Pangasinan is hands down my favorite province in Luzon. It’s the perfect blend of coastal and mountain scenery, making it a dream place to live. If you’re like me and love white sand beaches as much as you enjoy breathtaking mountain views, then this province is your paradise. Plus, it’s only 1-2 hours away from Baguio, so it’s easy to hop over to the summer capital of the Philippines for a quick getaway.
If you’re planning a trip to Pangasinan, here are the best areas to check out. Each town offers its own unique set of nearby tourist spots, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
Malico Little Baguio of Pangasinan
Malico, one of the newest gems in Pangasinan, has quickly become a go-to destination for riders/travelers seeking cool, refreshing weather without the crowds. While it’s still debated whether Malico belongs to Nueva Vizcaya or Pangasinan, I can confidently say it’s one of the best places to visit in North Luzon if you want to escape the traffic and heat.
Malico is best visited during the summer, but I’ve also experienced it just before the rainy season, and let me tell you, it gets cold up there! The beauty of this place is in its serenity. There’s not much to do besides soaking in the mountain views, meditating, and enjoying the peace and quiet.
If you’re into camping, there are lots of spots for that, but newly opened accommodations are also available if you prefer a cozy stay. Perfect for a quick day tour, Malico has several cafes and restos where you can relax and dine.
Hundred Islands
No trip to Pangasinan is complete without visiting Hundred Islands. It’s practically a rite of passage! I remember visiting over 10 years ago when boat tours cost only ₱1,500 for 5 people. Back then, we were young and adventurous, so we camped on one of the islands, roasted marshmallows, and enjoyed the absolute darkness since there was no electricity. We even spotted baby sharks and larger ones while island-hopping.
Things have probably changed since then, but the magic of Hundred Islands remains. Whether you’re looking to explore the crystal-clear waters, camp out, or just soak in the sun, this spot is a must.
Bolinao
Bolinao is another top beach destination in Pangasinan. What sets it apart is the variety of things you can do beyond just lounging on its white-sand beaches. The Bolinao Lighthouse offers amazing views, while the Enchanted Cave is a great spot to explore. And don’t miss the Sungayan Floating Restaurant for a unique dining experience.
If you’re into water adventures, there are plenty of resorts like River Village offering exciting activities to keep you busy.
Cabongaoan Depth Pool
For those seeking more adventure, Cabongaoan Beach is the place to be. It boasts white sands and larger waves, making it perfect for thrill-seekers who enjoy swimming with a bit of a challenge.
One of its highlights is the famous Depth Pool, a natural rock pool that brave souls can jump into. Just a tip—make sure to bring aqua shoes before hiking to the Depth Pool, as the rocks can be sharp.
Daang Katutubo & Daang Kalikasan
Last but definitely not least are Daang Katutubo and Daang Kalikasan, two ongoing mega-highway projects linking Pangasinan to Zambales. These roads have quickly become hotspots for riders because of their stunning mountain views.
While they’ve been closed recently to avoid accidents, nearby cafes still offer equally majestic views and a chance to unwind while soaking in the beauty of nature.
There’s so much to explore in Pangasinan, and I can’t wait to share more spots as I continue to discover them. Whether you’re looking for beach fun, mountain serenity, or scenic adventures, Pangasinan truly has it all.