Thursday, December 31, 2015

Hundred Islands, Alaminos Pangasinan

I have been places in the Philippines, from top beaches, islands, mountains, etc. But there’s one place I haven’t been to which has been famous for years, since I was a kid if I’m not mistaken. That’s why I was ecstatic to have a chance finally on visiting the top tourist destination in Pangasinan – the Hundred Islands.  And I also got a chance to confirm if it’s really one hundred islands ;)

Hundred Islands National Park is located in the city of Alaminos in the province of Pangasinan. Several islands are scattered in Lingayen Gulf in the North-western part of Luzon, and some of it have been developed already for tourism which named as: Governor’s Island, Quezon Island, Marcos’ Island, etc. And up to today, it’s still growing and they are continue developing for more tourists to come.

How to get there?

From Manila, take a bus bound for Alaminos. The fare is around Php400. And will take you for about 5 hours ride. Then from Alaminos City, ride a tricycle and tell the driver to drop you off to Lucap Wharf. The fare plays around Php60-100 per ride. And it takes 10-15 minutes trip.

From Here, you can also do a side trip to Our Lady of Manaoag. (See Post -> Our Lady of Manaoag Shrine, Pangasinan )

Note:  Be ready to pack up all your things especially food before going to the Wharf, there are groceries and stores along the way. Be sure to bring snacks, lunch, dinner (if you’re staying overnight in one of the islands), and WATER. 

There are stores or restaurants in the island, but I must warn you that it cost a lot. And choices are limited; also restaurant closes at night. So it’s better to be prepared! J

As you arrive at the Lucap Wharf, head straight at the tourism office for the registration. This is also where you choose the tour packages you want. 

There are several fees to pay for the tour. You need to pay first the environmental fee, and then you can choose tour packages from the different islands whether it’s for a day tour or overnight, you also have to pay for the motorboat for the island hopping.  Rates also depend on the size of the boat and if you are going for a day or overnight.  

If you are planning for an overnight stay, you can also rent for a tent or bring your own, then just choose what island you want to stay in.

You can check the full list of Island and Motorboat Rates below.

We started off our tour by going on an island hopping. And here are the islands we visited...

Governor's Island


This was our first stop. From here, you can check out the island’s view deck which has the perfect spot overlooking 360 view of the Hundred Island. They also have 546m zip line connecting one island to another island. 

view at the top of the hill

bridge way to another island

I believed this is the most developed island, that’s why this was also the place suggested where we can stay in. There are available cottages and tent space. But I think this is also the most crowded one.

Marcos Island

There was construction going on when we arrived here. The place is still undeveloped, but there’s one tourist attraction here, the Imelda cave where you can do a cliff jumping. The cave is full of bats which makes the place stinks. But I believe they will still build up something great here for the tourists.

Even the place is still undeveloped, it already shows great future ahead, with its pure white sand, and the clean blue sea water it offers.

the beach

Quezon Island

This were we stayed overnight. It is a great place if you’re camping as it is not too crowded especially at night. There is also restaurant inside. Zip Line is also available but not that long with 120m. And most importantly they have security which they call ‘bantay dagat’.

set-up tent


that's me for a candid shot. lol

Other Islands

Romulo Island

Crocodile Island (shaped like a crocodile right?)

Turtle Island

Islet

On the whole, if you are looking for a trip that is not costly and would fit your budget perfectly, Hundred Island is the place to be – camping with your friends, fun activities (snorkelling, zip line, etc.), and hopping on different beautiful islands. Definitely it’s a complete package! J

PS: If you would ask me if it really counts as one hundred islands. Well, my answer is NO. For me, it's more than a hundred beautiful Islands!





HUNDRED ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Bgy. Lucap, Alaminos City, Pangasinan
(075)551 - 2505/(075) 205 - 0917
0928 - 244 - 9011
www.alaminoscity.gov.ph



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