Early the next morning, Kuya Cesar picked us up for a day of sightseeing and nature adventures. First on our list was Bolinao Falls 1. It’s likely the deepest of the three local waterfalls and has a fun cliff-jumping area for the brave (or slightly crazy). I gave it a shot—jumped from about 20 feet—and landed right on my behind! Not the most graceful landing, but it was a fun, adrenaline-filled moment. I even tried kayaking near the falls, which was peaceful and calming.
Next up: Bolinao Falls 2. Smaller than the first but just as beautiful, it had a mix of shallow and deeper areas, great for families with kids. I spent more time floating here, letting the cool, fresh water wash away the city stress.
Bolinao Falls 3 was our final waterfall stop. It had wider open spaces and lovely cascades. I didn’t swim this time—instead, I sat with my mom in a nearby cottage, snacking on steamed corn, and chese popcicle icecream while enjoying the simplicity of the moment. Sometimes, the quietest times leave the biggest impressions.
Each waterfall had a small environmental and parking fee, and life vests were available for rent. It’s a small price to help preserve these natural wonders.
From there, we made our way to the Enchanted Cave, one of Bolinao’s most unique attractions. The entrance fee ranges between ₱200 to ₱350 depending on whether you swim, and honestly—it’s worth every peso. Inside the cave is a spring-fed pool with cool, crystal-clear water. My sister, nephew, and I were lucky enough to be the first to swim that morning. It’s a bit enclosed, so it may not be ideal if you’re claustrophobic—but for us, it was one of the highlights of our trip.
Our last stop was the Bolinao Lighthouse, a charming historic site. Though you can’t climb it anymore, the panoramic views from the area are beautiful, making it the perfect backdrop for a few last photos.
Back at our Airbnb that evening, we kept it simple. My sister cooked dinner, and we shared laughs over our full day of exploring. We all slept deeply that night—grateful, tired, and happy.
Last Day: A Quiet Goodbye
Before heading home, we made one final stop at St. James the Great Parish Church, one of the oldest in the country. With its old stone walls and serene atmosphere, it felt like a perfect place to pause and give thanks—for safe travels, beautiful memories, and time well spent with the people who matter most.
Bolinao gave us more than just a break from the city—it gave us precious time to reconnect, relax, and celebrate our mom in the best way possible. If you're looking for a family-friendly, budget-conscious destination that offers both adventure and serenity, Bolinao is definitely worth the trip.
And if you're headed that way, be sure to contact Kuya Cesar—a friendly, reliable local who knows all the best spots and made our trip smoother from start to finish. You can also purchase souvenirs from his wife, she handmades accessories made of shells.
Contact: Kuya Cesar – Bolinao Tricycle Tour Guide
Mobile: 09301768641
Pro Tip: Reach out a day or two before your trip to coordinate pick-up and tours.
Until our next escape!
