Sometime in May of last year, my former boyfriend and I decided to have our summer vacation in Zambales. People have been talking about the place so we took the plunge right before summer ends.
Camara Island: Rock and Raw
White sands, lavish beach and grand rock formations never fail to mesmerize. That's what this island has to offer. This one is my favorite because it's the most accessible from the shores of Pundaquit and I enjoyed the serene ambiance. It's a not-so-nice swimming spot though because of the rocky waters and early high tides.
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| A whale-like rock formation on the middle of the island |
The island also boasts of white sands and clear blue waters. It highlights the Capones Lighthouse which was built during the 1890's. After doing a quick research, I learned that the lighthouse served as a guide to ships entering and leaving Manila and Subic Bay.
To get to the lighthouse, one has to hike up a moderate trail. Prepare to bring a face towel and a bottle of water or two; the hike is a little tiresome. Once there, the first thing to see is the big vintage gate. People are cramped inside; busy taking pictures and some - like me, just can't help to stare in awe with the beauty of the place.
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| The lighthouse gate |
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| the ruins |
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| Capones - view from the back |
Anawangin Cove: A Tranquil Haven
I learned that Anawangin is a crescent shaped cove covered with Agoho forest trees - not Pine trees as majority of the people say. The sand is said to be Mt. Pinatubo lahar. According to the locals, the beach was created after the Mt. Pinatubo eruption.
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| Agoho trees - Oftenly mistaken to as Pine trees |
There is an entrance of P50 each for a day tour. A couple of free beach huts can be used on a first-come-first-serve basis. There is not much resources available. No cellphone signal. No toilets - only changing rooms. There are posos that provide clean water. There are no restaurants or carinderia of any kind- Only a small store which offers limited goods like bottled water, soft drinks and light snacks. But hey, people come here to have fun and enjoy nature's simple treasures.
For those who want to camp the night out, it is best to bring your own food and water. Grilling stations are also available.
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| The beach with the picturesque view of the mountains |
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| Enjoying every bit of my time! |
Take the Victory Liner bus from the Sampaloc or Caloocan terminals going to Iba or Sta. Cruz. I can't recall the exact amount of the fare but it was less than P400 at that time. The trip usually takes about 4 1/2 hours. Just tell the driver to drop you off in San Antonio, right about the town plaza then ride a tricycle going to Pundaquit. Trikes charge P60 per person.
Where to stay
Most of the people camp for the night in Anawangin. Tents are available for P400 a piece. If you're looking for a more comfortable accommodation, there are also nearby resorts to choose from.
(Punta de Uian, Nora's Beach Resort, Wild Rose Beach Inn).
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