Exploring the Top 10 Activities to Do in Pangasinan
- Explore Panacalan Island's Sand Bar
- Visit Bolinao Falls
- Indulge in Pangasinan’s Local Delicacies at Great Taste Pigar Pigar Restaurant
- Visit The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag
- Go on an adventure at the Balungao Hilltop Adventure
- Explore the Wonderful Cave in Bolinao
- Relax at Abagatanen Beach
- Island Hopping at Hundred Islands
- Dine at Ciudad Elmina Fishing Village
- Witness Salt Harvesting at Bustria Salt Farm
Pangasinan is bursting with incredible attractions and activities that you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on! Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer laid-back hangouts, Pangasinan has something special for everyone.
We rounded up some of the top activities in Pangasinan. Here are some, for starters!
1. Explore Panacalan Island’s Sand Bar
Address: Brgy. Macaleeng, Anda, Pangasinan
Rates:
- Entrance fee – P5
- Environmental fee – P45
The Panacalan Island’s Sandbar is a must-visit for beach lovers. You can take a walk along the island’s white sand or a quick dip in the island’s surrounding waters.
The sandbar is the perfect place to take your beach-ready photos. Make sure to charge your phone prior and save space for the tons of pics you’ll be taking here!
Pro tip:
Bring some snacks and water – the island doesn’t have food stalls. Keep the wrappers in your bags after eating to avoid leaving a mess on the island.
2. Visit Bolinao Falls
Address: Brgy. Samang Norte, Bolinao, Pangasinan, Philippines
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday, 6 am – 6 pm
Rates:
- Entrance fee for Bolinao Falls 1 – P50
- Entrance fee for Bolinao Falls 2 – P50
- Entrance fee for Bolinao Falls 3 – P20
- Life jacket – P50
When you visit the Bolinao Falls, you have not just one but three waterfalls to choose from! They are all accessible – with the first waterfall just a 30-minute drive from the city and the other two, a few minutes walk from the first waterfall.
Don’t forget your swimsuit and water shoes for a safe and enjoyable experience. Also, consider bringing insect repellent to ward off pesky bugs on your trek to the falls.
Pro tip:
Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the falls all to yourself.
3. Indulge in Pangasinan’s Local Delicacies at Great Taste Pigar Pigar Restaurant
Address: Bonuan, Dagupan, Pangasinan
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday, 8 am – 9 pm
Social media: Facebook
You should definitely drop by Great Taste Pigar Pigar Restaurant and taste local delicacies. The must-tries are “pigar-pigar”, a dish made with thinly sliced carabao meat and veggies, and the “kaleskes”, a soup made with cow or carabao innards.
You can also buy baked goods as souvenirs from Panaderia Antonio. Locals recommend the shop’s Spanish bread.
Pro tip:
Dipping the pigar-pigar meat in soy sauce, calamansi, and chili mixture elevates its flavor. You can also use vinegar as your dipping sauce.
4. Visit The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag
Address: Milo St, Manaoag, Pangasinan
Contact No.: 0995 514 9783
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday, 4 am – 9 pm
Social media: Facebook
The Minor Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Manaoag is a historical and architectural sight worth visiting. Stories mentioned that this church was erected in honor of the Virgin Mary who appeared to a farmer.
Catholics can pray or take part in a pilgrimage in the church. Non-Catholics can still enjoy a trip to this site by appreciating the church’s structure.
Pro tip:
Be mindful of the outside vendors who might charge you higher fees for the goods they sell.
5. Go on an adventure at the Balungao Hilltop Adventure
Address: Mt. Balungao, Pangasinan
Contact No.: (075) 583-8421
Social media: Facebook
Balungao Hilltop Adventure should be on your bucket list if you’re looking for high-adrenaline activities. It offers a lot – from ziplining, rappelling, and all-terrain vehicle driving, to bungee trampoline, hiking, or trail walking.
Once you’re done with your activities of choice, you can soak in the resort’s hot and cold spring swimming pools.
Pro tip:
We recommend the zipline – it’s one of the longest ziplines in the Philippines, measuring 1.4 km.
6. Explore the Wonderful Cave in Bolinao
Address: Patar, Bolinao, Pangasinan
Rates:
- Entrance fee – P100
While smaller than the well-known caves in the north, Bolinao’s Wonderful Cave makes up for its clear waters. It is perfect for swimming or simply floating around!
Make sure to wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty or wet. Bring a waterproof bag too so you can store your change of clothes.
Pro tip:
Bring a flashlight or headlamp to help you navigate the darker parts of the cave.
7. Relax at Abagatanen Beach
Address: Brgy. Macaboboni, Agno, Pangasinan
Contact No.: 0906 474 4331 | 0961 450 8825
Rates:
- Entrance fee – free
The Abagatanen Beach is one of the best beach spots to relax and unwind. This remote spot is the perfect place to escape the city’s noise and bustle.
Your beach essentials, a good book, and meals and refreshments are all you need. Prop a foldable chair or lay down your beach towel and just let the sound of the waves wash your stress away.
Pro tip:
Make sure to take advantage of the beach huts along the shore. You can store your food and valuables in one of them.
8. Island Hopping at Hundred Islands
Address: Alaminos, Pangasinan
Contact No.: 0991 312 3160
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday, 8 am – 5 pm
Social media: Facebook
You can’t end your Pangasinan trip without a visit to the Hundred Islands. You can hop from island to island, snorkel, swim, and see what each island has to offer.
When snorkeling, avoid touching or disturbing the corals. Do your best too to leave the place clean, or cleaner before your visit.
Pro tip:
Hire a local guide to ensure you don’t miss any of the island’s hidden gems.
9. Dine at Ciudad Elmina Fishing Village
Address: Al Fernandez Road, Bacayao Norte 2400 Dagupan City
Contact No.: 0960 346 9124
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday, 11 am – 10 pm
Social media: Facebook
Your seafood cravings are bound to be satisfied when you dine at the Ciudad Elmina Fishing Village. You have a variety of choices to choose from, and they even include vegan options.
The restaurant also has crocodile and fish-feeding activities to keep you entertained while you wait for your meal.
Pro tip:
Don’t be shy to ask for recommendations from the locals. If you have dietary restrictions, let the staff know, too.
10. Witness Salt Harvesting at Bustria Salt Farm
Address: XRCX+243, Dasol, Pangasinan
If you ever wondered how salt is made, then visiting Dasol’s salt farms is a must. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn about the local industry and get your hands a little salty.
The salt farms offer an eco-tour that shows how salt is harvested and produced. You can even take part in the harvesting process!
Pro tip:
The best months to visit the salt farm and see the harvesting process are from December to May.
Ensure that your Pangasinan journey is one for the books. Explore these activities when you take a trip to Pangasinan!
