Liwliwa Beach Surfing and Nightlife

San Felipe has surf spots for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced surfers. Liwliwa Beach, just over 1 km from our accommodations, is the main surfing area—lively, fun, and full of surf vibes.

If you haven’t tried surfing yet, this is the place to do it. You can simply walk up to the kiosks at Liwliwa Beach for surf lessons or board rentals. Lessons are around ₱750, and board rentals are about ₱500.

Liwliwa is also great for nightlife, with live bands every Saturday at places like Le Quvoh, making it a fun spot both day and night.

Lubong-Nangoloan Falls / Anghalo Falls

*Highly recommended kapag tag-ulan, basta magdala ng maraming good vibes. 😉

If I’m not at the beach, I’d spend the day here. Lubong-Nangoloan (Anghalo) Falls is just under 10 minutes away. You can drive and park for a small fee, then walk or ride a carabao to the falls. Enjoy a cool swim, relax by the water, or have a picnic surrounded by nature. 

Fees (as of December 2025)

• Car Park: ₱50

• Carabao Ride (Optional): ₱150 one-way, sits up to 5 people. The walk from the main road to the entrance is easy, but riding a carabao is a fun experience—HIGHLY recommended if it’s your first time! 😉

• Entrance Fee: ₱50 per adult

• Cottage/Picnic Table (Optional): ₱350–₱1000. Local tip: No need for a table! Bring a picnic mat and pick a good spot anywhere.

LOCATION : 

📍  https://maps.app.goo.gl/5gJo4v5KB7VZzvjp7

San Felipe Public Market

Visit San Felipe Public Market and enjoy fresh produce and local favorites like puto, bibingka, kakanin, turon, pancit, and palabok. Don’t miss BAGNET—crispy, flavorful pork belly (a “heart attack on a plate” 😄). You’ll also find fresh seafood and local ingredients. Best part? It’s just 1 km away! 

Pawikan (Sea Turtle) Releasing

FREE Activity! - Donations are encouraged

From October to January, the Pawicare Pawikan Hatchery in La Paz, San Narciso, Zambales, offers the chance to witness baby sea turtles (Pawikan) released into the wild. This free activity warmly welcomes donations to support their conservation efforts.

Releases occur at sunrise (6 AM) and sunset (5 PM). Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early for a quick orientation. Nesting season begins in October, with releases continuing through January.

If you're in Zambales during this time, don't miss this incredible experience! The hatchery is just 15 minutes by car from San Felipe, Zambales. For more details, visit their Facebook page.

Paper Tree Resort

*One of my top personal recommendations—don’t leave Zambales without visiting! 

After a fun day at the beach, why not keep the adventure going at Paper Tree Resort?

Just a 30-minute drive from San Felipe, this peaceful spot invites you to swim in a clean, fresh water river — and yes, you’ll be swimming alongside fishes!

You can rent a cottage for the day, pack a picnic, or fire up the barbecue for a relaxing outdoor meal.

We tried it recently; it was the most unique fun we've had in a long time!
The water was crystal clear, the vibe was so calm, and the whole experience felt like a refreshing escape.  

FEES : (As of March 2026)

• No entrance fee

• Environmental fee: ₱ 30 per person

• Cottage - ranges from ₱300 to ₱1,000

LOCATION:

📍  https://maps.app.goo.gl/FKJvEm7xW2P8MmRY9

Island Hopping in Pundaquit 

Pundaquit, a small village in San Antonio, Zambales, is the ideal jump-off point for an island-hopping adventure. Just a 30-minute drive from San Felipe, you’ll find Pundaquit Beach, where local boatmen are ready to take you to breathtaking island destinations.

• Anawangin Cove – The most famous stop, featuring a pine-fringed beach and volcanic ash-covered mountains. Great for swimming, trekking, and camping, though it can get busy with tourists.

• Nagsasa & Talisayen Coves – Quieter alternatives to Anawangin, offering peaceful shores and unspoiled nature.

• Capones Island – Known for its crystal-clear waters and historic Spanish-era lighthouse with stunning coastal views.

• Camara Island - features sandy beaches and striking rock formations, which are perfect for a quick beach stop.

💡 Looking for tips? Check out The Poor Traveller’s detailed guide!

Want a better deal? Try haggling directly with a local boat owner—or message us and we’ll connect you with one offering a great rate.

Island-Hopping Rates (as of May 2026)
3-island tour (Anawangin, Capones, Camara)

• 1–4 pax: ₱3,500

• 5–7 pax: ₱4,000

• 8–10 pax: ₱4,500

• 11+ pax: ₱450/person

President Ramon Magsaysay's House

FREE Activity!

If you’re into history and heritage, the Magsaysay Ancestral House in Castillejos, Zambales, is a must-see. This was once the home of Ramon Magsaysay, the seventh President of the Philippines. Magsaysay, known for his deep connection with the people and his nickname as the “Savior of Democracy,” was a beloved leader whose untimely death in 1957 was felt deeply by the nation.

The house is a two-story building that feels like stepping back in time. You’ll find a collection of Magsaysay’s items—his clothes, books, furniture, photos, and medals. There’s even his old Willys Jeep on display. The house functions as a museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the life of this influential leader.

It’s open to visitors from Tuesday to Saturday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Plus, it’s just a 30-minute drive from San Felipe, making it an easy and worthwhile stop during your stay. 

Lake Mapanuepe - New Zealand of Zambales

Mapanuepe Lake, known as the "New Zealand of Zambales," is a picturesque spot an hour's drive from San Felipe, Zambales. It was formed after Mount Pinatubo's 1991 eruption. Its serene waters and historical church steeple emerging from the lake make it ideal for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy fishing, picnics, and camping, with day trips or overnight stay options. 

For a DIY travel guide with budget tips and insights on avoiding crowds, check out Joan’s Footprints here.  

Mt. Pinatubo Tours 

Mt. Pinatubo tours let you see one of the Philippines’ most amazing natural transformations. Once shaped by a powerful eruption, the area now features a beautiful turquoise crater lake surrounded by dramatic scenery. The trip usually includes a 4x4 ride and an easy trek, making it great for both first-time visitors and adventure lovers. It’s a memorable experience and a must-see when visiting Zambales. The jump-off point is only about 50 minutes away from San Felipe. 

Mt. Pinatubo Regular Operation via Botolan is from Tuesday to Sunday.

Fees: 1,650/head, minimum of 5pax. 

Inclusions: 4x4 vehicle, Guide and Environmental fee. 

Jump-off Point: Botolan Tourism Satellite Office, Brgy. San Juan, Botolan, Zambales.

Call time for registration and orientation: 5:30 in the morning

Travel Hours from Jump-off Point: 2 hours 4x4 ride and 3km trekking to the Crater. 

For booking, you need to settle the full amount 2days before your tour for them to reserve your guide and vehicle. 

Jump-off point location https://maps.app.goo.gl/b7RpZbBszodBE2L59

(Details updated February 2026) 

Ina Poon Bato Church

FREE Activity!

In the heart of Poon Bato lies Ina Poon Bato Church, a cherished landmark rich in history and spiritual significance. Legend tells of the Lady of Poonbato, who appeared to an Aeta leader as a glowing figure by the Pastac River. This mysterious image, believed to bring miracles like healing and financial blessings, has inspired devotion for centuries.

Though the original shrine was buried by the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption, a new one now stands, drawing visitors from near and far. Less than an hour from San Felipe, it's a fascinating stop to explore Zambales' culture and heritage!