About Mt. Pundaquit
Mt. Pundaquit in San Antonio, Zambales, is a coastal mountain that combines the thrill of hiking with breathtaking seaside views. Known for its scenic trails overlooking Anawangin Cove, Capones Island, and the West Philippine Sea, this mountain offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The trail features rolling hills, grassy ridges, and panoramic spots ideal for sunrise or sunset hikes, making it a favorite among weekend trekkers and nature lovers.
The Trails of Mt. Pundaquit
So that you know, the difficulty of this mountain depends on the season. During the summer, the trail is challenging because most of the terrain is open and the sun is very hot, while during the rainy season, the terrain is also tricky due to strong water currents in the river. During our ascent, it was super hot, but the river was dry, so the gorgeous rock formations were visible on the trail.
Stunning Views on the Summit of Pundaquit
When I reached the summit, I saw the gorgeous province of Zambales. From afar, the white-sand beach that stretches along San Antonio's coast is visible. Also, the mountain ranges provide a perfect backdrop, making the summit even more Instagram-worthy. The breeze is cool, the air is fresh, and the surroundings are covered with green grass, shrubs, and trees. The color of the sea changes as the waves run towards the shore.
Mt. Pundaquit Traverse to Anawangin
The trail from the summit was challenging because my shoes didn't have spikes. I had no other way to control my pace but to run on the downhill trail; it was just a few meters anyway. After the heartaches, skin aches, foot aches, and other aches, we finally reached our Final Destination - the forever gorgeous Anawangin Cove. It was a tiring day, but when I saw the fine white sand, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and emerald seas, I just said, "WOW!!" Also, the breeze was cool, making the ambiance really energetic. Pitched the tents and started socials. In the Anawangin Cove campsite, there are comfort and shower rooms. If you want to buy snacks, there are sari-sari stores, but the prices are high.
How to Get to Mt. Pundaquit
Ride a Victory Liner bus bound for Sta. Cruz but alight in front of the San Antonio Municipal Hall. In our case, we rode one of the Victory Liner buses (EDSA Southbound) bound for the Victory Liner Station in Olongapo City to meet our friends. Then, we rode an Ordinary Bus to the Municipal Hall of San Antonio, Zambales. In front of the municipal hall, we rode a tricycle to the shore; the trip took about 15 minutes. Drivers already know where the jump-off is.
Summary
Climbing Mt. Pundaquit is more than just a hike—it’s a journey through Zambales’ raw coastal beauty. With its sweeping ocean views and refreshing breeze, it’s the perfect adventure for those who seek both mountain and sea in one unforgettable escape.
On the other hand, traveling in the Philippines is highly recommended because of its hidden beauty. Want to explore stunning places? Here’s my full travel guide after visiting all 82 provinces in the Philippines.
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