Hundred Islands

Hundred Islands Activities

Island Hopping

Pilgrimage Island

Photo courtesy of Miel

This is our first stop for our island hopping in Hundred Islands. Located atop is the 56-foot statue of Christ the Savior. According to our local guide, it’s about 1000 steps to the top before you reach the statue. Furthermore, the pilgrimage island is a spiritual and physical journey, often visited by people seeking both a religious experience and a great view.

On the left part is the Hundred Island Bonsai Garden, known for its collection of small, stunted trees that are shaped and pruned into various forms, creating a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere. We visited Sandal Island a nearby Island connected by a floating walkway from Pilgrimage Island. The Island has a helipad with a picturesque view of Pilgrimage Island.

Cuenco Cave

We had a stopover at Cuenco Cave to experience its ramp jumping. The Cuenco Cave is a walk-in tunnel-like passage connecting two beaches. As you walk through the cave, you’ll notice its fascinating limestone formations. At the exit, a ramp leads directly into the water, providing a unique swimming experience. This location is near Children’s Island.

Quezon Island

Quezon Island is the most visited Island in the Hundred Islands. This island is well-developed, making it a great choice for families or groups who want a comfortable and relaxing experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities here, whether they prefer to go solo or in a group.

This is where we stayed for lunch and did some water activities as well.  I suggest bringing your food and snacks because as expected the prices for food in the Islands are double or sometimes triple as the locals need to travel their supplies from the mainland. Also, it doesn’t hurt if you go around Quezon Island first before going for swimming as there are beautiful spots here that you will surely love.

Governor’s Island

Governor’s Island provides stunning panoramic views of the entire Hundred Islands, establishing it as a premier destination for visitors eager to experience the breathtaking beauty of the archipelago. However, as this was our last island to visit, our strength had long been gone to climb its view deck. However, we stayed on its pebble sand and enjoyed the view of the Island at its neighboring Virgin Island. Additionally, if you want to experience a zipline they have it here for only 500.00 pesos. Governor Islands zipline is longer than what they have in Quezon Island.

Hundred Islands Water Activities

There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy at the Hundred Islands, catering to both thrill-seekers and those looking for a more relaxed experience.

Swimming

You can go swimming in almost all the islands, however, you must choose which islands you want to visit or view from the boat, so you spend most of your time exploring all the beautiful islands. You may visit Children Island a family-friendly spot with gentle waves and shallow waters, ideal for safe swimming for all ages.

Banana Boat

As a group of ten, we decided to do the banana boat. For almost 15 minutes we enjoyed the fun and thrilling experience, as we bounced on waves. It’s a great group activity that adds excitement to our island-hopping experience. A helmet and life jacket are provided for safety.

Snorkeling

The underwater world of the Hundred Islands is not as good as they say. Our boatman takes us to the sort of Coral Garden. However, when I started to dive, I only saw pieces of broken corals, there were a few fish and that’s it. I don’t recommend snorkeling here in Hundred Islands.

Cliff Jumping

We were supposed to check out Marcos Island, where you can get to Imelda Cave and have some fun with cliff jumping. But those huge waves were crashing in that day, so it just wasn’t safe to do it.

Best Time to Visit

To get the most out of your visit to the Hundred Islands, I recommend planning your trip during the dry season, which typically runs from December to May. The weather during this time is perfect for enjoying water activities and island-hopping adventures, making sure you have a memorable experience under the sun.

Getting There

Reaching the Hundred Islands is relatively straightforward. The journey begins with a trip to Alaminos City, Pangasinan, which is approximately a four to five-hour drive from Manila. From there, you can easily hire a boat to take you to the islands, with various tour packages available to suit your preferences.

By Bus:

• From Manila: You can take a bus from major terminals in Manila like Victory Liner or Five Star Bus. These buses have routes directly to Alaminos City.
• Travel Time: The bus ride typically takes 5-6 hours depending on traffic.
• Cost: Bus fares vary, but they generally cost around PHP 350-600 (depending on the class of the bus).

By Car:

• Driving from Manila: If you’re driving, take NLEX (North Luzon Expressway) and follow the signs leading to Tarlac. Then continue towards Pangasinan via McArthur Highway. Follow the signs to Alaminos City.
• Distance: The trip is around 230 kilometers (143 miles) and takes about 5-6 hours, depending on traffic.

About This Tour

Organizer: Juan Budget Tour

FB Account: https://www.facebook.com/juanbudgettour

Name of Tour: Bolinao x Hundred Islands (3D2N)

Price: 3,699.00 / head

INCLUSIONS:

• RT Van Transfers (Manila-Pangasinan-Manila)
• Boat for island Hopping
• Life vest for navigation only
• Air-Conditioned Room Accommodation for sharing
• Fuel/Toll Fees/Parking Fee
• Driver’s Meal/Accommodation
• Lunch (1^st day)
• Breakfast (2^nd and 3^rd day)

Hundred Island Sample Itinerary

DAY 1

6:00 AM – Breakfast

7:30 AM – Start of Island Hopping

8:00 AM – Pilgrimage Island & Sandal Island

9:15 AM – Continue Island Hopping

9:45 AM – Marcos Island (if applicable)

10:45 AM – Governor’s Island

12: 00 PM – Quezon Island

2:30 PM – Cuenco Cave

3:30 PM – Back to Port

Other Expenses

Snorkeling Set + Life vest – 250.00 per head

Banana Boat – 250.00 per head minimum of 6 persons

Essentials

• Waterproof bag
• Sun Protection
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries
• Hat
• Extra clothes
• Extra pocket money
• Camera

Quick Tips

• To minimize expenses, it is advisable to bring your food and snacks, as the prices of goods in the Islands tend to be two to three times higher than their typical market value.
• Mobile networks are scarce in some of the islands, it’s also advisable to carry a power bank to ensure your devices stay charged while you’re exploring.
• Upon registration, you will need to pay a 200.00 deposit for a trash bag. After returning the filled bag, your deposit will be refunded. This “Garbage In, Garbage Out” policy helps keep Hundred Islands clean. Don’t forget to keep your slip to refund your deposit.

Take away:

The Hundred Islands National Park is a true gem of the Philippines, offering a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Though the snorkeling at Coral Garden was disappointing the rest of the tour was a great experience. Til our next trip! #amping