How to Get to Tara Tara Falls in Bolinao

Going to Tara Tara Falls in Bolinao, Pangasinan:

From Bolinao town proper, ride a bus bound to Dagupan or Manila route and ask the driver to drop you off at Barangay Tara crossing which you can find the sign board going to the main falls. Fare cost is about Php 15-20 pesos for an ordinary bus. Travel time is 15-20 minutes. Then from the main highway of barangay Tara about 20 minutes walk along the rough road pavement. Options is a round trip tricycle ride from the town to the waterfalls will cost about Php 400-700 depends on number of passenger. Negotiate with the driver for how long you want to stay and give yourself at least an hour or two if you love being in the water. Note: No entrance fee is being collected and a few bamboo picnic cottages and tables were still functional.

A Hidden Paradise of Tara Tara Falls in Bolinao, Pangasinan

Tara Tara Falls is a small and cozy falls perfect to dive and swim. Located at Barangay Tara, Bolinao Pangasinan, there is no entrance fee in the area and they have a series of mini pool but they were very small. The pool below the falls is about 2-3 meters deep with easy access for swimming and the sculptured rock above the falls are up to 1 meter deep and perfect for sitting in. 

There were also picnic tables and chairs so if you have plan to eat lunch while watching people diving from the falls or also you can just hearing the sounds of flowing waters. Overall, this is the place to relax in cool clear water and  a few bench huts for sitting at in the shade and its all for free. Check out my next post about - How to Get to Tara Tara Falls in Bolinao, Pangasinan. Happy Trip Everyone - Bisayang Manlalakbay around the Philippines.

Binungay - Bolinao's Famous Delicacy

As part of my trip I want to taste authentic delicacy of the place I've been to. At the front of Saint James The Great Parish Church where vendors of binungay sold here. I bought one piece to Manang Jovy to try what is in it. Meanwhile, it tasted like our delicious "suman" the ingredients are rice mixed with coconut cream and filled a little salt and sugar as well. The bamboo must have added a special favor to it which is wrapped in either banana or coconut leaves. This is only in Bolinao, Pangasinan! Unique and very yummy. 

So If you want to have a taste of it or buy lots for pasalubong to your family, rather buy only in the morning. Oh well, here's my pricing tips for you Php 25-35 per piece depending on the diameter. The Php 35 per piece can be bought for Php 100 for 3 pieces.

Old Church of St James The Great Parish Church

It is also known as Bolinao Church, before going to Dagupan City I decided to visit the church and took photos and buy "binungay" famous delicacies of Bolinao. Located at the town center and one of the picturesque spot along the highway. The architectural design and old Spanish facade of the church makes it unique and amazed me. At the very right of the church, you will see the face of Jesus Christ. It became a new story before and the locals call it miraculous and it will depends on how you see it but I think it's kind of cool and unique as well. 

Did you known that the church tower of Bolinao measuring seventy five ( 75) feet was then the tallest in the whole Pangasinan if not in the entire Northern Luzon. However , an earthquake in 1788 toppled about half of it. then in 1819 the Church Convent was also accidentally burned but the church now is looks great and fascinating rock sculpture.

How to Get to Patar White Beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan

Going to Patar White Beach Resort in Bolinao:

I choose Five Star Bus -Pasay City on this trip but there are a lot of buses across Metro Manila like Victory Liner, Dagupan Bus and Other ordinary bus from Pangasinan. I took first trip at 10:00pm and 5-6 hours travel period and this bus runs almost hourly and stops in Dau, Tarlac and Alaminos. Fare is Php 450 (one-way trip) and make sure you bring some snacks during your trip.

Once you arrive in Bolinao (end station) call a tricycle and  ask him to bring you to the famous golden-white beach resort of Patar. From there proceed to their cottages along the beach front and pay for the cottage fee between Php 100 to 500 pesos depending on the number of person.  Note: There's no entrance fee in the beach premisses because this area is operated by the local government of Bolinao, Pangasinan

Five Star Bus Terminal located at #222 Tramo Street, Pasay City beside Winston Hotel. 

Five Star Bus Pasay Contact Number: (02) 851-6613, 833-4772, 851-6614 and make sure you have a reserve seat or book in advance to avoid hassle during your trip. Happy Trip Everyone - From Bisayang Manlalakbay around the Philippines. 

Where to Buy Pasalubong & Souvenirs in Bolinao Pangasinan

Make sure that you buy pasalubong to your love ones and family. One of my favorite pasalubong/souvenir and collection as well is the "I Love Shirt" in different provinces and city which I could really use it during my-day-to-day activities. It will cost you from Php 100 to 200 pesos.  This is located along entrance beach area of Patar Beach Resort. There are a lot of stores, items to choose from and different variety of local made in Pangasinan. I know that there are a lot of tourist attraction in Bolinao and I had a great time spending my weekend there.

Golden White Sand of Patar Beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan

From the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse, I asked manong tricycle driver to drop me off at the famous golden white sand beach of Patar. One of the best beach attraction in Pangasinan with the pristine fine golden-like sand and this is open free public without the amenities of a private resort, it become a favorite tourist destination of both locals and foreign tourist. You can also rented an open cottage for your food, drinks, things and enjoy the rest of the day. The water current here can sometimes be very strong. Waves are ideal for surfing. I really like the place because it does not have any of the developed resorts except for one. Some part of the beach is mostly limestone rock formations. 

Perfect for your weekend getaway because you can do everything here like swimming, sun-bathing, snorkeling, picnic with family or friends, ride a banca for island hopping, photo shoot, meditate away from people on the shore, or simply strolling around the beach front and not as expensive as of some high end hotels here. There are a lots of thing to enjoy in Bolinao. Happy Trip Everyone and check out my next related blog post. 

Fascinating View of Cape Bolinao Lighthouse in Pangasinan

Cape Bolinao Lighthouse is a scenic view for photo ops or a romantic sunset views. it is good that there is a concrete road going into the facility.  Due to numerous storm it endured the past years this lighthouse is not fully-functional anymore. But take note there is no entrance fee in the area. There's also a set of solar panels used by the locals before and also a deck portion that offers a view of the ocean. Truly fascinating view and spectacular dramatic effect against the blue sky light with the overlooking view of the white beach sand of Patar and other hotels. The tower overlooks the turquoise waters of Patar and the place is so serene. Did you known that Cape Bolinao is the 2nd tallest light house in Luzon, this is next to the light house in Ilocos Norte.

However, the whole area is not beer properly maintain and improved with some of paints peeled off. Vandal is everywhere which is very sad to state. Climbing the stairs going on top of the lighthouse is no longer open for visitors. This is for the visitor's safety according to the vendors living beside the area. Overall, your Bolinao trip was ever complete without seeing the famed Cape Bolinao Lighthouse. Next post is the golden-white sand beach of Patar. Happy Trip Everyone!

Magnificent Bolinao Rock Formation in Pangasinan

Bolinao Rock Formation is also known as "Coral Mountain of Bolinao". I appreciate the natural beauty of the place and cool breeze of the wind. It was so very relaxing and not touristy place from other resort or tourist attraction in Bolinao. You can captured the wonderful seascape and rock formation looks mystical. There are a lot of local movies, travel shows and telenovelas was shoot here. I am on the top of cliff and beautiful shorelines. There are a minimum entrance fee of Php 50 pesos as payment for those who are keeping the place clean and secured place to the locals. From the highway you will see the small signs with " Rock Formation". This area is operated by some of local, you can also check in on their cottages. One of the place to have your photography as well as beach lover like me with this magnificent coral rock formation and the pristine water was alluring. I admit that this place is good for people who enjoy silence and just listening at the sound of the waves crashing on the rock formations with the perfect blue sky and blue water background.

They also have a small white beach sand area so you can enjoy the beach life there. Overall, my weekend trip was a blast. I would love to share this on your friends and family. Happy Trip Everyone!

A Water Under The Cave of Enchated Cave in Bolinao, Pangasinan

This is the best tourist destination in Bolinao, Pangasinan located at the tip most of the province. A nice underwater adveture and the cave pool is refreshing but during peak  season the are is so much crowded of many people. They have a wide open parking space for the guest. I entered that compound and greeted by huge coral rock formation and almost fossilized remains of giant clams but sad to say the coral was already dead.  Also, they have a mini water falls at the side of the area. It's so gorgeous and you'll bet it's enchanted.

Here are some rates for Enchanted Cave of Bolinao:

Entrance Fee - Php 90

Swimming (including entrance fee)  - Php 120

Parking Fee for Bus - Php 50 , Mini Bus - Php 40, Cars - Php30, Tricycle - Php 20 & Single Motorcycle - Php 10.

Arriving at Enchanted Cave of Bolinao in Pangasinan

About 2 kilometers away from Wonderful Cave, this famous cave pursue me to visit the place. Upon entering the area, there will be an entrance fee to be collected and I was greeted by the owner of the cave. There will be a few steps up to the entrance of the cave but first thing I do is to take photos at their ark sign of " Enchanted Cave". I'm very much excited to witness the coral rock formation and crystal clear blue water of the cave, it was so much inviting because inside the cave, it was so humid  The whole area of the cave was below seawater. Amazingly! Be careful of the sharp rocks and the water looks shallow but it's really very deep that you can also dive around 6-7 feet high as per caretaker. There has a rope along the edges of the cave so you can enjoy and swim even if your not the best swimmer. It's worth the entrance fee I paid and the effort of going down and going out of the Enchanted Cave of Bolinao. Only in Pangasinan!

The place is well-developed because of nice cottages, clean comfort rooms and there are lights on the cave. Definitely, you will miss half of your life if you came here and don't go for a swim.  Getting into the heart of the cave is much challenging but worth the effort as well. 

Trekking to Wonderful Cave of Bolinao in Pangasinan

From Puerto Del Sol Resort, I immediate proceed to other tourist attraction in the area. There are 3 caves in Bolinao namely Enchanted Cave, Wonderful Cave and Cindy Cave. But one of the accessible cave between this three are Enchanted Cave & Wonderful Cave which  is normally nearest cave along the national road of Patar. This privately-owned cave has an entrance fee of Php 50 pesos and experience the wonderful clear water. About 30 minutes walk from the national road, you will entering the rough road, tall coconut trees and rock formation along your way. Amazingly, the cave has its own electricity to provide lights in the cave. The cave has a low ceiling and above you will saw this coral rock formation. There are some children in the cave during my visit, the water was about waist high, so deep enough to swim but my guide tells me the history of the cave about 12th century old cave. Reminders: Pay your entrance fee before entering the cave, Drop your garbage in designating area/trash bin, Don't swim if you're drunk, No food, alcoholic drinks and smoking inside the cave - By the Management!

I really enjoyed my short stay here, it's really interesting cave with so much history, natural beauty of the area and I would highly recommend this to everyone.  

How to Get to Puerto Del Sol in Bolinao, Pangasinan

Going  to Puerto Del Sol from Manila:

On my opinion, it's nice to travel on weekdays because no much traffic towards the Alaminos, Anda and Bolinao. There are a lot of buses plying to Bolinao and Alaminos, but I choose Fivestar Bus in Pasay City located at the back of Winston Hotel along Tramo, Pasay City. Travel time is 7-8 hours and fare is Php. 469 pesos per person. The bus will take you to Bolinao with around 3 stop evers. Best time to travel is during night. Upon arriving at Bolinao Bus Terminal, proceed to tricyle terminal bound to Ilog Malino which cost you Php 10 pesos. This terminal is located infront of Saint James The Great Parish Church or Bolinao Church. Ask the driver to drop you off at the main gate of Puerto Del Sol Resort. Happy hassle free trip everyone.

Swimming Pool Area of Puerto Del Sol: One of the Best Resort in Bolinao

This is my first time here in Bolinao but one of my favorite resort is Puerto Del Sol located along Barangay Ilog Malino, Bolinao Pangasinan. They have kiddie pool, jacuzzi and main pool. The architecture design of the pool area is good, they are all black and white furniture. All of the materials used are native, classy, abaca and rattan or bamboo. I love this hanging rattan chair with the overlooking spot of the swimming pool. The garden is well-maintained and organized with table and chairs at the side of the pool. They have also floating bar and comfy bench. I also appreciate that there is a place that smoking is not allowed because I'm not a smoker.  For more infomation and reservation. Contact them at (632) 631-2861 or you can email them at info@puertodelsol.com.ph or melopds@yahoo.com.ph

Thumbs Up to Puerto Del Sol in Bolinao, Pangasinan

The moment I arrived in the place I felt that it was worth it and I found the perfect view of the sea, so very relaxing. I love the Mediterranean inspired villas and their swimming pool area of the resort. The only people you'll see on the pool area are resorts. Unfortunately, I'm just a walk in guest that day. The place is very private but low wifi connection. Bad! One thing that I don't like in this resort is the grasses are everywhere that covers the beauty of white sand but the beach area is not to crowdy with people so you can say that the beach is all yours.   The sea front was cool since it was low tide that time I visited the place. There were other fun activities being offered by the resort but I don't have enough time to avail of them. They just need to improve their room facilities.This resort is accessible and its near town attractions like Enchated Cave, Cape Bolinao Light House, Bolinao Rock Formation, Wonderful Cave, Patar White Beach and other places around Barangay Patar. 

It is very peaceful and not too crowded but the resort is very strict on occupancy and no food from the outside is allowed. I ordered bicol express, 1 cup of rice and a glass of ice tea. The serving is good but maybe lessen their food price. So guys, I will definitely go back to this place next summer. A sure feast of senses which you would never want to stop taking photos of the beach front and pool area. Keep it up and Thanks Puerto Del Sol!

Sea View White Beach Resort in Bolinao, Pangasinin

Bolinao, Pangasinan - Fourth Stop: A stunning white sand beach front and crystal clear water of Sea View Beach Resort located along the road of Barangay Ilog Malino will indulge your senses and probably a perfect vacation trip. The part I liked the best was the strong waves and noisy wind of West Philippine Sea. For day tour trip, you can bring your own foods and do picnic the pinoy style. They have a good accommodation rates along with a nipa hut and open cottages of the resort. Surprisingly, the room are less than 1 year old and the owner is also nice and friendly. Overall, money is not the issue here but customer's satisfaction as well as management coordination. So, come and see yourself because the resort is not too expensive, free to scream or what ever you want to do, enjoy the nature and enjoy their relaxation ambiance along the white beach sand. My side trip here was too short and enjoy every single minute of my stay, but I guess it was the best time of the day to be here is during sunset.

SCL Garden Paradise Resort in Bolinao, Pangasinan

Bolinao, Pangasinan - Third Stop: SCL Garden Paradise Resort located at Barangay Ilog Malino has a great view also of white powdery sand and calm blue water. They have a nice nipa hut accommodation ranging Php 300 to 1000 per night. I surely recommend this resort because of the simplicity living at their nipa hut and a beautiful view during the sunset. There's a lot to see in this resort with friendly staff and accommodating owner. Though the road is bumpy and it took me about 30-40 minutes before heading off to the resort from town proper of Bolinao but it's worth it because the place is very nice and roomy. 

For your accommodation choices here are the tip for your vacation in Bolinao, Pangasinan:

1.) if you go to this area, make sure you have car or rather hire a tricycle from the town proper.

2.) bring your own food or make sure you reserve before you go so that you will be counted in the food inventory of the resort ( during high season between March  to May)

3.) prepare your own hygienic supply and wait for low-tide before swimming because the waves to be pretty strong.

Villa Carolina Y Juan Beach Resort in Ilog Malino, Bolinao, Pangasinan

Bolinao,Pangasinan - Second Stop: Villa Carolina Y Juan Beach Resort with a huge swimming pool in Bolinao, Pangasinan and consider to have a unique ocean view on a private white beach front. Located nearby resorts like Punta Riviera & Punta Del Sol. This resort has a complete amenities like nipa hut, spa, swimming pools, billiard table, jacuzzi and clean comfort rooms/shower. The owner Ms Carolina is very friendly and welcoming  to their guest. There's  a lot to see in this resort and you can just simply walk along the beach and you will discover something, its like a hidden treasure under the water which is perfect for snorkeling.

Make your vacation trip during low season to enjoy, stay quiet and peacefully wonderful trip. Room rates are also reasonable but nonetheless worth the extra few minutes away from the city proper of Bolinao. There are not a lot of people during my solo trip and the weather was nice. Definitely, a perfect weekend getaway for your family and friends. Happy Trip Everyone.

Infinity Pool at Bolinao Pangasinan: Punta Riviera Resort

The resort has a great view with an infinity pool at one side of the property. You can spent your day in the pool, they also have 2 jacuzzi and another one is near at the lounge area. Their seafront is wide open space that the breeze blows right through the gardens of the resort. The infinity pool was just lovely, clean and overlooks a wide beach front perfect for a refreshing vacation. It's the only resort with access to the Ilog Molino which is cool for kayaking as well as to the beach front. About the ambiance, lots of coconut trees around the area and other plants and flowers, decent landscapes and good to known they have a wooden bridge from the resort to the white beach.

Over all, I had a great experience and amazing time would I gladly return to Punta Riviera Resort. Here's the contact number where you can check of their rooms availablity: (075) 696-1350 

Bolinao Pangasinan: Punta Riviera Resort & White Beach Front

Punta Riviera Resort in Bolinao, Pangasinan is where the river meets the sea on a stunning coastline which brings perfect sunrise during the morning. Its quite long way from the town proper but it does not seem that long because of the scenery along the way. Tricycle is available in front of  Bolinao Church. Fare is Php 10 per person. Located at Barangay Ilog Molino, a way going to Patar Beach end point of Bolinao White Beach coastline. This is my first stop over during a solo trip in Bolinao. The place is indeed beautiful and perfect for a whole relaxing day off. The resort looks elegant, very clean and beautifully plant landscape. If I can add about this resort is they should have a plenty of directional signs leading to the resort but this resort have a good guest-services and friendly staff as well. Checking your Facebook status is not a problem because they have wifi available but only till certain areas and does not cover the whole resort.

For me, it seems to have the best ocean view and cool breeze from the resort veranda.  Overall it is a well-managed resort. See you again Bolinao - Bisayang Manlalakbay around the Philippines.