Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands: Unveiling the Secrets
Welcome to the Pangasinan’s Hidden Gem – Hundred Islands! If you’re looking for a paradise off the beaten path, you’ve come to the right place. Hundred Islands is a destination that promises to take your breath away.
But this isn’t just any ordinary beach destination. Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands is a place that’s rich in history, culture, and natural wonders. Something there will capture your heart and imagination, from the diverse marine life to the fascinating rock formations.
Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands comprises 124 islands and islets scattered in the clear waters of Lingayen Gulf. Only a few islands are open to visitors. These three are the most popular:
- Governor’s Island
- Children’s Island
- Quezon Island
When to Go: Finding the Best Time to Visit Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
I. Weather and Climate Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
The climate in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands is tropical, with two main seasons:
- the dry season
- the wet season
The dry season usually starts in November and lasts until April,
- During the dry season, visitors can expect sunny and hot weather with occasional rain showers,
The wet season starts in May and lasts until October.
- The wet season brings heavy rains and thunderstorms.
II. High and Low Seasons Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
The high season– December to May
- It coincides with the dry season.
- The weather is pleasant, and the park is busy, with more tourists visiting.
- Moreover, book your accommodation and activities well to avoid the hassle.
The low season– June to November
- It coincides with the wet season.
- It has fewer crowds, and prices are generally lower.
- However, it’s worth noting that some activities may not be available due to heavy rains.
III. Best Time to Visit Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
- The dry season, notably from December to February, is the ideal time to visit the Hundred Islands.
- The weather is relaxing and more comfortable.
- It is perfect for outdoor activities like island hopping, snorkeling, and hiking.
The Ultimate Guide to Packing for a Pangasinan’s Hundred Island Escapade
Are you planning a trip to Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands? The Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands, this hidden gem, will impress you with its breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters.
Here are essential items for you to prepare and pack:
Clothing and Footwear
- Choose lightweight and breathable fabrics that can handle heat and humidity.
Snorkeling gear:
- Bring your snorkeling gear, including a mask, snorkel, and fins.
Beach towels and sun hats:
- Bring a beach towel to dry off.
- In addition, bring a sun hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and insect repellent:
- Pack sunscreen with high SPF, hats, and sunglasses.
- Bring insect repellent to avoid sunburn and bug bites.
Waterproof bags and life jackets:
- Bring waterproof bags to protect your valuables, such as cameras and phones.
- Also, getting a life jacket is a good idea always to be safe.
Electronics and Gadgets
- Remember to bring your camera or smartphone with an excellent camera to capture all the moments.
Remember: Plan and pack only what you need. Also, bring clothes that can be mixed and matched, so you can create multiple outfits without overpacking.
Beach Bliss and Beyond: Must-Try Activities in Pangasinan Hundred Islands
Discover the best beach and beyond beach activities in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands! So start planning your next adventure today!
I. Beach Activities in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
A. Island Hopping and Beach Hopping
- Hopping from island to island is the most fantastic way to take in the beauty of these islands.
B. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
- The abundance of marine life makes the waters perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling.
- In addition, you can take a scuba diving tour and go deeper into the sea to
C. Cliff Jumping
- If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, then cliff jumping is the activity for you.
- The cliffs vary in height; therefore, you can choose which suits your confidence level.
- You can jump from as high as 20 feet or as low as 5 feet.
D. Caving
- Caving is a unique way to explore the islands.
- You can visit caves like:
Imelda Cave, known for its stunning rock formation
Cathedral Cave, which has a natural pool.
- You can hire a guide to take you through the caves.
II. Beyond Beach Fun Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
Check out these top picks for exciting things to do in Pangasinan this summer.
A. Explore the Natural Wonders of Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
- Go on a trek to the stunning Hundred Islands National Park
B. Experience the Local Culture and Traditions Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
- Visit the historic Bolinao Church and its museum
- Join the colorful Pista’y Dayat Festival
- Taste the delicious and unique Pangasinan cuisine.
C. Engage in Fun and Exciting Activities Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
- Go on an adrenaline-pumping ATV ride in Balungao Hilltop Adventure
- Try fishing and kayaking in the serene Balungao Hot Spring Resort.
Where to Stay: Accommodations in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
I. Bed and Breakfast Accommodations:
Discover comfortable and affordable B&Bs near the Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands National Park.
A. Islandia Bed and Breakfast
- Location: Alaminos City
- Islandia B&B offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi.
B. Abrac Beach House
- Location: Tondol White Sand Beach in Anda, Pangasinan
- Abrac Beach House is about an hour from Hundred Islands National Park.
Olana Bed and Breakfast
- Location: Alaminos City
- Amenities: air-conditioned rooms with cable TV and free Wi-Fi.
- In addition, it also features a garden and a terrace, and guests can enjoy a continental or Asian breakfast each morning.
II. Guesthouses Accommodations Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
Experience the Hundred Islands National Park’s beauty with a guesthouse stay. Moreover, you can choose from various comfortable rooms and enjoy meals at on-site restaurants.
Treasure Isle Guest House
- Location: Treasure Island, one of the islands within Hundred Islands National Park.
- Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant.
Casa Belinda Guesthouse
- Location: Alaminos City
- It features a garden and a terrace. Additionally, guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant.
The Dawal Beach Resort
- Location: On a private beach in Tambobong Beach, Dasol.
- It offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. Therefore, guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant.
III. Homestays Accommodations in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands
Immerse yourself in local culture and hospitality with a stay in a homestay. Also, get to know your hosts and enjoy basic but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms.
Island Tropics Homestay
- Location: Barangay Lucap, Alaminos City, just a few minutes’ drive from Hundred Islands National Park.
- It offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms
- The homestay also has a garden and a terrace.
Bolo Beach Homestay
- Location: In Bolo Beach, Anda, Pangasinan.
- Bolo Beach homestay offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms.
Blue Lagoon Homestay
- Location: in Bani, Pangasinan.
- It is about an hour’s drive from Hundred Islands National
Camping in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands: An Exciting and Memorable Experience
I. Camping Sites
The camping is subject to specific rules and regulations. Furthermore, visitors must obtain a camping permit from the park’s visitor center.
RULES: Some of the regulations include the following:
- no open fires
- no littering
- no fishing or hunting
- no damage or disturbance to the natural environment.
Campsites in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands:
A. Governor’s Island
- It offers several camping areas with basic facilities such as restrooms and showers.
- The island is known for its stunning views and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
B. Children’s Island
- The island is just near Governor’s Island and offers several camping areas.
- It is known for its shallow and calm waters, ideal for families with children.
- Basic facilities such as restrooms and showers are available.
C. Quezon Island
- The island is famous for its pure waters, pristine beaches, and picturesque vistas.
II. Reaching the Camping Sites:
To reach the camping sites in Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands National Park, you can follow these steps:
Travel to Alaminos City
- Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands National Park is in Alaminos City, Pangasinan. You can travel to Alaminos City by bus or private vehicle.
- If you are traveling by bus, you can take a bus from Manila to Alaminos City, which takes about 5-6 hours.
- You can hire or rent a private vehicle. Negotiate with the driver.
Proceed to the park’s Visitor Center
- The park’s visitor center is near the Lucap Wharf.
- You can take a tricycle or a jeepney from the city center to the visitor center.
Register and obtain a Camping Permit
- Register at the visitor center and get a camping permit.
- The park staff will provide you the information about the available camping sites.
- The team will explain the rules and regulations for camping.
Hire a boat to reach the camping site
- To get to the Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands National Park camping sites, hire a boat from Lucap Wharf.
- You can negotiate the price with the boatmen.
Hundred Islands Travel Made Easy: How to Get There Hassle-Free
By Car:
- Take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and drive northward towards Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).
- Then, take the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) until you reach the Alaminos exit.
- The route takes about 5-6 hours from Manila.
By Bus:
Several bus companies offer trips to Alaminos:
- Victory Liner
- Five Star Bus Company
- Dagupan Bus Company
- Buses usually leave from Cubao, Pasay, or Sampaloc terminals in Manila.
- Travel time is around 5-6 hours.
By Van:
- Van services are also available that can take you directly to Alaminos from Manila.
- In addition, some van operators have terminals in Pasay and Cubao.
- Travel time: about 4-5 hours.
Entrance Fees and Other Charges:
To enjoy the beauty of Pangasinan’s Hundred Islands National Park, tourists must pay the following fees:
- Environmental Fee: PHP 40 per person (day tour), PHP 80 per person (overnight)
- Entrance Fee: PHP 30 per person (day tour), PHP 60 per person (overnight)
- Island Fees: Some of the islands in the national park have additional entrance fees ranging from PHP 20-80 per person.
- Boat Rental: Boat rental fees vary depending on the size and type of boat. Moreover, a typical day tour package for a small boat with six people costs around PHP 1,500-2,000.