More and more Filipino and foreign tourists are finding themselves on the road towards the exquisite beach called Anawangin. A hidden gem in the province of Zambales, Anawangin is about three to four hours from Manila, the capital of the Philippines. It was a place where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blurred, where nature painted its masterpiece on a canvas of untouched serenity.
As the sun kissed the horizon, casting a golden hue upon the lush landscape, Anawangin awakened from its slumber, ready to share its secrets with those lucky enough to venture into its mystical embrace. From the moment one set foot on its shores, a sense of wonder filled the air, whispering tales of hidden coves, towering cliffs, and shimmering waters begging to be explored.
Those who want to venture for an exciting jaunt to Anawangin must prepare for a rugged trip. But before I jump the gun, let me begin with how my first-time travel to this sought-after beach came about.
The sojourn to Anawangin
On yet another bustling Saturday, as the city hummed with the rhythm of work, I found myself returning from a morning of selfless service at a volunteer event. Little did I know that the day held an unexpected twist, ready to whisk me away on a captivating adventure. Just as I thought my day was coming to a close, I received an invitation from a group of wanderlust-filled friends, beckoning me to join their spontaneous beach escapade. Initially informed of our destination as Subic, renowned for its stunning beaches, destiny had other plans in store.
With a sudden change of course, we embarked on a journey to an unexplored corner of the Zambales province. Packed tightly like sardines, our tribe of fourteen embarked on this impromptu voyage, squeezing into a single van. As the clock ticked past 4:00 pm, we embraced the challenge of maneuvering through the notorious traffic along EDSA, eager to escape the confines of the city and embark on a new chapter of our adventure.
A night to remember
After enduring a lengthy drive, our weary group finally arrived in Subic, a place with a rich history that once housed a US naval base and now thrived as an industrial zone. The sun had long disappeared beneath the horizon, leaving darkness to cloak our surroundings.
Our arrival at Little Villa Beach Resort in Pundaquit, San Antonio, Zambales was accompanied by a gentle rainfall, as if nature itself welcomed our presence. Stepping onto the premises, enveloped by the obscurity of the night, we sought refuge in a rented one-room cottage designated for the female members of our troupe. Within those walls, laughter filled the air as we engaged in lively games, engaged in deep conversations, and indulged in refreshing beverages. As the night wore on, sleep eventually overcame us, bringing an end to our revelries and providing respite from our adventurous day.
The day of exploring Anawangin
As Sunday morning unfolded, its radiant sun casting a warm glow upon the landscape, we awoke to a day brimming with possibilities. While a few industrious souls busied themselves with cooking and meal preparations, others, myself included, eagerly ventured towards the beach to immerse ourselves in the wonders of Anawangin. What awaited us there was a sight to behold, as a bustling crowd of beachgoers reveled in the crystal-clear waters, creating a vibrant tapestry of human activity against the backdrop of nature’s majestic beauty.
After making meticulous plans and engaging in negotiations with the boatmen who awaited us on the beach, we embarked on a journey fueled by the advantages of traveling in a group. One such benefit was the shared expenses, resulting in a more affordable excursion. It was at that moment of revelation that I discovered our intended destination: Anawangin, a nearby cove that had garnered attention from travelers and gained popularity through captivating online posts.
Eventually, a pine tree-lined beach came into view. The serene lake just behind the beach was a delightful scenery. Tents were lined up beneath the pine trees. Furthermore, some people were having a relaxing moment under these trees. No cottages were in site and many backpackers were hiking to and from the mountain visible at the beach.
Anawangin do’s and don’ts
No drinking, smoking, or drugs were allowed at the beach. Garbage was not tolerated as well. This is probably why Anawangin remains pristine, beautiful., and untouched unlike its commercial counterparts. No noisy bars nor crowded restaurants in sight. Just the beach, the sea, the lake, the pine trees, and your tent, should you decide to sleep in Anawangin.
Although we only stayed for two hours there, I had my fill.
We went back to Pundaquit and ended the day by the falls. It was a brief getaway from the big city, but it was a pleasurable one.
Anawangin was more than just a destination; it was a portal to a world where dreams and reality intertwined, promising an adventure like no other. So, pack your curiosity, leave behind the ordinary, and embark on a journey to Anawangin, where enchantment awaits at every turn.
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Looks like they’re maintaining it now. I visited the place last 2008 during summer vacation and it was packed. I think we were there when several bus loads of office workers went on their outing. It wasn’t pristine or relaxing then. It resembled a refugee camp. Hopefully they don’t allow very large groups anymore. I hope to come back again soon.