Traveling to Hundred Islands in Alaminos Pangasinan for the first time this 2023? I hope this Hundred Islands Travel Guide help you in planning an amazing 100 islands adventure!
Composed of 123 islands and islets, Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City, is considered as one of the top tourist spots and attractions in Pangasinan. This Hundred Islands Travel Guide will help you plan your trip with information about how to get there, things to do, itinerary, where to stay, tips & reminders, budget & expenses and contact details.
ALSO READ: Pangasinan Travel Requirements for Tourists and Visitors
There are so many amazing things to do, tourist spots and places to visit in Pangasinan, and visiting the Hundred Islands is one of them. This group of islands scattered in Lingayen Gulf, is a must-see if you want to experience tropical paradise in Pangasinan - whether on a day tour, camping trip or overnight island escape. Overnight trip that can be done in 4 major developed islands: Governor's Island, Quezon Island, Marcos Island and Children's Island.
If you're traveling to Hundred Islands for the first time but don't know where to start, here's my
2023 First-Timer's Travel Guide to Hundred Islands Pangasinan
TRAVEL TIP:
For ease and convenience, you may avail a Hundred Islands Pangasinan Day Tour from Manila for as low as ₱ 1,699 per person. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Manila, admission to attractions, environmental fees, boat rental and guide.
When is the best time to visit Hundred Islands?
For me, it is good to visit the Hundred Islands National Park at any time of the year, as long as there is no typhoon. But the best time to visit is during the dry months of December to February and summer months from March to May.
How To Get To Hundred Islands?
Hundred Islands is just 4-5 hours away from Manila. Alaminos City is the gateway to the Hundred Islands National Park. Coming from Manila, you could take a bus bound for Alaminos City. Five Star Bus, Dagupan Bus and Victory Liner have regular trips to the city. Fare is around Php 400.00 pesos for an air-conditioned bus as of May 2015.
Upon arrival in Alaminos City, take a tricycle that will bring you to Lucap Wharf in Brgy. Lucap. Tricycle fare is around 80-100 pesos per ride that can fit around 4 persons per tricycle.
At Lucap Wharf, go to the tourism office to rent a boat for your island hopping adventure in Hundred Islands National Park. Boat rental (check rates below) depends on the size of the boat and whether your tour is day tour or overnight.
What to bring when traveling to Hundred Islands?
- Light and Breathable Clothes - as a tropical country, the weather in the Philippines is most of the time hot and humid. I suggest that you wear light and breathable clothes.
- Swimwear - island hopping, snorkeling, sun bathing, and swimming are some of the most popular things to do when traveling to Hundred Islands, Pangasinan. Be sure to bring your swimwear and sunglasses to fully enjoy the islands and the beaches.
- Sun Block - always wear sun block when exploring the islands. Please use coral-friendly sunblock only.
- Aqua Shoes - always wear an aqua shoes to protect your feet during island hopping.
- Action Camera or Water-proof Camera - don't forget to bring a waterproof camera to document your precious travel moments. An action camera is highly recommended!
- Food and drinks - although you could go to the market before hopping into the boat going to the islands, I highly suggest that you bring your own food and drinks before traveling to Alaminos.
Top Best Things To Do in Hundred Islands
- Island hopping
- Snorkeling and kayaking
- Beach Bumming and camping
- Picnicking
- Jump at Imelda Cave in Marcos Island
- Hike to the peak of Governor's island to see an unobstructed view of the other islands
- Sunrise and sunset viewing
- Side Trips
7 Must-visit Islands in Hundred Islands, Alaminos Pangasinan
Just like you, I am not yet over with those cool summer trips, summer bumming, snorkeling, etc. Actually, I even recommend that this month is the best way to travel. Why? Fares (airfares, sea fares and land fares), accommodations and tours are low since off season. If you're a budget traveler, this season is definitely more fun for your pocket. Plus, you have more money to save for pasalubong or for your next trip. Also, less people around you so more time to enjoy the natural glow and beauty of those places.
Hundred Islands National Park is the best destination to make. It is only located in Alaminos City in Pangasinan province. It is roughly five hours north of Manila which is located in Lingayen Gulf and accessible by chartered boat. It is best for those people who are still worried about their work or school as you can easily go back after a day of adventure in Hundred Islands.
For you to appreciate more the beauty of Hundred Islands, I have listed the top seven islands that you should visit excluding the top three islands: Quezon Island, Children Island and Governor’s island. Remember, every island offers a hundred memories to keep.
Island #1 Virgin Island
According to some locals, it was named as “Virgin Island” because during Hispanic times virgins were brought there as sacrifice. Well, I don’t now the reason why they have to do it. If you have the guts, may be you can unlock that mystery as you were exploring the island. Wait! I know what’s on your mind. Relax! It’s not like a ghost island. Virgin Island was a tunnel like which has a rocky entrance and underground water at the end. For sure, you will be happy to visit it. By the way, it is impossible to visit during high tide.Island #2 Century Island
It is an island with no beach. It is densely forested and huge domed cave perfect for cave enthusiasts. This island is best for all people who care so much about Mother Earth as it was designated for Mangrove Areas. In this island, you can see many bats and snakes. It was also known for its historical value for being hiding place during World War II.Island #3 Cathedral Island
After going with those two mentioned islands, you can now explore Cathedral Island. This island has an astonishing natural grotto. Yes, you read it right! It is a large cave which has a natural grotto. I think this island is best to shake it off everything in your heart and mind. A moment to pray. Time to thank God for this wonderful creation and experience. As a matter of fact, this island became a wedding venue. Who knows, this might be your wedding venue too.Island #4 Crocodile Island and Turtle Island
While traveling to another island, you can look first with Crocodile Island. It is best known for its crocodile slope and perfect for your selfies or groupies. It is fun to see because it seems like the crocodile is chasing the turtle (Turtle Island). Both of these islands are not sandy so boats cannot dock. Enjoy viewing it from your boat.Island #5 Devil’s Island
Oops! It is not the same as you were thinking. Devil’s Island is not known for any hunting stories. If you still insist you can always go back with Cathedral Island to pray. Anyway, it is called as Devil’s Island because of its daredevil stunts. If you love unmindful danger activities, this island is for you. It is well-known for its fearless diving spot.Island #6 Scout Island
If you are not yet over with heartbreaking dive in Devil’s Island, this next destination is recommended for you. It is perfect for beach bumming and diving. It is mostly visited by many because of its fine white sand. On its shore, you can see a sculpted face on a rock.Island #7 Marcos Island with Imelda Cave
Are you suffering from acrophobia (fear of heights)? You want to overcome it? This island is your solution. You can jump at Imelda’s cave mouth and dive into an emerald colored water. This island is named after President Ferdinand Marcos. Just like other islands, it has fine white sand beach. A domed-shaped cave was located which was named after the President’s wife, Imelda Marcos.TRAVEL TIP:
For ease and convenience, you may avail a Hundred Islands Pangasinan Day Tour from Manila for as low as ₱ 1,699 per person. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Manila, admission to attractions, environmental fees, boat rental and guide.
SEE ALSO: Summer Destinations near Manila for less than 1,000 pesos Budget
More Photos of Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan
These were taken during our visit to Hundred Islands National Park in December 2012.
Where to Stay in Hundred Islands and Alaminos City?
If you wish to stay overnight in the developed islands, there are tents available for rent for Php 400.00 pesos. There are also cottages with rooms and open cottages for you to stay-in.
If you decide to just visit on a day tour, you can go back to Alaminos City and find a hotel at the city center. There are many affordable hotels and resorts in the city. Book online via Agoda for the lowest rates and best deals on room rates in several hotels and resorts in Alaminos City.
SEE ALSO: HOTELS IN DAGUPAN CITY, PANGASINAN: Hotel Le Duc, "Modern and Newest Hotel in Dagupan City"
SEE ALSO: Summer Destinations near Manila for less than 1,000 pesos Budget
Hundred Islands Sample DIY Itinerary
You Hundred Islands DIY Itinerary will depend on what are the things you want to do, and on the activities you want to experience. Whether you're planning an overnight tour or a 2 days or 3 days Hundred Islands Itinerary, I hope this sample DIY itinerary help you in creating your own. Please feel free to adjust it depending on your preferences.
- 12:00 MN - Depart from Manila
- 05:00 AM - Arrive in Alaminos City, Pangasinan, take a tricycle to Lucap Wharf
- 05:20 AM - Arrive in Lucap Wharf, Breakfast
- 06:00 AM - Register at the Tourism Office
- 06:30 AM - Start Island Hopping
- 12:00 NN - Lunch at Governor's Island
- 01:00 PM - Continue Island Hopping
- 03:00 PM - Depart for Alaminos City Mainland
- 04:00 PM - Arrive in Alaminos City Mainland, take a shower
- 05:00 PM - Take a tricycle to the bus station
- 06:00 PM - Depart for Manila
- 11:00 PM - Arrive in Manila
Hundred Islands Budget and Expenses
- Bus Fare (Manila to Alaminos) - Php 400.00
- Tricycle (Alaminos to Lucap Wharf) - Php 80.00-100.00 / tricycle
- Park Environmental Fees:
- Day Tour - Php 40.00
- Overnight - Php 80.00
- Boat Rental Fees:
- Day Tour
- Small Boat (1 to 5 persons) - Php 1,000.00
- Medium Boat (6 to 10 persons) - Php 1,300
- Big Boat (11 to 15 persons) - Php 1,500
- Overnight
- Small Boat (1 to 5 persons) - Php 2,000.00
- Medium Boat (6 to 10 persons) - Php 2,500.00
- Big Boat (11 to 15 persons) - Php 3,000
More Helpful Tips and Reminders
- Before traveling to Alaminos City, be sure to know the latest Pangasinan Travel Requirements for tourists and visitors.
- The tourism office developed a standard boat rental rates and fees for island hopping. Rent a boat only at the tourism office.
- The best time to visit is during the dry months of November to April. But for me, as long as there is no typhoon in the area, it is safe to go on island hopping in Hundred Islands.
- The ideal time to leave Manila is at 12 midnight to reach Alaminos at around 5:00 AM and start the island hopping early in the morning.
- Bring your own food. You may also buy food (cooked and uncooked) at the mini market near the tourism office. Other items such as grills, ice coolers, cooking pans, plates and utensils can also be rented.
- Snorkeling set is not included in the boat rental fee. But you can rent one for 100 pesos per day. Just ask your boatman where to rent.
- Shower rooms are also available near the tourism office.
- Be a responsible traveler. Bring all your trash back to the mainland. Always practice "Leave No Trace" principle.
- For ease and convenience, you may avail a Hundred Islands Pangasinan Day Tour from Manila for as low as ₱ 1,699 per person.
SEE ALSO: BEACH RESORTS IN DASOL, PANGASINAN: Villa Balinmanok Beach Resort
For more information, you may contact:
Hundred Islands National Park Tourism Office
Contact Numbers: (075) 552 -7406 or (075) 551- 2505Mobile Number: 0928-244-9011
How to reserve po dun sa 1 k na 1-5 person bukas po punta namin ...
ReplyDeleteHow can i reserve asap ..
ReplyDeleteAre you open in holly week
ReplyDeleteHi..ask lang po f pede mag tent pag nag overnyt sa any islands?.thnkyou...
ReplyDeletePwede po ba magdala ng sariling tent for overnight
ReplyDeleteis it safe po kung punta po kami dis sep 20 2019. galing po kmi ng manila and wala po bang flooded area kaming madadaanan? thanks
ReplyDeleteiisang place lang po ba to? when u visit the hundred Island?
ReplyDeleteHow/where to book a cottage in the island,we want to stay over night.
ReplyDeleteAno po requirements at Wala ba age requirements Pati sa mga kids
ReplyDeleteare the registration fees , environmental fees one time fee or if you stay for 3 days you pay 3X the fees?
ReplyDeletehow much po kaya ang hotel doon for 1 night
ReplyDelete