Anawangin Cove: Zambales

When we decided to hit Zambales, I researched on great places possible for summer getaway. I was amazed with Anawangin Cove. Such a great place to visit. It was really exciting to step on the cove because of the pictures I have seen on the net. Great pictures and great reviews keeps me wanting to go there as soon as possible.

Anawangin Cove has a pristine white sand in a crescent-shaped cove beach. Tall pine trees around the vicinity makes the place unique. It is accessible through boat around 30-45 minutes depending on the weather conditions. Best time to go there is during summer. It is also accessible through trekking maybe around 6 hours. The cove is popular for those who love beach and campers like me.

We rented a boat which is good enough for four persons. We put on our life vest. Better be ready as always that we may never know what will happen during the boat trip. Boat ride is enjoyable, you can see the beauty of mountain ranges along the shore. I advise you better put shades, wear cap or put some sunblock to avoid sunburn, unless you will go there at early sunrise.

After arriving at the cove, I can't believe myself that I am already at the place which I dreamed of. I was really amazed by the beauty of the place. Could not help myself to say... WOW... Such a heaven place on earth. We strolled the place... the beauty of the pine trees, the fresh cool breeze of the air, the mountain range, and the river which I saw on the net, I am walking on it. Catching small fishes.

The sand is really white and fine, you can see lot of campers on behind the pine trees. Everybody is busy doing their own activities. You can see smiles on their faces.

We did not waste time to stroll the beach cove. I removed my shirt and shorts! I did wear trunks!!! Speedo baby speedo! LOL! I am not shy to wear trunks and stroll on the beach, after all I went there to enjoy the place.

We enjoyed sun bathing. We enjoyed swimming as the water is cold and clean. I did not care if I will get sunburn. It is summer so why not enjoy the most.

There is also small store there but it is somewhat costly. That is expected. To quench our thirst we ordered halo-halo. Yummy for the hot weather though it is not special but good enough to add more enjoyment on our trip.

It was a great summer getaway. Will be going back there again soon. You better hit this place and you will never regret!!!

Pundaquit: San Antonio, Zambales

Summer of 2010 was awesome! As early as January, my co-employees already planned to hit the wonderful province of Zambales. I researched on the net and I found, Anawangin Cove. But before reaching that magnificent cove, you need to reach first Pundaquit.

We then decided to have a 3 days 2 night stay in Zambales. We leaved Manila almost 12:00 midnight boarding Victory Liner in Pasay City Terminal bound to Sta. Cruz, Zambales. We arrived at our destination around 04:00. Good thing, Rachel, originally hailed in Zambales and got relatives there. We stayed at his uncle's house. Lodging is already free! How happy is that? LOL. We were five. Me, Shine and Rachel together with her mother and brother, Rob.

Pundaquit, is a fishing village located in San Antonio, Zambales. The primary livelihood in this small, yet lively and beautiful town is fishing and tourism. Local people speak both Ilocano and Zambal, they also speak Tagalog as well.

With Rachel and Sunshine

We were all excited to stroll along the beach. Climbing rocks with bare feet. Taking pictures wherever we find a great view. The sand is fine though it is not white, maybe it was affected by the ash falls from the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo.

With the heat of the sun, we need to energize. Mouth watering grilled fish, adobo and pinakbet for early lunch. We also played karaoke which uses the 5 peso coin. That was fun! We all sang and dance. I even bought a wooden coin bank.

Sunset at Pundaquit is amazing!!! We waited for that moment so we can capture the beauty of sunset there. From Pundaquit, you can also two islands which is the Camara and Capones Islands. Another beautiful island in Zambales which has white sandy beaches.

Sunset in Pundaquit!

Recreations such watercraft rides, island tours, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and camping are very common in this place. Surfing is very popular during monsoon season for locals and tourists.

The following day, we went back there again to play and swim. This time with Rachel's younger sister who arrived last night. She just misses the exciting things we did on the first day.

Playing in the Sand

"having ice cream"