The Hundred Islands
More than a hundred small, tree-topped islands scattered across a bay in northwestern Luzon, a day trip by bangka from Alaminos.
Quick answer
- What it is: a national park of 124 islands and islets in the Lingayen Gulf, off Alaminos City.
- History: declared the country's first national park in 1940.
- How to visit: register and hire a boat at the tourism centre on Lucap Wharf.
- Main stops: Governor's Island for the viewpoint, Quezon Island for swimming, and Children's Island for shallow water.
- Getting there: about 4 to 5 hours from Manila by bus or car.
Why it is a wonder
Scattered across the Lingayen Gulf off Alaminos City are well over a hundred small islands, many of them little more than rocky, tree-topped mounds rising from the water. Seen from above, they look like scattered green buttons on a blue cloth.
The area was declared a national park in 1940, the first in the Philippines. Today it is usually described as 124 islands and islets, depending on the tide. A few larger islands have beaches, steps and viewpoints; most are left wild.
Beat the crowds
- Go on a weekday. Weekends and holidays bring large groups from Manila and nearby provinces.
- Leave from Lucap early, so you reach Governor’s Island viewpoint before the heat and the crowds.
- Ask your boatman to include some of the smaller, quieter islands.
Getting there
Buses run from Manila to Alaminos in about 4 to 5 hours. From the town, a short tricycle ride takes you to Lucap Wharf, where the tourism centre handles registration, fees and boat hire. See our guide to getting around the Philippines.
A perfect day
- Register at Lucap Wharf and hire a boat early.
- Climb the viewpoint on Governor’s Island for the classic view over the islands.
- Swim and snorkel at Quezon Island, and stop at Children’s Island if you have kids.
- Watch the sunset from Lucap with fresh seafood.
Through the seasons
- November to April: the dry season, with calm seas and clear water.
- May to October: the rainy season and typhoon months. Boats can be suspended.
See our guide to typhoon season.
Respect the place
Take all rubbish back to the mainland (some tours ask for a trash deposit), don’t stand on coral or giant clams, and don’t carve or paint on the rocks.
Photo gallery
Frequently asked questions
How many islands are there?
The park is usually described as having 124 islands and islets at low tide, though you will still see 123 in older sources.
How do I book a boat?
At the tourism welcome centre on Lucap Wharf. You register, pay fees and hire a bangka by size for a day tour of several islands.
Can I stay overnight on the islands?
A few islands allow camping or have simple cottages. Ask at the tourism centre; most visitors stay in Alaminos or near Lucap.
Is it good for snorkelling?
There are snorkelling spots and giant clam areas around the park. Water is clearest in the dry season.
Can I visit from Manila in a day?
It's possible but long. Staying a night near Lucap makes for a far more relaxed trip.
Pagudpud and the Bangui Windmills
A row of giant wind turbines along a wild northern shore, and some of Luzon's best beaches just around the headland.
We checked this guide against the 3 sources listed below. Last updated 14 November 2026. Basis: researched from official sources. Written and edited by Delfin, with AI-assisted research (how we work). Prices, hours and rules change, so confirm before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
