Luxury coastal living fuels demand for Balea Suites at Pico Terraces

Insider Spotlight

• Balea Suites is scheduled for turnover by the fourth quarter of 2027 within the Hamilo Coast estate in Batangas
• Most units have already been taken up, reflecting strong demand for upscale coastal residences
• The project recently won major industry awards for its resort-style residential concept
  
  
  

SM Leisure Resort and Residences, a unit of SM Prime Holdings Inc., is moving closer to the turnover of Balea Suites, an upscale residential enclave within the Hamilo Coast estate in Batangas. 

The company said the project is on track for completion and turnover by the fourth quarter of 2027.

Balea Suites forms part of the P3-billion Pico Terraces development, a five-building residential community positioned within the 5,900-hectare Hamilo Coast estate. 

The project follows the launch of Ardea Suites in 2023, with both towers reaching their topping-off milestone in April 2025.

Why it matters

The development highlights continued demand for leisure-oriented residential properties outside Metro Manila, particularly among buyers seeking second homes with long-term value potential. 

According to the company, Pico Terraces has attracted Millennials and Gen X buyers from southern Metro Manila and nearby urban centers looking for low-density coastal living.

“Market reception for Balea Suites has been strong, with most units already taken up,” Costa del Hamilo Inc. senior vice president and head Imee Francisco said in a press statement. 

“The distinct seaside setting, exclusivity and amenities of Hamilo Coast make the project a compelling option for discerning buyers,” she added. 

The big picture

Pico Terraces was designed as a “resort within a resort,” giving residents access to private amenities while remaining connected to the broader Hamilo Coast community. Unit owners also receive bundled club shares that provide exclusive access to the Pico de Loro Beach and Country Club.

Amenities within the development include swimming pools, fitness areas and landscaped picnic grounds aimed at creating a quieter residential environment. 

The project’s location combines beachfront access with mountain views, a feature SM Prime believes differentiates it from competing developments.

“Buyers are responding to Pico Terraces because it offers an accessible entry point into elevated, nature-inspired living. Pico de Loro’s sea-and-mountain setting gives the project a distinct sense of place that is difficult to replicate,” Francisco said.

What’s next

Pico Terraces has also earned industry recognition, winning Best Condominium Development (Luzon) at the 2025 PropertyGuru Philippines Property Awards and Best Resort Condominium Development at the 2025 DOT Property Awards, reinforcing its positioning in the premium leisure-residential market. —Vanessa Hidalgo| Ed: Corrie S. Narisma