I’ve been to Zambales many times. I’ve explored its coves and islands like Magalawa, Hermana Menor, and Nagsasa Cove to name a few. It’s actually one of my favorite destinations in the Philippines. It’s pretty near Manila, so it’s a perfect place to unwind for a quick getaway.
But my recent trip to Zambales made me realize there’s still a lot to discover. There’s still more that the province could offer. A few days ago I joined the launch of the Surf and Glamp Adventure Tourism Project of DOT Region 3 in cooperation with the Zambales Tourism, and the Municipal Tourism Offices of San Felipe, San Narciso, and Botolan.
The project aims to highlight the best spots in the province, positioning Zambales as the country’s premier surfing and glamping destination. Oh boy, after exploring it for 3 days, Zambales has definitely got what it takes to be the next top destination for surfers and leisure travelers.
Our call time was 5 AM at MOA, Pasay. Since I came all the way from Gen. Trias, Cavite I have to prepare way too early. We made a quick stop over in Subic to meet the other participants and traveled to San Felipe.
It was my first time in San Felipe. Imagine, I have been exploring the islands and coves of Zambales for the past years, but I’ve never fully explored its coastal areas. Well, this is my chance.
At about 9 AM, we arrived at Liwliwa Beach and checked in at The Glamp, our accommodation for the day and the venue for the launching of the Surf and Glamp Adventure program. It was also a chance to meet my fellow participants and the people behind this project.
Awesome Group pic with DOT Region 3, Zambales Tourism, San Felipe LGU, Tour operators, and participants. Photo Credit: DOT Region 3
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Surf and Glamp Zambales Progam Launch
I couldn’t help myself but adore the aesthetics of The Glamp. After taking some photos, we gathered at the mess hall for the program. DOT Region 3 Regional Director Carolina Uy and the LGU’s top officials led by Mayor Reinhard Jeresano graced the event.
As part of the participants, we also had the chance to introduce ourselves. You know I have to put aside my shyness for a while to give a proper intro. Haha!
with Board Member Atty. Reena Mae L. Collado, Mayor Reinhard Jeresano, DOT Region 3 Regional Director Carolina Uy and Mr. Kevin Nacabuan from Zambales Tourism Office.
Photo op with the Travel writers. Photo Credit: DOT Region 3
The officials delivered their speeches showing their immense commitment to tourism. It’s impressive that despite the pandemic, they were able to conceptualize and launch this tourism project to promote Zambales as a top adventure destination in the country.
Busog!
Surfing at Liwliwa Beach
Just a few minutes away from The Glamp is Liwliwa Beach, Zambales’ answer to Siargao and Baler. It was already afternoon when we arrived at the beach. What a perfect time to chill, eat, and surf, right?
We had enough time to relax and take some photos. Liwliwa might not be as stunning as the white sands of Boracay or Palawan but it truly has its distinct charm, especially the waves. The sound of the waves. Oh, I remember how soothing it is.
Our organizers ordered some food at a restaurant nearby, Taco Joint. The resto caught our attention when we passed by with its colorful walls and the bar looks inviting too. They served us a lot of tacos and Mexican food. Taco Joint prides itself as an authentic Mexican Taqueria along Liwliwa Beach.
Then, it was time to surf.
Just to be honest, I’ve tried surfing before but it was unsuccessful. Surfing is fun but it’s not suitable for big dudes like me. Haha! At that time, I told myself that I should lose weight so I can try it again next time. Guess what? I’m still the chubby Jon until now. Haha!
Surfing boards were limited so let’s just leave surfing to more deserving ones. Those who needed it so badly. Okay? I just accepted the challenge of taking videos of my fellow blogger while riding the waves.
Siempre, requirement talaga ang selfie. Haha!
There are also a lot more activities to try at Liwliwa Beach. One of these is football. Yes, there’s a mini-football field at the beach. Well, in case you want to know, I’m actually a good football player. Just kidding! Haha. 🙂
Well, this time I’m actually up for the challenge. We played football with the locals and the pros. There were six of us battling it out against our opponent pushing ourselves to the limits to score a goal.
Hey, Messi. I’m challenging you. Wow! Haha.
Tumatalon, dumadapa at tumatalbog talbog. Haha!
Any takeaways? It’s definitely way harder to run on the sand than on a usual field. Plus, I’m overweight. I know, we don’t have to repeatedly highlight that. Haha.
It was exhausting. Definitely one of the worst cases of shortness of breath that I’ve experienced in a sport. I’m not sure If I’m willing to try that again but it was fun. And guess what, having an overweight teammate like me? Yes, You’re right. We lost. Haha!
Where to Stay at Zambales’ Top Surfing Spot
There are many resorts and glamping spots in San Felipe. I know that once you visit Liwliwa Beach, there are many good options to choose from. But in my case, I will share my experience with the two glamping sites that we tried.
The Glamp: What glamping is all about
First up is The Glamp. Once, we arrived at The Glamp in the morning, I instantly told myself that this is really what glamping is all about. As we all know, glamping comes from the idea of glamorous camping. It’s camping with the comfort of a nice hotel. So If you want to experience the true essence of glamping, you better check out The Glamp.
It is located in a wide green space surrounded by trees. It’s like having these awesome amenities while staying in the middle of a forest. They offer a variety of accommodations perfect for couples and families. We stayed at Tent Number 4 which can accommodate up to 4 people.
Marky, JC, and Ambo. My roommates or tent mates. Haha.
Each tent also has an assigned comfort room and shower which I find really comfortable. The Glamp also has some other amenities like a mess hall, a gazebo, and a bonfire. Oh, they also offer foot massage.
After surfing, and walking along the beach, The Glamp is the perfect accommodation that combines the thrill of camping and the comfort of a high-end hotel.
Breakfast. Yummy!
READ THE REVIEW: The Glamp Zambales in San Felipe
Haven Campsite: For Leisure Travelers and Backpackers
Haven Campsite also offers a total glamping experience, but the difference is that they also offer other accommodation options for budget travelers and backpackers.
Their air-conditioned villas are huge enough to accommodate 6 people. While for budget travelers, they have a spacious area at the beach for pitching tents.
Sosyal ng villa. 😉
As for us, we experienced their TeePee Hut which is good for 2 people. Just make sure you apply enough mosquito repellent to avoid insect bites. Okay? I highly suggest that you reapply it before you sleep for added protection.
The TeePee Huts
It can be a little cold at TeePee Huts during the rainy season, but I just couldn’t imagine the temperature inside the huts during summer. So be prepared when you choose this accommodation.
Overall, I had a great experience with Haven Campsite, especially the beach party. I also had fun dancing to the tune of Rivers of Babylon with San Felipe LGU. Haha!
More Awesome Tourist Spots in Zambales (San Felipe, San Narciso, and Botolan)
Surfing, delicious food, and beach parties! These are just some of the top activities at Liwliwa Beach. But around the beach area and in nearby municipalities there is still a lot to experience and discover. Here are some top attractions that we visited in Zambales during our 3-day tour.
Lubong Nangoloan Falls
On our second day, we traveled for a few minutes into the mountainous side of San Felipe for an adventure – to explore Lubong Nangoloan Falls.
The picturesque nature welcomed us as we arrived at the jump-off area. We did a quick carabao ride going to the waterfalls. It was an exciting experience. I was just a little concerned about the carabao carrying and pulling a heavy overweight me. Haha. I’m glad that they had enough rest once we made it to the falls.
We attended a short program prepared by the LGU, so we had to contain our excitement to dip into the cool water. San Felipe Vice Mayor Mary Ann Quiba welcomed us together with the other officers of the LGU. They also shared their upcoming plans and project to boost tourism and additional income for the community.
Then, it was time to explore the waterfalls. And I was right, the water was cool and refreshing. A perfect way to cool down after all the adventure.
Refreshing ang tubig. 😉
Saan ang dako paruon. Toinks.
Wow. Naka-red. Yun lang. Haha.
Lubong Nangoloan Falls has multiple tiers, so if you’re the adventurous type, you can climb up to the higher levels to experience the full beauty of nature.
Our adventure ended with an awesome boodle fight lunch prepared by the organizers. It was delicious. Total satisfaction for me. You know, I love food. Isn’t it obvious? Haha. I have to say that San Felipe longganisa was perfection! It’s a delicious blend of garlic and flavor.
We all went back relaxed, rejuvenated and so full!
Sinong matakaw? Haha
Awesome Group pic with DOT Region 3, Zambales Tourism, San Felipe LGU, Tour operators, and participants (Credit: DOT Region 3)
Bali of Liwa
Just a walking distance from Liwliwa Beach is Bali of Liwa, a resort located near where the river meets the sea. They offer Bali-inspired accommodation for guests and beach lovers. But the main purpose of our visit was to dine and party!
The resort offers a variety of Filipino favorites from Sinigang to sisig. Of course, you shouldn’t miss their cocktails. Just the right amount of alcohol as you enjoy and move to the groove with the music from their in-house band.
Yes. Ready na pumarty! Photo credit: DOT Region 3
Overall, it was an awesome experience. We partied ‘till midnight something that I’ve never done for years. The “Tito” in me was just happy for the entire experience.
Iba pumarty si Tito Jon. Haha!
Pawicare in San Narciso
Pawicare is a Pawikan Protection and Conservation Program in San Narciso. The program aims to protect sea turtles along the four-kilometer coastline in La Paz.
I’m impressed with the support of the LGU for this program. Mayor La Rainne Abad-Sarmiento actually welcomed us at Pawicare. This is something that we don’t usually see in the city. It seems that public officials in the provinces (just like in Zambales) are more visible and easier to reach. Haha, Just an observation.
with Mayor La Rainne Abad-Sarmiento
Mayor Abad-Sarmiento talked about the awesome work of their volunteer rangers to protect sea turtles. Pawikan season usually starts in August or September, and it will take about 60 days before the eggs hatch. So if you want to witness the egg hatching, visit in November until January of the following year.
Nice group pic, no? Photo credit: DOT Region 3
Clay Avenue Pottery Studio by Mia Casal
Clay Avenue is a proof of how a passion project can expand and inspire a lot of people. Ms. Mia Casal started pottery making a decade ago after coming back to her roots in San Narciso.
She said that it all started as a hobby, something to relax her mind and soul. But after a while, it grew bigger and bigger. She then started sharing her passion with the locals by teaching them how to do pottery making which later expanded to a full-grown business.
Ms. Mia Casal. 🙂
very nice. Photo credit: DOT Region 3
Now, her pottery studio produces high-quality and creative pieces of art like mugs, vases, and dinnerware. One of their bestsellers is the barnacle mug which is a big hit among coffee lovers.
Oh, she also shared that they will resume holding pottery workshops early next year. It’s a 2 to 3-day workshop with accommodation in their ancestral house in San Narciso.
Bancal River Adventure Park
Another awesome tourist spot to check out in Zambales is the Bancal River Adventure Park located in Botolan. This is a perfect place to relax and dine with family while enjoying the stunning view of the river. They also have an in-house restaurant offering delectable Filipino dishes.
They also offer tons of water activities like kayaking, paddleboard, and more. Since our visit coincided with our mangrove planting activity, we tried doing these water activities by going to the mangrove area.
Sabi wacky eh. Haha Photo credit: DOT Region 3
Go go Markyboy!
Oh boy, I didn’t expect that it would be a challenge. Haha. Chubby Jon just kayaked more than a kilometer distance going to the mangrove area, while pushing through the river’s strong current. How about that? Haha.
It was exhausting but definitely fun! I had so much fun that I kayaked going back to Bancal. Daming energy yarn?
Botolan Mangrove Eco-Park
I was delighted to see the team when I finally arrived at the mangrove area.
Sir Andy Divino, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer of Botolan, explained the importance of mangroves for the environment. I like the word that he said, pananggalang. What a nice Tagalog word that means shield or protection. Yes, mangroves act as protection from storms and calamities.
Sir Andy Divino, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer of Botolan
ready nako magtanim ng mangrove
Ang saya sa Botolan. Photo Credit: DOT Region 3
I may be exhausted from kayaking but I felt reenergized while planting mangroves. It’s truly a worthwhile activity when you visit Botolan.
Balin Pamana Botolan Heritage Center
Our last stop before going back to Manila is the newly constructed Balin Pamana Botolan Heritage Center. The museum was just recently launched last May during the 452nd founding celebration of Botolan.
I’ve learned a lot of things about Botolan. Did you know that Botolan was actually named after a variety of bananas with seeds? Yes, maraming botolan. 🙂
The museum also showcases the town’s priced artifacts, ceramics, and a hallway showing the previous and present leaders of Botolan. There’s also an Aeta Way of Life exhibit and a Pasalubong Center. Well, I enjoyed the Pasalubong Center. I bought some banana chips, sesame seeds candies, and my favorite, Atsara. Sarap!
Bili na kayo dito. Sarap ng food.
There you have it. These are all the tourist spots and activities we enjoyed during the Surf and Glamp Adventure Program. If you have any recommendations about other attractions to visit in Zambales, feel free to comment, and I might get back soon to explore more of Zambales.
Note: Surf and Glamp Adventure Program is a project of DOT Region 3 in cooperation with the Zambales Tourism and the Municipal Tourism Offices of San Felipe, San Narciso, and Botolan. Thanks too to White Dove Travel & Tours, our tour operator for the trip. Thank you for a fun experience!
One Comment
Katherine
October 28, 2022 at 3:36 pmHaha! Balik tayo for surfing! Gusto ko rin magtry kaso nga malakas daw kasi ang alon tsaka nadistract ako manood ng dogs and mga nag-iiskimboard. Sarap nung food lalo na yung sa Taco Joint. XD