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Forested Romulo Island in Hundred Islands National Park with tour boats moored on a small beach.

Hundred Islands Pangasinan Guide: Island Hopping Near Manila

Beaches & IslandsIlocos Region2 min readBy Emma Nagano

Plan a Hundred Islands National Park trip from Alaminos, with island hopping, snorkeling, and zipline tips plus an easy weekend itinerary.

Hundred Islands is a scatter of small, mushroom-shaped limestone islets just off Alaminos. It is one of the closest island-hopping destinations to Manila, which makes it a classic weekend escape.

Planning more than one stop? See our guides to Pagudpud or Vigan.

Hundred Islands Quick Facts

  • Region: Ilocos Region (Pangasinan)
  • Best Time to Visit: November to May
  • How to Get There: Bus from Manila to Alaminos, then a tricycle to Lucap Wharf
  • Ideal Stay: 2 days
  • Notable For: Island hopping, snorkeling, ziplining, and sunset views

Hundred Islands at a Glance

  • Easy weekend trip from Manila
  • Dozens of small islands to explore by boat
  • Good for families, groups, and first-time island hoppers
  • Snorkeling, kayaking, and camping available
  • Budget-friendly with simple accommodations

Top Attractions in Hundred Islands

  1. Governor's Island – Viewdeck climb and the park's famous zipline.
  2. Quezon Island – Beaches, picnic areas, and calm swimming.
  3. Children's Island – Shallow, family-friendly swimming spots.
  4. Marcos Island – Cliff-jumping and a small cave.
  5. Cuenco Island – Snorkeling and hidden coves.
  6. Lucap Wharf – Boat rentals and seafood grills.
  7. Bolo Beach and Patar Beach – Quiet beach stops nearby.

How to Get to Hundred Islands

  • Take a Victory Liner or Five Star bus from Manila to Alaminos (about 5–6 hours).
  • Take a tricycle from the Alaminos terminal to Lucap Wharf.
  • Book an island-hopping boat at the tourism office.

Best Time to Visit Hundred Islands

November to May offers clear skies and calm seas. Avoid the typhoon months of July to October, when boat trips are often suspended.

Where to Stay in Hundred Islands

  • Lucap seafront inns – Steps from the wharf.
  • Resorts in Alaminos – A little more comfort and pools.
  • Camping on Governor's or Quezon Island – For a night under the stars.

Where to Eat in Hundred Islands

  • Lucap grills – Freshly grilled fish, squid, and shrimp.
  • Alaminos eateries – Try bagoong and local specialties.
  • Island picnic spots – Pack lunch before heading out.

Hundred Islands Travel Tips & Local Hacks

  • Go on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
  • Bring sunscreen, water shoes, and cash.
  • Pack out all trash; the islands are protected.
  • Book your boat early on weekends and holidays.

3-Day Hundred Islands Itinerary

  • Day 1: Bus to Alaminos, check in at Lucap, and watch the sunset on the pier.
  • Day 2: Island hop to Governor's, Quezon, and Children's Islands; snorkel and try the zipline.
  • Day 3: Optional beach morning at Patar, then return to Manila.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to Hundred Islands from Manila?

Take a bus to Alaminos, Pangasinan, which takes roughly five to six hours, then a tricycle to the Lucap Wharf where island-hopping boats depart.

Are there really 100 islands?

The park counts 124 islands at low tide and 123 at high tide. The name is simply a round number.

Can I stay overnight on an island?

Yes. Camping is allowed on designated islands such as Governor's Island and Quezon Island with advance booking through the tourism office.

Is it good for a weekend trip?

It is one of the easiest island trips from Manila. Two days is enough for island hopping, snorkeling, and a sunset.

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