About
Pangasinan is a province in the northwestern part of the Philippines, on the island of Luzon in Southeast Asia. It is a place where the coast, the fishponds and the countryside shape daily life, and it makes a rewarding stop for travellers who want to see more of the country beyond its big cities.
What draws visitors
The province is best known for three things. Its salt production is a long-standing part of the local economy, and the salt beds along the coast give the landscape a distinctive look. Pangasinan is also the country's leading producer of bangus, or milkfish, so the province's cuisine and markets are closely tied to this fish. Finally, the Hundred Islands National Park, a cluster of small limestone islands in the Lingayen Gulf area, is the province's most notable natural attraction.
Planning a visit
- Set aside time for the Hundred Islands National Park, which suits day trips by boat and a slower pace on the water.
- Look out for the salt farms and fishponds, which show how the province's livelihoods have developed along its coastline.
- Try bangus dishes while you are in the province, since the fish is central to its food culture.
- Allow for travel between the coast and the inland towns, as the province is large and its attractions are spread out.
Pangasinan suits visitors who enjoy seaside scenery, local food and a quieter side of the Philippines. Checking current arrangements for boat trips and park access before you go will help you plan your days around the places you most want to see.
