Do you want to have an adventurous escaped this glorious summer? The getaway to Anawangin Cove, San Antonio, Zambales, Philippines is a fool proof of an incredible adventure. This place is a well-known destination for camping, trekking, and beach outing.
The crescent shaped of Anawangin Cove is embellished with altered tone of blue water, soft white sand and Agoho trees that create a unique feature of its presence. The grandeur is wrapped with mountainous rocks providing a sparkled view when lighted by the glow of the sun as it rises till it sets. Who would have thought that this magnificent place was once a victim of the disastrous eruption of Mt. Pinatubo? For many years passed by, the place was totally unrecognizable indicating the enormous beauty of nature defines by its wonderful scenery.
How to get there:
From Manila, enjoy the 6 hours ride by public bus going to Iba, Zambales or otherwise catch a bus to Olongapo City and board another bus to San Antonio. You may also travel by car that will only take 4-hours via Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTex). Take a tricycle ride going to Pundaquit (Pundakit) for about Php 60.00 per two perasons. From Pundaquit to Anawangin Cove, you will transfer by a 45- minute boat ride.
When to visit:
The best time to go to Anawangin Cove is during the months of November-May. The rest of the months (June-October) are not safe due to rainy season.
Activities in Anawangin:
Camping/ Bonfire – since the place less like an undeveloped, expect no hotels and cottages on the sight. Tourists and campers are advised to bring their own tent for an overnight stay. There is also no electricity and cellphone signal on the place.
Trekking and Rock Climbing – the place is featured with rocky cliffs and rich forest perfect for these activities. The trek to Mt. Pundaquit is the highlight of the journey where the promising panoramic view of the Anawangin Cove will be exposed after 2 hours hike to the summit.
Swimming – the Anawangin Cove is gifted with crystal blue water. It is very clean and safe to swim since it is away from the village or town.
Island hopping – you can explore the whole cove or the nearby island by renting a boat or include it on your tour package.
Camping Tips:
Here are some of the essential tips that you may take in going to Anawangin Cove.
- Before going to Anawangin, drop by at San Antonio Public Market to buy your foods that are cooked already or easy to prepare at the very affordable prices.
- Bring with you your tents, water, clothing, insect repellents/ sunblock, and flashlight.
- Drinking water is also a must, so bring some small jugs of water.
- Do not forget to also bring your camera for the unlimited capture of the magnificent scenery.
Expenses:
There are many tour operators that offer packages that include transfers, food, tents, and entrance and boat fees. But if you’re one of the challenge receivers and do not want to join a group tour here are some of the estimated expenses: bus fare– Php 250.00, tricycle fare – Php 30.00 (Php 60.00 if you’re solo), boat rentals – the amount is depending on how many you are in the group, overnight stay fee– Php 150.00.
So what are you waiting for? Anawangin Cove is the perfect location to be with the nature, have a quiet and relaxing time, and unwind this glorious summer.
/// Written by Noemi Grace Cosare, The Philippines
