When I first saw a picture of Anawangin Cove, I didn’t think it was taken in the Philippines. Primarily because of what looked like pine trees towering on the beach. I used to have this idea that pine trees in the Philippines were all in the highlands. I was so wrong.

Anawangin Cove is a perfect proof of many cliches we’ve heard before — the rainbow after the storm, the light at the end of the tunnel, the Phoenix reborn and rising from the ashes quite literally. Cliche but true. Who would have thought that the beautiful Anawangin Cove was made by a disaster a couple of decades ago? They say that Anawangin used to be rocky but Mt. Pinatubo dumped a good amount of volcanic ashes that the place was absolutely unrecognizable. Years later, agoho trees started to grow, creating an evergreen forest of what seems like pine trees. How did they get there? Good question. But it seems like the ash fall somehow carried with it some Agoho seeds.

It’s like Baguio and Boracay in one place. This dark yet inspiring history makes Anawangin very, very special. It is a reminder to everyone of the sheer beauty and immeasurable power of nature.

Into the Woods, Up to the Peak

When we arrived at the crescent-shaped paradise, the first thing we did was pitch our tents. The place was packed! It was a summer weekend and the beach was a bit crowded. There were tents everywhere! We chose a spot somewhere deeper in the forest, close enough (but not that close) to the restrooms, and not very close to the beach. We really enjoyed being surrounded by tall trees.

After settling down, we decided to walk deeper into the woods. We saw a dried-up riverbed (?) and followed it inland. I don’t know what we were thinking then. We just wanted to explore the woods. At one point, we ditched the river and found ourselves braving the thick bushes and climbing all the way up to the summit of a hill. We did not follow any trail, we just crazily made our own. The view was FANTASTIC.

After enjoying the view for 30 minutes more or less, we all agreed it was time to go down and enjoy the beach. We were also growing worried of Mike, our friend’s American boyfriend as his sunburns were getting worse by the minute.

Swimming!!!

Of course, the main course. We waited until the sun was just about to set when we took a dip! From afar, the water looked gentle but the waves were quite strong at the time. (Or maybe I was just weak, haha.) But it was fun! The water was clear and the sand was off white (I’ll be lying if I tell you it’s Boracay white) but it’s still very pretty! The combination of white sand and crystal clear water with Agoho trees on the background is what makes this place one-of-a-kind!

We stayed soaked in the Anawangin waters for more than 2 hours.

Anawangin Cove: View from the Top

After swimming, the group headed to a hill where tourists seem to be drawn to. Apparently the hill is a fantastic viewpoint as it offers a magnificent view of the entire cove. We followed the other tourists and made our way to the peak! It was a 15-minute hike, at least.

It was not an easy climb but it was definitely easier than our unplanned climb that morning. Nonetheless, the view at the top was oh-so-worth it! And so, as always, camwhored away!

Going downhill was much more difficult! But it was on our way down when we noticed there was a lake down there.

Anawangin Cove at Night

Although Anawangin is gorgeous in the daylight, it also fosters a rewarding atmosphere at night albeit challenging at first. The biggest challenge, of course, is the lack of electricity in the area. Your flashlight will be your bestfriend. Note that creating bonfires is prohibited!

At night, when the beach is covered in darkness, we chose to lie on the beach and watch the stars. Since there were no artificial lights, the stars were much more visible (and playful) that night. It was a good moment to reflect and think. It was a special opportunity to just relax and get lost in the beauty of the heavens. That night, we shared stories, exchanged secrets and enjoyed one another’s company. It was a night to remember.

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