Against the blaze of indigo sweeping across the sky, patchwork of greeneries erratically cut by rock formations and the promise of white sand beach, we were already blown away by the sights of Capones Island.  But as we started to set out to sea, it was the waves that sent shivers down our spines. Mesmerizing in its simplicity – only the natural sound of water and wind, yet inviting, the ripple pulled us in, like a mother blissfully greeting a child home.  Such was the siren call of  Zambales waves and for one day, we felt honored to be in her embrace.

The adventure began right as we stepped into the Victory Liner bus. With comfortable seats and free WI-FI connection, we immediately relaxed. In between dozing off and surfing the Internet, the 4-hour ride went like a breeze.  We even managed to capture a few pictures of ourselves giddily waiting to be enraptured by the islands of Zambales. A tricycle and boat ride later and we were face-to-face with an idyll of a lifetime.

The ride to paradisaical island.  Boats such as these can be rented to explore Capones Island and its neighboring Anawangin Cove.  It is a 30-minute boat ride from Pundaquit Bay to the islands. Parents and individuals who are not good swimmers need not worry- all passengers are required to wear life vests during boat ride. During our trip, the waves were not particularly strong, just calm and welcoming.

The beauty of Capones Island beckons. Uninhabited and primordial in appearance, the island paints a picture of simplicity. And indeed it is. With the sun out and blazing, the white shores and the brooding rocks are deafening testimonies to nature’s power.

In its natural splendor. As our boat drew near the shore, we were greeted by a powerful pounding- of our own hearts as we couldn’t believe something like this existed in Zambales.  It truly is more fun to discover the beauties of the Philippines.

Touchdown to paradise. Our first steps were timid, fearful that we were in fantasy and that any more step would snap us out of our reverie. But it wasn’t a dream and pockets of paradise truly exist.

Heaps of boulders await visitors of Capones. The island’s natural rock formations serve as a perfect backdrop for photo ops. With the view of the mountains and crystal turquoise water, we definitely had front row seats to one of nature’s finest works.

The view from the top is more picturesque! While the ground provided an opportunity to whisk out our cameras and take pictures one after the other, we hiked to the top and were dazzled by the blindingly white sand side by side with clear blue waters and green foliage. Perfect was the only word to describe the scene unfolding before our eyes.

Just a speck. Strolling along Capones Island reminded us how small we are God’s grand’s scheme of things. The experience did not only leave lasting impressions of the beauty of Zambales but we were also humbled with God’s artistry.

Signs of life. Just when we thought Capones was deserted, we glimpsed upon this lighthouse. Though we were unable to set foot in the lighthouse, our bankero informed us that the lighthouse was built in 1886. We’ll definitely visit it when we go back to Capones.

Pine tree galore.  Like the wonders that left was astonished, Capones island’s neighboring Anawangin Cove offered its own surprise- lines of pine trees. We had to pinch ourselves to remind us that, no we are not in Baguio.

Picture perfect. Anawangin Cove is a wonderful stretch of pine trees, very find sands, and the cool blowing our faces. The ideal place to relax, meditate and be awed in the presence of nature.

Family bonding made more memorable. Unlike in Capones island where camping is not permitted, Anawangin Cove is a wonderful place to bond with nature and loved ones. Tents can be rented, too. Spending the night is common in Anawangin Cove (which we did). All you need to do is prepare your food and basic amenities (there is no electricity here so be prepared to do some cooking the old fashioned way or you could simply bring your own baon). Kids will love roasting marshmallows at night while singing camp songs! Just be sure to look after your trash. We wouldn’t want to spoil this unspoiled beauty, do we?

Take a quick splash! Anawangin is also perfect for taking a dip in its cool waters.

The end of a perfect day. What better way to end our extraordinary experience than to watch the sun set.

The breathtaking vista was entrancing and it helped that the people of Zambales were without a doubt, one of the nicest folks we encountered during our stay. As our boat was whisked away toward Pundaquit Bay, it was time to say good bye.  We couldn’t help but take in the breezy wave that greeted us the day before.  This time, it gave a different surge, one that beckoned us to return to Zambales to experience it all over again.

Yes, Capones island and  Anawangin Cove, we will.  How does  spending your Valentine’s Day in this paradise sounds?

This coming Valentine’s Day, experience a different travel experience. Let the beauty of Capones Island and Anawangin Cove enrapture you and your loved ones. Going to Zambales has been made easy. Victory Liner, the country’s most trusted ground transportation partner, has routes to Zambales  daily.  Ride a Victory Liner bus going to Zambales, alight at San Antonio. Ride a tricycle going to Pundaquit Bay. From here, hire a boat going to Capones Island and Anawangin Cove.

* My  travel to Anawangin Cove and Capones Island three years ago.  Again, a good reference for my boys should they want to be extra romantic and bring their future wife and family here.  Anawangin Cove is nice for overnight; one can even rent a tent.  

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