February is the month of love, and what better way to celebrate than by creating unforgettable memories with someone special? Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family bonding trip, or a long-overdue reunion with loved ones, Pico Sands Hotel offers the perfect destination. Located within the beautiful Hamilo Coast in Nasugbu, Batangas, this tropical retreat provides a seamless blend of relaxation, adventure, and modern comfort—all just a 90-minute drive from Metro Manila.
Imagine strolling hand in hand along the pristine shores of Pico de Loro Cove, indulging in intimate dinners under the stars, or toasting to love aboard a private sunset cruise. Couples can enjoy a dreamy escape filled with breathtaking views and special curated experiences. Meanwhile, families and groups can revel in the variety of activities, from exciting water sports to leisurely nature tours, ensuring that everyone—no matter their idea of the perfect getaway—has a truly unforgettable experience.
Our Room
During our recent visit, we stayed in the spacious Corner Deluxe Room at Pico Sands Hotel. Our room was designed for comfort and elegance, featuring a plush king-size bed that easily accommodated two adults and a child. The large windows allowed natural light to pour in, offering a beautiful view of the tranquil lagoon and verdant mountains beyond. For couples looking for a private retreat, the ambiance of the room is perfect for unwinding. If you’re traveling with family or friends, you can also opt for connecting rooms for a shared yet spacious experience.
Corner Deluxe Lagoon View Rooms offer a blend of comfort, style, and functionality with a private balcony and serene nature views. Get to see the breathtaking view of the 10-feet man-made lagoon from your veranda.
The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its eco-friendly initiatives, such as refillable glass water bottles and filtered water stations. With high-speed Wi-Fi, an in-room work desk, and modern amenities, Pico Sands Hotel provides the ultimate blend of luxury and convenience for every type of traveler.
Pico de Loro is also home to migratory birds, which is why the rooms at Pico Sands Hotel feature images of these birds, adding a unique and thoughtful touch to the décor.
Culinary Delights at Pico Sands Hotel
One of the highlights of our stay was the diverse culinary journey we experienced, featuring a mix of international and local flavors across various dining venues.
On our first day, we had Lunch at Pico Restaurant and Bar, where we enjoyed a delightful Italian menu. The meal started with Antipasto, featuring roasted vegetable couscous, followed by Zuppa, a warm sweet potato and leek soup. For the main course, we savored Secondi Piatti, which included Baked Fish Papillote and Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken—both perfectly cooked and flavorful. To wrap up this satisfying lunch, we had Dolce, a unique twist on the classic dessert, Tiramisu Filipino, combining traditional flavors with a local touch.
In the evening, we had Dinner at Garden Steps. We collaborated with the hotel staff to set up a surprise dinner for someone special, making the night feel even more magical. It was an unforgettable dinner under the stars, with candlelight and a romantic ambiance in the air. The stunning floral arrangements by Bows & Stems added an extra touch of romance. The menu for the evening included Steamed Pampano, Prawn Thermidor, Chicken Barbecue, and Marinated Pork Belly—the perfect way to end a lovely evening.
On our second day, we started the morning with a luxurious breakfast spread at Lanai Dome, where we indulged in a Charcuterie Board, Eggs Benedict with Filet Mignon, and a Fresh Fruit Platter. The standout was the Eggs Benedict, with its tender filet mignon and perfectly poached eggs. A special touch was the malunggay pandesal, freshly baked and soft, sold by hotel staff on a bike, adding a unique twist to our breakfast experience.
For Lunch at Reef Bar, located near the Pico de Loro Beach Club, we enjoyed a delicious Tex-Mex feast. The ocean breeze and beachside vibes made every bite even better. The menu featured Tacos Al Pastor, Taco Barbacoa, Quesadillas de Camarones, Country Style Chicken Quesadillas, and Naked Sisig Pork. The Naked Sisig was a flavorful Filipino take on the classic dish, and the Banana Empanadas were a sweet ending to a satisfying meal, with their crispy exterior and warm, caramelized filling.
In the evening, we had Dinner at Dome at Sun Coral in Pico De Loro Beach Club, where we were treated to a romantic dining experience. Since one surprise dinner for Valentine’s Day wasn’t enough, we set up a surprise dinner by the beach, enjoying our meal as the sound of the waves serenaded us. Dining under the stars in this dreamy dome by the beach, with the waves in the background and the sea breeze setting the mood, was truly a romantic night to remember.
The menu at Dome at Sun Coral included a Kale and Romaine Caesar Salad with poached eggs, parmesan, and romaine lettuce; Roasted Pumpkin and Carrot Puree Soup with celery, chicken broth, and garlic bread; Confit Buttered Salmon with grilled asparagus, cherry tomatoes, and mashed potatoes; and for dessert, we enjoyed a delicious Club Crepe with locally sourced ripe mango and vanilla ice cream.
On our last day, we indulged in a Breakfast Buffet at Pico Sands Hotel. The buffet spread offered a wide range of dishes, catering to both savory and sweet cravings. The special section for kids added a fun touch, making this breakfast perfect for families. It was a fitting way to conclude our stay at Pico Sands Hotel, enjoying one last delicious meal before heading home.
Activities to Do at Pico Sands Hotel
During our stay at Pico Sands Hotel, we made the most of the exciting activities that Hamilo Coast has to offer. One of the most thrilling experiences was jet skiing, which gave us a fresh and exhilarating perspective of Pico De Loro Cove. The adrenaline rush of speeding across the water, with the cool breeze in our faces and the stunning coastal scenery unfolding around us, made for an unforgettable adventure.
Another must-do was the Cove Tour, which took us along the picturesque coastline, revealing fascinating rock formations that seemed to have been shaped by nature over centuries. We marveled at islands resembling a turtle, an elephant, and even a crocodile—each one more incredible than the last! One of the highlights was an island that had split into two, a stunning reminder of nature’s power and how the landscape is constantly evolving.
A key part of the tour was the visit to Santelmo, where we enjoyed an unforgettable snorkeling and freediving experience. While we didn’t stay at Santelmo Beach during this visit, it’s definitely on my list for the next time. The crystal-clear waters, pristine beach, and tranquil atmosphere make it a paradise perfect for swimming, lounging, or simply soaking in nature’s beauty. If you’re visiting Pico Sands Hotel, the Santelmo Cove Private Beach Tour is an absolute must! It provides exclusive access to this idyllic cove, offering a peaceful and intimate experience—definitely a top recommendation.
As we explored the area, we also discovered a historical landmark—an Imperial Japanese Type 10 120mm Dual-Purpose Gun located at the beach area of Pico de Loro. Originally designed for naval use and produced in large numbers during 1944, this weapon was adapted for dual purposes and is believed to have been stationed in the Hamilo Coast area during World War II, approximately 50 to 60 nautical miles west. This fascinating piece of history adds another layer of intrigue to the already picturesque surroundings of Pico Sands Hotel.
To round off the day, we treated ourselves to the Sunset Cruise, a perfectly relaxing and romantic experience. As we cruised along, we watched the sky transform into breathtaking shades of orange, pink, and purple—a truly unforgettable moment.
@sylversy Sailing into a kaleidoscope sunset ✨ Cruising through hidden coves, we felt the calming waves of the sea 🌊 while enjoying a delectable charcuterie board and wine. Pure bliss! 🛥🌅 @Pico Sands Hotel #PicoSandsHotel #HamiloCoast #PicoDeLoro #Batangas #PicoSandsHotel #PicoDeLoroBeachandCountryClub #EscapetheOrdinary #HotelsinBatangas #IconicMNLtravel #IconicMNL ♬ original sound – Sylver Sy
Although we didn’t have time for the Eco-Mangrove Tour on this trip, I’ve had the chance to experience it before, and it remains one of my favorite activities at Hamilo Coast. If available during your visit, I highly recommend it, especially for families. The tour is both educational and peaceful, offering a fascinating insight into the vital role of mangroves in the ecosystem, all while enveloped in the serene beauty of the forest. It’s a fantastic way to connect with nature and appreciate its delicate balance up close.
Rain, The Spa: A Romantic Retreat for Two
After our romantic dinner at the Dome at Sun Coral, we sought the ultimate relaxation experience at Rain, The Spa. This peaceful sanctuary, with its calming ambiance and soothing aromas of essential oils, provided the perfect setting for unwinding. We enjoyed a full-body massage and a Gua Sha Facial Massage in one of the spa’s private rooms designed specifically for couples.
The full-body massage was pure bliss, with expert therapists using a blend of therapeutic oils and gentle strokes to release tension and promote relaxation. The Gua Sha Facial Massage added a refreshing touch, with its gentle pressure and smooth tools helping to ease facial tension and improve circulation, leaving our skin glowing.
By the end of our session, we felt completely rejuvenated—both physically and mentally. Rain, The Spa’s private rooms, and the serene atmosphere created the perfect environment for a romantic and relaxing experience, making it the ideal way to end our stay at Pico Sands Hotel.
Overall
As expected, Pico Sands Hotel never disappoints. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with genuine warmth and exceptional service. Tiny the Turtle, the hotel’s charming mascot, welcomed us upon arrival, adding a personal touch to our stay. The hotel staff went above and beyond, assisting us to our room and offering us refreshing welcome drinks to start our experience off on a delightful note.
Throughout our stay, the hospitality was outstanding. We truly appreciated the sweet notes and local desserts that greeted us each night, adding an extra layer of warmth to our visit. The management also continues to improve and expand its services, always finding new ways to make guests feel more relaxed and welcome.
A particularly thoughtful moment occurred during our island cove tour. I accidentally left my Insta360 Flow gimbal on the speedboat, and the hotel staff went out of their way to call us and ensure it was returned safely. This level of care and attention is something you don’t often experience, and it made our stay even more memorable.
I also had the privilege of talking with the hotel’s General Manager, which gave me a deeper understanding of the vision and commitment behind the exceptional service and hospitality at Pico Sands Hotel.
Pico Sands Hotel offers a vast array of activities, ensuring that each stay is unique and memorable. Its convenient location—just three hours from Manila—makes it the perfect destination for a quick escape, a family reunion, team-building, or a longer getaway. Whether you’re staying with someone special, your family, friends, or even workmates, Pico Sands Hotel is truly a perfect place to relax and build beautiful memories.
I also had the privilege of learning about some of the hotel’s upcoming developments. While I can’t share the details yet, I know they’ll be amazing, and I’m very much looking forward to experiencing them on my next visit. I’ll definitely be returning soon, and I’m planning to bring my family with me for an unforgettable experience. This hotel provides an experience that goes beyond expectations, and I can’t wait for my next visit.
Rates
The Corner Deluxe Room Lagoon View at Pico Sands Hotel offers a romantic retreat with breathtaking views of the tranquil lagoon. Starting at ₱14,700++ per night, this stylish accommodation provides a peaceful sanctuary where guests can unwind and enjoy picturesque lagoon views. Your stay includes breakfast for two adults, setting the stage for intimate mornings. Enjoy access to the Country Club swimming pools and Pico Beach, ensuring every moment is filled with comfort and enjoyment. For those seeking a bit of activity, complimentary access to various sports and recreation facilities, including the fitness gym, beach volleyball, football, and frisbee, is also available.
Be sure to ask the receptionist when you check in about the activities you can avail of! Likewise, you can also refer to this review and try the featured activities mentioned in our article to make the most of your stay.
For those seeking adventure and unique experiences, here are the rates for some of the featured activities mentioned in our article:
- Santelmo Cove Tour Package – ₱10,700 for four (4) persons, including a 4-hour stay at the private Santelmo Cove, roundtrip speedboat transfers, a curated lunch menu, and complimentary 1-hour kayak use. More details can be found here.
- Yacht Cruise – ₱13,750 per hour for members and ₱18,000 per hour for non-members.
- Jetski Rental – ₱2,350 for 15 minutes for members and ₱2,500 for 15 minutes for non-members.
- Freediving – Includes 2-3 hours of lecture and one dive, full equipment use, a certified dive master/instructor, boat rental, and photo/video documentation for ₱6,500 for members and ₱7,000 for non-members.
- Snorkeling at Santelmo Marine Sanctuary – ₱6,750 for 45 minutes for members and ₱9,000 for 45 minutes for non-members.
- Cove Tour for 6 Persons – Includes 15 minutes of snorkeling, priced at ₱6,900 per hour for members and ₱7,500 per hour for non-members.
- Gua Sha Facial Massage – 90 minutes for ₱3,000 net, a rejuvenating treatment perfect for unwinding.
For more activities and rates, check out the Activity Center.
Get 15% off on accommodation at Pico Sands Hotel! Use our code ICONICMNL when booking at www.picosandshotel.com.
For inquiries and reservations, contact reservations@picosandshotel.com or call +63 917 809 1289.
Would I Recommend this Hotel?
Without a doubt! Pico Sands Hotel continues to impress with its genuine warmth, exceptional service, and well-curated experiences that make every stay truly special. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a fun-filled trip with friends, or a relaxing getaway with family, this hotel has something for everyone. From the breathtaking lagoon views to the delightful dining experiences, and the wide array of activities both on land and at sea, every visit feels unique and unforgettable.
Beyond the luxurious accommodations, what truly sets Pico Sands Hotel apart is its commitment to guest satisfaction—from the sweet handwritten notes and local desserts left at night to the attentive service that ensures every moment is seamless and enjoyable. The hotel’s ever-evolving amenities and thoughtful additions reflect how much they value their guests, making sure there’s always something new to look forward to.
With so many activities to explore and its prime location just three hours from Manila, I can confidently say I’ll be returning soon—this time, with my family—to create more beautiful and lasting memories. If you’re looking for a place that offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and top-notch hospitality, Pico Sands Hotel is an easy recommendation!
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