Situated in Pangasinan, Bolinao is a popular weekend destination because of its accessibility from Manila and nearby cities in the north. There are regular bus trips from either Cubao or Pasay. The ride takes about 6-7 hours per way. The fare is around P351 to P469, depending on the bus type and company.
Other than its location, Bolinao attracts visitors because of its golden colored shores, waterfalls, old churches, and natural attractions. This 1st class municipality has a long history that dates back to the 1570s. If you’re traveling north and making a stop here, these are some of the things you can do and places to check out during your visit.
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Patar Beach
Patar is your likely first and last stop because this is where many guesthouses and resorts are. It also has a beautiful, cream-colored shore and nice warm (or sometimes cool) waters to take a relaxing dip in. Go sunbathing, swimming or just chill by the beach after a day of exploring nearby attractions. Don’t miss the stunning sunset during your visit. You can have a picnic or barbecue here but always leave no trace behind.
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Cape Bolinao Lighthouse
If you’re fond of lighthouses, add this to your itinerary. The lighthouse is near Patar Beach and is a likely stop on your trip around the municipality. Go up to the viewing deck which is around 70m high to get bird’s eye views of the sea and surroundings. This spot makes for perfect photo ops.
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Short Trip to Rock View Beach Resort
This resort is a possible place to spend the night in, or just for a brief day trip for P75. You pay to get stunning views of rock formations and the sea. Nature’s rugged and raw beauty is on display from the nearby cliffs. This destination is also a good place to watch the sunrise (if you can wake up early) or sunset. Dip in one of the natural rock pools to douse the mid-morning or afternoon heat. Take tons of photos before going to your next stop.
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Bolinao Falls 1
This waterfall is one of the most picturesque in Luzon with its rock formations and emerald-tinged waters. The waters gush from a moss-covered rock surface into a natural pool below. Swim in the cool waters to rejuvenate your body for another couple of hours exploring Bolinao. Once you reach the parking area, there is a short (around 10 minutes) walk to the waterfall. There is a P50 entrance fee.
Bolinao Falls 2
This attraction is aptly called Bolinao Falls 2. It has natural pools and mini cliffs you can use as diving boards into the waters below. There’s usually a crowd here so try going early or on a weekday. Entrance fee is around P50 and P20 for the parking fee. There are cabanas for rent at around P300 which you may use to rest or have a picnic.
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St. James Church
This relic of the Spanish colonial epoch has been around since the Augustinians built it in the early 1600s. It has withstood the test of time and natural disasters. Its withered exterior doesn’t diminish its meaning and significance to the churchgoers of Bolinao. Look for the local delicacy ‘binongey’ (rice cake in coconut cream steamed in bamboo) while you’re here.
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Enchanted Cave
If you’re looking for something different during your trip around Bolinao, visit the caves. Enchanted Cave is a popular attraction. One of its chambers has a pool. You’ll also see the usual stalactites and stalagmites typical of subterranean wonders. There’s a P20 fee to swim in the underground natural pool and a P150 entrance fee.
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Wonderful Cave
This small cave is another attraction to include in your itinerary. It may be small in size, but it has beautiful subterranean rock formations. There is also cave pool where you can swim in. This is a family-friendly cave that has rails and paved paths. There’s a P100 entrance fee.
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Balingasay River
During your trip, why not go on a cruise on one of the cleanest rivers in Luzon? This attraction has a rich and thriving ecosystem that consists of several hectares wide ferns and mangroves, and other plants. You’ll also have multiple chances to see different kinds of migratory birds. The cruise starts at P1000.
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Touring Bolinao
The easiest way to explore Bolinao is to hire a tricycle with a driver because public transport takes longer and does not always pass by attractions. Once you alight at the station, it’ll cost P250 to reach your accommodation in Patar. A whole day tour is around P1500. The tricycle can accommodate up to 4 persons. Better bring friends or look for others to travel with to save money.
Where to Stay
You’ll likely stay in Patar as most accommodations are near the beach. Some resorts and guesthouses allow guests to pitch a tent for a fee, which is around P150. Some places provide cottage accommodation for P500. These are basic and not for the choosy and fussy. If you are willing to splurge, Puerto del Sol and Treasures of Bolinao are two of your options. Here are some of the top hotels in Bolinao as rated by Agoda users, in no particular order.
- Puerto Del Sol Resort. β CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Villa Soledad Beach Resort. β CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Punta Riviera Resort. β CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Casa Almarenzo Bed and Breakfast Resort. β CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
For more options, search here: Bolinao Hotels
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Thank you for this. We will visit bolinao today and this help me a lot to have an idea where to go π