Edgewater Dive and Spa Resort

“What is hurting you is teaching you. Don’t run away from it. Learn from it.”

The quote which I found a spot-on, appeared on my IG feed on my way to Puerto Galera for a short R&R in a fairly new resort that just opened August this year. It’s a place I also don’t want to run away from, the moment I walked in.

Just four hours away from Manila via bus and boat ride, Puerto Galera remains a popular beach destination that is not too far from the city. While the White Beach and Sabang are where the horde of tourists are, there are still some private resorts that are far from the madding crowd and wild beach parties. One of which, is the Edgewater Dive and Spa Resort.

I like the resort's signage; it reminds me of Poseidon’s trident.

The resort was developed by Richard (Canadian) and Mark (a New Zealander), who worked together in a project funded by an international bank in Asia for the indigenous community of Talipanan in Puerto Galera. During their stint, they experienced the warm, laidback hospitality of the locals and discovered world-class diving spots in unspoiled waters. They saw the potential of developing a business that could offer a unique diving experience, luxurious pampering and family-friendly accommodations, that could contribute to the sustainable development of the area. That dream eventually led to the birth of Edgewater. It was named as such because the resort is literally situated at the water’s edge in the serene and peaceful Dalaruan Bay. 

The resort is also accessible by land via tricycle or jeepney with Muelle-Sabang route.

  

Small but intimate, modern but with tropical touch – that’s my first impression the moment I saw the whole expanse of the resort. Since it is newly-opened, the building and amenities are still in sparkling condition. 

I was a little early for my 2pm check-in time, so I waited for a bit in the common lounge.

They have this bookshelf with interesting hardbound books and novels. I found several copies of Mary Higgins Clark, my favorite suspense author (way, way back in high school).

 

While waiting, I was served with welcome drinks (watermelon shake) and fresh fruits. I find them not only healthy but also yummy.

 

There are only seven rooms so the service is quite personal. And even if the resort was fully booked during my stay, I never felt that it was crowded since most of the foreign guests are out diving or snorkeling.

I stayed in a deluxe room with sea and garden view. The room is furnished with a queen-size four poster modern bed, AC, mini-bar, and flat-screen TV with cable channels. The bed, pillows and comforter are soft and fluffy, and spotless white. Their bath essentials carry the brand of Damana; these organic products are enriched with herbal extracts and natural perfumes.

The room’s patio area has views over both the bay and the landscaped gardens with several flowers in bloom. The flowers are often visited by colorful butterflies.

A decent, complimentary continental breakfast is served for guests. It consists of coffee, orange juice, cornflakes, choco flakes, corn rings, freshly-baked bread with fruits jams, and scrambled eggs. Ala carte menu is also available all-day at their Mangrove Restaurant; drinks and fruit shakes could be ordered at their poolside bar. Though food prices are a little bit steep, they are made with quality ingredients, especially the pizza and the shrimp pesto that I’ve tasted. Well this come as no surprise since their head chef previously worked in a Michelin star restaurant.

The resort has a lovely, wooden deck lounge with outdoor seating and sunbeds. It has a stunning view of the bay and nearby mangroves. The resort’s floating cottage could be viewed prominently from the deck. Another thing I noticed was that there are four trees that were left unharmed in the building of the deck. They still form part of the building and added more natural charm.

Another main attraction of the resort is its nice, clean swimming pool with Jacuzzi. I had a pleasant time using these amenities.

  

The pool is also used for diving practice of guests.

The two open kubo huts below the deck serve as the spa and lanai. The lanai is the perfect spot to laze around with a book, and savour the balmy, sea breeze.  The fresh air was soothing and revitalizing to the senses.

Edgewater proved to be another “good find” in Puerto Galera. The staff are friendly and the owner is very hands-on, occasionally checking on the guests, ensuring that their stay is beyond just comfortable. 

I was also amazed to find out that they are committed to the sustainable growth of the local community. Part of their income goes to educational scholarship of underprivileged local children.

 

Often, it is true that those who are most fulfilled are those who do good deeds for others, especially those in need. Sometimes, it’s the simplest pleasures in life that can be the most rewarding.

From Manila, take Batangas Pier-bound bus (bus stations in Cubao or Buendia). From the pier, take Puerto Galera (Muelle) boat. Guests will be picked up by the resort’s boat at Muelle.    

Edgewater Dive and Spa Resort

Sitio Kabilang Gulod

Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro

Tel. No.: (043) 287-3774, 0945-2699229