Hundred Islands National Park

A picturesque marine sanctuary featuring over a hundred small islands with white beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine ecosystems accessible from nearby towns. Popular for island hopping, snorkeling, and water sports with family-friendly activities.

Things to do

• Island Hopping Tour — Visit the most popular islands including Culebra Island, Children's Island, and Quezon Island on guided boat tours departing from Lucap Wharf.
• Snorkeling at Governor's Island — Explore vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish in shallow waters around Governor's Island, one of the clearest spots in the park.
• Windsurfing and Kiteboarding — Take advantage of consistent wind conditions and open waters at designated areas near Lucap Beach for water sports enthusiasts.
• Kayaking Through Island Passages — Paddle through narrow channels between small islands to discover hidden coves and mangrove areas inaccessible by larger boats.
• Beach Picnicking at Coconut Island — Pack a lunch and spend the day on this family-friendly island with white sand beaches and calm shallow waters.
• Rock Formation Viewing at Marcos Island — Admire unique natural rock formations and sea caves formed by centuries of wave erosion on this distinctive island.
• Sunset Watching Cruise — Book an evening boat tour from Lucap to witness spectacular sunsets over the archipelago with refreshments served onboard.

Food to try

• Bangus (Milkfish) Fillet — Freshly caught local milkfish grilled or fried, a staple protein dish in the Ilocos Region served at waterfront restaurants near the park.
• Kinilaw — Raw fish cured in vinegar and calamansi lime juice with onions and chili peppers, a refreshing appetizer showcasing the day's fresh catch.
• Laing — Taro leaves cooked in rich coconut milk with dried fish or shrimp, a traditional Ilocano comfort dish available at local eateries.
• Dinuguan — Savory pork blood stew seasoned with vinegar and spices, a beloved Filipino dish served at casual dining spots near Lucap.
• Fresh Seafood Grilled Over Charcoal — Locally caught grouper, snapper, or squid grilled to perfection with minimal seasoning to highlight the ocean's flavors.
• Empanada — Crispy pastry pockets filled with meat or seafood, a popular Ilocano street food perfect for snacks before or after island tours.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Marine Sanctuary Rules — Follow park regulations strictly including no touching of coral, no feeding of fish, and designated snorkeling zones to protect the ecosystem.
• Hire Licensed Local Boatmen — Always use official boats and guides from Lucap Wharf rather than informal operators to ensure safety and support the local community.
• Learn Basic Filipino Greetings — Filipinos appreciate visitors who attempt local language; simple phrases like 'Salamat' (thank you) and 'Mabuti' (good) enhance interactions with locals.
• Plan Around Seasonal Winds — The best time to visit is November to May when weather is calm; June to October brings typhoon season with rough seas and potential closures.

Nearby

• Vigan City — 14 km
• Paoay Church — 23 km
• Laoag City — 58 km
• Batac City — 88 km