Tourist Spots in Pangasinan

Pangasinan, the 3rd biggest province in the whole Philippine archipelago, got its name from salt or asin in the vernacular. Pangasinan literally means "where salt or asin is made." In fact the salt based concoction called "bagoong," a favorite fish paste or fish sauce among many Asians, has become one of Pangasinan's regular export items through the years.  

Map of Pangasinan

Points of Interest

The Provincial Capitol Building and Parks, Lingayen

Here lies the historic Provincial Capitol building, fronting the historic Lingayen Gulf, where Mac Arthur's liberation forces landed at the tail end of WWII for the liberation of Luzon. Built in 1918 and designed by eminent American Architect Ralph H. Doane, it has been identified as one of the eight architectural treasures of the Philippines by NCCA and the Filipino Heritage Festival Inc.

The beaches along Lingayen Gulf

Part of Pangasinan's 160 kilometers of coastline offers a variety of moods and features from public beaches of San Fabian to resort owned beach areas of Labrador. Take your pick depending on your preference or budget.

The beaches of Western Pangasinan

If your perfect beach has white sand and less tourist traffic, then the gorgeous beaches of Anda, Bolinao, Bani, Burgos and Dasol are your picks. Accesible by good roads, fine white sands, deserted islands inspire more than the usual activities with deep sea fishing, kayaking, snorkeling and diving.

Hundred Islands

Alaminos City, is one of the most favorite destinations up north, and the setting of popular water recreational such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking or just plain basking under the sun in an islandof your choosing. There are available tour packages to suit any budget, or if your feel just like driving to Alaminos City, drop by at the City Tourism Office for assistance or for more information. (image source)

Check hotel availability in Alaminos

Cacupangan, Binmatya, Villacorta and Nalsoc Caves

Mabini, Infanta and Bani, feature undamaged specimens of stalagmites and stalactites. There are caves ideal for hardcore spelunkers and some perfect for beginners. Ask locals for a cave guide.

Bird Watching

In Bani and Alaminos City, commune with nature and watch different species of birds both local and migratory, on their undisturbed ecosystem. Local bird watching guides are available in Bani.

Our Lady of Manaoag Shrine

An apparition and many miracles made our Lady of Manaoag a famous destination for thousands of Catholic devotees from all over the world.

Redeemer's Cross Bani

For the faithful and nature enthusiasts, climb hills set with Stations of the Cross. At the bottom, nature's reward with the balmy waters of the South China Sea at Surip Beach. Want some more inspiration? Hike right back up the cross site and watch a perfect sunset.

Bolinao Museum

Open to the public from Monday to Friday with its nature dioramas and laymans lesson on native flora and fauna. See one of the important cultural properties of the Philippines, the Bolinao skull with gold peggings on its teeth, ancient burial jars, Stone Age tools and mammoth fossils that where excavated fromm a 14th to 15th century burial site in Bolinao.

Cape Bolinao Lighthouse

This lighthouse was built by the Americans in 1903 and is the second tallest in the country. Climbing atop it, one gets a spectacular 360 degree view of the South China Sea. (image source)