Punta de Uian- Review

The breathtaking view from atop.

Summer getaways are always on top of our priorities as soon as the scorching heat of the summer sets in. Last April, my family decided to spend this much-awaited treat at Punta de Uian, strategically located in Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales. An acquaintance of my dad had informed him about the place, its amenities, room accommodations etc. We also did our own research about this haven over the Internet. We are quite picky when it comes to resorts and beaches because we’ve seen some of the best beaches here in our country (Like Boracay, Panglao, Bolinao, and the list goes on and on). Having everything in place and well accounted for, we pursued the trip in great exaltation.

It took us roughly two hours to get into the place (We are from Pampanga by the way). Its brochure says the 19-hectare resort development is an exotic paradise whose ambient sea breeze is therapeutic; well it didn’t mention it’s secluded too – exactly what we needed for our little vacation.

We arrived at exactly 10 am, 4 hours earlier than the expected time for checking-in (we weren’t informed about the check-in specifics, our bad). We decided to stay at the lobby while waiting to be escorted into our room. We had the duplex type (P14, 640/night) which is good for 6 persons. It has two rooms, 2 comfort rooms, a dining and a living room, and a veranda overlooking the beach. We were accompanied by an attendant who led us to our room. Good idea since there are several lodging areas around the resort.

The room was a surprise because of its luxurious details. Adorned with fancy pieces of furniture and intricate interiors, plus a veranda overlooking the pristine waters of Pundaquit bay as it placidly roll onto the shore, the place is really captivating and downright breathtaking, quite a perfect place for those seeking respite from the stresses of modern-day living.

Interiors- Duplex

I had patiently waited for the sun to relent before I toyed with the waves. Together with my siblings and nieces, we bathed as if there’s no tomorrow.

Next, we toured the rest of the resort. I turned my eyes to the huge image of the Blessed Mother by the sea and quickly noticed that we are approaching the chapel. The calm, peace and total quiet here will make for a perfect group retreat. We stayed there until the brilliant orange mass of the sun cleared the horizon.

After having our carcinogenic supper (blame the ihaw-ihaw), we inquired at the concierge of the resort if we could set a bonfire by the beach. Much to our surprise, the bonfire materials cost 500 bucks. But since it could only be the perfect time and place where we could have such a set up while having superficial chitchats, we valiantly paid for it. And surely, it did not disappoint us! Having your loved ones altogether sitting around the bonfire while bantering with one another is by all odds one of the best moments in life.

all smiles

I, together with my two siblings, decided to go on a night swim after the bonfire went out. To our satisfaction, the pool was deserted, so we swam nonchalantly. I think we spent 4 hours just loitering about in the pool (10 pm-2 am, if I’m not mistaken). We really had a blast, so to speak.

For the benefit of those who plan to have their exodus in this resort, here’s a quick assessment of the resort’s accommodation and amenities.

>Wireless Fidelity (WiFi) is extensively available.

>The food is completely a different story. Punta de Uian has a serious lack of good cooks. We received a tasteless version of the usually yummy fare. A total rip-off. Take my word for it.

>There is so much to do at Punta de Uian. You could go Kayak-ing, Jetski-ing, etc. I had the brochure uploaded, brandishing the different water activities with their corresponding prices.

All Terrain Vehicle: P 3,100/hr
Jetski: P 4,000/hr
Kayak: P 600/3 hrs
Snorkel Set: P 1,100/day

ISLAND HOPPING

Camara Island: P 1,100
Capones Island: P 1,300
Anawangin Cove: P 1,500
3 Destinations: P 3, 500
*Rate is good for 5 pax only; Additional P 150.00 per head in excess of 5 pax

>When it comes to the general amenities: There is a restaurant, albeit a small one, that could serve possibly a maximum of 50 pax, give or take a few. There are two pools, a kiddie and adult one. The kiddie pool is not for smaller kids. It's about 3.5 feet deep, the average height of five to six year olds.The pool was clean for the most part, with the usual debris from trees and the occasional fly. Otherwise, it was good enough. Water was lukewarm, which served me well since I get cold easily.

>Not to disappoint anyone, but the beach is not that memento-friendly. The grayish and rough sand is not at all alluring. But on the plus side, the ambiance of the beach is serene and relaxing, primarily because it is uncluttered and most of the time, deserted. So if you enjoy walking around barefooted on a beach while desperately trying to invoke some bittersweet memories from the past, this definitely is the place to be.  

>The view is also to die for! One can choose a room overlooking the sea, the resort’s man-made lagoon, its impressive garden or the mountains.

>The staff was generally friendly and accommodating. No request was ever turned down.

The Resort's lobby

Verdict: 8/10

Hoping that this post could be of great help to those who are planning to have their respite at Punta de Uian :)