A Day in Bolinao, Pangasinan

Sometimes, a little break from our usual routine is the very thing we need to relax and clear our minds. And for me, one of the best things to do is a quick escape for a road trip to the beach.

I find long drives or road trips very relaxing, whether I am the one driving or as a passenger. It makes me focus on the road as the driver and appreciate the surroundings as a passenger. It’s like a diversion for me. With no planned itinerary at all, we went to Bolinao, a municipality located at the northernmost tip of western Pangasinan.

We started our journey and left Pampanga at 9 o’clock in the morning. Since we came from Mabalacat, we chose to utilize Mc Arthur Highway instead of using the expressway. We decided to stop by Alaminos, Pangasinan for lunch thinking we were almost there. We got hungry along the way since we did not bring any snacks.

At around 3 in the afternoon, we finally reached Bolinao, Pangasinan. We took a rest for a while and eventually drove our way to Patar Beach which is 30 minutes away from the town proper.

PATAR BEACH

The first thing that I think of whenever I hear about Bolinao is the Patar Beach, which is a known beach destination in the province of Pangasinan. It is a public beach with crystal clear water and cream-colored sand. The beach faces the West Philippine Sea and therefore it has also the best view of the sunset.

We were just in time when we reached Patar Beach. The weather was nice since it’s already late in the afternoon and the sun was about to set. We enjoyed taking photos, dipping ourselves into the water, and just simply relaxed and appreciated the view of the sea.

There is no entrance fee at Patar Beach since it’s a public beach, but there is a parking fee if you happen to be bringing your own vehicle. Cottages are also available which can be rented.

EARLY MORNING AT THE LOCAL MARKET

The next day, we were set to go to the local market to buy freshly caught fishes that we would bring back home. So, we came prepared and brought with us a cooler. If you have been following me in social media, you would notice that a trip to the local market is on my itinerary nowadays especially those places that are near the sea. Thanks to a friend, Kytte, who initially thought of it during one of our quick trips. My dad is always glad of my pasalubong. He likes fish over meat just like Kytte’s parents.

SANTIAGO ISLAND

From the market, we went straight to the port to ride a boat going to Santiago Island to visit Kytte’s grandparents. The boat ride is around 10 minutes for 20 pesos. Yes, it is not that far. The island is part of Bolinao, Pangasinan. It is known for various aquatic activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving. It is also where the Giant Clam Ocean Nursery and Marine Protected Areas are located. Locals simply refer to it as “isla”.

We did not really explore the island. But as we made our way to Kytte’s grandparents, I wondered how we would go back. Tricycle or motorcycle is the means of transportation in this island, and I see few of them. The surrounding is mostly grasses and trees as if the houses are far away or very isolated with each other. Yet, I must say, napakapayak talaga ng pamumuhay nila dito. It will make you realize to appreciate what you have even more.

By the way, did you know that these boats are called “taxi”? This is what the locals call them, and I was not expecting that term to be honest. Kytte’s cousin, Oshen, told me that aside from taking the regular boat to and from Santiago Island with other passengers, we can opt for these small boats. It’s like renting the entire boat. Maximum of 3 passengers per boat according to the bangkero. We did not try the “taxi” since we were a group of 4. I’m not sure though if it is run by motor as well. I forgot to ask.

SAINT JAMES THE GREAT PARISH CHURCH

From Santiago Island, we went back to the town proper and stopped by Saint James the Great Parish Church. This church has withstood a series of calamities throughout the years, which includes an earthquake that damaged the church tower in 1788, a fire incident that burned the convent in 1819, and a typhoon that damaged the roof of the church in 2009. It has then gone through massive repairs and renovations.

Despite all those calamities, I am amazed on how it managed to survive. This is not my first-time hearing stories of churches withstanding calamities encountered. But I must say, old churches such as this in Bolinao do really have a good structural design in a way.

Across the church, you will find the municipal hall in red bricks and behind it is the public market. Also, don’t forget to try “binungey”, a local delicacy in Bolinao. It is a rice cake made of glutinous rice and coconut milk which is steamed in a bamboo over fire. It can be eaten with or without coco jam. There is a vendor near the side gate entrance of the church. It’s where we bought ours. I wish I bought more.

CAPE BOLINAO LIGHTHOUSE

After taking photos and exploring the plaza, we went to see the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse. Perhaps one of the known landmarks in Bolinao is this lighthouse. It is the second highest lighthouse in the Philippines next to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse in Ilocos Norte. Climbing up the staircase of the lighthouse itself is not allowed, but there is a view deck few steps away from the tower where you can have a nice view of the sea and the surroundings.

The lighthouse is nearby and few minutes away from Patar Beach. Entrance fee is 50 pesos. It’s free if you are a resident of Bolinao. The best time to visit is during sunrise and sunset. It was scorching hot when we went.

OLD ROCK RESORT HOTEL

Our last stop before we finally head back home is the Old Rock Resort Hotel. Nature feels as it could be, but from the name itself, Old Rock Resort Hotel is designed with rock patterns.   

I honestly never though that the resort we were about to see was this huge and spacious. I was just thinking of a typical, yet nice and decent resort. The design is very unique. I actually thought of the stone age era but modernized. Not to mention, I thought of the Flintstones too. The scenery is beautiful and relaxing. There are swimming pools, mushroom and stone cottages, and the Old Rock Beach. Yes, it’s a beachfront property. We actually just went here for viewing, which has a fee of 50 pesos per adult. For more information about their day tour rates and room rates, you may refer to the photo below or inquire directly through their Facebook Page, Old Rock Resort Hotel.

You might be wondering why just an overnight stay in Bolinao, Pangasinan, yet there are a lot of things to see and discover in this town like rivers, caves, and waterfalls. But sometimes, it’s not just making the most out of the number of days of your trip by experiencing and squeezing everything in your itinerary. Sometimes it just feels good to have no itinerary at all and just let your feet lead you elsewhere. Simply enjoy the ride and the company of the people you are with. That for me is already enough to unwind.