Whenever we think about a quick beach getaway that is near Metro Manila, Pangasinan easily comes to mind. Well, that's because Pangasinan is home to several beaches that can be described as both raw and beautifully rugged, making the province a popular weekend hideout to adventurers from all over the country. Situated north of Metro Manila,
Pangasinan is a few hours from the capital via land travel.
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The 12 Best Beaches In Pangasinan
About Pangasinan
Pangasinan is best-known for its salt production (its name was derived from
the word “asin,” the local vernacular for salt), the industry, as well as being home
to some of the best dried seafood, fish sauces, and shrimp paste in the
country. While Pangasinan has a lot more to offer to travelers, such as its
festivals and historic sites, its stunning beaches are what lure in
adventurers.
I have been to Pangasinan several times, some years before, but my most unforgettable trips were during college for fieldwork. Bolinao, in particular, left a good impression on me because of a secluded beach that we visited.
A word of caution, though, jellyfish are abundant in many Pangasinan beaches (I was a victim of a jellyfish sting in San Fabian), so be sure to take extra precaution when swimming in these waters. Wear a rash guard, foot protection, use jellyfish, and bring first-aid kits.
How to go to Pangasinan
To go to Pangasinan via TPLEX, then make an exit to your destination-of-choice in Pangasinan. If you are commuting, you can take any Pangasinan-bound Victory Liner or Five Star Bus either in Cubao or Pasay City.
Best beaches to visit in Pangasinan
My very first beach getaway was in Pangasinan, and that is possibly the reason why this province is unforgettable to me. My love for beaches grew during my very first trip to Pangasinan. Then, when I was in college, I had a fieldwork in Pangasinan, particularly in Bolinao and the Hundred Islands. For most people, they consider the Hundred Islands as Pangasinan’s prized tourist spot, but here
are the top twelve beaches in the province that I would also highly recommend that you check:
1. Patar Beach
Location: Bolinao, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Patar Beach is best known for its white sand and cerulean waters. Be careful when swimming, though, because the beach is a little rocky, so it’s advisable to wear aqua shoes. There is also a portion of the beach with big waves that are perfect for surfing.
The segment of the beach that is calmer is perfect for children because of the shallow water. As a precaution, though, always accompany your children in the water. Other sites to see in the area are the lighthouse and the Enchanted Cave.
I also like that there are still numerous secluded and undeveloped beaches in Bolinao. I've been to some of these in my college years, and they were easy to reach if you ask the help of some locals.
2. Tondol Beach
Location: Anda, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Tondol Beach is calm and has relatively shallow water even during high tide, which is why it is described by many travelers as child-friendly. Again, a word of caution to parents, please do not leave your children to swim on their own, even in shallow water.
3. Tondaligan Beach
Location: Dagupan, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Tondaligan Beach is open to the public and is a recommended place for those who are on a budget. It is perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls to enjoy the sea air, or a quick dip in seawater.
4. Bolo Beach
Location: Alaminos City, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Bolo Beach is known for being a peaceful and slow-paced destination in
Alaminos City. There are several resorts that travelers may opt to try out. One of the most popular activities here is the affordable boat ride to the iconic Hundred
Islands.
5. San Fabian Beach
Location: San Fabian, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
I have been to San Fabian Beach during a family trip when I was still in college. It’s a pocket-friendly destination, nothing really fancy that time.
We just rented a cottage, and we were all set. Nowadays, prices have gone up, but it’s still good for quick getaways with big groups.
Fresh seafood can be bought from local sellers and can simply be grilled over hot coals for a
delicious feast. Sand color ranges from dark gray to black, indicating that it is volcanic in origin.
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6. Bonuan Blue Beach
Location: Dagupan, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Bonuan Blue Beach is perfect for those who just want a quick getaway and enjoy a dose of sun, sand, and sea. There are resorts and hotels around the area if you are looking to spend a night or two here.
The prices are generally affordable, so that is another advantage if you choose to go to Bonuan Blue Beach.
Quick fact: Bonuan Blue Beach has a significant place in Philippine history because this is where General Douglas MacArthur first landed in the Philippines.
7. Agno Beach
Location: Agno, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Agno Beach is famous among travelers for its clear waters and stunning views.
It is also ideal for travelers who are on a budget because almost all accommodation, as well as local produce, are easy-on-the-pocket.
The best way to enjoy your stay here is to buy local seafood and have it cooked to your liking. There are secluded spots if you want some peace and quiet. You can snorkel there or just enjoy the sun and water.
At dusk, treat yourself to stunning sunsets as you relax to the sound of gentle waves. However, please bear in mind that amenities in those locations are sparse or almost nonexistent.
8. Abagatanen Beach
Location: Agno, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Abagatanen Beach features cream-colored sand and glistening, crystal clear waters. This location is advisable for those who are looking for a destination that is not overly-developed.
Abagatanen Beach is beautiful on its own without the need for fancy resorts or establishments. While there are cottages, bring food with you as there are no restaurants in the area. Local produce can be bought, but availability is not assured.
9. Cabacungan Cove
Location: Tambobong Beach, Dasol, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Cabacungan Cove is one of the finest destinations in Pangasinan for those seeking adventure. There is a cave in the area that features a deep natural pool inside.
Cliff diving can be done atop the cave. There are also no resorts or developments in the area; it is nature in its pure, unadulterated glory.
10. Tobouan Beach
Location: Alaminos City, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Tobouan Beach is for those who are looking for less crowded locations. As with most beaches in Pangasinan, this stretch of sand is devoid of any structures or developments, save for some houses and cottages around the area.
Some travelers have warned that tides can get high, so take note of this when swimming. Get out of the water if you feel that waves and currents are getting strong.
11. Osmeña White Beach
Location: Dasol, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
12. Surip Beach
Location: Bani, Pangasinan
What the beach is known for:
Surip Beach is best known for its stunning rock formations and pilgrimage site. Save for a few cottages, you will be treated to pure, gorgeous views of the beach and the West Philippine Sea. Do not worry about expenses, as most of the stretch of beach is open to the public.
Epilogue
Consider any of these Pangasinan beaches when you are looking for destinations near Manila. Most of these do not feature any amenities or posh resorts, but they are sure to offer you an indelible experience.
Done reading this blog po. Talagang Ang Dami pong magagandang beach sa pangasinan and isa din po sa mga gusto ko itong puntahan Lalo na kapag summer dahil ang gaganda ng mga beach and highly-recommended by travelers din ito 🥰
Thank you for sharing complete details po dadi iv. amazing po 12 beaches talaga in Pangasinan😍 and lahat parang ganda puntahan para ma experience ko mismo sa personal yung bawat beach nila🤗 hoping po someday 🤗.
Apparently we try to explore one of them ,we are living in the north ,it was just few Miles away from our province.
Wow!! Ang dami din pala mapapasyalan sa PANGASINAN.. Taga PANGASINAN asawa ko, pero never pako nakapunta sa Mga beach hihihi.. Ganda pala mag punta dito. Siguradong mag eenjoy talaga tayo. Worth it po ang pag punta dito. 🥰
I haven't visit pangasinan yet. I am amazed that it has a lot of beautiful beaches to offer. I would love to explore these with my loved ones.
Wow... grabe dami din pala talagang magagandang Beach Resort jan sa Pangasinan, Good to Know This, thanks sa pagShare nito Dad Defenitly Must Visit Po talaga alinman sa mga yan, dahil siguradong MagEenjoy ka.. at napaka Perfect pang buong pamily at Barkada ..
Just FYI, Im from Pangasinan, and to clarify Bonuan Blue Beach was not where General MacArthur landed but actually in Lingayen. In fact, there are still remnants of WWII planes and tanks on the city proper of Lingayen. Alongside by the beach, are also some commemorative pictures of Gen. MacArthur.
Thank you so much for sharing that information!