Five Fingers | Cove Hopping Experience in Mariveles, Bataan
Searching for a new place to explore, Bataan comes up on our list. The fact that I know little about a place that it is pretty close to Manila, piqued my interest. This made me Google and went on a deep dive about places to visit in Bataan.
The one that really struck me the most was Mariveles. The place is located in the southern part of Bataan Peninsula. This means it is surrounded by water. Reading all posts to see the perfect adventure in Mariveles, I encountered a place, they call "Five Fingers". Somewhere in Mariveles, there's a series of coves. From a bird's eye view, it resembles a hand.
Armed with a little bit of info, waze and cheap alcohol, we venture into the unknown. Drove for several hours until we reached a little fishing village.
Then, looked for a boat and started our sea exploration. While the Captain navigate through choppy waters, we were busy taking shots. Eager for the adventure that lies ahead.
First stop, Talain Cove. We docked our boat on a beautiful rock formation protruding out the sea. Strong winds moving from all directions and waves crashing to the rocks.
Some took photos and some jumped into the sea. Right then, we realized that it was a jellyfish infested water.
Back on our boat, our captain set the course to another cove where the brave ones can jump. A cove named Tinanlakan. The rocks were shaped resembling a stairs going to the top of the cliff. It seems like the rock was carved using a giant chisel.
When my turn came, stepped on the middle of the cove. On the edge of a 40ft rocky cliff. A view of a vast deep blue sea in front of me. With a brief moment to let it all in, I stepped forward and everything turned slow motion until I felt the impact of the water. A heart-pumping and fun experience.
We continued our voyage to the cove known as Laki Beach. Enjoyed our boat ride by drinking from one cup and passing it around, singing songs on top of our lungs, until our boat touched land.
Laki Beach is a picture perfect cove with its tree lined beach, turquoise blue water and creamy sand.
Like pirates we searched for RUM! And spent the remainder of the day basking in the sun.
This is our Five Fingers Story.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT FIVE FINGERS IN MARIVELES BATAAN
The best time to visit Five Fingers in Mariveles, Bataan, is during dry season. This is from December to May. I recommend scheduling within December to February to avoid the boom of tourist in summer.
WHAT ARE THE THINGS TO PACK TO FIVE FINGERS IN MARIVELES BATAAN
Beach wear
Swimwear
Sandals / Slippers
Protection from the sun
Camera / Action Cam
Extra batteries and memory cards
Dry bag
Beach mat
Tent
Tumbler
Food / Snacks
Cooler with drinks and alcohol
Portable charger
Trash bag
HOW TO GET TO FIVE FINGERS IN MARIVELES BATAAN FROM MANILA
To get to the Five Fingers jumpoff point, the best way is via car. From EDSA, drive North and take Balintawak exit to NLEX. Exit at San Fernando. Follow the road to Balanga, Continue driving until you reach Mariveles, Bataan. In Bagac – Mariveles Road, turn left to Gen. Ricarte St. (Genesis Bus Terminal). Turn right once you reach the corner of Monroe St. Follow the Bagac – Mariveles Road and turn left to Balon-Porto Road. Drive straight and pass the rotunda until you reach the port to Five Fingers (Near the Basketball Court). Travel time is 3.5 hours.
FIVE FINGERS IN MARIVELES BATAAN BUDGET AND ITINERARY
The estimated cost for a Five Fingers Cove Hopping day tour activity is PHP4,500.00 per person. Estimate is based on 1 pax and will do a DIY tour and not a tour package, with 3 meals amounting to Php200.00 per meal and a Php500.00 budget for snacks and drinks. Cost can be lower based on the number of people by sharing the following: Gas, Toll fees and Boat rental. See expected costs below:
Gas – Php1,000.00
Toll fees – NLEX
Balintawak to San Fernando Exit - Php193.00
Boat Rental – Php2,500.00/day tour
NOTE: Rates indicated above may change.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN VISITING FIVE FINGERS IN MARIVELES BATAAN
Food
If it is a DIY Tour, then bring your own food and drinks.
Cash Basis only.
There are plenty of ATMs along the way to Mariveles, Bataan
Signal is weak in some parts of the tour.
No Restroom in coves.
Once you return to the port, there’s a public bath where you can freshen up. You need to pay a small fee.
Parking area is near the court.
FIVE FINGERS IN MARIVELES BATAAN TRAVEL TIPS
We did a DIY tour and went without bookings. You can rent a boat once you arrive. Just ask in the registration area.
Best to go as early as possible for the availability of tour boats. Also to have plenty of time to visit all spots.
Wear a rash guard when swimming. There were plenty of jellyfish in the coves when we did the Five Fingers cove-hopping.
Bring plenty of food and drinks. Also bring a cooler for your drinks. There’s a store in Laki Beach but the price is way higher than in the mainland.
Bring cash in tour.
Clean as you go.
WATCH THE FULL VIDEO HERE
WHAT’S IN MY BAG?
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