This is your complete comprehensive travel guide for Bolinao, Pangasinan.
If you are planning to do DIY trip to Bolinao, then this guide is best for you! This is also very helpful and resourceful for backpackers and those who are bringing own vehicle to Bolinao.
The town, aside from being a fishing domain, is also a heritage site in the Philippines, possessing an olden church surrounded by heritage houses. The town is also the location of the cave where the gold-teeth Bolinao Skulls with fish scale designs were found. Scholars have been pushing for the town's cultural landscape into the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Some of the well-known sites in Bolinao are the Spanish colonial St. James the Great Parish Church dates from the 1600s, and has an exterior made of black coral stones, the University of the Philippines' Bolinao Marine Laboratory supports the conservation of giant clams and other sea life, and Atop Punta Piedra Point, the 1903 Cape Bolinao Lighthouse overlooks white-sand Patar Beach.
The pool is deep enough for you to jump off the cliff and the water is cool enough to give you a refreshing break from the summer sun. Better yet, it is only 15 minutes from town and there is no entrance fee!
This protected river has 15 hectares of century old and new growth mangroves and 30 hectares of wild ferns, nipa palms, and trees hanging into the water. The river is also teeming with fish, shrimp, crab and more food sources for the locals.
You can check ticket rates via 12go Asia:
Puerto Del Sol is also one of the most famous hotels in Bolinao. It has a Zeen-inspired swimming pool, infinity pool, and children’s pool and Jacuzzi for the complete family. They can also make arrangements to allow you to go kayaking and canoeing. Rooms are air-conditioned and complete with amenities, making it an ideal place for relaxation. (CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY)
Are you adventurous enough? Birdland Beach Club shows promise by providing eco-friendly accommodations for everyone! Who doesn’t want to wake up in the morning without the usual aircon and with a natural stunning view of the sea? This newly-opened resort is becoming a favorite! (CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY)
Looking for beach front accommodation, Find your safe space, inhale peace, exhale happiness at Cocos Beach Resort. The resort is part of Brgy. Ilog Malino just next to Patar. It's part of the barangay's long beach area. (CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY)
IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.
ABOUT BOLINAO
Bolinao, officially the Municipality of Bolinao (Pangasinan: Baley na Bolinao; Ilocano: Ili ti Bolinao; Tagalog: Bayan ng Bolinao), is a 1st class municipality in the province of Pangasinan, Philippines.
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| Bolinao town center |
The town, aside from being a fishing domain, is also a heritage site in the Philippines, possessing an olden church surrounded by heritage houses. The town is also the location of the cave where the gold-teeth Bolinao Skulls with fish scale designs were found. Scholars have been pushing for the town's cultural landscape into the UNESCO World Heritage List.
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There are three (3) versions where the name Bolinao came from. The name of the town could have been derived from the “Pamulinawen” tree which grew in abundance along the beaches. The second story claims that the name of the municipality came from the fish species “monamon” commonly called “Bolinao” by the Tagalogs, Bicolanos and Visayans. The third one is associated with the couple Bolido and Anao. The combination of their names created the name Bolinao, which is the name of the town.
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| In front of St. James the Great Parish |
Some of the well-known sites in Bolinao are the Spanish colonial St. James the Great Parish Church dates from the 1600s, and has an exterior made of black coral stones, the University of the Philippines' Bolinao Marine Laboratory supports the conservation of giant clams and other sea life, and Atop Punta Piedra Point, the 1903 Cape Bolinao Lighthouse overlooks white-sand Patar Beach.
BARANGAYS IN BOLINAO
Bolinao is politically subdivided into 30 barangays.
- Arnedo
- Balingasay
- Binabalian
- Cabuyao
- Catuday
- Catungi
- Concordia (Poblacion)
- Culang
- Dewey
- Estanza
- Germinal (Poblacion)
- Goyoden
- Ilog-Malino
- Lambes
- Liwa-liwa
- Lucero
- Luciente 1.0 (J.Celeste)
- Luciente 2.0
- Luna
- Patar
- Pilar
- Salud
- Samang Norte
- Samang Sur
- Sampaloc
- San Roque
- Tara
- Tupa
- Victory
- Zaragoza
BOLINAO MAJOR SOURCES OF INCOME/LIVELIHOOD
Bolinao is known for their fishing, a major supplier of bangus to Navotas and Malabon small-scale and cottage industries, salt making, rope making, shellcraft, bagoong making, buri mat weaving, dried fish making, charcoal making, bamboo and woodcrafts.
IMPORTANT & KNOWN EVENTS IN BOLINAO
Historians have no exact record on the date Bolinao was created. It was presumed that the town was created by virtue of a Royal Decree of Spain. Records show that it was the year 1575 when Spanish Captain Pedro Lombi founded the first settlement with more or less 100 settlers. The Municipal Council of Bolinao, by virtue of its Resolution No. 104 dated September 19, 1988 adopted July 25, 1575 as the Foundation Day of Bolinao in honor of the Patron Saint of the town, St. James the Great.
Bolinao was made a part of the Province of Pangasinan upon the enactment of Public Act No. 1004 dated November 30, 1903 of the Philippine Commission.
First Mass
On November 18, 2007, Bolinao challenged the belief that the first Mass in the Philippines was held on March 31, 1521, Easter Sunday, at Limasawa in Southern Leyte. Memorial markers (donated by Italian priest Luigi Malamocco, 62, from Odorico's hometown of Friuli, Italy) were set in the town's church and on Santiago Island, claiming that in 1324, Franciscan missionaries led by an Italian priest named Odorico celebrated a thanksgiving Mass thereat and also baptized natives.
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| St. James the Great Parish Marker |
Bolinao Skull
The Bolinao Skull is a skull dated between the 14th and 15th centuries A.D. recovered in the Balingasay archeological site in Bolinao. The Bolinao Skull is the most well known artifact from the site, noted for the intricate gold ornamentation formed in the shape of scales on the surfaces of its teeth. However, 67 other skulls containing teeth with less extensive gold ornamentation were also found at the Balingasay site. The skull is now displayed within the National Museum of Anthropology in Manila.
My Personal Visit to Bolinao
The first and the last time I visited Bolinao was in 2015 where my travel buddies (TB Boys) planned a 2-day trip in Alaminos and the neighboring town.
We started our trip at midnight taking a bus ride (Five Star Bus) from Cubao to Alaminos City. We spend all our morning touring the Hundred Islands before we took a 2-hour van ride to Bolinao in the afternoon.
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| Strolling around Bolinao town center |
At around 3-ish, we arrived in Bolinao town proper. Here, we opted to have a short walk tour and bought some essentials from Bolinao Public Market.
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| Public Market in Bolinao |
While walking, we visited the historical Saint James the Great Parish Church AKA Bolinao Church. So we dropped by and took some photos, then we had a little snack from vendors around the area.
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| Saint James the Great Parish facade |
Before we go to Bolinao, we made sure to reserve an accommodation for smooth transfer. We chose Cocos Beach Resort for our overnight stay in Bolinao. It's almost sundown when we arrived at the resort. So it's chill time for us. :)
At night, a bonfire is perfect by the beach. Just ask the caretaker for options when you get there. The rest of the evening was story telling, soundtrip and sleep.
On our second day, we woke up early, had our breakfast before we started our day tour to nearby tourist attractions along Patar Road. Since we were backpacking, we asked our resort for an available tricycle to tour us around in a day for P1,000
First off our list was Rock View Beach. It was about 15 minutes away from our resort. Here, we spent almost an hour exploring the rock formation and the wonders of the whole beach. We probably had most of our photos here.
Our next destination was the rocky hill Punta Piedra Point where the majestic Cape Bolinao Lighthouse is standing for a hundred years. Since it wasn't allowed to enter inside the lighthouse, we just stayed a little and had some ice cream before we headed to our next stop.
A few meters away from the lighthouse is Patar Beach which is one of the main attractions in Bolinao. Since it is entrance free (we only paid for the parking fee for the tricycle), we made sure to stay longer and enjoy ourselves with it cold pristine waters. It was Sunday, so a flock of tourists were there to spend more time by the beach.
Although it's called white sand beach, Patar Beach for me has yellowish sand, instead.
Last on our itinerary was visiting Enchanted Cave. Bolinao has at least 3 resorts that has cave systems and underground cold spring in them. However, Enchanted Cave was highly recommended by our tour guide even it has the most expensive entrance fee compared to others.
Well, expectation-versus-reality wise, Enchanted Cave did not disappoint us. We went in to its cave where we swam to its underground spring and had some time relaxing from their hammocks. We also learned that this place is home to fossils of giant clam where my friends saw a few from snorkeling in the Hundred Islands.
Big thanks to our guide (tricycle driver) who looked over our things during our tour.
After our tour in the morning, we checked out from Cocos Beach Resort then headed back to town center to have our final meal in Bolinao.
We had our lunch at Adora's Restaurant, one of the well-known food places in town. We the usual Filipino dishes aside from Dinakdakan, which is an Ilocano dish.
Then we went back to Victory Liner bus terminal for a ride to Metro Manila.
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| Afternoon chill at Cocos Beach |
At night, a bonfire is perfect by the beach. Just ask the caretaker for options when you get there. The rest of the evening was story telling, soundtrip and sleep.
On our second day, we woke up early, had our breakfast before we started our day tour to nearby tourist attractions along Patar Road. Since we were backpacking, we asked our resort for an available tricycle to tour us around in a day for P1,000
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| Rock View Beach |
First off our list was Rock View Beach. It was about 15 minutes away from our resort. Here, we spent almost an hour exploring the rock formation and the wonders of the whole beach. We probably had most of our photos here.
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| Me at and Cape Bolinao Lighthouse in the background |
Our next destination was the rocky hill Punta Piedra Point where the majestic Cape Bolinao Lighthouse is standing for a hundred years. Since it wasn't allowed to enter inside the lighthouse, we just stayed a little and had some ice cream before we headed to our next stop.
A few meters away from the lighthouse is Patar Beach which is one of the main attractions in Bolinao. Since it is entrance free (we only paid for the parking fee for the tricycle), we made sure to stay longer and enjoy ourselves with it cold pristine waters. It was Sunday, so a flock of tourists were there to spend more time by the beach.
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| You can stay at Patar Beach for free! |
Although it's called white sand beach, Patar Beach for me has yellowish sand, instead.
Last on our itinerary was visiting Enchanted Cave. Bolinao has at least 3 resorts that has cave systems and underground cold spring in them. However, Enchanted Cave was highly recommended by our tour guide even it has the most expensive entrance fee compared to others.
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| The natural spring inside Enchanted Cave |
Well, expectation-versus-reality wise, Enchanted Cave did not disappoint us. We went in to its cave where we swam to its underground spring and had some time relaxing from their hammocks. We also learned that this place is home to fossils of giant clam where my friends saw a few from snorkeling in the Hundred Islands.
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| Giant clam fossils |
Big thanks to our guide (tricycle driver) who looked over our things during our tour.
After our tour in the morning, we checked out from Cocos Beach Resort then headed back to town center to have our final meal in Bolinao.
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| Adora's Restaurant |
Then we went back to Victory Liner bus terminal for a ride to Metro Manila.
Best Time To Visit Bolinao
For me, the best time to visit Bolinao is from December to May. These months are the driest in the Pangasinan.
Although we went to Bolinao on a weekend, I still prefer to spend a day or two here during weekdays.
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| Patar Beach during the day |
What To Wear in Bolinao
Pangasinan is under the tropical weather of the Philippines, so the best outfit for your travel to Bolinao is a comfy shirt (or any top), shorts (or skirt for women) and flipflops for your feet (shoes are just fine, too). You may also want to bring umbrella and/or cap to protect you from harsh sunlight (or rain just in case). Of course, wear your best sunscreen for your skin and always bring something to drink to hydrate all the time.
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| The gang at Cocos Beach |
WHAT TO BRING FOR BOLINAO
Here are some things you might consider bringing with you for your day tour / adventure:
- Stylish face mask
- Water container/tumbler to rehydrate
- Sunscreen for skin protection
- Goggles for swimming or snorkeling
- Stylish Swimsuit
- Travel backpack / luggage
- Reusable vacuum storage packs
- Selfie stick
- Waterproof phone case
- Acion cam
- Camping tent
- WiFi kit
- Power bank
Shopee is my go-to app for things I needed like the ones above. If you'd like discounts and vouchers, you may get the best offers here:
HISTORICAL SITES AND TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN BOLINAO
Here are other main tourist spots which are not mentioned above (because we did not we have enough time) to visit Bolinao:
Bolinao Falls
Bolinao Falls is one of the only waterfalls in Luzon with a glowing turquoise pool of water! The falls jet down from 2-stories high into an expansive swimming pool below where you can play all day. There are varying depths to this large pool that will suit all swimming levels, including a partially submerged rock platform and even steps to climb into the pool. To reach the falls, enjoy a quick and easy 5-10 minute hike.
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| Bolinao Falls picnic area |
Despite having come in second place with its name, Bolinao Falls 2 is number one in terms of pure awesomeness. This natural waterfall and swimming pool looks more like an outdoor waterpark than an act of nature. The main waterfall is huge both in height and length. The pools are deep so go ahead and cliff dive from above. There are mini rock islands all throughout the pool where you can climb.
Tara Falls
Aside from the cascades of Bolinao Falls, this another waterfall in Tara is an oasis in the middle of the jungle is so serene and peaceful.
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| Tara Falls |
The pool is deep enough for you to jump off the cliff and the water is cool enough to give you a refreshing break from the summer sun. Better yet, it is only 15 minutes from town and there is no entrance fee!
Balingasay River
Dubbed “the cleanest river in Luzon”, the Balingasay River is an environmental community project for the local government. They want to ensure that wild animal species living here, including lots of migratory birds, thrive and that pollution doesn’t affect the ecosystem.
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| Balingasay River |
This protected river has 15 hectares of century old and new growth mangroves and 30 hectares of wild ferns, nipa palms, and trees hanging into the water. The river is also teeming with fish, shrimp, crab and more food sources for the locals.
HOW TO GET TO BOLINAO
You can get to Bolinao via bus or by your own vehicle. Here are some important guidelines for you that will help you get there.
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| Bolinao Tourism Bulletin/Guide |
By Bus
Generally, there are three main bus service providers who organize trips to Bolinao, Pangasinan. They offer both day and night services. You can make your bookings on an AC or non AC bus. It’s all up to you. You can just go directly or call these Bus operators listed below:
- Victory Liner (Cubao Terminal)
- Five Star Bus Inc. (Pasay Terminal)
- Dagupan Bus Line (Cubao Terminal)
You can check ticket rates via 12go Asia:
Travel time to Bolinao
It takes 5 to 6 hours to reach this town. If you are traveling by bus, stopovers would be at Dau, Tarlac, and Alaminos. Make sure to carry some food along with you. In order to get trip plans, ticket booking, and other important details, you might get in touch with the bus service providers. Upon reaching Bolinao town proper, you would have to take a tricycle in order to reach your hotel or resort.
Read my complete commuting guide to Bolinao for more details.
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| Bolinao Town Proper on weekend |
By Private Car
It is one of the best and convenient ways to reach Bolinao. If you have your own car then you won’t have to worry about the time. You can tour around freely. You can take the Subic, Clark, and Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) route in order to view the scenic beauty of the landscapes of Bolinao. If you don’t have a private vehicle, you can rent a car or van here.
ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA
Klook.comWHERE TO EAT IN BOLINAO
Here's a list of restaurants to dine at in Bolinao:
- Bolinao Seafood Grill (meal for 2 - Php 400)
- Sungayan Grill (meal for 2 - Php 600)
- Giant Taklobo Seafood and Grill (meal for 2 - Php 500)
- Adora's Restaurant (meal for 2 - Php 400)
NOTE: Most of the restaurants are located in town center.
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| Dinakdakan, an Ilocano dish |
We chose to dine-in at Adora's Restaurant on our 2nd day before heading back to Manila. Food here was great! I give 4/5!
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLINAO
Most of the accommodation found in Bolinao are located along its coastline. Here's a list of resorts you may consider booking in Bolinao:
- Punta Riviera Resort - Check Rates & Availability
- Puerto Del Sol Resort and Hotel - Check Rates & Availability
- Sundowners Vacation Villas - Check Rates & Availability
- Rock Garden Bolinao - Check Rates & Availability
- G Beach Resort - Check Rates & Availability
- Casa Almarenzo Bed & Breakfast Resort - Check Rates & Availability
- Ilog Malino Resort - Check Rates & Availability
- Treasures of Bolinao - Check Rates & Availability
- Birdland Beach Club - Check Rates & Availability
- Cocos Beach Resort - Check Rates & Availability
Puerto Del Sol Resort and Hotel
Address: Barangay Ilog Malino, Bolinao, Pangasinan, Philippines
Phone: +63 2 8710 7371
Mobile: +63 917 554 2859
Phone: +63 2 8710 7371
Mobile: +63 917 554 2859
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| Puerto Del Sol Resort and Hotel |
Puerto Del Sol is also one of the most famous hotels in Bolinao. It has a Zeen-inspired swimming pool, infinity pool, and children’s pool and Jacuzzi for the complete family. They can also make arrangements to allow you to go kayaking and canoeing. Rooms are air-conditioned and complete with amenities, making it an ideal place for relaxation. (CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY)
Birdland Beach Club
Address: Long Beach Street Barangay, Bolinao, 2406 Pangasinan
Phone: 0977 807 4794
Phone: 0977 807 4794
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| Birdland Beach Club |
Are you adventurous enough? Birdland Beach Club shows promise by providing eco-friendly accommodations for everyone! Who doesn’t want to wake up in the morning without the usual aircon and with a natural stunning view of the sea? This newly-opened resort is becoming a favorite! (CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY)
Cocos Beach Resort
Address: Ilog-Malino,Bolinao,Pangasinan 2406
Phone: 0927 480 7331 / 0919 691 4206
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| Cocos Beach Resort |
Looking for beach front accommodation, Find your safe space, inhale peace, exhale happiness at Cocos Beach Resort. The resort is part of Brgy. Ilog Malino just next to Patar. It's part of the barangay's long beach area. (CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY)
ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN MANILA
Bolinao 2D1N Itinerary
Here's my suggested 2-day (and a night) itinerary for Bolinao (with or w/o private vehicle):
DAY 1
07:00AM Breakfast in Bolinao, shop for essentials
08:15AM Enchanted Cave (including 20-minute transfer from town)
09:00AM Wonderful Cave
09:45AM Cindy Cave
10:30AM Rock View Beach viewing
11:00AM Cape Bolinao Lighthouse
12:00NN Lunch at your resort or cottage (optional: Balingasay River Cruise)
01:00PM Free time
03:00PM Patar Beach
06:00PM Dinner & free time
10:00PM Sleep
DAY 2
07:00AM Breakfast
08:30AM Bolinao Falls or Tara Falls
11:00AM Early Lunch (Adora's Restaurant)
12:00NN Walk Tour around town proper (St. James the Great Parish, Bolinao Museum)
NOTE: Your schedule can be changed or adjusted depending on the duration of your stay per tourist attraction.
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| Low tide beauty of Cocos Beach |
Bolinao Trip Budget and Expenses
This is an approximate budget per person for your tour to Bolinao:
- Php 1,000/1,200 – 2-way bus fare
- Php 500 – Accommodation (Php 2,000 for 4pax)
- Php 500/Php 1,000 – Food
- Php 300/500 – Tricycle Tour (Php 1,500 for 4pax)
- Php 200 – Enchanted Cave entrance fee
- Php 70 – Rock View Beach entrance fee
- Php 100 – Wonderful Cave entrance fee
- Php 100 – Cindy’s Cave entrance fee
- Php 100 – Bolinao Falls 1 & 2 entrance fee
TOTAL EXPENSE PER HEAD: P3,770
The following places are free entrance:
- Cape Bolinao Lighthouse
- Patar Beach
- St. James the Great Parish
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| Rock View Beach facing West Philippine Sea |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bolinao
What is Bolinao known for?
Bolinao is known for its beautiful waterfalls, white sand beaches, stunning rock formations, and Cape Bolinao Lighthouse. But Bolinao doesn't get nearly as much attention as Cebu, Boracay, or Palawan. So if you want to enjoy uncrowded beach destinations, here are the top beach resorts in Bolinao.
Is Bolinao a province?
Bolinao is a municipality in the province of Pangasinan. It is approximately 375 km by land from Manila.
What is the language in Bolinao, Pangasinan?
The Bolinao language or Binubolinao is a Central Luzon language spoken primarily in the municipalities of Bolinao and Anda, Pangasinan in the Philippines. It has approximately 50,000 speakers, making it the second most widely spoken Sambalic language. Most Bolinao speakers can speak Pangasinan and Ilocano.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The rates, contact details and other information indicated in this post are accurate from the time of writing but may change without IMFWJ's notice. Should you know the updated information, please message us on Facebook.Bolinao map Feedback bolinao resorts bolinao tourist spot bolinao patar beach bolinao falls bolinao beach bolinao language
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