Hundred Islands National Park Philippines: An Unspoilt Alternative To Thailand
Nestled in the heart of the Philippines' main island (Luzon), the Hundred Islands National Park has breathtaking landscapes and diverse marine life. Spanning approximately 1,844 hectares, this national park in Alaminos, Pangasinan, boasts 124 islands (123 during high tide) dotting the clear waters of the West Philippine Sea. This natural wonder offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, from white sandy beaches to coral reefs and hidden coves. Island jump with your own traditional Banka boat across ‘developed’ islands, and more remote and private ones if solitude is what you are after. The Philippines, in general, has similarities to Thailand, but we would say it is more ‘unspoilt’ in terms of tourism, so it is worth the visit if you don’t mind a very long-haul flight.
Details That Matter
Boat hire is around £20 ($25) per trip for an 8-10 person boat, and a tour guide is around the same on top of that, so it is pretty inexpensive.
Depending on where you plan to travel from within the Philippines, it is advised to get a car with a Philippines-licensed driver.
Hundred Islands is about a 4-hour drive from the capital, Manila; you can cut that in half if you fly to Clark International Airport.
Some hotels near Hundred Islands National Park are Maxine By The Sea, The Hundred Islands Resort Hotel, Island Tropic Hotel and Restaurant, and Villa Antolin Hotel. Word to the luxury seekers: expect something other than 5-star luxury here, but warm home comforts, which sometimes are just what we need.
Explore Governors Island for its 360-degree viewing deck and zip line, which is great for thrill seekers, and Children’s Island for its shallow, sandy beaches, which are good for kids.
