More than just a paradise

Why you should visit Bolinao and visit it NOW

People have talked and written about Bolinao countless times. In the Internet alone, numerous bloggers have shared their experiences and unforgettable moments in this dazzling town in the province of Pangasinan.

Getting bombarded with stories about the place, perhaps it is time that you finally pack your bags and visit the town.

Taking public transport, you will reach Bolinao in approximately five hours and a half from Manila. Bus trips from terminals in Pasay City and Cubao, Quezon City are available daily. Just remember to check the schedules while planning your trip.

Surely, though, your trip will be shorter if you are to use a private vehicle. Just make it sure to thoroughly check your car or SUV before hitting the road as a precaution against inconveniences.

What to expect

You will not be staying forever in Bolinao, so, just like what we always say when travelling, “make the most out of it!” Explore every corner and discover more adventures than what others have unearthed.

Upon arrival on the town proper, do not forget to visit St. James the Great Parish, a church built by the Augustinians in 1609. Some parts of the building had been restored like the belfry, but the walls have been left untouched.

The facade of St. James the Great Parish

A peak inside the centuries-old church

According to a staff of the tourism office, live rocks from the sea were used in building the church. That explains the sprouting plants from the façade.

A few yards from the parish, to its left side, is an underground tunnel built during the Spanish Era. Called the Spanish Well, it stretches all the way to the church—some sort of a secret passage. Locals believe that it ends on the sea as it is filled with water.

If these sights pique your interest in Bolinao’s history, and if you are loquacious enough, talk to some locals and ask them to tell you more about the town. Knowing about past stories of a place and understanding its culture are keys to being able to move around comfortably and enjoying your stay.

These may be considered side trips, but they are of equal importance as your main getaway–definitely worth your time.

The highlight of your Bolinao adventure is of course on its beach particularly in Brgy. Patar, a 15- to 20-minute drive from the town proper where tricycle cabs can be hired.

Reaching paradise

Lining up the road to Patar are resorts, inns and cottages with rooms that can be rented for an overnight stay.

Prices on budget resorts range from P1,000 to P3,000 which depends on the size and capacity of the rooms. During the peak season, however, prices are twice higher than the original.

But, mid- to high-end resorts offer fixed rates which you can check out on their websites.

Patar White Sand Beach, the most talked about and most visited, can be found on the far end of Patar. Souvenir items like tees and key chains are sold on the area.

A public beach though it is, be warned that you practically pay for almost everything and every move that you make around. Expect fixed rates for parking, use of toilet and shower room, and cottages.

This part can be found at Bing's Beach Resort where accommodation is very affordable. For as low as P1,500, you can get an air-conditioned room for four. Prices, however, double during the peak season. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

Photo by Khrix Orpilla

But, you will never mind these fees once you see the sparkling clear water of the beach and the inviting waves hitting the shore.

Watching over

At the peak of Punta Piedra Point, watching over the vast West Philippine Sea, stands the majestic Cape Bolinao Lighthouse built in 1905 by Filipino, British, and American engineers.

Even though it looks abandoned, the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse stands majestically on Punta Piedra Point, catching each tourist in utter awe. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

The 30.78-meter lighthouse, the second tallest in the Philippines next to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Ilocos Norte, has been an iconic trademark of Bolinao and it is another must visit in every tourist’s itinerary.

On the view deck at Cape Bolinao, your jaw will drop at the sight of the vast West Philippine Sea and the hazy horizon meeting the clear blue sky. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

Bathing in caves

Just when you are thinking that you have enjoyed everything in Bolinao, the caves will go screaming, “No!” Your Bolinao getaway will never be complete without visiting its three caves namely Enchanted Cave, Cindy’s Cave and Wonderful Cave.

The enticing crystal clear water of the Enchanted Cave will make each living cell in your body shiver as you plunge into it. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

An added amenity at the Enchanted Cave is this man-made pool where you may also take a plunge. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

You may also bring some snacks and share them with the whole family and with your travel buddies in the cottages. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

Wonderful Cave. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

Cindy's Cave which, for me, was a bit creepy. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

These, however, are not the types that you can explore. They are just domes with crystal clear water which you can plunge into.

Since the caves are nestled on private properties, appropriate fess should be paid accordingly.

The inviting serenity inside the caves will build up calmness in your being. Just brace yourself for the cold water because upon touching your skin, it will surely make every nerve in your body shiver.

Happy tummy

Part of every vacation is food and Bolinao will absolutely not disappoint you.

Seafood restaurants and other diners offering Western and Filipino cuisines are all over Bolinao.

Whether you want to enjoy the serene and picturesque Balingasay River while eating on a floating restaurant, or indulge in your seafood on a backyard-garden set up, the town will clearly make your tummy happy.

Have your seafood overload in Bolinao and make that tummy the happiest in the world. Photo by Khrix Orpilla

One delicacy you must never forget to taste is binongey, a bamboo rice cake. It is made of glutinous rice (malagkit) cooked in a mixture of coconut milk and sugar in a bamboo shaft.

You can find vendors selling this treat outside St. James the Great Parish.

The hustle-and-bustle of city life and stress emanating from work are good reasons to take a break and enjoy nature. A getaway in a faraway place is one effective breather which will help your mind relax and your body regain its strength.

In a place like Bolinao where there is an abundance of natural wonders to enjoy, your spirit and passion will definitely get replenished.

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Published on FOCUS.