Places: My Potipot Island Experience

Its Summertime once again!

Timing was good because it was Araw ng Kagitingan! Its a holiday so its time to hit the beach and beat the summer heat! And the best place to go near the Metro is the island of Potipot in Candelaria, Zambales, Philippines!

Potipot Island is called the 'little boracay of the north'. This is a virgin island which means that they don't have electricity nor major infrastructures in the island. Perfect for campers and adventurers that would like to experience the simple way of life. However if you are just planning to have a day tour/swimming at the island better book a hotel early. Most of the time hotels in the area are fully booked specially during holy week.

This island beach is getting more popular nowadays just like its contemporaries in southern Zambales (i.e. Anawangin and Nagsasa coves), but unlike the beaches in the south which have grey sand, Potipot Island's fine sand is cream white. Potipot Island is located about 1 km away from the mainland shore of Uacon, Candelaria, Zambales.

How to get there?

By public vehicle:

1. Ride a bus bound for Sta. Cruz, Zambales(Victory has buses that regularly ply this route in Pasay, Cubao or Monumento). In our case Pasay is the nearest station. Last trip was 11.30 pm.  Its a 5- 6 hours trip so what should you do? What else but SLEEP.  I suggest travel around midnight so you would arrive at Candelaria, Zambales around early morning so you could also buy your food which is fresh.

Please note to prebook your tickets so you have a guaranteed seat as most of the time the bus leave the terminal full.

2. Get off at Dawal Resort in Barangay Uacon in Candelaria (the town just before Sta. Cruz). You can take a trike or even walk to the nearest resort or the beach where you can get a boat to Potipot Island.  There are about 5 resorts in the area (Dawal, Harvest, Isla Vista SunBloom, and Puerto Del Mar) to choose from.  

By private vehicle:

For me its better to go by public vehicle instead. Since it is a very long drive with lot of towns to pass by.  I am not recommending this for first timers. However if you want to go by private vehicle, you may check google map or other blog site for further directions.

Below are some of the views of  Potipot Island:

view of the island from Harvest Resort

My friend emoting  at the island at 6 am

Picture pa more ...

Early morning view of the island.

Boat ride going to Potipot Island 10 - 15 mins ride.

Our residence for 2 days stay in Zambales - Harvest Resort

You can also swim at the beachfront of the Resort.

Cottages for rent Fee Php 1,500

Budget per head was at Php 2,500 for an overnight stay for 4 persons. However the more friends you tag along, the lesser would be the expenses for your group.   There are hotels that can accomodate 4 -5 people in one a/c room at Php 1,500/night. (If  you plan to have a day tour at the island).

Just always remember to take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints!  Enjoy your summer vacation!")