PATAR BEACH
The white sand beach is where you needed to be when going to Patar. It is located pass the lighthouse; passing through all the resorts. The resorts along the way does not have the quality of this white sand beach, so keep on going until you reach this better part of the beach. It is a public beach. Free access except for a parking fee of P50 per car. There are huts/table available for rent. 'Paluto' (cook to order) are also available plus shower and toilets for a small fee.
FALLS 1 (PENDING)
FALLS 2 (PENDING)
FALLS 3 (PENDING)
ENCHANTED CAVE
Located along Patar Road, just before you reach Cape Bolinao Lighthouse. It is a privately operated cave with a natural pool inside. The pool is 7 feet deep and the cave itself is only 30 meters long. P100 per head to view the cave. If you opt to swim into the pool, it is P150 per head. There are plenty of covered tables and hammocks inside the park. Food is also available to order.
CAPE BOLINAO LIGHTHOUSE
This lighthouse is definitely worth the long drive. It is kept beautifully over the years. A gorgeous structure with its gleaming white color. The view from the ruined house deck next to the lighthouse is just breathtaking. Located atop Punta Piedra Point, just above Patar White Beach.
GUIGUIWANEN BEACH
Located on the other side of Bolinao passed the town’s old market, about 15-minutes drive towards UP Marine Science Institute. Going to the beach can be a refreshing coastal drive except the beach area is not best for swimming. A very rocky beach, favorite hangout by locals.
TARA FALLS
The signage along the highway directing to where the falls is, has been long gone. Now, it is difficult to locate this falls without asking the locals. My landmark is a makeshift basketball court on the opposite side of the road, where I had parked my car before. It’s an easy and relaxing 30-minute trek before reaching this unspoiled low-level falls. Its aquamarine pool-like basin is a welcoming place for a nice swim.
BOLINAO CHURCH
St. James the Great Parish Catholic Church.
One of the few remaining rustic old churches in Pangasinan.
BOLINAO
Bolinao is the tail end of Pangasinan province. About an hour drive from Alaminos City or 7 hours from Manila. It is a coastal town facing the West Philippines Sea.
Accommodations:
PUERTO DEL SOL
A surprisingly nice hotel. Highly recommended. Please search for updated rates.
TASTES OF BOLINAO
Bolinao is synonymous with binungey. It is said that they make the best binungey in the entire province of Pangasinan. A suman-like taste rice delicacy cooked inside a cut bamboo. An anytime-great snack. Perfect for breakfast paired with coffee.
Note: binungey is sold in front of the main gate of the old church, usually in the morning or until it’s sold out. Binungey – P35-50 depends on the size.
Pana-pana (sea urchin) – P5/piece, tastes like pâté, great for cracker topping, 2002
