Accommodations,  Luzon,  Travel Guides,  Travels

Dive In and Chill Out at Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort

I’m not sure if it’s the rise of slow travel post-pandemic, my own aging, or it’s a natural evolution among some travelers, but I’ve noticed a shift in my travel preferences. In my early 20s, I was eager to check off every tourist attraction, chase thrills, and crash into the most affordable hostels at the end of the day. Now, my approach has changed. I find myself still exploring but a bit more inclined to relaxation on some days—savoring the comfort of a good hotel or resort bed. This slower, more intentional style feels especially right in familiar destinations like Puerto Galera.

I recently returned to Puerto Galera to complete my Advanced Open Water certification. While diving is thrilling, it can be physically demanding, leaving me just wanting to laze around and enjoy good food with a stunning view. After searching for the perfect spot to do just that, I discovered Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort—a true place for both relaxation and exploration in Puerto Galera. I stayed at the resort throughout my visit and here are the things that made my stay in the town worth the while.

Exclusive Dive Resort

I truly enjoyed my stay at Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort, particularly because they offer an on-site PADI dive shop that provides a smooth and convenient experience for divers. My primary reason for visiting Puerto Galera was to complete my Advanced Open Water certification, and having an expert dive instructor right at the resort made the process effortless. I didn’t need to leave the resort in search of a reliable dive shop, allowing me to fully immerse myself in my course while also enjoying the resort’s exceptional amenities and stunning views. Casalay’s combination of diving and relaxation made it the ideal destination for my adventure.

Why I chose the Resort for my Advanced Open Water Course

Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort offers an exceptional diving experience with top-quality, well-maintained equipment, an on-site training pool for beginners, and highly experienced instructors who ensure safety and skill-building every step of the way. The resort is just a 5 to 10-minute boat ride from over 30 breathtaking dive sites, including world-renowned spots like Canyons, The Giant Clams and others, allowing you to maximize your underwater adventures. Accredited by the Philippine Commission on Sports Scuba Diving (PCSSD), the dive center ensures top-tier service, safety, and small group sizes for a more personalized experience. With features like a fully equipped dive shop, a classroom, Nitrox availability, an on-site house reef, and flexible dive schedules.

Read more: What to Do After an Open Water Course?

Exclusive Beach

The resort also has a grainy white sand beach that is easily accessible and exclusive. Though the shore is relatively shorter than the island’s beaches, it is still quite a perfect spot to take a peaceful morning stroll before heading out for a dive or to simply lounge on the day beds, soaking in the breathtaking ocean views right in front of me. And, of course, the best part is being able to dip into the refreshing saltwater anytime I desire, without the hassle of large crowds. The resort offers activities like paddle boarding and crystal kayaking which makes it more fun.

Infinity Pools

One of the standout features I love about Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort is their stunning pools that first caught my attention upon our arrival. Each pool offers incredible views of the ocean on one side and the hill on the other, the island nearby and the sun about to set. Whether I’m taking a soothing swim or just soaking in the views, the pools offer the perfect setting for pure relaxation.

The resort boasts a deep pool dedicated exclusively to confined water dives and drills, allowing divers like me to practice in a safe and controlled environment before heading out into the open water. This thoughtful setup enhances the diving experience, making Casalay the ideal resort for both leisure and dive training in Puerto Galera.

Casalay Boutique Villas

I absolutely love the private villas at Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort, which offer lovely views of the ocean, with some perched on the hillside for a more secluded experience. These villas are designed to be a true sanctuary, perfect for calming the mind and relaxing the body. Inside, are spacious bathrooms and stunning bedrooms surrounded by glass doors that allow natural light to flood in and frame the views from the outside that one can marvel. I definitely did not need a television as it would be such a waste of opportunity to appreciate the time off it.

Each villa offers a unique perspective, with some opening up to the sparkling pool or panoramic ocean views, while others are nestled in lush greenery on the hillside. Whether on the hillside or by the ocean, the tranquility of staying in the villas is unrivaled.

The villa I stayed in, like the others I assume, didn’t include entertainment equipment, but the Wi-Fi connection was reliable enough to seamlessly handle the demands of my remote work.

The Restaurant

Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort also has an in-house restaurant offering exquisite dining with an impressive selection of cuisine to satisfy every craving. From local Filipino favorites to international dishes, the menu is thoughtfully curated to cater to a variety of tastes. Dining at the resort is a delight, whether you’re enjoying a hearty breakfast to start the day, a leisurely lunch overlooking the ocean, or a romantic dinner under the stars. The convenience of having such a diverse and delicious dining option on-site adds to the overall comfort and charm of staying at Casalay, making every meal a memorable part of the experience.

Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort: An Experience Open to Everyone

While Casalay Boutique Villas and Dive Resort is known for its exclusive facilities, activities, and amenities, the experience isn’t limited to in-house guests. Walk-in visitors to Puerto Galera can also enjoy access to some of its highlights, such as the on-site dive shop and the exceptional in-house restaurant. This allows day visitors to experience the resort’s charm and services without an overnight stay. However, getting to the resort requires taking a boat shuttle from Muelle Port, offering a scenic journey that sets the tone for an unforgettable visit. Whether for dining, diving, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Casalay welcomes all who seek a taste of its unparalleled hospitality. Though the rates may not be ideal for someone traveling on a tight budget, it is guaranteed that guests will definitely be getting what they are paying for.

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *