Punta Fuego remains one of the Philippines’ most exclusive seaside escapes

“We should get a place here,” said one of my companions as we drove up the steep, winding road to Club Punta Fuego.

Everyone in the car nodded in agreement. Let the kids pitch their tents and post their selfies in the next new frontier.

For those of us who’ve bid their beer-soaked Labor Day pasts adieu, places such as Punta Fuego have become the dream, the place for tranquil, rejuvenating weekends spent bonding with select company and enjoying the charms and amenities of this exclusive seaside community.

In the 90s, Punta Fuego was the hot place to be. It was were the rich and beautiful summered in a country with eternal sunshine.

Years later, it has retained its air of exclusivity and fiery beauty while other resorts have fallen by the wayside. How so? The 88-hectare, flame-shaped property balances the untamed charms of its natural surroundings (think jutting, craggy cliffs, rocky beaches and lush, vibrant foliage) with the elegance and premium service of a luxury resort.

During the MEGA team’s stay there, waiters didn’t hesitate the scale the precarious stone stairs leading to the beach, balancing carafes filled with clinking ice and cool, clear water. They did this again and again, each time with a smile and a “no sweat” demeanor. This kind of service is not something you find easily in a bustling city.

So, for when it gets too much in Metro Manila, Club Punta Fuego offers respite to its guests. Its three destinations, the Main Club at Peninsula de Punta Fuego, the Beach Club at Terrazas de Punta Fuego, and the Punta Fuego Yacht Club at the South Marina provide its members with a “home away from home.”

Members not only get discounts on room rates, food and drinks, plus spas and recreational activities, but they also have access to facilities such as the tennis and squash courts, game halls, gyms and the Terrazas Cabanas. They can also extend some of these benefits to select guests. So whether you’re looking for a weekend of golf with colleagues, diving with friends, or simply some R&R with family, Club Punta Fuego is the place to go.

ROOMS WITH A VIEW

Marvel at the beauty of the West Philippine Sea from your balcony, while enjoying a café au lait in the morning or a smoky whiskey at dusk. Punta Fuego has 33 fully air-conditioned Casitas that are perfect for families or small groups. Each houses two queen-sized beds, a spacious veranda and a picture-perfect bathroom that opens to a pocket garden (yes, your privacy is guaranteed).

For couples or large groups that need to be near each other, there are 16 Sunset Rooms with a choice of king, queen or single beds, modern furnishings and amenities, and—of course—magnificent views of the ocean. In romantic Terrazas de Punta Fuego, which is a popular wedding venue, guests can an relax in any of their 28 Balinese-inspired, open-air cabanas found along the boardwalk —perfect for those spontaneous, rosé-filled beach trips with girlfriends. No doubt about it, these rooms were made for all-day lounging and indulgence. You’ll almost not miss the beach. Almost.

PACK AND PLAY

As Stefon would say, Club Punta Fuego has everything. No weird parties here (although we’re sure its seen its share of glamorous get-togethers all these years), but instead it has space for beach volleyball, mini golf, a game room and water sports (snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking, wake boarding and falling off banana boats are just some of the activities you can choose from). There are also diving facilities—Nasugbu, Batangas after all, is prime destination for divers all over the world.

The place is also blessed with 12 beach coves that can be visited at various times, each one with its own unique charms. From the popular Crescent Beach to the Lost Beach, Pirate’s Cove, Sunset Cove and Weather Rock Beach, you won’t have to worry about sharing space with party-hearty teenagers or invading a picnic filled with the titas from Manila because there is room for everyone.

Oh, and did we mention there are pools? Several of them in fact. The Main Club’s Single Infinity Pool and the Lower Beach Club’s Double Infinity Pools are regularly found on Instagram, while the Kiddie Pool and Family Pool have long been the venue for many happy, sunburnt memories. And for those who really need Me Time, the Ylang Ylang Spa by Fuego Hotels is the place to be. Reserve ahead to indulge in a full-body massage, rejuvenating facial and other well-being treats.

PRETTY DELICIOUS

What’s a weekend getaway without a little bit of gastronomic indulgence? San Diego Restaurant and Terrace, found in the Main Club, offers an international selection of food—from continental favorites, local specialties and other gourmet treats, guests who dine there have the luxury of choosing between comfortable air-conditioned tables or al fresco dining, all while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Sunset Cove and the Double Infinity Pool.

The curiously named Tradition & Contradiction Bar and Lounge, Spanish-Mediterranean-inspired cuisine can be enjoyed with one’s favorite tipple. Choose from a wide selection of quality wines, beers and specialty cocktails are available, as well as non-alcoholic beverages. Its relaxed atmosphere is perfect for lounging and—depending on your life stage—serves as either a place for a nightcap or pre-game drinks.

As the Philippines is blessed with so much natural beauty, newer beaches and other exciting destinations are discovered every year. Despite this, Punta Fuego remains one of the most desired places to visit, and for a lucky few, settle in.

That it has maintained its natural beauty, air of quiet exclusivity and premium offerings throughout the years is a testament not only to Punta Fuego’s unique charms, but also to the people who take care of it; from the management to the members to the staff. It’s indeed a lucky place, and for those fortunate enough to have visited it, it continues to fulfill the dream of the perfect summer escape.