Adventures at Anawangin Cove

It's supposed to be a training climb in preparation for a mountain expedition in Romblon province. I joined my buddies to assist them in their training but things turned out to be different and more adventurous. I remember a home-buddy friend who went for an outdoor camp for the first time and kept on harping about Anawangin Cove. He's the type who doesn't like the water and so with him barking Anawangin over and over again, it must be a place worth visiting.

It was during the Holy Week that we finally planned to visit Anawangin Cove in the province of Zambales in Luzon. Zambales is located in the west coast of Luzon as it accommodates the South China Sea to its shoreline. We left Manila at 6am to begin our journey to our jump off point at the town of Panduquit in Zambales. The best way to get there is to pass by Subic Bay Freeport Zone. Travel time is about 4 to 5 hours by private vehicle. We divided our group into 2 when we have arrived in Panduquit - those who are training will traverse and trek the mountains while the others will have a leisurely boat ride straight to Anawangin Cove. Our trekking group sought for a guide for hire but unfortunately, we couldn't get one. From what we've heard from many people, the trail is easy but one can get lost if you're not familiar with the trail. The weather condition was hot. It was like someone torching my skin; it really hurts even with an umbrella! After passing through some desert-like areas and a dry river, we got lost somewhere in the thick forest; there were tall grasses that we stumble on large rocks that were not visible. If you're not wearing the proper trekking shoes, this will definitely injure your feet. Although, the serene view of the mountains and the nearby sea is as always complimentarily breathtaking but time wasn't at our side. Without the aid of a guide, we just couldn't find a way to follow our itinerary. Just before 6pm, we see it wise to abort and return back to the town as trail food and water supplies are running short. "It was a nice attempt," I told myself. Even with the proper equipment, we wandered aimlessly in the dark thick forest. We were all trying to remember the trail but I'm glad that no one panicked in the process. Eventually, we found the town after 4 grueling hours. While the other group has finally reached the cove and had time to relax the whole afternoon, we arrived by 11pm tired from the whole trekking expedition. We took a boat by special request as locals don't normally transport guests by night time. Thankfully, our friends have prepared dinner for the rest of us. That was a great treat! Yipee!

Having settled and camped a few meters away from the beach, we lavished the rest of the night recounting our adventurous mishap of getting lost in the forest but swearing to return and conquer the mountain. Since it's a long holiday weekend, there were several big groups composed of different mountaineering clubs, groups of families, and friends camping around the area. Water is available and you can even get a good workout pumping it out while you take a bath on public just like everyone does.

On our second day, we bask in the sun and the beach of Anawangin Cove. People enjoy swimming, snorkeling and playing frisbees & beach volleyball. Eating halo-halo is a perfect dessert! The pristine atmosphere was really rewarding. Our trip won't be complete without visiting the picturesque Capones Island where an old Spanish lighthouse sits at the top of a hill. Adjacent to it is Camara Island where we spent time swimming and snorkeling. Upon returning to Manila, we passed by Subic Bay and enjoyed Italian food and coffee at Xtremely Xpresso Cafe along Dewey Avenue. Make sure that you try their gelato as a treat to cap the adventurous trip worth remembering.

Quick travel tips:
1. Seek a legitimate travel guide when venturing to an unfamiliar place. Refer to a local government office for proper advise
2. Bring trail food and water whenever traveling. Dried fruits and nuts are more healthful options than candies and junk food.