CABONGAOAN BEACH & DEATH POOL in Burgos, Pangasinan

Cabongaoan Beach is one of the emerging and popular destinations in Pangasinan. Located in the sleepy town of Burgos, Caboangaon will surely give you your needed relaxation of an unspoiled beach plus the adventures of the famous death pool which is just a short trek from the beach.

The once-secret gem of Pangasinan has become popular when it was featured by mainstream media. With this blog post, I’ll show you how to get to Cabongaoan, with all the necessary info as well as our experience on the beach.

Experience at Cabongaoan Beach

It’s challenging to be a travel blogger, especially when you’re on a travel hiatus for a few months.

What can I do? I have a lot of ‘adulting’ responsibilities. I’ve started a new job that I want to focus on. Don’t get me wrong; I’m happier with my work now. However, finances are also a consideration. I’m still recovering from a recent financial setback caused by my father’s passing, but things are improving. So, if you come across a travel blogger claiming you can travel with no money, take it with a grain of salt. You can travel on a budget, and I have plenty of tips for that. But traveling with no money at all? That’s unrealistic.

Fortunately, I still have many past trips that I haven’t written on my blog. So, even though I’m on a travel hiatus, I have material to share. But let me tell you, it’s tough!

It’s difficult to write while being stuck in the routine of a 9-to-5 job for months. I’ve realized that to keep my creative juices flowing, I need to wander and travel occasionally, as I used to. Being away from the beach and mountains for as long as five months has left my brain feeling stagnant and cluttered.

Eloi, my girlfriend, has noticed this effect on me. She suggested that we return to the beach. We’ve been planning to visit Cabongaoan Beach in Burgos, Pangasinan, but it’s been continually postponed due to personal reasons and other urgent priorities. I’ve researched Cabongaoan Beach and the Death Pool so often that I’ve memorized the route by heart. That’s DIY travel for you! But for some reason, something always hinders our trip.

However, this November, I think the universe is finally aligning for this trip to become a reality.

The shores of Cabongaoan Beach

We reached the town of Burgos in Pangasinan after five hours of land travel. However, we paused at the Burgos market to wait for sunrise. Typically, it’s about an hour’s tricycle ride from there to Cabongaoan Beach. The place is somewhat remote, requiring navigation through rough roads. Since we traveled by van, I initially didn’t understand the need to wait for daylight.

But, a few minutes before sunrise, as we set off for Cabongaoan, I fully grasped the reason. The roads are extremely narrow, and the combination of sharp turns and rough terrain makes night travel inadvisable.

After another 45 minutes, we arrived at Cabongaoan Beach. We briefly settled into a cottage at the resort. Our new friends and travel companions chose to rest more after the six-hour journey. But for me and Eloi, it was straight to the beach!

Experiencing the calming waves and the sea breeze was rejuvenating after several months. Our last beach trip was to Jomalig Island and Masasa Beach last summer. That trip was so remarkable that we’ve been yearning for the beach ever since, but various reasons delayed our next getaway.

Having explored some of the country’s hidden paradises and best beaches, I’ve developed my standards for what makes a great beach. It’s hard not to! If you’re curious why, I suggest traveling and exploring our beautiful country, with its myriad of stunning islands and beaches waiting to be discovered.

Cabongaoan Beach, fortunately, did not disappoint. The beach wasn’t crowded, offering us the luxury of strolling along the shore just by ourselves.

While its sand may not rival the beauty of Calaguas, it possesses a unique charm. What captivated me most were the clear and tranquil waters of Cabongaoan. I had the chance to swim and relish the experience, though I also had to fulfill my ‘Instagram husband duties’—capturing Eloi’s moments of joy on this pristine beach.

Good morning from Cabongaoan Beach

Wow! 🙂

It’s amusing that the moment we arrived at Cabongaoan, Eloi immediately urged me to find a specific coconut tree. She had seen on Instagram an incredible spot at Cabongaoan featuring slanting coconut trees, providing an ideal backdrop for photos with the beach view.We located the trees but, unfortunately, found several tents pitched nearby. Eloi was somewhat disappointed, but we managed to still capture a few shots from a different angle. Take a look!

I want to emphasize this, especially to boyfriends and husbands: if your partner loves being photographed, be as supportive as possible. It’s one of the many small ways we can show our care and affection, right?

When I spotted this perfect spot on the beach, we didn’t hesitate to take some photos. This charming location, right in front of a small resort, featured an improvised hammock under a tree with a stunning beach view.

One adorable thing about Eloi is her insistence on taking photos of me after we’re done with hers.

I’m always left wondering what pose to strike. Then she takes charge, directing me like a filmmaker with an actor, leading to a flurry of photo-taking. I had a variety of shots taken, but I chose this one, the ‘talikod‘ (back) shot. Why? Because I’m a bit shy. Hahaha! Well, I also wanted to discreetly conceal my large belly.

We’ve created some beautiful memories at Cabongaoan.

We strolled along its shores, took numerous photos, and swam in its cool and relaxing waters. However, the moments I cherish the most are those when we simply sat on the beach, chatting and sometimes gazing out at the vast sea.

After spending a little more time there, we decided to visit the famous Death Pool.

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Pangasinan Tourist Spots

The Death Pool

The scorching heat of the sun was intense, feeling almost like summer, but it didn’t stop us from exploring the famed Death Pool.

Firstly, why is it called the ‘Death Pool’? Originally, it was a typical summer and beach spot for locals and people from nearby towns. However, when travelers discovered it and shared it on social media, it gained the nickname ‘Death Pool’ due to the thrilling effect it has on beachgoers. Can you imagine jumping into this natural pool as waves crash into it? The local government has assured that the place is safe, provided that visitors take the necessary precautions.

I had been aware of this place for quite some time through blogs and social media posts from fellow travelers, even before it was featured on the national television show ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’ (KMJS) on GMA. Reaching the Death Pool requires a 20 to 30-minute walk, and it’s not as easy as one might think.

The journey involves navigating through sharp and high rock formations. Eloi speculated that the ‘Death Pool’ moniker might also stem from the challenging trek required to get there. Seriously, you have to be extremely cautious while walking on those sharp rocks. As you approach the Death Pool, the rocks become taller and more jagged.

It’s advisable to wear aqua shoes to protect your feet and prevent slipping.

I was particularly concerned about Eloi, who was wearing thick slippers. I assisted her throughout because such footwear is not only uncomfortable but also highly prone to slipping. Please avoid wearing inappropriate shoes like these when visiting the Death Pool.

After a few minutes, we reached the top of these huge rock formations from where the Death Pool was clearly visible. The challenging part was figuring out how to descend. We followed some fellow travelers, maneuvered through a small cave, struggled across rocks and water, and then emerged from the cave closer to the Death Pool.

There are several small natural pools around the area, offering perfect spots for relaxation. Some are even shaded by rocks and caves, ideal for those who wish to enjoy the place without enduring the intense sun.

Regrettably, we didn’t see the Death Pool in its full splendor – the one depicted on TV and in other blogs, where waves crash into the natural pool, turning the water a stunning white and bluish hue as it reduces and flows. It was 10:30 in the morning, and we later learned that the best time to witness this spectacle was in the afternoon.

Nonetheless, we roamed around and enjoyed the site. Despite the crowd around the natural pool, we didn’t shy away from taking photos. I was pleasantly surprised by how Eloi maintained her ‘model character,’ unfazed by the people around us.

Returning to the beach posed another challenge, but it was relatively easy for us. You know those huge rock formations? Sometimes climbing up them is easier than descending from the top, right?

However, the sun’s heat was still intense. As soon as we reached the nearest part of the beach, we took a refreshing dip before heading back to our cottage for lunch.

It was another fantastic and memorable trip with Eloi. It’s truly wonderful to discover another gem in our country. Cabongaoan Beach and the Death Pool offer the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure for those seeking it!

For those interested in experiencing Cabongaoan and the Death Pool, I’ve included a travel guide below this blog post. Enjoy!

But first, let me share with you a segment or feature from ‘Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho’ (KMJS) about this place in Burgos, Pangasinan. Check out the video!

Map of Death Pool in Burgos, Pangasinan

Cabongaoan Beach + Death Pool Travel Guide DIY Budget Itinerary

How to get to Cabongaoan?

So, if you’re planning to experience Cabongaoan Beach, here is your step-by-step guide.

First, take a bus from Manila to Alaminos, Pangasinan. Several bus companies offer daily trips to Alaminos, including Victory Liner and Five Star Bus, with fares around PHP 500. Here are the bus companies and their respective terminals for trips to Alaminos:

• Victory Liner (Cubao Terminal)
• Five Star Bus (Pasay, Cubao, and Trinoma Terminals)
• Dagupan Bus (Cubao Terminal)
• Philippine Rabbit (Avenida Terminal)

Upon arriving in Alaminos, board another bus headed to Santa Cruz, Zambales. This bus passes through Burgos, Pangasinan. You should get off at the drop-off point in front of Burgos Market and 711, with a fare of PHP 50.

From there, hire a tricycle to reach Cabongaoan Beach. The travel time is approximately one hour, and the fare is 350 PHP one way for up to 3 persons. If you plan to stay overnight, it’s advisable to get the tricycle driver’s contact number so they can fetch you the following day.

Cabongaoan Beach by Private Car

Of course, if you have your own car or you can rent a van going there it is much better than via public transportation. Going to Pangasinan is a lot easier now because of SCTEX and then exit at Luisita, Tarlac take the Camiling route. From Camiling, you will pass through the towns of San Clemente, Mangatarem, Aguilar, Bugallon, Labrador, and Sual before finally arriving in Alaminos.

Our van driver used Waze to go there as a backup. Luckily, Waze brought us to our destination safe and sound. That moment when the Waze voice said turn right there or turn left was pretty accurate!

From Clark, Pampanga to Cabongaoan Beach

If you’re going from Clark International Airport, just take a jeepney going to Dau Central Bus Terminal. Then take the bus going to Alaminos. Once you arrive in Alaminos, take another bus going to Santa Cruz and the drop-off point is Burgos Public Market. Then hire a tricycle going to Cabongaoan Beach.

From Manaog to Cabongaoan Beach

You can take PUV vans going to Dagupan. Then in Dagupan, take another PUV to Alaminos. From Alaminos, you know what to do, take a bus to Burgos (Sta. Cruz signage) then hire a tricycle going to Caboangaon.

From Dagupan to Cabongaoan Beach

Travel time to Alaminos is just 1.5 hours via PUVs such as vans and buses. Buses and vans have hourly trips to Alaminos. Take a bus going to Burgos, then hire a tricycle to Cabongaoan.

From Baguio to Cabongaoan Beach

There are a lot of PUVs from Baguio going to Alaminos like vans and buses. From Alaminos, take a bus going to Burgos, then hire a tricycle going to Cabongaoan.

Package Tour to Cabongaoan Beach?

Since the place has become so popular on social media, there has been an increasing demand from tourists and beach lovers to go to Cabongaoan. Something that is also being addressed by a lot of Tour and Travel Agencies. There are some tour packages to Cabongaoan and all you have to do is search social media.

From your Facebook, just type Cabongaoan Beach on your Facebook search then once you get the results, click on the “Events” icon on top.

Another way is to join the Facebook Group, DIY Travel PH Events Tours Vans, then type Cabongaoan beach on the search icon. This is the search within the group. Then once you click, you’ll see a lot of posts from Travel agencies and tour coordinators about the Cabongaoan trip. Check and choose the right one for your travel. You may contact them for the itinerary, or if you’re with a group you can ask them to create and propose an itinerary for you.

Where to Stay in Cabongaoan Beach?

There are resorts along the beach of Cabongaoan to choose from. You have the option for overnight accommodation and also for tent pitching. Please be reminded that there are no luxury accommodations or hotels there, just the usual and simple resorts and accommodations. Here are some of it.

1. Cabongaoan Beach Resort – Contact them thru Facebook Page, Cabongaoan Resort 
2. Amayaj Bora Beach Resort – Facebook Page: AmayajBoraBeachResort Contact Numbers: 09297961171
3. Rendezvous Beach Resort – Contact Number: 09353745410
4. Ragasa Cabo Beach Resort – Contact Number: 09153863681
5. Luzviminda’s White Sand Beach – Contact Numbers:  09274293762  and 09303022687
6. Roven’s Place – Facebook Page: Rovens Place Beach Resort Contact Number: 09279957606

Where to eat in Cabongaoan

It is suggested that you buy your food and ingredients beforehand or at the Burgos market before going to Cabongaoan. There are very limited options and food at the beach itself. You know the place is kinda remote. You can ask your resort owner to cook the food for you for a minimal fee.

If you’re going to visit Cabongaoan on a day trip, you can just bring your food and baon.

Cabongaoan Beach Budget and Expenses

Here are the expenses for your DIY travel to Cabongaoan. Through this, you’ll have an idea of the budget that you’ll allot for your travel.

• Bus fare from Manila to Alaminos P400 one-way
• Bus fare from Alaminos to Burgos P50 one way
• Tricycle from Burgos to Cabongaoan P350 one way for 3 pax
• Accommodation P500 up for overnight
• Food P500 to P1000
• Tent Pitching P200

*Go to this list of affordable hotels and accommodations in Pangasinan.

Cabongaoan Beach Itinerary (Day tour and Overnight)

These are just sample itineraries that you can use if you’re planning to go to Cabongaoan.

Day Tour
Midnight Leave Manila
6:00 AM – Arrival in Burgos
7:00 AM – Arrival at Cacongaoan Beach
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Freetime: Beach bumming and Death Pool
12:00 NN –  Lunch
1:00 PM – More Freetime or option to have a side trip to Alaminos’ Hundred Islands
6:00 PM – Travel Back to Manila
8:00 PM – Dinner
11:30 PM – Back to Manila

Overnight Itinerary
Day 1
12:00 MN – Leave Manila
6:00 AM –  Arrival in Burgos
7:00 AM – Arrival at Cacongaoan Beach
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Freetime: Beach bumming and Death Pool
12:00 NN – Lunch
1:00 PM – Freetime Again. Best time to visit Death Pool
7:00 PM – Dinner
8:00 PM – Socials
10:00 PM – Lights Out

Day 2
7:00 AM  – Wake Up
8:00 AM – Breakfast
9:00 AM – Freetime, Beach bumming again. You also have the option to have a side trip to Alaminos.
12:00 NN – Lunch
1:00 PM – Travel Back to Manila
6:00 PM – Back in Manila

Cabongaoan Travel Tips

1. Again, Cabongaoan Beach and its death pool is your perfect beach getaway, but the travel time is quite long and there are rough roads on the way, so make sure that you get enough rest and sleep before the trip because it is honestly tiring.
2. Make sure you bring the right footwear once you go to the Death Pool because of the sharp and high rock formations. Aqua shoes are highly recommended.
3. Buy your food and necessary supplies beforehand or at the Burgos market. There are no restaurants in the beach area. You can ask the resort owner or caretaker to cook your food but you’ll provide the ingredients. We saw a small eatery at the beach area but they are offering limited meals like the famous breakfast silog meals. This is just one, so it is better to just bring your food.
4. There are few resorts in Cabongaoan where you can stay and spend overnight, but in case you still want to explore more of the province, there are other resorts and hotels in Pangasinan that are affordable and perfect for your budget.
5. Phone signal and data are not that strong in Cabongaoan, which I guess is understandable given the remote location of the beach.
6. During this time of the global pandemic, it is advisable to get in touch with the resorts before visiting Cabongaoan just to make sure that you’ll be properly accommodated. There are some resorts and establishments that are closed right now. (December 2020).

That’s it. Have you been to Cabongaoan beach? Please share your experience in the comments section below!

If you have any questions, you know where to contact me right? Message me on Facebook and Instagram. Or just shoot me an email!

FAQ: Cabongaoan Beach

1. Where is Cabongaoan Beach located?
Cabongaoan Beach is a hidden gem nestled in the western part of Pangasinan, Philippines. It’s situated in the town of Burgos, offering travelers a scenic and tranquil escape.

2. What is Cabongaoan Beach famous for?
Cabongaoan Beach is renowned for its pristine, golden sandy shores and its clear blue waters. It’s also home to the famed “Death Pool,” a natural tidal pool where visitors can enjoy watching the waves crash into the rocks.

3. Is it safe to swim at Cabongaoan Beach?
Yes, swimming at Cabongaoan Beach is generally safe. However, like any beach, it’s always recommended to stay vigilant, especially when swimming near the “Death Pool” area due to strong waves and currents.

4. How can I get to Cabongaoan Beach from Manila?
From Manila, one can take a bus headed to Alaminos or Santa Cruz, Zambales. From there, a local tricycle or jeepney can take you directly to Cabongaoan Beach. The journey might take approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on the mode of transport and traffic conditions.

5. Are there accommodations near Cabongaoan Beach?
Yes, Cabongaoan Beach offers various accommodations ranging from basic huts and cottages for rent to more comfortable guesthouses. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.

6. When is the best time to visit Cabongaoan Beach?
The best time to visit Cabongaoan Beach is during the dry season, from November to May. During these months, the weather is generally sunny, making it ideal for beach activities.

7. Are there dining options at Cabongaoan Beach?
While there are limited dining options directly on the beach, nearby stalls and local eateries offer a range of Filipino dishes and fresh seafood. It might be a good idea to bring some snacks and drinks with you, especially if you’re planning to stay the entire day.

8. What activities can I enjoy at Cabongaoan Beach?
Besides swimming, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, snorkeling, beach volleyball, or simply relaxing by the shore. Exploring the “Death Pool” and nearby rock formations are also popular activities.

9. Is Cabongaoan Beach child-friendly?
Absolutely! Children can have a great time playing in the sand and shallow waters. However, always supervise them, especially when near the “Death Pool” or deeper parts of the beach.

10. Why should I consider visiting Cabongaoan Beach on my next trip to the Philippines?
Cabongaoan Beach is a less-commercialized destination, offering an authentic and serene beach experience. Its natural beauty, coupled with the warmth of the local community, makes it a must-visit for those looking to experience the Philippines beyond the usual tourist spots.

First published on November 19, 2017
Updated for 2023  and 2024

More Pangasinan Blog Posts:

• Tambobong Beach and Colibra Island in Dasol Pangasinan
• Salt Farm in Bolinao 
• Best Beaches in Pangasinan
• Panacalan Island in Anda, Pangasinan
• Beach Resorts in Pangasinan
• Hundred Islands in Alaminos
• Bolinao Tourist Spots DIY Travel Guide

More Beaches and Resorts:

• Santa Ana Cagayan Tourist Spots 
• Batangas Beach Resort
• Best Beaches near Manila
• Sta. Cruz Island: The Pink Beach of Zamboanga

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