Where Is San Felipe?

San Felipe is a coastal municipality in the province of Zambales.

It's known for:

✔ Beautiful beaches

✔ Surfing spots

✔ Relaxed atmosphere

✔ Waterfalls

✔ Mountain views

✔ Easy access from Metro Manila

San Felipe has become one of the most popular weekend destinations for travelers looking for a quieter alternative to crowded beach towns.

What Is Liwliwa?

Liwliwa is a beach area located in Barangay Sto. Niño, San Felipe.

Years ago, Liwliwa was mainly known among surfers.

Today, it has grown into one of Zambales' most visited beach destinations while still maintaining its laid-back vibe.

Visitors come for:

🏄 Surfing

🌅 Sunsets

☕ Beach cafés

🍔 Food spots

🌊 Beach walks

🏕 Relaxed beach culture

Unlike larger beach destinations, Liwliwa remains relatively undeveloped, which is part of its appeal.

Which Has Better Beaches?

Since Liwliwa is part of San Felipe's coastline, the beach conditions are very similar. In fact, Liwliwa Beach is only about 1–1.5 km from other beach areas in San Felipe, and the shoreline, sand, and water quality are essentially the same.

What makes Liwliwa stand out isn't necessarily a better beach—it's the atmosphere and amenities surrounding it. Visitors enjoy:

• Wide black-sand shoreline

• Surf-friendly waves

• Beautiful sunset views

• Beachfront cafés and restaurants

• A lively surf-town vibe

Meanwhile, other parts of San Felipe's coast offer the same ocean and scenery but with fewer crowds and a more relaxed local feel.

If you're looking for surfing, cafés, and a social beach scene, Liwliwa is usually the most popular choice. If you prefer a quieter beach experience, other areas of San Felipe can be just as enjoyable.

Which Is Better for Surfing?

Without question, Liwliwa.

The area has become one of Central Luzon's most recognized beginner-friendly surf destinations.

Surf schools and board rentals are easy to find near the beach.

Best for:

✔ First-time surfers

✔ Weekend surfers

✔ Casual wave riders

✔ Surf photography

Wave conditions vary throughout the year, with larger swells typically arriving during the rainy season.

Which Has More Food Options?

Most visitors are surprised by how many good food spots are concentrated around Liwliwa.

Popular choices include:

🍳 Filipino breakfasts

☕ Specialty coffee

🍔 Burgers

🍕 Pizza

🌮 Fusion dishes

🍹 Beachside drinks

That said, San Felipe proper also has local eateries, bakeries, convenience stores, and markets that many tourists never discover.

Which Is Better for Families?

For families, the answer often depends on what type of trip you're planning.

Choose Liwliwa if you want:

• Beach access

• Surfing lessons

• Walkable cafés

• Social atmosphere

• Sunset hangouts

Choose other areas of San Felipe if you want:

• Quieter surroundings

• More privacy

• Larger group accommodations

• Easier parking

• Less foot traffic

Many families stay slightly outside the busiest part of Liwliwa and simply drive or walk to the beach whenever they want.

Nearby Attractions Around San Felipe

One advantage of staying in San Felipe is that you're close to more than just the beach.

Lubong-Nangoloan Falls (Anghalo Falls)

Lubong-Nangoloan Falls

A popular side trip featuring:

• Refreshing mountain-fed water

• River crossings

• Natural pools

• Easy trek

• Optional carabao rides

Best visited during the rainy season when water flow is strongest.

Paper Tree Resort

Paper Tree Resort

Known for:

• Crystal-clear river swimming

• Riverside picnics

• Mountain scenery

• Family-friendly environment

A great alternative when you want a break from the beach.

Lake Mapanuepe

Lake Mapanuepe

Often called the "New Zealand of Zambales" because of its scenic landscape.

Visitors enjoy:

• Camping

• Photography

• Boat rides

• Mountain views

Pundaquit Island Hopping

Pundaquit

About 30 minutes away from San Felipe.

Popular destinations include:

• Capones Island

• Camara Island

Ideal for snorkeling, sightseeing, and day trips.

So, Should You Stay in San Felipe or Liwliwa?

The good news is that you don't really have to choose.

Because Liwliwa is part of San Felipe, you're never far from either experience.

If you want cafés, surfing, and the beach scene, stay on or near Liwliwa.

If you prefer more space, privacy, and larger accommodations, staying elsewhere in San Felipe can offer better value while still keeping you close to all the attractions.