Anawangin is my go-to spot when I need a digital detox. Picture this: a white sand beach made of volcanic ash, surrounded by pine trees, with no Wi-Fi and no stress. Just tents, stars, the sound of waves — and a series of hidden coves waiting to be explored by boat.
๐ Where Is Anawangin Cove?
Anawangin is part of San Antonio, Zambales, just 4–5 hours from Metro Manila. It’s only accessible by boat or by trekking — and that’s part of the charm.
๐ How to Get to Anawangin (DIY Style)
Step 1: Bus from Manila to San Antonio, Zambales
- From Pasay or Cubao, ride a Victory Liner bus to Iba or Santa Cruz, Zambales
- Get
off at San Antonio town proper
⏱️ Travel time: 4–5 hours
๐ธ Fare: ₱350–₱400
Step 2: San Antonio to Pundaquit
Remnant of the 1991 Volcanic Eruption |
- Ride a tricycle (₱50–₱100) to Pundaquit Beach, the jump-off point for island hopping
- Buy supplies in San Antonio market before heading to the beach (there are limited stores on the islands)
Step 3: Boat to Anawangin Cove
- At
Pundaquit, rent a boat to Anawangin or for island hopping
๐ธ Boat Rates (good for 4–6 pax): - Anawangin only: ₱1,200–₱1,500
- Island hopping: ₱2,000–₱2,500 (includes Capones, Talisayen, Nagsasa)
๐ Tip: Solo traveler? Ask other groups if you can join their boat to split costs!
This is camping country! No hotels, just beach camps.
Shore of Capones Island |
- Bring your own tent or rent on-site (₱300–₱500 per night)
- Entrance fee to Anawangin: ₱100–₱150
- Campsites usually offer:
- CR/shower access
- Small sari-sari stores
- Grilling areas
- Bonfire spots
๐ฆ No electricity at night — bring power banks, flashlights, and extra water.
๐บ️ Island Hopping Spots (DIY Tour)
๐️ Anawangin Cove
- Unique pine trees by the beach
- Great for sunrise walks, chill dips, stargazing
- Go trekking up the viewpoint for IG-worthy shots
๐️ Nagsasa Cove
- Quieter and more remote than Anawangin
- Perfect for peaceful swimming and kayaking
๐️ Talisayen Cove
- More serene, fewer tourists
- Great for couples or solo travelers looking to write, paint, or reflect
๐ Capones Island
- Famous for its lighthouse and rocky shores
- Perfect for photo ops and short hikes
- No overnight stays, just a day visit
๐ณ Food & Essentials (DIY Hacks)
- Bring your own food and water (cheaper and safer)
- Or buy fresh fish/ingredients at San Antonio Market before heading to Pundaquit
- Some camps offer cooking services (₱100–₱200) or meals for ₱150–₱200
- Bring snacks, rice, canned goods, and drinking water
๐งญ Suggested Overnight Itinerary
Day 1
- Early morning bus to Zambales
- Buy supplies in San Antonio
- Head to Pundaquit & ride boat to Anawangin
- Set up camp
- Swim, trek to viewpoint, chill
- Bonfire & stargazing
Day 2
- Sunrise walk
- Island hopping to Capones, Nagsasa, Talisayen
- Head back to Pundaquit by noon
- Late lunch in San Antonio or Olongapo
- Travel back to Manila
๐ What to Bring for DIY Anawangin Camping
- ๐️ Tent, sleeping bag/mat
- ๐ฑ Portable stove, utensils, cooler, food
- ๐ก Flashlight/headlamp, power banks
- ๐งผ Towel, toiletries, tissue, alcohol
- ๐งด Sunscreen, insect repellent
- ๐งข Hat, shades, extra clothes
- ๐ Dry bag & waterproof phone case
- ๐งป Eco-friendly trash bags (Leave No Trace!)
Dolphins Show at Ocean Adventure |
๐ฌAnawangin isn’t about luxury — it’s about disconnecting to reconnect. It’s where I go when I need to remember that the best moments are the simple ones: watching the waves roll in, cooking over a fire, sleeping under pine trees.
๐ If you’re craving something raw, real, and refreshing—this is your sign. DIY your escape to Anawangin.
Great Post Menchu! Makes me want to go to Zambales!! Your pictures are so beautiful :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Jamie! Please do visit not only Zambales but other beautiful places in my country. If ever you need help in planning, let me know :)
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