SISIMAN BAY: Pebble Beach, Lighthouse, Summit and Sunset

Sisiman Bay is not that well known spot located in Sisiman, Mariveles, Bataan. It beautifies the southernmost tip of Bataan Peninsula. Rock formations and pebbles are spread out along its clear blue beach. Sisiman lighthouse, a truly functional one, is a beautiful photo subject by the bay. San Miguel Peak, towering 700 feet ASL, awes every visitor's eyes. Colorful sunset gives the skies wonderful hues. All these make Sisiman Bay a picturesque.


When I saw some photos of Sisiman Bay over the net, I fell in love with it instantly. I found it another great stop when visiting Luzon.

From Genesis terminal in Pasay (near MRT), it took me 4 hours to finally arrive in Mariveles. From downtown Mariveles, San Miguel Peak is clearly visible. I took a pink tricycle bound for Brgy. Sisiman. The driver pulled over at crossing Sisiman Bay so I started to walk by then. It was a very short walk anyway. 


San Miguel summit captivated my heart as I got closer. The beach in an afternoon sun was truly a fantastic scenery.

I went to cottages and inquired for a stay. Luckily, I was referred to Nanay Del who offered me a very simple quarter to rest myself in private.

I roamed around the bay waiting for sunset. I kept in touch with lighthouse. I drooled for the summit.

 

When the sun gradually descended, I took liberty to press my shutter to capture amazing hues and silhouettes.

When darkness finally reigned, I got back to my abode, dined with my hosts, took a night dip and snored the night away.

When morning came, I couldn't wait to summit San Miguel Peak so it's the first thing I did. See story here: SAN MIGUEL PEAK: A Magnificent Tower of Sisiman Bay.       

After a brief bonding with the summit, I took a sumptuous recharge. I explored back the area in broad daylight. I bonded with the rocks and got eaten by gentle water. 

After packing up, I explored the other side of the bay. 

I passed by the ruins of Guesthouse, hiked towards the grotto and summitted another hill with a breathtaking view of the bay.
 

A SAD TRUTH...

While watching the bay, I pondered upon a sad truth, really sad truth(s). 

-The wastes of energy generating plant nearby has significantly killed various marine lives.
-Below the summit just near the lighthouse, a backhoe breaks the beautiful rocks. 
-One side of the mountain is closed and claimed as private property. 
-Rock mining is operated by no less than Bataan's governor.
-Story also says that the mountain is already sold out to Japanese buyer.

So sad that the clear scenic beach might turn gray and toxic. 
So sad that one of God's wonderful architecture will soon get demolished.


THINGS TO REMEMBER:

1. No entrance fee.
2. Cottages are available at P300 per day.
3. Sleeping quarter costs 350 per night (no beddings included).
4. Tent pitching is allowed near the base of San Miguel Peak.
5. Presence of small sari-sari stores.
6. Videoke machines noise up the night.
7. Bay is just walking distance from barangay proper.
8. Water for bathroom costs P20/pail.
9. Insect repellent is a must especially during night.


10. Tricycle ride from downtown Mariveles costs P50 for solo pax or P15 each for multiple pax.


CONTACT: 
Nanay Delia (president of cottage owners association) - 09375865211.

HOW TO GET THERE (while it is still there):

From Pasay, go to MRT station. Take a short walk to Genesis Bus Terminal. Take a direct ride to Mariveles (you may also take Balanga and take another bus to Mariveles). Entering Mariveles, alight at BASECO building. In front, take a tricycle to Sisiman (P15 each for multiple pax and P50 for solo pax). Drop off at Crossing Sisiman Bay. Take a short walk to the bay.