Hundred Islands National Park is a group of islands in the Lingayen Gulf in Pangasinan, Philippines. It is a popular tourist destination known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning rock formations. The park comprises 124 small islands and islets, each with unique features and attractions.
Hundred Islands National ParkVisitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Hundred Islands National Park. Island hopping is a must-do activity where tourists can explore the different islands and islets. The seven major islands usually included in the island hopping tour are Governors Island, Virgin Island, Quezon Island, Marcos Island, Scout Island, Children’s Island, and Pilgrimage Island/Ramos Island (an island with a large Jesus statue). Visitors can also try cliff jumping, snorkeling, kayaking, and banana boat riding.
Overall, Hundred Islands National Park is a perfect place for those who want to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of nature. It is a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers who want to experience the Philippines’ natural wonders.
Getting There
From Manila
The Hundred Islands National Park is approximately 250 kilometers away from Manila. The most common way to get there is by bus. Several bus companies offer trips to Alaminos City, the gateway to the Hundred Islands. Victory Liner, Five Star Bus, and Philippine Rabbit are bus companies that have daily trips to Alaminos City. The travel time from Manila to Alaminos City is around 5-6 hours.
From Alaminos City, visitors can take a tricycle to Lucap Wharf, the jump-off point to the Hundred Islands. The tricycle ride takes about 10-15 minutes.
From Dagupan
Dagupan is the nearest major city to the Hundred Islands National Park. From Dagupan, visitors can take a bus or jeepney to Alaminos City. The travel time is around 1-2 hours.
From Alaminos City, visitors can take a tricycle to Lucap Wharf, the jump-off point to the Hundred Islands. The tricycle ride takes about 10-15 minutes.
By Private Vehicle
Visitors who prefer to drive to the Hundred Islands National Park can take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) from Manila to the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). From SCTEX, take the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) and exit at Pozorrubio. From Pozorrubio, take the National Highway to Alaminos City. The travel time is around 4-5 hours.
At Alaminos City, visitors can park their vehicles at the Lucap Wharf parking area. From there, they can take a boat to the Hundred Islands.
The travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors. Visitors are advised to plan their trip accordingly and check the schedules of the bus companies before traveling.
Island Hopping
One of the main attractions of Hundred Islands is island hopping. Visitors can explore the islands and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping.
Quezon Island
Quezon Island Beach Quezon Island is one of the most popular islands in the Hundred Islands. It is known for its white sand beach and crystal clear waters. Visitors can rent a cottage or pitch a tent for an overnight stay. The island also has a zipline and a giant slide for adventure seekers.
Marcos Island
Marcos Island is another must-visit island in the Hundred Islands. It is named after the former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos. Visitors can climb up the island’s viewpoint to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding islands. The island also has a cave that visitors can explore.
Governor’s Island
Governor’s Island is the largest island in the Hundred Islands. It has a lighthouse that offers a stunning view of the park. Visitors can also enjoy various activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and banana boat rides.
Children’s Island
Children’s Island is a small island perfect for families with young children. It has shallow waters and a playground for kids. Visitors can also rent a cottage or pitch a tent overnight.
Scout Island
Scout Island is a small island that is perfect for those who are seeking peace. It has a small beach and a few cottages that visitors can rent overnight.
Pilgrimage Island
Pilgrimage Island, also known as Ramos Island, is named after the former Philippine President Fidel Ramos. It has a large Jesus statue standing on top of a hill. Visitors can climb up to the statue and enjoy a panoramic view of the park.
Virgin Island
Virgin Island is a small island that is perfect for those seeking privacy. It has a small beach and a few cottages that visitors can rent for an overnight stay. The island also has a coral garden that is perfect for snorkeling.
Visitors can explore most of these islands by joining an island hopping tour. The tour usually includes Quezon Island, Marcos Island, Governor’s Island, Children’s Island, and Pilgrimage Island. The tour may not include Scout Island and Virgin Island, but visitors can rent a boat and visit these islands independently.
Activities
Hundred Islands National Park is a perfect destination for those who love adventure and water activities. Here are some of the top activities to do in Hundred Islands:
Swimming
Hundred Islands offers crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming. Visitors can take a dip in the waters and enjoy the refreshing feeling. The park has several beaches ideal for swimming, including Children’s Island, Governor’s Island, and Quezon Island.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities in the Hundred Islands. Visitors can rent snorkeling gear and explore the underwater world. The waters around the islands are teeming with marine life, including colorful fish and coral reefs.
Banana Boat Ride
A banana boat ride is a must-try activity for those who love speed and adventure. Visitors can ride on a banana-shaped inflatable boat and be pulled by a speedboat. It’s a thrilling experience perfect for groups of friends or families.
Zipline
Hundred Islands offers a zipline that takes visitors from one island to another. It’s a great way to enjoy the park’s stunning views while getting an adrenaline rush. The zipline is safe and well-maintained, making it a popular visitor activity.
Cliff Jumping
For the brave and daring, cliff jumping is an activity that will get the heart racing. Visitors can jump off the cliffs into the crystal clear waters below. It’s an exhilarating experience that’s not for the faint of heart.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a great way to explore the islands and enjoy the park’s beauty. Visitors can rent a kayak and paddle around the islands at their own pace. It’s a peaceful and relaxing activity that’s perfect for nature lovers.
Overall, Hundred Islands National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. There’s something for everyone, from swimming and snorkeling to ziplining and cliff jumping. Visitors can also try other water activities like helmet diving and zip-lining.
Fees and Rentals
When planning a trip to the Hundred Islands, knowing the fees and rentals associated with visiting the national park is important. Here is a breakdown of the fees and rentals you can expect to encounter:
Boat Rental
One of the main activities in Hundred Islands is island hopping, which requires boat renting. Small and medium boats are available for rent at the Tourism Information Center in Lucap Wharf. The rates for boat rental vary depending on the size of the boat and the number of islands you want to visit. Negotiating the price with the boatman before renting the boat is advisable.
Entrance Fee
There is an entrance fee to enter the Hundred Islands National Park. As of March 2023, the entrance fee for day tour is PHP 100 per person. Children below 3 feet in height are free of charge. The entrance fee is payable at the Tourism Information Center in Lucap Wharf.
Environmental Fee
In addition to the entrance fee, there is also an environmental fee that visitors must pay. The environmental fee is PHP 30 per person and payable at the Tourism Information Center in Lucap Wharf.
Life Vest Rental
For safety reasons, visitors must wear life vests when riding a boat. Life vests are available for rent at the Tourism Information Center in Lucap Wharf. The rental fee for life vests is PHP 30 per vest.
It is important to note that the fees and rentals are subject to change without prior notice. Visitors are advised to bring enough cash as most transactions are on a cash basis.
Food and Accommodation
When visiting Hundred Islands, there are various options for food and accommodation. Here are some of the options available:
Lunch Options
There are several lunch options available for visitors to Hundred Islands. Some of the popular options include:
- Tupig – A local delicacy made from glutinous rice, coconut milk, sugar, and peanuts. It is wrapped in banana leaves and grilled over charcoal. Tupig is a great option for those who want to try something unique and authentic.
- Seafood – With Hundred Islands being a group of islands, seafood is a popular option. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood such as fish, crabs, and shrimps. Several restaurants offer seafood dishes cooked in different ways.
- Filipino dishes – Visitors can also enjoy traditional Filipino dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and kare-kare. These dishes are available in most restaurants and eateries in the area.
Snacks and Drinks
Several options are available for those who want to grab a quick snack or drink. Some of the popular options include:
- Sari-sari stores – These are small convenience stores offering various snacks and drinks. Visitors can find chips, candies, and other snacks. Sari-sari stores also offer soda, juice, and bottled water drinks.
- Fruit stands – Visitors can also find fruit stands that offer fresh fruits such as mangoes, pineapples, and bananas. These fruits are perfect for a quick snack or to take on a picnic.
- Juice stands – Several juice stands offer fresh fruit juices. Visitors can enjoy mango juice, calamansi juice, and buko juice.
Table Rentals
For those who want to have a picnic or a meal by the beach, there are several options for table rentals. Visitors can rent tables and chairs for a fee. Some of the popular options include:
- Governor’s Island – This island offers several picnic areas with tables and chairs for rent. Visitors can enjoy their meal while overlooking the beautiful view of the islands.
- Quezon Island offers several picnic areas with tables and chairs for rent. Visitors can enjoy their meal while lounging on the beach.
- Alaminos Wharf – Visitors can also rent tables and chairs at the Alaminos Wharf. This is a great option for those who want to have a meal before or after their island hopping tour.
Overall, Hundred Islands has plenty of options for food and accommodation. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes and snacks while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hundred Islands is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant during this time, making it perfect for island hopping and other outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, consider visiting during the off-season from May to October. While there may be occasional rain showers, the islands are still accessible and you will have a better chance of finding discounted rates on accommodations and tours.
Packing Tips
When packing for your trip to Hundred Islands, bring appropriate beachwear such as swimsuits, cover-ups, and sunscreen. You may also want to pack a hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight waterproof jacket for any unexpected rain showers.
It is important to note that the islands have a “leave no trace” policy, meaning you should bring your trash bag and pack out all garbage with you. Additionally, bring enough cash as there are limited ATMs on the islands.
Environmental Responsibility
As mentioned, Hundred Islands has a “leave no trace” policy, which means visitors should be mindful of their environmental impact. This includes properly disposing of all garbage and avoiding activities that can harm the marine ecosystem such as feeding fish or touching coral.
Visitors should also respect the local culture and customs, and avoid bringing or consuming any illegal substances. By following these guidelines, visitors can help preserve the beauty and sustainability of Hundred Islands for future generations to enjoy.
