8 ISLANDS YOU SHOULD EXPLORE IN ZAMBALES August 9, 2014 via DOON PO SA AMIN This article originally published @ staging.doonposaamin.ph/articles/places-to-go/8-islands-you-should-explore-in-zambales Doon Po Sa Amin in Zambales, you will find hidden islands and coves just waiting to be explored. Zambales is the second largest province of Central Luzon. It has its own fair share of historical sites and eco-tourism adventures. But the one thing Zambales is really known for is island-hopping. This province has many pristine islands, some of them even used as filming locations for local movies. Island hopping in Zambales will also give you a chance to explore unspoiled forests, magnificent landscapes, and crystal clear waters. Here are eight points of interest to get you started in your island-hopping: 1. Anawangin Cove One of the most famous destinations in the province, Anawangin is a curve-shaped cove located in San Antonio, Zambales. It’s a long stretch of white sand mixed with white volcanic ash. Even more interesting, there are flourishing pine trees lining up the shore. Apart from camping in Anawangin, you can also trek the forest or climb the cliffs in southern side of the cove. 2. Nagsasa Cove Nagsasa Cove is bigger and less crowded though compared with Anawangin. In Nagsasa, there’s a river that leads to the sea, unusual rock formations, a lake, and a couple of waterfalls in the mountain. It’s a little further away than Anawangin, but you’ll be rewarded for its tranquil beauty. 3. Capones Islands Capones is a volcanic mass that is only thirty minutes away by boat ride from Anawangin. It’s mostly known for its Spanish lighthouse, which is a great place to get a fantastic view of the entire Zambales coast. You need to trek the rocky shore to get there but it’s worth it once you get to the top. 4. Talisayen Cove Part of the quartet of coves in Zambales, Talisayen has a beautiful stretch of light grey sand and pine trees dotting the shore. Unlike the other two coves, there’s electricity available in Talisayen but only for a limited time during the day. There are cottages available for rent. There’s a viewing deck as well and you can climb up to it to fully appreciate the scenic surroundings. It’s advisable to maintain contact with the owners when staying in the island. 5. Camara Islands Camara Islands are best described as a huge rock set against the sea. It’s noted for its interesting rock formations, which is why it’s also preferred by rock climbers. There are actually two Camara islands but most visitors skip the smaller one. You can also spot corals easily near the shore, so it’s also a good place for snorkeling. 6. Potipot Island Located in Candelaria, Zambales, Potipot Island has been likened to Boracay for its blue waters and fine, white sand. It’s 7.5 hectares and would probably take only thirty minutes to explore. Potipot is perfect for camping and beach getaways. There are cottages you can rent from the owner. 7. Magalawa Island Magalawa Island can be found off the coast of Palauig, Zambales. It has a strip of white sandy beach that’s about seven kilometers long. There’s a large coral reef in the island, which is perfect for snorkeling. There’s a lot of starfish in the area as well. See if you can pick out all the different-colored starfishes available. There are two resorts in the island—the Ruiz Resort and the Armada Resort—for accommodations. 8. Silanguin Cove Considered the farthest cove in Zambales, Silanguin is the least crowded of them and also the largest. It has soft, light gray sand surrounded by a backdrop of reddish mountains. The waves are friendlier and the water is clear in these parts. If you visit the cove, talk to the locals from the fishing community nearby. There are plenty of myths and rumors surrounding this place and they can definitely help you discover the mystery of Silanguin. If you think that’s a lot of islands already, there’s plenty more to be found. And all you need is a sense of adventure to discover more of them.
Posted on: Sun, 10 Aug 2014 08:07:48 +0000