Exploring the Hundred Islands from Manila — A Balancing Act of Adventure and Comfort

If you’re craving an escape to the Philippines’ famous Hundred Islands, but only have a day to spare, this private tour from Manila could be just what you need. For $114 per person, you’ll spend about 12 hours traveling, exploring, and enjoying the clear waters and lush islands of Alaminos, Pangasinan. The trip kicks off early at 4:00 am, but don’t let that dissuade you; it’s all part of making the most of your day.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, the inclusion of entrance and environmental fees, so there are no hidden costs once you’re out on the water. Second, the variety of outdoor activities, from relaxing on the beaches to adventurous cliff-jumping and snorkeling — there’s something for every type of traveler.

A potential drawback? The long van ride — roughly 10 hours round-trip — might be a challenge if you’re not a fan of long road trips. However, if you’re an adventurous soul eager to experience the Philippines’ iconic islands in a single day, this is a trade-off worth considering.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and island scenery, and who can handle a bit of travel time. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want an authentic, adventure-packed experience, especially if you’re traveling with a group or family that loves nature and water sports.

Comprehensive experience: Includes boat rides, guides, environmental fees, and permits.
Diverse stops: From Pilgrimage Island to coral gardens and swimming areas, offering a well-rounded day.
Activities for all: Swimming, kayaking, cliff-jumping, snorkeling, and relaxing.
Long travel time: Be prepared for about a 10-hour round-trip van journey from Manila.
All-in costs: No surprise fees for entrance, environmental permits, or boat rides.
Group size: Small group experience, with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention.

An In-Depth Look at the Hundred Islands Day Tour

The Journey Begins: Early Departure from Manila

Starting at 4:00 am from Starbucks Mall of Asia, this tour demands an early morning commitment. The reason is simple: to maximize your day in the islands. The long van ride (around 5 hours each way) is the most significant consideration. As one traveler noted, “the ride going and coming from Manila to Pangasinan was brutal, total of 10 hrs ride in the van,” but many find the payoff in the fun and scenery on the islands makes it worthwhile.

Traveling early means you’ll arrive at Alaminos ready to shake off the sleep and plunge into a day of island adventure. The benefit here is not just beating the crowds, but also having ample time for activities and exploration.

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The Highlights of the Itinerary

Hundred Islands National Park is the tour’s centerpiece. It’s a protected area with 124 islands at low tide and 123 at high tide, scattered across Lingayen Gulf. Covering only about 16.76 square kilometers, this cluster of islands feels like a miniature archipelago waiting to be explored.

Pilgrimage Island offers cultural and scenic highlights, with a station of the cross and a big statue of Jesus. The 360-degree view deck provides panoramic vistas of the islands, perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the scenery.

Marcos Island is known for its cliff-jumping spots and the Imelda Cave, offering a mix of thrill and history. Travelers can look forward to underwater cave exploration and jumping into the water from various heights — a favorite for adrenaline lovers.

Coral Garden is a snorkeling hotspot, with colorful corals visible just beneath the surface. While snorkeling activities are at your own expense, the chance to see vibrant marine life makes this stop worthwhile.

Quezon Island is the longest stop, with a two-hour window for lunch and optional activities. It’s a popular spot with a sandy shoreline and picnic areas, letting you relax and refuel before heading to the next islands.

Children’s Island is ideal for a quick swim — a quiet, shallow area perfect for families or less adventurous travelers wanting to cool off.

Activities and Experiences

This tour strikes a good balance between relaxation and adventure. You’ll enjoy swimming in calm waters, kayaking around islands, and for the brave, cliff-jumping. The tour guide will help match activities to your comfort level, which is reassuring if you’re new to water sports.

One reviewer mentioned, “the tour at the hundred islands itself was great just the ride going and coming from Manila to Pangasinan was brutal,” but most agree that once on the islands, the scenery and activities more than compensate for the long journey. The included life vests and guide support ensure safety and enjoyment.

The Practical Side: Value and Convenience

The price includes boat rides, environmental fees, permits, and the guide, making it a fairly good deal considering the number of stops and activities. You won’t need to worry about additional costs for entrance fees or permits, as these are all covered.

However, food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or a picnic lunch is advisable. The tour does not include accommodation, so it’s best suited for day-trippers rather than those looking to stay overnight.

The Long Day: Is It Worth It?

The main caveat from travelers is the long travel time. The van ride, while comfortable enough, can feel exhausting. As one reviewer put it, “total of 10 hrs ride in the van,” but many still found the trip worthwhile thanks to the stunning islands and fun activities.

Despite the long hours, the well-organized itinerary and friendly guides make the day manageable. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) helps keep things intimate and allows for more personalized attention.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a long day on the road and love outdoor water activities. It’s perfect for groups or families wanting a full day of nature, fun, and exploration without the hassle of arranging transport or permits. If you want a quick, authentic Philippines island experience with a mix of culture, scenery, and adventure, this tour hits all those marks.

Final Thoughts

This Hundred Islands day trip from Manila offers a robust and active way to see one of the Philippines’ most iconic natural attractions. The inclusion of all fees and activities lends to a sense of security and good value, especially for those who prefer to avoid the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

While the long journey is a consideration, many travelers find the scenery, the variety of stops, and the chance to swim, snorkel, and jump make it more than worth the effort. The knowledgeable guides, safety equipment, and well-structured itinerary contribute to a smooth experience.

In essence, this tour is ideal for travelers who crave adventure and outdoor fun but are willing to handle a full day on the road. It’s especially suited for those eager to dip their toes into the waters of the Philippines’ famed island clusters, all in one memorable day.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 4:00 am from Starbucks Mall of Asia, to maximize your time on the islands.

Are meals included in this tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended.

What activities are available on the islands?
You can expect swimming, kayaking, cliff-jumping, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beaches, with the guide helping you choose activities suited to your comfort.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, there are swimming areas like Children’s Island, making it a good option for families, though parents should supervise children during water activities.

How long is the van ride?
Round-trip, the van ride is approximately 10 hours, which is the main downside but considered worthwhile by many.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers boat rides, entrance and environmental fees, permits, a licensed guide, and life vests.

To sum it up, this private day tour to the Hundred Islands combines adventure, scenic beauty, and convenience into a single, well-organized package. While the lengthy travel time requires a bit of patience, the chance to explore multiple islands, enjoy water sports, and see the Philippines’ stunning coastlines makes it a worthy outing for active travelers. If you’re after a full day of outdoor fun and don’t mind the early start, this tour offers a memorable slice of Filipino island life.