If there’s one thing I look forward to each month, it’s making time for a quick escape with my family. With all the hustle and bustle of work, motherhood, and healing, a change of scenery—even just a few hours away—can do wonders. For April, our family trip was extra special because we celebrated our youngest son first birthday! And what better way to do that than a 3-day, 2-night staycation at the family-friendly Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay.
Let me share with you our fun-filled experience, perfect if you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel in Tagaytay, an ideal birthday staycation near Manila, or just a refreshing weekend getaway in the South.
Day 1: Check-In, Swimming, and a Cozy Bonfire Night
We arrived at Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay full of excitement. The moment we stepped into the hotel grounds, we were greeted by the cool Tagaytay breeze and lush surroundings. The check-in process had a little hiccup—there was a miscommunication with the pricing. But thankfully, the staff were accommodating and helped us sort it out. It’s worth noting that their team is courteous and responsive, which makes a huge difference when traveling with kids.
Once settled, we explored the hotel a bit before heading straight to the pool. It was already evening, but the kids were too excited to wait until morning. So, we took a night dip under the stars, which was surprisingly refreshing. The pool area is well-lit and perfect even for evening swims.
For dinner, we opted to dine in at Hotel Kimberly’s restaurant. They serve a good variety of Filipino comfort food and kid-friendly meals. It was convenient not having to leave the hotel especially with a baby in tow.
To end the night, we joined the hotel’s bonfire and popcorn night—a free activity for all guests! The kids enjoyed roasting marshmallows while we snacked on popcorn and relaxed under the cool night sky. It was such a cozy way to bond and unwind.
Day 2: My Son’s Birthday Celebration, More Swimming & Exploring Tagaytay
We started the day singing a happy birthday song for my son during breakfast. The hotel staff were so warm and even greeted him with smiles. Breakfast was buffet-style with a selection that satisfied both us and the little ones—fresh fruits, eggs, pancakes, and more.
Right after breakfast, it was back to the pool again! If you’re a parent, you know that swimming is a sure-hit activity for kids—and our little birthday boy couldn’t stop smiling. It truly warmed my heart to see him enjoying his special day.
By lunchtime, we decided to go out and explore nearby restaurants. We chose Abaniko in Silang, which offers a great menu of Filipino dishes in a cozy garden setting. It was a relaxing break from the usual fast-paced birthday parties. Just simple, delicious food with our closest family.
After a quick rest back at the hotel, we went out again for dinner—this time at T’Viand, another nearby dining spot. The food was satisfying and the ambiance very homey. We love discovering new food spots during our trips, and Tagaytay never disappoints.
The day wouldn’t be complete without one more swim! So yes, we went for another night dip. It was a nice way to wind down the birthday celebration. We kept everything simple, no party setups, no pressure. Just pure family bonding and relaxation.
Day 3: Morning Swim and Check-Out
On our last day, we let the kids enjoy one final swim in the morning. I’m so glad we brought all their swim gear because they really maximized the pool! While the kids were splashing around, I had a little moment to sip coffee by the poolside and breathe in the quiet.
We checked out around noon and said goodbye to Hotel Kimberly, taking with us not just bags of clothes and baby bottles—but also memories that I know we’ll cherish forever.
Why We Loved Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay (And Why You Might, Too!)
1. Super Family-Friendly: Hotel Kimberly has everything you need for a fuss-free family trip—spacious rooms, clean amenities, a big pool, a playground, and even a mini farm with animals that kids can feed and interact with. They also have regular activities like bonfire nights and movie nights, perfect for children and the young-at-heart.
2. Close to Nature, Yet Convenient: Set in the heart of Tagaytay, it’s surrounded by greenery but still close enough to many restaurants, cafes, and tourist spots. It’s an easy drive from Metro Manila, making it ideal for quick weekend trips.
3. Great Service: The staff were all kind and helpful, even when we encountered booking concerns. They were patient with us and made our stay comfortable.
4. Clean, Cozy, and Well-Maintained: From the room to the pool to the dining area, everything was clean and well taken care of. That gave us peace of mind, especially when traveling with small children.
Final Thoughts: Simple Joys, Big Memories
As parents, we sometimes feel pressured to throw big celebrations, plan perfect trips, or tick off a long list of to-dos. But this trip reminded me that the best memories are made in the small, quiet moments—laughing over breakfast, swimming at night, singing happy birthday as a family.
If you’re looking for a refreshing destination in Tagaytay with kids, or a relaxing hotel near Manila for a family birthday staycation, Hotel Kimberly Tagaytay is a wonderful choice. We went there to celebrate our baby’s first year, but we left with our hearts full and recharged.
Until our next family adventure! If you have any questions about the hotel, feel free to drop a comment or DM me over at @growwithpia. Happy travels!
