Bolinao Things to Do Tips by monina_c Top 5 Page for this destination

Visit the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse

This solar powered lighthouse is located on the way to Patar beach. It was locked when we went there and nobody was around to let us into the tower. The running of the lighthouse is a good example of cooperation between the national government and the local government. It is currently being operated/managed by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) but the maintainance of the surrounding area will be the responsibility of the local government unit of Bolinao. I learnt from one local that there is a plan for the old cottage attached to the tower to be rented out as a tourist accomodation.

Cape Bolinao Lighthouse (about 100+ft) is more than a hundred years old and rises 351 feet above sea level at Punta Piedra Point, the sharp point of Cape Bolinao itself. It is said to be the 2nd tallest lighthouse next to Cape Bojeador. The lighthouse was designed primarily to prevent sea disasters and guide fishermen and navigators of inter-island boats and ships plying in and out of Bolinao and on the international ocean passage to Hongkong, Japan, USA and other countries. It's had a colorful life before the advent of modern technology and solar energy! Part of its story is the gallant and skilled attempts of resourceful Filipino technicians who extended the life of the lighthouse despite lack of financial support and shortage of supplies and equipment. But it is also worth noting that the joint efforts of the PCG and Bolinao townspeople have given this lighthouse a new lease on life!

For more information about this landmark of Bolinao please read: article on Cape Bolinao Lighthouse

Address: Abac, Patar, Bolinao, Pangasinan

Visit Patar Beach

Patar Beach is a cream colored sand beach down the road from the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse.
It has good spread of clear sand beach and enough areas for snorkelling. A local told me that the area where the waves break is really the point where the rock shelfs down some 80-100 ft ideal for diving. In fact, on the way to Patar Beach, I spied a PADI certified dive shop.

The resort we went to is one of the cheaper places on the stretch of beach which is okay for a day trip. If you plan an overnight stay, next to it is the more built-up and expensive Treasures of Bolinao.

Address: Patar, Bolinao, Pangasinan

Enchanted Cave

This is a beautiful surprise for me. You can drop by Enchanted Cave on your way to Patar Beach.
Enchanted Cave rivals Hinagdanan Cave in Bohol! The cave is well lit and the water is very clear and a little warmer than that of Hinagdanan's. It is actually one of three caves that is accessible to visitors but is cleaner and deeper than the other two. This cave is located within a privately owned property and is being managed by a family who also built some open sided huts for those who want to stay longer.

Entrance is P10/pax if you're not taking a dip and P30 if you plan to swim in the cave.

Directions: You will pass by Enchanted Cave on your way to Patar Beach.

Eat some "kudin-kudin" (aka sea urchin)

If you get a chance to visit Silaki or any of the islets in Bolinao, ask the locals if you can sample some kudin-kudin (sea urchin). The part of the sea urchin that can be eaten is located under the mouth and consists of the five sexual organs (the ovaries and testicles). It is nutritious (full of protein and fat) and tasty.

The sea urchins harvested in Bolinao are exported to Japan where it is served in sushi bars.

Balingasay River "Cruise"

Balingasay River is reputed to be the cleanest river in the Region so it is really great to be able to explore a part of its length. The water is so clean and despite river traffic, the people still maintain its pristine condition.

There's a lot to see as you sail along the river: century old and new growth mangrove stands, stretches of attap palms (regularly harvested and used to make roofing materials for nipa huts). balete trees hanging into the water, but most specially different species of birds making their home on the top of the trees along the Balingasay.

The river connects the residents of the different barangays to the town of Bolinao. It serves as a "highway" and as you sail along it's length, a lot of curious locals will hail you and exchange greetings and smiles with you.

Address: Balingasay River

Directions: You drive out of the town of Bolinao in the direction of Patar and stop on Balingasay Bridge. You can then rent a boat (we paid P500+++ for ours).

Coordinates:
Latitude (DMS): 16° 21' 37 N
Longitude (DMS): 119° 51' 30 E