 to 440 within Pasay, while a 2026 guide gives about PHP 450 to 800 to Makati or Pasay, so the figures differ and the counter's card governs.
- Yellow airport taxis are metered: a 2023 guide gave PHP 75 for the first 500 metres, then PHP 4 per 300 metres. Regular white taxis use their own lane, and a 2026 guide reports refusals to use the meter, so they are the least recommended option for a first visit.
- Grab and apps: Grab lists a six-seater car, and a 2026 guide gives typical fares of PHP 300 to 500 to Makati and PHP 300 to 600 to BGC, with a designated pickup zone at each terminal (exact spots are shown in the app).
- Airport buses: Genesis P2P buses run between Clark and the NAIA terminals. A premium airport bus to Makati has been listed at about PHP 150 to 200, but sources disagree on which terminals it serves, so confirm on the day.
- Trains and boards: the MRT-3's official rules ban objects more than 5 ft long and luggage bigger than 2 ft by 2 ft, so a board bag cannot go on that line. No LRT-1 or LRT-2 rule was found. Plan on road transport for board bags.
- Traffic: rush hour is roughly 7 to 9 am and 5 to 8 pm on weekdays, and waiting for a white taxi can take a long time at peak hours.
- Changing terminals: a free inter-terminal shuttle for connecting passengers is described in one 2023 guide and a PHP 50 loop bus in a 2026 guide, so they disagree; ask at the information desk, and use a taxi or app if you have a board bag.
Board-Bag Rules On Domestic Airlines
- Cebu Pacific and Cebgo: a surfboard is a special-baggage add-on bought only in the Cebu Pacific mobile app, PHP 2,000 domestic, up to 20 kg including case, one board per guest per flight, limited availability per flight, and non-refundable. Maximum length with case is 9 ft on jets and 6 ft on ATR turboprops.
- AirAsia Philippines: its published domestic fee sheet says travelers may take one 15 kg surfboard free under its Free Surfboard Policy.
- Philippine Airlines: one board counts as one piece, up to 32 kg, charged as excess baggage at 100% up to 109 in (277 cm) and 200% above that, with fins removed or taped; a prepaid sports equipment fee for domestic flights is listed at PHP 1,120 for up to 15 kg. PAL's own pages disagree on whether a board counts inside the free allowance, so confirm with PAL before you buy.
When to Go
The national weather service describes the rainy season as June to November and the dry season as December to May, with a cool dry stretch from December to February and a hot dry stretch from March to May. April is the hottest month, with afternoon highs near 34°C.
| Month | Port Area max / min (°C) | Port Area rain (mm) / days | NAIA max / min (°C) | NAIA rain (mm) / days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29.9 / 23.9 | 19.4 / 4 | 30.4 / 22.9 | 11.5 / 3 |
| Feb | 30.7 / 24.3 | 21.9 / 3 | 31.1 / 23.2 | 9.5 / 3 |
| Mar | 32.1 / 25.3 | 21.8 / 3 | 32.6 / 24.3 | 10.3 / 3 |
| Apr | 33.8 / 26.7 | 23.4 / 3 | 34.3 / 25.7 | 9.0 / 3 |
| May | 33.6 / 27.0 | 159.1 / 9 | 34.2 / 26.3 | 57.1 / 7 |
| Jun | 32.8 / 26.5 | 253.3 / 14 | 32.8 / 25.9 | 100.5 / 11 |
| Jul | 31.5 / 25.9 | 432.3 / 19 | 31.4 / 25.2 | 158.7 / 16 |
| Aug | 31.0 / 25.9 | 476.1 / 19 | 30.8 / 25.1 | 208.0 / 16 |
| Sep | 31.2 / 25.7 | 396.4 / 18 | 31.1 / 25.1 | 159.2 / 16 |
| Oct | 31.4 / 25.7 | 220.6 / 14 | 31.4 / 24.9 | 93.5 / 11 |
| Nov | 31.3 / 25.3 | 119.9 / 10 | 31.4 / 24.4 | 76.2 / 8 |
| Dec | 30.3 / 24.6 | 98.5 / 8 | 30.5 / 23.7 | 54.1 / 8 |
| Year | 31.6 / 25.6 | 2,242.7 / 124 | 31.8 / 24.7 | 947.6 / 105 |
PAGASA 1991 to 2020 normals. Port Area (in Manila, nearest Intramuros) and NAIA (Pasay, the Airport Area) differ strongly on rainfall, so the two columns are labelled; a rainy day is a day with at least 1 mm.
Monsoons. The southwest monsoon (habagat) is announced each year; the 2026 start was announced on 30 May 2026, and it runs roughly late May to early October. The northeast monsoon (amihan) follows from about late October, with exact dates declared each year.
Typhoons and wind signals. Typhoons generally form in the Pacific and move northwest. The five-level Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal system covers 39 to 61 km/h (Signal 1, minimal disruption to public transport) up to 185 km/h and above (Signal 5, catastrophic damage), with lead times of 12 to 36 hours. Flight and ferry cancellation rules are set by each carrier, so check yours early.
What to pack: light, fast-drying clothes and a rain layer in the wet months, and a cover for your board bag.
Good to Know
Emergency Numbers
The national emergency hotline is 911, the Philippine National Police hotline is 117, the Philippine Red Cross is 1158, and the Department of Tourism's 24-hour tourist assistance line is 151-TOUR (151-8687). For airport complaints, the airport authority hotline is 8877-1111.
SIM & eSIM
Visitors must register a SIM with a passport, proof of a Philippine address, a return ticket and a selfie. A tourist-registered SIM stays valid for 30 days. Globe and Smart both sell traveler eSIMs; Globe's needs a one-time PIN sent once you are on the Philippine network, so register after you land.
Health
Dengue mosquitoes bite from sunrise to sunset. The Department of Health's advice is to remove breeding sites, protect yourself with long sleeves and repellent, and seek a consultation early if a fever persists, since there is no medicine for dengue and hydration is the main care. After storms, boil water or use chlorine tablets.
Scams
At the airport, watch for fake rate cards and unauthorised drivers (see Ground Transport). Online, the Department of Tourism warns about fake social media accounts posing as hotels, resorts and travel agencies; the cybercrime hotline is 1326, and you can check a business's accreditation in the department's database.
Safety By Hub
- Airport Area: the airport scam warning applies.
- Makati and BGC: Bonifacio Global City and Poblacion in Makati are on the initial list of sites for 800 tourist police on motorcycles, announced 9 March 2026 for an April rollout.
- Old Manila: the City of Manila is not on that list. Take a taxi or ride-hailing car between venues at night.
Time-Sensitive Notices
- Weather: check the national weather service (PAGASA) for tropical cyclone and wind signals in the days before you fly, since the forecast changes daily. A climate advisory dated 23 September 2026 warns of a very strong El Niño persisting into the first half of 2027.
- Terminals: reported terminal reassignments from 29 March 2026 mean a check of your airline's terminal is worthwhile.
- Intramuros: Casa Manila Museum, Centro de Turismo Intramuros and Museo de Intramuros are closed Mondays.
Respecting the Locals
- Place names: use Manila for the city and metro area, and Maynila when you mean the historical settlement. The Intramuros Administration calls the pre-Spanish settlement Maynila, protected by a palisade of bamboo and coconut log stakes at the river mouth, taken by Miguel López de Legazpi in 1571 when he founded Ciudad de Manila. The origin of the name is described in different ways in different sources, so we do not state one.
- Fort Santiago is a memorial site. The Intramuros Administration records that the Japanese Kempei Tai imprisoned and tortured people there in the Second World War, and that American forces damaged the fort in 1945. Follow its posted hours, fees and reminders.
- Spend where it helps. Independent guesthouses, family restaurants and local transfer operators keep money in the city; see the hub lists below.
Whose country this is. No fixed visitor acknowledgement of Indigenous or ancestral peoples is published on the Intramuros Administration pages we could read or by the Department of Tourism, so we do not offer one of our own. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts refers to the Old Maynila of Rajah Soliman and Rajah Lakandula of Tondo, and the National Historical Commission describes pre-Spanish Manila as a Muslim kingdom under Rajah Sulayman at the mouth of the Pasig River.
Surfboards in Manila
- Check the aircraft. A board that fits a jet may not be accepted on an ATR turboprop route, where Cebu Pacific's limit is 6 ft with case.
- Change terminals with your bag. International arrivals and domestic departures often use different terminals, so a board bag will usually need to be taken to the domestic airline's departure terminal and checked in there. Ask your airline whether your bags are checked through on your itinerary.
- Storage. No verified board-bag storage or board-shipping business exists in the three hubs. Two luggage-storage platforms, Bounce and Stasher, are listed in the Airport Area hub because nothing else was found, but board-bag size limits at their partner sites are unconfirmed, so ask your hotel directly.
- Moving around. Boards cannot go on the MRT-3. Use an app car sized for the bag (Grab lists a six-seater) or a pre-arranged transfer or van with a driver.
Airport Area (NAIA, Pasay & Parañaque)
Almost every international surf traveler lands here, and many leave again within hours for a domestic flight or an overnight bus. The airport sits across Pasay and Parañaque; Newport City, with hotels beside Terminal 3, is the quickest walk from a terminal, while the Roxas Boulevard and Bay City side has bay-view hotels, malls and heritage venues. If you land late or fly out early, sleeping within a short ride of your terminal beats crossing the city at rush hour. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are separate buildings and not within walking distance of each other; check which terminal your onward flight uses before booking a hotel. Terminal 3 connects to Newport City on foot (Belmont Hotel Manila's own site describes an air-conditioned pedestrian bridge). Unmetered "flat-rate" offers from people who approach you in the arrivals hall usually cost more than the meter; use the marked taxi queue, a pre-booked transfer or a ride-hailing app, and agree the fare or insist on the meter before you get in. Traffic on the roads around the airport and EDSA is heavy at commuting hours, so leave generous time for early flights.
Surf Schools
There is no surf in Metro Manila and no surf school here. See the 12 Philippines zone pages for coaching.
Surf Guides & Tours
No surf guides operate in Metro Manila; see the zone pages.
Surf Shops, Board Rentals & Ding Repair
No surf shop or ding repair could be confirmed in Metro Manila. Bring spares, and see the zone pages for local shops.
Stays: Hotels & Bungalows
- Savoy Hotel ManilaUpper101 Andrews Avenue, Newport City, Pasay CityIndependent hotel in Newport City that describes itself as 350 m from Terminal 3, a practical choice for a late arrival or early departure. savoyhotelmanila.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Belmont Hotel Manila (FLAG: part of the Megaworld hotel group, a domestic chain)UpperNewport Boulevard, Newport City, Pasay CityFour-star hotel directly across from Terminal 3; its site describes a covered pedestrian bridge from the terminal. Listed because few independent options sit this close to the terminal. belmonthotelmanila.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Nichols Airport HotelBudgetParañaque City, minutes from the airportEight-storey boutique hotel that says it has served airport travelers for over 20 years and sits a couple of minutes from the airport. nicholsairporthotel.com.ph Facebook Google Maps listing
- Golden Phoenix Hotel ManilaMid-rangeSunrise Drive, Pasay City, near the Mall of AsiaContemporary hotel near the Mall of Asia whose site lists luggage storage, laundry and airport transfers. goldenphoenixhotelmanila.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Hotel Ava (Cuneta and Gil Puyat locations)BudgetCuneta Avenue and Gil Puyat Avenue, Pasay CityDrive-in hotel that sells 12-hour and 24-hour stays, which suits a long layover or a short rest before a morning flight; the site says its properties are minutes from the airport. A Malate location is listed too. hotel-ava.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Hotel Sogo (FLAG: domestic chain)BudgetMultiple Metro Manila branches; use the branch finder on the sitePhilippine short-stay and overnight hotel chain with a branch search on its site; listed because it is one of the few budget options with many locations. Confirm the branch nearest your terminal. hotelsogo.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Camping, Long-Term & Alternative Stays
- Alicia ApartmentBudget11 Begonia Street, Rivera Village, Pasay CitySelf-contained apartment stay in a Pasay residential area, useful for a multi-day stopover with a kitchen. aliciaapartment.com Google Maps listing
Where to Eat
- La CreperieMid-rangeNewport Mall, Newport Boulevard, Pasay CityCreperie in the Newport City mall, a few minutes from Terminal 3, handy before an early flight. lacreperieph.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Dolora's Hauz of Pancit MalabonBudgetLeveriza Street, Pasay CityLocal restaurant built around pancit Malabon, a regional Filipino noodle dish. doloras.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Palacio de MemoriaUpper95 Roxas Boulevard, Tambo, Parañaque CityHeritage venue on Roxas Boulevard whose site lists a restaurant (The Loggia). The restaurant's own page did not load, so confirm dining hours directly. palaciodememoria.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Transfers, Van Hire, Buses, Ferries & Flights
- Anis TransportMid-rangeMetro Manila; serves Terminals 1, 2 and 3Car and van rental with driver, with airport pick-up at the three terminals; a sensible way to avoid the taxi queue and plan a multi-stop trip. anistransport.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- LXVCARSUpperMetro ManilaCar and van rental with driver, including airport transfers and hourly hire; overnight driver and meet-and-greet charges are listed separately on the site. lxvcars.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Van Rental Manila (W)Mid-rangeMetro ManilaVan hire with driver and provincial pick-and-drop pricing (the site's headline mentions Baguio and Ilocos routes). vanrentalmanila.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Victory LinerBudgetHead office 713 Rizal Avenue Extension, Caloocan; check the terminal directory on the site for the Pasay, Cubao and other Manila terminalsLong-established Luzon bus company with online booking, a route map and a P2P service; the usual way to reach Zambales, La Union and other northern coast zones by road. The terminal directory on the site is an image, so confirm your departure terminal. victoryliner.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Bicol Isarog Transport SystemBudgetMetro Manila departures to Albay, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Sorsogon and Masbate per the booking form; booking offices page on siteBicol bus company with online seat booking and pet-friendly rules; the site's booking form lists Metro Manila as an origin and Catanduanes and Sorsogon as destinations. bicolisarog.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- 2GO Group, Inc.Mid-rangeManilaDomestic shipping and travel company; its site covers passenger travel and cargo. Confirm current passenger routes before planning around a sea leg. 2go.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- AirAsiaBudgetNAIA; domestic and international flightsAirline booking site; confirm the departure terminal and the sports-equipment or surfboard baggage policy before you book. airasia.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Philippine Airlines (W)Mid-rangeNAIANational carrier with domestic routes to several surf provinces; confirm the departure terminal and the surfboard baggage policy before you book. philippineairlines.com Google Maps listing
Massage & Wellness
No independent massage or wellness business could be confirmed from its own site here, so ask your hotel.
Surf Photographers & Videographers
No dedicated surf photographer or videographer applies to Metro Manila.
Beyond the Surf
No independent beyond the surf business could be confirmed in Airport Area (NAIA, Pasay & Parañaque) at the moment, so ask at your accommodation or check locally on arrival.
Errands & Services
- DITOBudgetNationwide mobile network, store and kiosk locations on siteDomestic mobile network that sells prepaid SIM cards; confirm the airport kiosk and eSIM options on the ground. dito.ph Google Maps listing
- Bounce (FLAG: international luggage-storage platform)BudgetPartner shops near NAIA; booking is onlineOnline luggage-storage booking platform with partner locations in Metro Manila; listed because no independent board-bag storage with its own site was verified. Confirm board-bag size limits with the partner before you book. bounce.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Stasher (FLAG: international luggage-storage platform)BudgetPartner hotels and shops in Makati and near NAIAOnline luggage-storage booking platform with partner locations in Metro Manila; same board-bag caution as above. stasher.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Medical / Practicalities
- Adventist Medical Center Manila (W)Mid-rangeDonada Street, Pasay CityPrivate hospital in Pasay, the closest full hospital to the airport side of the city; confirm emergency-room hours by phone. amcmanila.org Google Maps listing
- Mercury Drug (FLAG: domestic pharmacy chain)BudgetMultiple Pasay and Metro Manila branchesPhilippines' largest pharmacy chain, with many branches near the airport. Listed because independent pharmacies with their own sites could not be verified. mercurydrug.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Makati & Bonifacio Global City
Makati and BGC are the city's business and dining districts, a short ride from the airport and a comfortable base for a one-night stopover. Poblacion has the late-night bars, cafes and hostel, Legazpi and Salcedo have weekend markets and independent restaurants, and BGC adds contemporary malls and a small number of well-known restaurants. If you have a late arrival or an early onward flight, check the traffic window before choosing this side of town. Allow roughly an hour or more from the airport at busy times, longer on weekday evenings. A pre-booked transfer or ride-hailing app avoids negotiating a fare at the curb. Taxi drivers who refuse the meter or quote a flat price much higher than the meter are a known complaint at busy hours; insist on the meter or use an app. Many restaurants here take reservations.
Surf Schools
There is no surf in Metro Manila and no surf school here. See the 12 Philippines zone pages for coaching.
Surf Guides & Tours
No surf guides operate in Metro Manila; see the zone pages.
Surf Shops, Board Rentals & Ding Repair
No surf shop or ding repair could be confirmed in Metro Manila. Bring spares, and see the zone pages for local shops.
Stays: Hotels & Bungalows
- The Picasso Boutique Serviced ResidencesUpperLeviste Street, Salcedo Village, Makati CityBoutique serviced residence about 700 m from Greenbelt, with the Leviste Street restaurants nearby. picassomakati.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Makati Diamond ResidencesUpperNear Ayala Avenue and Greenbelt, Makati CityServiced residences a few steps from Greenbelt and Ayala Avenue, suitable for longer stays. makatidiamond.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Camping, Long-Term & Alternative Stays
- Z HostelBudget5660 Don Pedro Street, Poblacion, Makati CityPoblacion hostel with air-conditioned rooms, a rooftop bar and a skyline view; the closest thing to a backpacker base in this hub. zhostel.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Where to Eat
- Commune Cafe + Bar + RoasterMid-range36 Polaris corner Durban Streets, Poblacion, Makati CityPoblacion cafe, bar and roaster serving 100% Philippine coffee and Filipino comfort food. commune.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Yardstick CoffeeMid-rangeEsteban Street, Legazpi Village, Makati CitySpecialty coffee roaster with a cafe in Legazpi Village. yardstickcoffee.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Common Man Coffee RoastersMid-rangeMakati Avenue, Makati CityLocal specialty coffee roaster and cafe. commonmancoffeeroasters.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Milky Way CafeMid-rangeA. Arnaiz Avenue, Legazpi Village, Makati CityLong-running Makati cafe with a menu of Filipino and international dishes. cafe.milkywayrestaurant.com Google Maps listing
- AzuthaiMid-rangeA. Arnaiz Avenue, Makati CityThai restaurant with a Makati branch. azuthai.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Cirkulo RestaurantMid-rangeA. Arnaiz Avenue, Makati CitySpanish restaurant in Makati. elcirkulo.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Blackbird at the Nielson TowerUpperMakati Avenue, Makati CityRestaurant in the restored Nielson Tower, the former Makati airport terminal. blackbird.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- TandemMid-rangeMakati CityMakati restaurant serving American-influenced comfort dishes. tandemmnl.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- CeleraUpperPablo Ocampo Street, Makati CityRestaurant with its own booking site. restaurantcelera.com Instagram Google Maps listing
- Toyo EateryUpperChino Roces Avenue Extension, Makati CityFilipino-focused restaurant with a reservations email on its site. toyoeatery.com Instagram Google Maps listing
- Tien Ma's Taiwanese CuisineMid-rangeConstellation Street, Poblacion, Makati CityTaiwanese restaurant in Poblacion. tienmas.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Nono's Comfort Kitchen and BakeryMid-rangeGamboa Street, Legazpi Village, Makati CityComfort food and bakery in Legazpi Village. nonos.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Primal Brew Coffee + RoasteryMid-rangeJimenez Street, Makati CityCoffee roastery and cafe. primalbrewcoffee.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Oltre Specialty CoffeeMid-rangeGeneral Luna Street, Poblacion, Makati CitySpecialty coffee shop in Poblacion. oltre.ph Instagram Google Maps listing
- Chesa Bianca Swiss RestaurantMid-rangeYakal Street, Makati CityLong-established Swiss restaurant in Makati. chesabianca.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Hossein's RestaurantMid-rangeMakati Avenue, Makati CityPersian, Arabian and Indian cuisine in Makati. hosseins.com Google Maps listing
- Terry's SelectionMid-rangeChino Roces Avenue Extension, Makati CitySpanish restaurant and deli with an online grocery shop. terryselection.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Mom and Tina's Bakery Cafe (W)BudgetLegazpi Village, Makati CityHome-style Filipino-American food and bakery. momandtinas.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Transfers, Van Hire, Buses, Ferries & Flights
No independent transfers, van hire, buses, ferries and flights business could be confirmed in Makati & Bonifacio Global City at the moment, so ask at your accommodation or check locally on arrival.
Massage & Wellness
No independent massage or wellness business could be confirmed from its own site here, so ask your hotel.
Surf Photographers & Videographers
No dedicated surf photographer or videographer applies to Metro Manila.
Beyond the Surf
- Ayala MuseumMid-rangeMakati CityMuseum of Philippine history and art in the Makati business district. ayalamuseum.org Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Errands & Services
- Rakso TravelMid-rangeLegaspi Village, Makati CityPhilippine travel agency that books domestic and international tickets and tours, with a Makati office and a Malate branch. raksotravel.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Medical / Practicalities
- Makati Medical CenterUpperMakati CityMajor private hospital; the site lists a 24/7 on-call number. makatimed.net.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- St. Luke's Medical Center (BGC)UpperBonifacio Global City, TaguigMajor private hospital with a BGC campus in Taguig. stlukes.com.ph Instagram Google Maps listing
Old Manila (Intramuros, Ermita & Malate)
Old Manila is the historic core: the walled city of Intramuros, the museums and Rizal Park around Ermita, and the older hotels and cafes of Malate along Roxas Boulevard. It is the best place in the metro area for a half-day of walking and heritage sights between flights, and its older hotels are a short ride from the airport. Most of it is walkable by day; at night take a taxi or ride-hailing car between venues. Roughly a 20 to 40 minute ride from the airport depending on traffic. Intramuros is best explored on foot or by guided walk or bamboo-bike tour; Rizal Park, the National Museum and the Cultural Center of the Philippines are within a short ride of each other. Pasay's Taft Avenue bus corridor is near Malate, which makes this side of town convenient for early provincial departures.
Surf Schools
There is no surf in Metro Manila and no surf school here. See the 12 Philippines zone pages for coaching.
Surf Guides & Tours
- Old Manila WalksMid-rangeIntramuros and Manila walking-tour routesGuided walking tours of historic Manila, with customized programs and virtual tours. oldmanilawalks.com Facebook Google Maps listing
- Bambike EcotoursMid-rangeGeneral Luna Street, Intramuros, ManilaGuided Intramuros tours on handmade bamboo bicycles, run by a social enterprise. bambike.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Surf Shops, Board Rentals & Ding Repair
No surf shop or ding repair could be confirmed in Metro Manila. Bring spares, and see the zone pages for local shops.
Stays: Hotels & Bungalows
- The Manila HotelUpperOne Rizal Park, ErmitaHeritage landmark hotel beside Rizal Park with a cafe and delicatessen on site. manila-hotel.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- The Bayleaf Intramuros (FLAG: local hotel group)UpperMuralla Street, IntramurosBoutique hotel inside the walled city with a Philippine-heritage focus; listed because it is the only hotel inside Intramuros. thebayleaf.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Bayview Park Hotel ManilaUpperRoxas Boulevard, ErmitaBay-view hotel on Roxas Boulevard. bayviewparkhotel.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Diamond Hotel PhilippinesUpperRoxas Boulevard corner Dr. J. Quintos Street, MalateLong-standing Roxas Boulevard hotel with direct booking on its site. diamondhotel.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- The Pearl Manila Hotel (W)Mid-range1155 General Luna Street corner Taft and United Nations Avenue, ErmitaHotel at Taft Avenue and UN Avenue, near museums and the LRT line. pearlmanila.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Citystate Tower HotelMid-rangeMabini Street, ErmitaErmita hotel on Mabini Street. citystatetowerhotel.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Hotel Benilde Maison De La SalleMid-rangeArellano corner Estrada Streets, MalateMalate hotel run by a college hospitality school, with a cafe on site. hotelbenilde.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Orchid Garden SuitesMid-rangeOcampo Street, MalateMalate hotel with online booking. orchidgardensuites.com Google Maps listing
- Arbez SuitesBudgetMalateSmall Malate hotel with a cafe on site. arbezsuites.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Manila Prince HotelMid-rangeErmitaCity hotel with about 300 rooms, close to the historical sites. manilaprince.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Camping, Long-Term & Alternative Stays
No independent camping, long-term and alternative stays business could be confirmed in Old Manila (Intramuros, Ermita & Malate) at the moment, so ask at your accommodation or check locally on arrival.
Where to Eat
- Barbara's Heritage RestaurantUpperIntramurosHeritage dining in the heart of Intramuros, known for Filipino dishes and cultural performances. barbaras.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Papakape (W)BudgetPalananFilipino coffee shop with a Fort Santiago location. papakape.com Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Transfers, Van Hire, Buses, Ferries & Flights
No independent transfers, van hire, buses, ferries and flights business could be confirmed in Old Manila (Intramuros, Ermita & Malate) at the moment, so ask at your accommodation or check locally on arrival.
Massage & Wellness
No independent massage or wellness business could be confirmed from its own site here, so ask your hotel.
Surf Photographers & Videographers
No dedicated surf photographer or videographer applies to Metro Manila.
Beyond the Surf
- Intramuros AdministrationBudgetIntramurosGovernment body that runs the walled city, with visitor information, sites and events. intramuros.gov.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- National Museum of the PhilippinesBudgetErmita, near Rizal ParkNational museum complex in the Rizal Park area. nationalmuseum.gov.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Manila Ocean ParkMid-rangeBehind Rizal Park, ManilaOceanarium and attraction park behind Rizal Park. manilaoceanpark.com Facebook Google Maps listing
- Cultural Center of the PhilippinesBudgetRoxas Boulevard, PasayNational arts venue on Roxas Boulevard with performances and exhibitions. culturalcenter.gov.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
Errands & Services
- Naila's Money ChangerBudget1741 A. Mabini Street, MalateForeign exchange counter in Malate with daily rates posted on its site; compare against the day's market rate before exchanging. nailasmoneychanger.com Facebook Google Maps listing
Medical / Practicalities
- ManilaMed (Medical Center Manila)Mid-rangeUnited Nations Avenue, ErmitaPrivate hospital in Ermita with a published hotline. manilamed.com.ph Instagram Facebook Google Maps listing
- Manila Doctors Hospital (W)Mid-rangeUnited Nations Avenue, ErmitaPrivate hospital in Ermita. maniladoctors.com.ph Google Maps listing
- Philippine General HospitalBudgetTaft Avenue, ErmitaLarge public teaching hospital; expect long waits compared with private hospitals. pgh.gov.ph Facebook Google Maps listing
Getting Out to the 12 Zones
Three changes affect every route. Since 29 March 2026, all Cebgo and AirSWIFT turboprop flights operate from Clark, not Manila, and Cebu Pacific names Naga and Siargao among the routes with no direct NAIA service; Genesis runs a Manila to Clark bus, with free rides from NAIA Terminal 3 announced from 1 April 2026. Board-bag rules differ by airline and aircraft (see Ground Transport). And bus operators publish little online, so where an operator gave no schedule, fare or baggage rule we say so rather than guess.
By Zone
- Bagasbas (Daet) Direct bus from PITX, about 7 to 9 hours (page estimate).PITX lists Daet among its Bicol destinations; the Bicol operators sell at Ticket Booth 1 and the Travel Hub on the 2nd floor, and Bicol departures use Gate 4. There is no direct Manila to Naga flight: Naga is a Cebgo route that now flies only from Clark, three times a week, on turboprops with a 6 ft board limit. The bus is the fastest and most board-friendly route. No operator fare was found. The beach is a short tricycle ride from Daet. Open the zone guide →
- Baler (Aurora) Genesis or Joybus coach from Cubao, about 5 to 8 hours (page estimate).There is no scheduled passenger service at the Baler airstrip. Genesis Transport and its Joybus service run from the Genesis terminal in Cubao; its own site did not give a readable schedule or fare, so ask at the terminal and check with the conductor about boards. Tricycles serve Baler and Sabang. Open the zone guide →
- Dahican & Mati (Davao Oriental) Fly Manila to Davao, then road to Mati.Cebu Pacific flies Manila to Davao (DVO) up to 10 times a day on jets (9 ft board limit), and Philippine Airlines also sells it. PITX lists Davao City bus service for the very long overland option. The Davao to Mati leg could not be sourced from an operator, so confirm transport on arrival. From Mati town it is about 10 km to Dahican by habal-habal or tricycle. Open the zone guide →
- Gubat & Sorsogon Fly to Legazpi (Bicol International, DRP) or take the PITX bus.Cebu Pacific flies Manila to Legazpi 5 times daily on jets (9 ft limit), and the road leg to Gubat is indirect via Legazpi. PITX lists Gubat and Matnog among its Bicol destinations, a one-seat bus ride that suits a board well. Durations and fares were not published by the operators we could check. Open the zone guide →
- Guiuan & Calicoan (Eastern Samar) Fly Manila to Tacloban, then a van of 3 to 4 hours.Cebu Pacific flies Manila to Tacloban (TAC) 6 times daily, and Philippine Airlines also sells it. Eastern Samar's provincial site says Guiuan is about 154 km from Tacloban and the highway trip takes roughly three to four hours, with vans from downtown Tacloban terminals. Guiuan's own airport no longer has scheduled commercial service. Overland all the way is about 21 hours. Ask the van driver about boards before loading. Open the zone guide →
- Lanuza (Surigao del Sur) Indirect: a full-day journey with an overnight buffer.Cebu Pacific lists Manila to Butuan (BXU) 5 times daily and Manila to Cebu 14 times daily, with Cebu to Surigao (SUG) 6 times a week. From Surigao the road south is about 133 km, 3 to 4 hours by bus or van (page estimate); the Butuan to Lanuza road leg could not be sourced. Cebu to Surigao may be a turboprop with a 6 ft board limit, so check the aircraft type. Open the zone guide →
- Liwliwa, San Felipe & San Narciso (Zambales) Victory Liner from Manila, about 4 to 5 hours (page estimate).Victory Liner's own site says Royal Class and First Class can be booked online, while other classes are bought at terminals on the day of travel; boarding closes 20 minutes before departure. Its terminal directory did not load, so confirm which Manila terminal serves San Narciso and San Felipe. Declare a board bag when you board, because Victory Liner is not liable for loss or damage to undeclared luggage. A tricycle covers the last stretch. Open the zone guide →
- Pagudpud (Ilocos Norte) Fly to Laoag then a transfer, or Partas to Laoag.Cebu Pacific flies Manila to Laoag (LAO) 5 times a week, and Philippine Airlines also sells it. Partas's own page lists Cubao to Laoag from PHP 888 and Pasay to Laoag from PHP 980, 10 to 11 hours, with no Pagudpud destination shown, so ask at the counter whether a through service exists. Laoag to Pagudpud is 44 to 55 km by van, taxi or jeepney. Open the zone guide →
- Puraran & Catanduanes (Baras) Fly Manila to Virac, or bus to Tabaco plus ferry.Cebu Pacific flies Manila to Virac (VRC) daily; the aircraft type is not published, and if it is a turboprop the 6 ft board limit applies. PITX lists Tabaco and Virac among its Bicol destinations, and the Barkota platform lists a bookable Tabaco to Virac ferry, but sailing days, fares and crossing times could not be confirmed from an operator. From Virac, Baras and Puraran are reached by van, jeepney and tricycle. Open the zone guide →
- San Juan & La Union (Urbiztondo) Bus from Manila (5 to 6.5 hours, page estimate).No operator source was found: Partas's page does not mention La Union, and PITX lists Baguio but not La Union. Confirm the operator and drop-off at the terminal. There is no flight to the town. Tricycles serve Urbiztondo. Open the zone guide →
- San Vicente (Palawan) Fly to Puerto Princesa, then a van of 3 to 4 hours.Cebu Pacific flies Manila to Puerto Princesa (PPS) 4 times daily on jets (9 ft limit). San Vicente's own tourism pages say the town is 3 to 4 hours by van and about 5 by bus from Puerto Princesa, but they name different terminals (the New Public Market, and the San Jose or New Bus Terminal), so confirm on arrival. A private car is the most board-friendly. Tricycles and habal-habal serve the beach corridor. Open the zone guide →
- Siargao (General Luna) Indirect from Manila, with Clark and Cebu connections.Cebu Pacific says there are no direct Manila to Siargao flights: its Siargao turboprop flights now operate from Clark (six times a week), and for travel from Manila it recommends connecting through Cebu, which has 5 daily flights to Siargao. Philippine Airlines sells Manila to Siargao itineraries from NAIA Terminal 2 but does not say whether they are nonstop. A ferry from Surigao to Dapa is another option. Cebu Pacific's turboprop flights carry the 6 ft board limit. Airport to General Luna is about 30 to 40 minutes. Open the zone guide →
Local Secrets
Eight small facts that make a stopover easier, from Fort Santiago's late hours to the bus that links Clark and NAIA.
- Fort Santiago stays open into the evening Intramuros
Monday to Friday 8 am to 10 pm and Saturday and Sunday 6 am to 10 pm, with last admission 8 pm on weekdays and 8:30 pm on weekends; PHP 75 regular and PHP 50 for students, seniors and persons with disabilities. The page adds that entry from 8 to 10 pm may be allowed for Klook bookings only.
- The visitor desk is open daily Centro de Turismo
The Centro de Turismo Intramuros visitor desk is open daily 9 am to 6 pm even though the museum is closed Mondays. Entry rules for the museum areas are on the Intramuros Administration's hours page, which is unclear on the two free entries.
- Monday is the closed day Intramuros
Casa Manila Museum, Centro de Turismo Intramuros and Museo de Intramuros are closed Mondays; Fort Santiago and Baluarte de San Diego are open every day.
- Baluarte de San Diego opens daily 8 am to 5 pm
Last admission 4 pm, and the page lists no fee.
- The Rizal Shrine inside Fort Santiago Museo ni Rizal
The National Historical Commission runs the Rizal Shrine, where Jose Rizal was held from 3 November to 29 December 1896; the prison wing became a museum in 1953, was renovated in 1998 and modernised in 2014.
- The old Maynila palisade Before 1571
Rajah Sulayman's settlement at the river mouth was palisaded with bamboo and coconut log stakes and defended by swivel guns, one attributed to Panday Pira, a renowned smith from Mindanao. After a Chinese attack led by Limahong the palisades were rebuilt in stone.
- Tourist police in BGC and Poblacion From April 2026
Bonifacio Global City and Poblacion in Makati are on the initial list of sites for 800 tourist police on motorcycles.
- Airport to Clark by P2P Genesis
A Genesis point-to-point bus links the NAIA terminals and Clark International Airport at PHP 450, handy now that Cebgo and AirSWIFT fly from Clark.
Questions People Actually Ask.
Which NAIA terminal will I arrive at?
It depends on the airline. The airport authority's list dated March 2026 puts Philippine Airlines at Terminals 1 and 2, Cebu Pacific at Terminal 3, and AirAsia Philippines and Cebgo at Terminal 2, and terminals were reported to be changing from 29 March 2026, so check your ticket.
Do I need a visa?
Many nationalities can enter visa-free for an initial 30 days, with 29-day extensions. Check your passport's nationality with the Department of Foreign Affairs or the Bureau of Immigration, and register for eTravel at least 72 hours before you travel.
What is eTravel?
The free Philippine travel information system. Register at least 72 hours before travel.
How long does it take to get from the airport to Makati, BGC or Old Manila?
About 30 to 60 minutes off-peak and 60 to 90 minutes or more in rush hour, by one 2026 guide.
What is the safest way to get from the airport?
Use the marked coupon or yellow-taxi lanes or an app pickup zone and ignore unofficial offers. The airport authority warns against fake rate cards.
Can I take a surfboard on the train?
The MRT-3 bans objects more than 5 ft long and luggage bigger than 2 ft by 2 ft. No LRT-1 or LRT-2 rule was found, so plan on road transport.
What do domestic airlines charge for a board?
Cebu Pacific charges PHP 2,000 for a surfboard on domestic flights (20 kg limit, app only). AirAsia Philippines states one 15 kg surfboard is free under its Free Surfboard Policy. PAL charges excess baggage or a prepaid sports equipment fee listed at PHP 1,120 for up to 15 kg, so confirm with PAL.
When is the rainy season?
June to November, with the heaviest rain from June to September. The dry season runs December to May.
Who do I call in an emergency?
911 nationally, 117 for the police, 1158 for the Red Cross, and 151-TOUR for the Department of Tourism's tourist help line.
Can I fly to Siargao from Manila?
Not on Cebu Pacific: it says there are no direct Manila to Siargao flights and recommends connecting through Cebu. Philippine Airlines sells Manila to Siargao itineraries but does not say whether they are nonstop.
Disclosure & How This Page Works.
Straight talk: Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you book through them, Secrets of Surf Travel earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link places and people we'd use ourselves, and coverage is never for sale. Those commissions are what keep this site running and fund the next trip.
Today, the "Search Vrbo rentals," "Search Booking.com stays," and "Search Agoda stays" links on this page are affiliate links — every vendor listing link is still a plain courtesy link. As partnerships with these local businesses come online, more links (and discount codes, where Secrets of Surf Travel benefits from their use) may earn us a commission, and this page will keep saying so plainly. Coverage is never for sale: nobody on this page paid to be here, and nobody can.
Every listing was researched in 2026 and is being verified in person. Prices, hours, and policies change — treat them as strong starting points and confirm directly with the business. And per the No-Reveal Code: you will find no surf spots on this page, ever.