A Mindful Quick Escape: Our Stay at Lago De Oro, Batangas

Last October 2024, my 17-year-old daughter and I—yes, I’m a proud single mom turning 40 this March, took a much-needed weekend staycation at Lago De Oro in Calatagan, Batangas. Just a 2-hour drive from home, this quick beach escape was meant to be our chance to try wakeboarding. Unfortunately, the facility was under unexpected maintenance when we arrived. Still, it turned out to be a meaningful getaway, perfect for unwinding, recharging, and embracing the present moment.

The Unexpected Twist

We arrived excited to try wakeboarding, but as luck would have it, the facility was unexpectedly under maintenance that very weekend. At first, there was a tinge of disappointment, but instead of dwelling on what we missed, we embraced the moment and found joy in the simple pleasures of the trip.

Our main goal was to experience wakeboarding—a thrilling activity that we were both excited to try. However, upon arrival, we were met with unexpected news: the wakeboarding facility was under maintenance. While it was disappointing at first, we quickly shifted our focus to simply enjoying the experience of being away from the usual hustle of daily life. Sometimes, things don’t go as planned, but there is always something beautiful to appreciate in the present moment.

Savoring the Moment

That evening, we enjoyed a delightful meal by the resort, sharing stories and laughter—just being present with each other. The gentle sound of the waves, the cool night air, and the peaceful ambiance made it a beautiful bonding experience.

As the evening set in, we had a heartwarming meal together, appreciating the group band singing and the ambiance of the resort. It was a reminder of how valuable quality time is—sharing stories, laughter, and moments of gratitude with a loved one.

A Stay in a Cozy Kubo

We opted for an overnight stay in a Kubo beach front, a traditional Filipino-style hut that offered a simple yet refreshing escape from the usual city life. The rustic charm of the accommodation immediately set the tone for a slow, mindful getaway—no distractions, just the calming sea breeze and the sound of nature surrounding us.

A Sunrise of Stillness

The next morning, we woke up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise. The beach was calm, quiet, and serene, offering the perfect moment for reflection. I took deep breaths, soaked in the beauty of nature, and allowed myself to simply be—a reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful moments come from unexpected detours.

A Trip That Nourished the Soul

Even though our original plan didn’t go as expected, this trip turned out to be a well-being and mindfulness retreat in its own way. It was a reminder to embrace the present, find joy in what is, and appreciate life’s quiet moments.

This trip, although different from what we initially planned, turned into a mindful retreat. It reminded me that well-being isn’t just about chasing adventures but also about embracing stillness, appreciating nature, and finding joy in the simplest moments. The peaceful beach, the fresh morning air, and the slow-paced energy of Lago De Oro made this staycation truly rejuvenating.

The highlight of our trip was waking up to a breathtaking beach sunrise. The soft golden hues reflected over the calm waters, creating a serene and almost meditative atmosphere. Sitting by the shore, listening to the gentle waves, and feeling the cool morning breeze became a grounding moment for both of us. It was a chance to pause, breathe, and fully absorb the tranquility of the surroundings.

Our stay at Lago De Oro was a beautiful reminder of living with presence, embracing the unexpected, and finding peace in simple joys. The stillness of the ocean and the warmth of the morning sun made it a truly mindful experience.

Life doesn’t always go as planned, but there is always something to be grateful for. 💛

For anyone looking for a quick weekend escape to relax and reconnect with themselves, Lago De Oro, Calatagan, Batangas is a perfect spot. Whether for adventure or simply for a mindful retreat, this place offers a beautiful space to pause, reflect, and recharge.

Would I return to Lago De Oro? Absolutely! Next time, wakeboarding or not, I’ll come with the same intention: to slow down, breathe, and be in the moment.

Have you ever experienced a trip that didn’t go as planned but still left you with beautiful memories? Let’s chat in the comments! (: