If you’re thinking of a quick beach getaway in Batangas, the resorts in Laiya, Nasugbu, and Anilao are usually in the top list.
On the other hand, Lian often gets overlooked, except when crowds flock to its famous Matabungkay Beach. But for those seeking for a laidback, more intimate escape from the concrete jungle, Lian has a slice of calm paradise waiting to be discovered.
From Manila via CALAX, it took a 2.5 hour drive past Tagaytay and Nasugbu before finally reaching the quaint town of Lian. As we drove into a number of neighborhoods, the roads got narrower and it didn’t immediately scream ‘beach town.’ But as soon as we entered a junction asking for a Php35 environmental fee, we noticed a row of resorts lining the street. That’s when I realized, Lian really is a beach destination, just one that flies under the radar and hasn’t yet made waves on social media.
Fiery sunset at the beach in Lian, Batangas
When we spotted the ‘TANA’ signage at the entrance, I felt a quiet anticipation. As we stepped out of the van, we were immediately welcomed by the warm smiles of the staff. As expected, welcome refreshments were served, but what caught me pleasantly off guard was the welcome massage. What a thoughtful touch!
The vibe at TANA Beach Villas felt worlds apart from the bustling streets outside. The atmosphere was zen – manicured lawns, minimal yet inviting greenery, and a Buddha sculpture all set the tone. The sound of gentle waves of the beach can be heard within earshot, inviting everyone to slow down. The sand may be darker in color compared with other beaches in Batangas, but the beauty of it lies in peace and privacy. We had the entire stretch of shoreline to ourselves. For that moment, it felt like our private paradise.
Operated by Approche Hospitality Management, the resort is fairly new and has been running for two years.
The only luxury resort in Lian
Sunset drama and minimalist elegance come together at TANA Beach Villas’ beachfront setting.
For the media familiarization trip to TANA Beach Villas, we had the pleasure of meeting the owner, Justin Tan. He shared that it was originally envisioned as a private rest house for his family before it was later opened to the public and named after his father. The Tan family saw the charm and untapped potential of San Diego’s quiet beach. After building TANA, it seemed others were inspired to follow suit and saw the value of tourism in the barangay.
TANA stands as the first and only luxury resort in Lian. It features nine spacious villas ranging from 25 to 65 square meters, large enough to comfortably accommodate a family of four. Each villa comes with a lounge area, a kitchenette stocked with complimentary tea and coffee, and ensuite toilet and bath.
A home away from home. Each villa has a spacious lounge area and kitchenette with a mini refrigerator.
The facade embraces a modern minimalist aesthetic with smooth stucco finishes, perfectly complementing the tranquil beach backdrop. Inside, a palette of grays and browns adds a touch of understated sophistication. As night falls, the vibe becomes even cozier with lamps illuminating the pathway, while the pool glows softly, inviting a relaxing evening swim.
The restaurant is situated along the beachfront, giving guests a panoramic view of the sea while dining.
The resort’s restaurant and bar, Trese, carries personal meaning as well, named after his mother’s nickname and a nod to her being the 13th child in the family. The restaurant caters to every moment of the day serving a delightful mix of Filipino and Chinese cuisine cooked from freshly caught seafood and locally sourced ingredients.
Whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast after a morning swim, a panoramic lunch by the beach, or a romantic dinner under the stars, every meal is a taste of home – elevated with rich flavors and presentation. On weekends, the experience becomes even more special as they invite in a local acoustic singer to serenade guests, setting the perfect mood for an evening of good food, music, and sea breeze.
Guests can enjoy complimentary plated breakfast, fresh fruits, and free-flowing brewed coffee, with options ranging from traditional Filipino dishes to a full American breakfast.
Experiences beyond relaxation
Beyond the resort’s amenities, TANA offers activities for guests seeking a bit of adventure. The staff can coordinate with local tour operators for a day trip to the nearby Fortune Island, famous for its Grecian-inspired ruins and cliffside views, or a scenic horseback ride along the beach. It’s good to know that TANA supports the local community by working with locals and providing them with tour opportunities.
For those who prefer to stay close, the calm waters are perfect for kayaking or simply indulging in the natural beauty of the surroundings. TANA also extends its care to the environment, providing a sanctuary for injured or stranded sea turtles that occasionally make their way to its shores. The resort takes it upon themselves to care for and release these turtles back into the sea, a humble yet heartfelt effort to protect and preserve marine life in Lian.
Lian may not have the buzz of its neighboring beach towns, but that’s exactly what makes it special. This trip made me realize I don’t need a packed itinerary or endless activities to find the tranquility I’ve been craving. In this quiet side of Batangas, I’m reminded that sometimes, doing nothing is exactly what the mind and body need.
Cap off the trip with a Tagaytay stopover
Cantina Mexa is located right in front of The Strype Hotel, also operated by Approche Hospitality Management, along Mahogany Avenue in Tagaytay.
On the drive back to Manila, the ride made it tempting to take a quick stop in Tagaytay. To make the most of the trip, we dropped by Cantina Mexa, a new spot for those craving Mexican favorites and good drinks. The restaurant serves a savory mix of Filipino-Mexican flavors. It was the perfect way to end our serene escape. but that’s a story for another article!