One Hundred Islands is located in Alaminos City, Pangasinan province, which is located north west of Manila with Lingayen Gulf on the East, and the South China Sea to the west. This slice of paradise is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Philippines and is a protected National Park. The islands and islets are in Lingayen Gulf and total 124 at low tide, and 123 at high tide. However, only three of the islands have been developed to cater to tourism.
The islands are said to date back two million years ago. It has been suggested they were once corals submerged in the sea. Over time, the sea level has lowered. With natural erosion from the sea, it has left mushroom looking mounds protruding from the water.
These islands are a popular place for tourists to go island hopping and enjoy these fascinating islands. Whilst most islands cant be visited, there are several islands that do have small sandy beaches. This is big enough to dock a small boat so you can chill out with a picnic and a few beers and go swimming in the tranquil waters. One Hundred Islands doesn’t quite have as much long open beach like it’s neighbour, Bolinao. However, it is island hopping heaven which Boliano doesn’t have.
When we stayed there, we were fortunate enough to stay at a friends holiday house. Therefore, I’m not so familiar with hotels in the area. I do know there are a few low-cost hotels and local style resorts around. A quick internet search will uncover some option. You also have the option to camp overnight for a cost of about P200 for those that enjoy the great outdoors, and you can also hire tents for about P500.
We were fortunate enough to find a small islet with some sand which only had about two other groups of people on it, so we basically had the place to ourselves.
A truly amazing sight with the cluster is islands and islets dotting Lingayen Gulf. Island hopping around here is about the best boat trip you can do in the country.
The serenity of this location was amazing. We took a picnic lunch and an ice box full of beer and spent the afternoon chilling out with views like this.
Island hopping around the islands is an amazing experience. We didn’t quite do all of the 123 islands, but got to see quite a few.
Leisure Coast Resort in Dagupan City is a fairly nice resort. We spent the day here with the family.
Another view of Leisure Coast Resort with Lingayen Gulf and One Hundred Islands in the background.