A Weekend In Pundaquit

Sponsored Links

My friend Ge, who is currently working in China, went home last May. He badly wanted a beach break, so the usuals (Dan, Lor, Do, Ge and I) decided to have an overnight stay in Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales. Why Pundaquit? Well first, it's near Manila (around 3 hours drive only) and second, we wanted to go to Anawangin Cove (to see what the fuss is all about).

We left Manila around 4am and had a stopover breakfast at North Luzon Expressway (NLEX). After breakfast, we continued driving through NLEX and then we exited at Dau. From Dau, we entered the newly constructed Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTex). This highway is beautiful. The view is just breathtaking and because there were very few cars, it felt like we were alone in the whole highway.

At Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (taken May 16, 2009)

After exiting the highway in Subic, we drove for about 1 hour more before finally arriving in San Antonio, Zambales. We checked in at Sir Williams Cottage (around P2500 for 5 people, contact number 09183433717) and rented their bangka (P1300 for 5 people) to go island hopping. Our jump off point: Pundaquit Beach.

Pundaquit Beach (taken May 16, 2009)

From Pundaquit Beach, it took us around 10-15 minutes to reach Camara Island. This island has white sand beach but don't expect powdery Boracay-like sand. In low tide, you can also walk towards the whale-like rock formation near the island. Just be careful since you will be walking on rocks and it gets a little slippery. If you plan to go to the rock, keep your gadgets in a water proof container or don't bring them with you anymore.

Camara Island (taken May 16, 2009)

After Camara Island, we went to Capones Island. The sand here is finer than that of Camara's but still not that fine. This island is also known for its lighthouse, but you have to either ride the bangka to go there or trek for around 3 hours under the heat. We chose the first option :D Our bangka took us to another part of Capones Island and from here you can go up to the lighthouse.

Capones Island (taken May 16, 2009)

Capones Lighthouse (taken May 16, 2009)

After Capones, we finally set off to Anawangin Cove. The current around Anawangin is said to be strong, but because the weather was great, we had a smooth 30-minute ride to Anawangin Cove. The first thing I noticed when we touched down in Anawangin is the sand is smoother and kinda silverish. And instead of the usual coconut trees, Anawangin is lined up with pine trees! There were lot of campers around but the place is still very serene. You can still hear the chirping of the birds and everything just seems so peaceful. Despite being notorius for its strong underwater current (and yes even killing a number of people), Anawangin is indeed a magical place.

Anawangin Cove (taken May 16, 2009)

Since we heard that the currents are stronger in the afternoon, we left Anawangin early and made our way back to Pundaquit where we relaxed for a while before watching the wonderful sunset in this side of the Philippines.

Sunset in Pundaquit (taken May 16, 2009)

Pundaquit Beach at sunset (taken May 16, 2009)

We spent the night in Pundaquit. There is another way of course and that is to camp out in Anawangin and return to Pundaquit the next day.

Pundaquit and its neighboring islands and coves may not be as popular as Boracay, but they have their unique charms. If you want a beach break and do not want to travel far to get to one, then why not go Pundaquit, Zambales.

Access to Pundaquit (from Manila)
1) By car: NLEX exit to Dau then take SCTex until Subic. Then enter SBMA and exit at Kalakan Gate then drive until you reach San Antonio Zambales. You will pass by the towns of Castillejos and San Marcelino before arriving at San Antonio. From San Antonio, look for signs of resorts in Pundaquit and just follow these.
2) By bus: Bus to San Antonio, Zambales and ride a tricycle to Pundaquit

Access to Anawangin (from Pundaquit)
1) By boat from Pundaquit (around 30 minutes and current might be strong so look for bangkas with life vests)
2) Hike up Mt. Pundaquit and down to Anawangin Cove (around 4 hours)