ZAMBALES: A Zestful Experience

As of this writing, I’ve been to Zambales twice at the same place that is San Antonio. The well-known Pundaquit serves as the springboard of our trip where major access to the pride of San Antonio is located. A pump boat can be chartered for you to get to Camara Island, Capones Island, Anawangin Cove and Nagsasa Cove where pristine and clear water can be experienced. During my trip, I was unable to visit Nagsasa Cove due to time constraints and the waves were unfavourable that hindered us from going there.

If you plan to go island hopping, you may bargain a boatman to get you to places you want to visit. Your first stop would be the Camara Island which is the nearest from Pundaquit Beach. You will notice how the island was formed in a man’s face. If you are considering this island to lay bare, do that for the sake photography as the beach is not the best spot for having a splash. Huge rock formations can be seen; even big rocks underwater so better gear up.

Capones Island, which is famous for its lighthouse would be your second stop. Hiking to the top may be an option but I suggest that you do that or you might miss the scenic view of Pundaquit seen from the top of the island or of the lighthouse. Getting there is not tough as there is a trail leading to the lighthouse. Perhaps this is one destination that tourists do visit everytime they go to Capones Island.

A 45-minute boat ride away from Pundaquit is the Anawangin Cove where calm waters from the sea to the stream can be felt. If you are looking for more adventure, you may hike Mt. Pundaquit leading to Anawangin Cove. Guides can be negotiated to lead you through the mountain. Unlike the two islands, an entrance fee is collected maybe for the maintenance of the cove; Php100 for overnight stay and Php50 if you will leave on the same day. Just a few steps from the shore is a stream that boasts its clear water. To those who are into camping, you can pitch a tent and have your stay. Tents can be rented at an affordable price or you may also bring your own. If you are worrying with regards to the food supplies or others, there are sari-sari stores within the cove, but mind you, these are only limited so you also have to prepare some canned goods and the like. If you wish to stay in Anawangin for a night, do not forget to tell the boatman what time they are going to come back the following day to fetch you and return to Pundaquit Beach as there are no network signals in the cove.

HOW TO GET THERE:

From Manila, take a bus bound to Iba and drop off at San Antonio. Travel time would be 3-4 hours. As you alight the bus, you will see the municipal hall of San Antonio. On the other side of the street are tricycles parked that will lead you to Brgy. Pundaquit.