Hundred Islands: A Trip Back to Pangasinan

Hundred Islands National Park is the most famous tourist attraction in the province of Pangasinan. Why not? aside from its beaches, islands, and wildlife, its name is quite amazing and intriguing. As a kid would ask, “Wow, is it really composed of one hundred islands?”

Well, it actually lived up to its promise. It has 123 islets scattered on a vast blue ocean. There are 4 major islands there that are developed, but there are still more to discover and explore in the coming years. Exciting, isn’t it? If you’re planning to travel to Hundred Islands in Alaminos, this travel guide is for you.

My Experience at Hundred Islands

I could still remember the last time I traveled to Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos, Pangasinan.

I was a newbie TV producer then for a major network. I did a story about a coastal clean-up and mangrove planting in Alaminos, and we had a side trip to the Hundred Islands. It was my first time and I would love to enjoy the islands and the beach, but I was too focused on work. I had so many things to do and coordinate that I almost forgot the beauty that surrounded me.

Many are arguing that it is possible to work, travel and enjoy at the same time. For business travelers, that is possible, but not when you’re working for TV. I mean the segment producers, cameramen and those who do fieldwork. For someone like me who was able to experience corporate job and TV work, I can say that it is possible to mix travel with work when it comes to business and corporate jobs, but definitely not when you’re working as a producer for TV.

That’s exactly what happened to me when I was in Hundred Islands. I was there with the islands and beach, but not actually present. So if I see a Facebook post of a former colleague in the media, sharing their photos in a destination, and that they’re there for a story or assignment. I am not quite impressed. I know that they won’t be able to enjoy there supposed “travel.” There’s just too much work for them.

I directed the shoot with volunteers from a school there while they were planting mangroves on the wide shores of Alaminos. I interviewed people about the environmental implications of the depleting mangroves in the area, and how the “planting” activity can help the community in the years to come. Honestly, I had that strange feeling that the story was just a show-off, I just hoped that the seedlings that we planted will really have a positive impact in the years to come, that the plants were nurtured and we genuinely instilled care for the environment for the locals.

Later that night, I interviewed the Mayor of the town. He was very accommodating. I didn’t quite understand why we need to interview a politician for a mere story of mangrove planting. I just made the interview interesting. I tried hard to infuse some depth in the conversation like “What are their plans and projects to protect the environment, to protect Hundred Islands.

We had our dinner then traveled back to Manila. Upon arrival to the office, my team of cameramen went home to finally rest. While me, I still had to write the script and endure a non-stop 3 day of editing until the story is ready for airing.

Yes, I traveled to Hundred Islands at that time, but I couldn’t remember any significant memories about the trip. It felt empty.

After a long time, probably about 8 years, I traveled back to Alaminos, Pangasinan.

READ MORE: Cubao to Alaminos, Pangasinan via Victory Liner

Back to Hundred Islands

Welcome!

The place looked better and more organized. Even the port itself, they also have a better system for boat queuing for the island hopping.  But the 50 pesos additional rental for the life jacket is funny though. They said, the life vest was free, but if you’re going to use it outside the boat to roam around the island, you need to pay a rental fee of 50 pesos.

They also have this plastic floating bridge to make the boarding to the boat a little less stressful. A few minutes off the shore, I discovered that some islands have this same floating bridge. The place has really changed after all these years.

It has more than 123 islets but 4 are developed for tourists to enjoy namely Governors Island, Marcos Island, Children’s Island, and Quezon Island. There are other islands that are starting to be developed but these 4 are the major attractions as of now.

Our first stop was the Governors Island, probably one of the largest islands in the national park. These are actually like two islands connected with a plastic floating bridge in orange color. Eloi and I crossed the bridge, took some photos and explored the beach on the other side of the island.

We were back on the boat, and passed some of the famous islands like Romulo island, Turtle and Scout islands among others until we stayed for a few minutes of swimming at Marcos Island.

Most of our travel buddies decided to explore the cave on the island, but us, maybe due to being a Tito and Tita of Manila, decided to chill at the beach.

We just sat there, enjoying the place, talking about anything. Later that afternoon, we then transferred to Quezon island, to kill some time before going back to the mainland.

Quezon Island probably has the best sand among the islands there. It’s white and powdery. We went up to the third floor of one house there just to eat. There was no more option in terms of food, so I just bought some cup noodles.

We ate for a few more minutes and watched the sunset.

Chill

It was a nice feeling coming back to Hundred Islands. It brought back a lot of memories from my first visit, but still, I was able to see the place in a new light, maybe because there are a lot of changes that happened in the course of more than 8 years.

We went back to the mainland and surprised by the awesome Christmas lights and decorations in the park. My travel friends were joking that we were at Disneyland. There were so many lights that it in a way uplifted our emotions. Traveling can sometimes be tiring but it recharges, re-energizes your soul to move forward. Whatever circumstances that you’re in, get up and explore further. 

How to get to Hundred Islands

There are now so many options and bus companies that offer daily trips to Alaminos, but probably the most popular is Victory Liner in Cubao. This is where we usually ride the bus going north of the country, whether it’s Baguio or Pangasinan. Fare is about Php 400

Once you arrived in Alaminos, ask for the Lucap Terminal. That’s where you’ll find tricycles going to Lucap Wharf or now called Don Gonzalo Montemayor Wharf, which is the jump-off for island hopping. Fare is Php 15 per person, but it will not leave until its full. As an alternative, you may charter the tricycle for Php 100. Lucap Wharf has improved tremendously over the past years. The last time I was in Alaminos, this was just a usual port with the Hundred Islands structures and letters on it. Now it is filled with buildings and a Tourism Office.

Please be reminded that there is like an entrance fee of Php 300 each, and Environmental fees of Php 40 pesos for Day tour and Php 80 for overnight.

Going to Hundred Islands by Car?

Road trips by having your own car or a rented van is definitely much better than public transport right? Going to Pangasinan is a lot easier these days because of SCTEX, then take the Luisita, Tarlac Exit and go for the route to Camiling. From Camiling, you will pass through the towns of San Clemente, Mangatarem, Aguilar, Bugallon, Labrador and Sual before finally arriving in Alaminos. By the way, Waze is also helpful.

There are also some Tour Companies that offer travel to hundred islands, just check events on Facebook and check their itinerary.

From Clark, Pampanga to Alaminos, Pangasinan

From Clark International Airport, take a jeepney going to Dau Central Bus Terminal. Then ride a bus going to Alaminos.

From Manaog to Hundred Islands in Alaminos

You have the option of either riding a van or bus going to Dagupan. Once you’re in Dagupan, ride another PUV to Alaminos. Then another tricycle to the Lucap Wharf as jump-off to Hundred Islands.

From Dagupan to Hundred Islands

Going to Alaminos from Daguan is roughly more than an hour of bus ride. You can also ride a van. Once in Alaminos, it’s just a tricycle away to Lucap Wharf.

From Baguio to Hundred Islands

Baguio as a highly-urbanized city has more options going to Alaminos, either bus or van. Once you arrive in Alaminos, you know what to do. Ride a tricycle to Lucap Wharf.

Things to do in Hundred Islands

As a summer destination perfect for family and friends, there are a lot of activities to do in Hundred islands from relaxing on the beach to those extreme adventures. Here are some of these to choose from as well as the prices.

Island Hopping – Popular for having more than 100 islands and islets, island hopping is one of the most popular activities to do. Though we can’t explore all islands, it is still an amazement to see those little islands scattered and overlooking the vast ocean. There are actually islands that are good for tourism that you can explore via the standard island-hopping tour like Governor’s Island, Quezon Island, Marcos Island and Children’s Island. The price of the island hopping depends on the type of boat and of course the number of passengers. Day tour costs from 1,400 PHP to 2000 PHP for 5 to 15 passengers. For a Two- Day tour the price is ranging from 3,000PHP to 5,000PHP for 5 to 15 people. This is subject to change so better contact the Alaminos Tourism office to be sure.
If you happen to avail the Two Day tour, of course, you’ll be able to explore more islands like Romulo Island, Lopez Island, Turtle Island and a lot more!

Swimming – Of course this is an old-time favorite activity during summer. Hundred Island has lots of awesome beaches and islands to go swimming like Governor’s Island, Quezon Island and Children’s Island.

Kayaking – There is definitely more adventure awaits in Hundred Islands and one of these is Kayaking! For as low as 250 pesos per hour good for 2 persons, you can explore the islands. Of course, make sure you have proper safety gear like a life vest.

Snorkeling – Hundred islands is also home of rich marine life especially the giant clams. When I was still a TV producer and we did a story in Hundred Islands, I remember seeing a lot of giant clams and these are being taken care of by the local government. For only PHP 250, you can rent snorkeling gear and witness the beauty of a hundred islands underwater.

Banana Boat – This favorite family and barkada bonding is also available in Hundred Islands for only PHP 1,500 for 7 persons.

Jet Ski – This exciting water activity is only 2000 pesos for 30 mins.

Parasailing – When you’re enjoying Hundred Islands you’ll definitely witness some tourists doing parasailing. Another exciting adventure for everyone. This costs PHP 2000.

Zipline – Yes, there is a zipline in Hundred Islands which can be found at Governor’s Island and Quezon Island for PHP 100 to PHP 250.

READ THE BLOG POST: 15 Best Pangasinan Tourist Spots

Where to stay in Hundred Islands

More and more travelers are opting for an overnight stay in Hundred Islands, camping style! But for some especially if you travel with kids, it is recommended to just do a day tour and stay at some hotels and accommodation in Alaminos.

There are more accommodation in Alaminos, for the best and cheapest hotels click here.

The most popular option is Island Tropic Island located near the wharf. Please check below.

Island Tropic Hotel and Restaurant
Boulevard Street, Alaminos City, Pangasinan

(CHECK ROOM RATES HERE )

If you don’t want to stay in Alaminos and would rather feel the hundred island vibes, you can stay on the islands by renting cottages, this can be either closed cottage or open. But of course, If you want to stay overnight, staying in a closed cottage gives you more security and privacy. Price may vary from PHP 1,000 overnight for a cottage to PHP 5,000 for a guest house. This can be either from Governor’s island or Children’s Island. You can also rent a tent ranging from PHP 500 to PHP 1000 depending on the size of the tent. If you have your own tent, the camping fee is PHP 250.

This price is subject to change so it would be better to contact the Alaminos Tourism Center in advance just to be sure of the charges. 09209004470 or email alaminoscitytourism@gmail.com

Also Read: Top Beach Resorts in Pangasinan

Pa kyut lang. Hahaha!

Hundred Islands Travel Tips

• • • Once you arrived there, the first thing that you have to do is go straight to the Tourism Office to assist you properly and also to ensure that you are transacting with the right people. There is a standard fee for all island hopping tours and other services, so it is better to coordinate with them.
    • Where to eat in Hundred islands? Nothing to worry. Now, the place has enough carinderias and restaurants to choose from. If you want more choices, you can go to the town proper, you can find fast-food chains there.
    • You know the drill for DIY. It is better to travel at night to avoid crowd and traffic. Go to the bus terminal and catch the earliest trip.
    • The best time to travel to Hundred Islands is during summer. But of course, starting November or December is fine, just check the weather and make sure there’s no typhoon.
    • During island hopping, make sure you have enough water, and food also.
    • For rates for other water activities, please also coordinate with the Tourism Office.
    • If you have enough time, you can do a side trip to Cabongaoan Beach in Burgos, Pangasinan or in Bolinao. To maximize your time, it is better to leave Manila as early as 1AM to arrive in Alaminos early morning.
    • You can buy souvenirs in the nearby stores around the Wharf or go directly to the Tourism Office.
    • The day tour starts at 6:00 AM until 5:30 AM only. If you wish to stay overnight in the islands, you’re only allowed to leave Lucap Wharf until 6:30 PM only. The camping fee is Php 250 per night. You can bring your own tent, but if you don’t have, you can rent for Php 500. The main camping site is Quezon island.
    • Always be a responsible traveler. Leave no trace always. Bring all your garbage back to the mainland and do a proper disposal.
    • Mobile signal and Internet are available in the Hundred Islands National park
    • There is one ATM at the Tourist Information Center. You can also check more ATM at the town proper. But please be reminded that payment for services is on cash basis. So bring enough cash, okay?

  Why you should visit Hundred Islands

  It has always been a fascination as a kid to someday visit Hundred Islands. As a popular destination featured in our textbooks at school, you don’t have any idea how excited I was when I first traveled to hundred islands. But sadly, the stress and pressure of my work then as a TV producer ruined all the excitement.

  Good thing after so many years, I’ve got a chance to go back and enjoy the place purely of the sole purpose of travel. I can say that one must visit hundred islands not only because it is an awesome summer getaway but to personally satisfy your curiosity about this place. Yes, there are roughly about a hundred islands (123 to be exact) there but only a handful can be visited, but the view of those islets when you do the island hopping is of course fascinating. So if you’ll have the time and budget, Hundred Islands in Alaminos, Pangasinan is a must place to visit, especially during summer!

  

  seksi 🙂

   

  Hundred Islands Itinerary

  Itinerary will depend on your preference if you want to explore Hundred Islands only, or if you want to also visit nearby tourist spots and beaches. For us, we also explored Cabongaoan beach in Burgos Pangasinan when we traveled to Alaminos to explore hundred islands. You can also plan your trip and include Bolinao if you want.

  Day 1
  12 Midnight – Ride a bus bound to Alaminos via Victory Liner in Cubao
  6:00 AM – Arrival in Alaminos
  6:30 AM – Breakfast
  7:00 AM – Ride a tricycle going to Lucap Wharf
  8:00 AM – Hire a boat. Register at the Tourism Cente and pay fees.
  9:00 AM – Start of Island Hopping (Governor’s Island is usually the first destination)
  12:00 Noon – Lunch
  1:00 PM – Continue island hopping and trying the adventure activities
  5:00 PM – End of Island Hopping Tour
  6:00 PM – Arrival at Lucap Wharf
  6:30 PM – Tricycle ride going to terminal for a bus going back to Manila
  Note: You can also stay overnight and explore more of Pangasinan like Cabongaoan beach or Bolinao on your Day 2.
  Also Read: Cabongaoan Beach in Burgos Pangasinan
  Bolinao Pangasinan

   

  Hundred Islands Budget and Fees

  Below are the Rates and Fees in the Hundred Islands National Park do you can plan beforehand and adjust your budget.

  Motor Boat Rates

  Small Boat (5 Passengers maximum)

  • • • • • One-Day Tour with Service Boat: Php 1,400.00
          • Two-Day Tour with Service Boat: Php 3,000.00

  Medium Boat (10 Passengers maximum)

  • • • • • One-Day Tour with Service Boat: Php 1,800.00
          • Two-Day Tour with Service Boat: Php 3,800.00

  Large Boat (15 Passengers maximum)

  • • • • • One-Day Tour with Service Boat: Php 2,000.00
          • Two-Day Tour with Service Boat: Php 4,500.00

  Water Activities

  Governor Island Zip-line (546m): Php 250.00/jump
  Quezon Island Zip-line (120m ): Php 100.00/jump
  Wall Climbing: Php 50.00/pax
  Rappelling: Php 50.00/pax
  Helmet Diving: Php 400.00/dive (15 mins.)
  Banana Boat Ride (max 7pax): Php 250.00/pax
  Kayaking (max 2pax): Php 250.00/hour
  Snorkeling: Php 250.00 (set gear rental: mask,snorkel, aqua shoes, and life vest)
  Jet Ski: Php 1,000.00/15 mins and Php 2,000.00/30 mins
  Parasailing: Php 2,000.00/Solo ride  and Php 3,000.00/2 person

  Looking for best diving mask for your awesome water activities,  get details here.

  *As of year 2017. Checked with Alaminos Tourism Office. Source is AsensoPangasinan.

  If you have further questions and if you need to contact the Tourism Office, please refer to below:
  Alaminos City Tourism Office (24/7 in service)
  Globe landline: (075)205-0917
  Smart: 09209004470 / 09282449011 / 0939332411
  Email: alaminoscitytourism@gmail.com

   

  More Info about Hundred Islands

  Known as the first protected area and national park in northern Philippines, Hundred Islands has a total of 123 islands scattered in Lingayen Gulf covering an area of 16.76 square kilometers. Three islands were developed for tourism at first namely Governor Island, Quezon and Children’s island, but as the years go by more islands are added to be explored by tourists.

  Hundred Islands National park was created by Presidential Proclamation No. 667 signed by then President Manuel L. Quezon on January 18, 1940 for Filipinos to have a tourist destination to enjoy and as well as be protected. On June 21, 2005, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo signed the Executive Order No. 436 to transfer the management, administration and maintenance of the national park from the Philippine Tourism Authority to the city government of Alaminos, Pangasinan.

  There you have it. I hope you enjoyed reading my personal story about Hundred Islands, from my first visit more than 8 years ago until my recent travel, plus the Travel Guide and Tips!

  Note: First published on December 7, 2017 / Updated on May 23, 2018  / Updated for 2020

More Pangasinan Blog Posts:

• Tondol Beach in Anda, Pangasinan
• Tambobong Beach and Colibra Island in Dasol Pangasinan
• Best Beaches in Pangasinan
• Salt Farm in Bolinao 
• Panacalan Island in Anda, Pangasinan
• Beach Resorts in Pangasinan
• Best Beaches near Manila
• Cabongaoan Beach in Burgos, Pangasinan

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