It's Always Summer in Dazzling Dasol

Who wouldn’t fall in love with the amazing town of Dasol? It is indeed dazzling with natural wonders, a clean environment, fresh seafood, and awesome people. It is also the best place for relaxation and a quick escape from the busy and bustling metro.

Now, who would say it needs to be summer to enjoy all of these?

What to Do

Enjoy swimming in the clean waters of Tambobong Beach. Then, lie down on the fine white sand. Unlike other beaches, Tambobong offers a sanctuary that is perfect for relaxation and soul-searching.

Tambobong Beach is also the gateway to the islands of Colibra and Crocodile. You will have to rent a boat for the island tour, which costs 1,500 inclusive of a life vest and entrance fee.

Colibra Island is the best place in Dasol. It is a small island, but it is undeniably beautiful. It has fine white sand, beautiful stones, and huge rocks. Small trees provide shade where you can lie down and listen to the melodic waves. There are cottages that you can rent for 100.00 per papag.

There is a mini cave on the other side of the island and rock formations that serve as your backdrop when taking selfies. The whole island is Instagram-worthy; it’s just up to you what and how you will take photos.

Fishermen sell fresh fish that you can cook and eat while enjoying the serene atmosphere of the beautiful island.

According to locals, the island is called Colibra or Snake Island because it is inhabited by poisonous sea snakes called tugase. You shouldn’t worry, though, because the snakes only appear at night and there have been no cases of snake bites on the island.

The next island is Crocodile Island. It is called such because its shape resembles a swimming crocodile. There are times when boats can’t dock on the island because of the rocks and the huge waves that might cause damage to the boat.

Along the way to these islands, you can pass by Sinmimbaan and Cabacungan Caves, but like Crocodile Island, it will depend on the weather and the waves if you can dock and explore them.

About 15 to 20 minutes from Tambobong Beach Rains Resort, you will reach an underwater cave. It is still unnamed and not well known among tourists. It looks like the enchanted cave of Bolinao, only a smaller version. You need to pass through a muddy path on your way down, so be careful, or you will roll down like a ball. The water is not too cold like that of other underwater caves and not too deep, so you can enjoy swimming.

Before going home, don’t forget to take photos at the Malacapas View Deck, which offers a panoramic view of Dasol Bay and the Zambales mountains.

Since Dasol is known for its white and clear salt, you should try visiting their salt beds and try harvesting some.

Where to Stay

The best place to stay is Tambobong Beach Rains Resort. Classified as a homestay, it offers air-conditioned rooms that can accommodate up to 8 persons for only P2,000 to P3,500. You can ask them to cook food for you for only P60 to P100 per person per meal. If you prefer not to stay overnight, there are cottages with videoke that you can rent. For more details and reservations, you may visit their Facebook page, or contact Kuya Greg at 0922 591 4506.

How to Get There

Travel time from Manila is 5-6 hours. If you’re traveling via public transportation, take a Victory Liner bus bound for Alaminos City or Bolinao. Get off the bus at the Alaminos City terminal, then ride a bus going to Sta. Cruz. Tell the conductor to drop you off on the street leading to Tambobong. From there, ride a tricycle. One-way fare usually ranges from P250 to P300, but you can haggle it down to as low as P220. If your negotiation skills are top-notch, you can get it for much lower.

If you’re using a private car, take the Tarlac Exit along NLEX. Take the Camiling route leading to Alaminos City. From Alaminos, drive towards the route leading to Zambales. You will pass by the towns of Mabini and Burgos before reaching Dasol. Look for the road signage directing you to Tambobong. Remember that you won’t reach the town proper of Dasol.