Things To Do
in Dasol
Dasol is a coastal municipality in Pangasinan along the Lingayen Gulf, prized for its quiet beaches and friendly fishing communities. The town preserves a rustic, laid-back vibe with small markets, simple beachfront resorts, and scenic sunsets over calm turquoise water. Life here revolves around the shore, where local boats come in at dawn and the sea provides fresh seafood daily.
Visitors will find tranquil beach walks, a welcoming atmosphere, and natural coastal scenery largely untouched by mass tourism.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, savoring traditional Filipino dishes. After breakfast, head to the pristine shores of Dasol Bay, where the soft white sand invites you to relax and soak in the sun. As you stroll along the beach, take in the stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and the surrounding lush greenery.
In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch under the swaying palms, surrounded by the sound of gentle waves. Afterward, explore the nearby hidden coves and take part in some beachcombing, searching for unique seashells and local treasures. Don't forget to capture the breathtaking scenery with your camera as you discover the natural beauty of this lesser-known paradise.
As the sun begins to set, settle down at a beachside restaurant for a delicious seafood dinner, featuring the catch of the day. Relish the vibrant atmosphere as you listen to local musicians playing traditional tunes. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk along the shore, watching the stars twinkle above the tranquil waters.
Kick off your adventure with a hearty breakfast before boarding a boat for a day of island hopping. The crisp morning air fills your lungs as you glide across the sparkling waters, visiting some of the most beautiful islands in the region. Your first stop is Malaguinoan Island, where you can explore its stunning shores and vibrant marine life through snorkeling.
After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a packed lunch on the beach, surrounded by the natural beauty of the islands. Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing, or join a guided tour to discover the rich biodiversity of the underwater world. Don't miss the opportunity to interact with friendly locals, learning about their way of life and the island's history.
As the day winds down, return to the mainland and freshen up for dinner at a local restaurant. Savor traditional dishes while sharing stories of your day's adventures with fellow travelers. Wind down your evening with a refreshing drink, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Dasol town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transportation (jeepney/moto taxi) | $0.50-1.50 per ride |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $20-50 |
| 🥥Fresh coconut or juice | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic beaches with fewer crowds
- Fresh seafood and friendly local communities
- Affordable coastal destination with easy access from Manila
- Limited nightlife and fewer upscale amenities
- Smaller town infrastructure may mean longer travel times to services
- Seasonal weather can affect sea conditions and accessibility
- "Salamat po" - Thank you (polite)
- "Kamusta po?" - Hello/How are you?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Agyamanak" - Thank you (Pangasinan dialect)
Places to Visit in Dasol
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy shoreline with calm waters and soft morning light ideal for wide landscape photos.
Gentle cliffs and vantage points offering panoramic sea horizons and sunset silhouettes.
Colorful boats and active morning fishing activity provide dynamic scene photography opportunities.
Shorelines fringed with mangroves create interesting textures, reflections, and wildlife photography chances.
Food in Dasol
Dasol Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Milkfish prepared in fried, grilled, or kinilaw styles; widely found in seaside eateries and carinderias.
Must-Try!
Whole fish grilled with herbs and calamansi, a staple at beachside stalls and small restaurants.
Fresh fish cured in vinegar or citrus with onions and chili; best enjoyed fresh at coastal eateries.
A vegetable medley often served with seafood and a touch of bagoong for regional flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market with fresh seafood, dried fish, and local produce; ideal for tasting ingredients you’ll see along the coast and for snagging snacks from street stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use respectful terms like po/opo when addressing elders or staff; greet people with a smile and a simple hello.
Ask permission before taking photos of people or private family spaces; avoid intrusive shots of locals in sensitive moments.
Dress modestly when visiting markets, religious sites, or residential areas; swimwear is appropriate only at beaches and resorts.
Safety
Tipping in Dasol
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) is appreciated if service is not already included; hand cash directly to servers or leave at the table for exceptional service. For boatmen or guides, small tips after a trip are common.
Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries; some resorts and larger venues accept credit cards or mobile wallets (e.g., GCash). Check in advance if you rely on cards or digital payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May brings hot, dry days with calm seas; ideal for beach days, snorkeling in sheltered coves, and long coastal walks.
June to October brings higher humidity and more frequent showers; seas can be rougher and travel times may be affected by rain and storms.
November to February offers cooler evenings and comfortable days; good for hiking, coastal photography, and outdoor markets.
Dasol at Night
Hiking in Dasol
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forested ascent offering ridge viewpoints and coastal scenery; a rewarding day hike connectable from surrounding towns in Pangasinan.
Easy to moderate coastal hikes with sea views, ideal for photographers and nature lovers seeking panoramic angles.
Airports
How to reach Dasol by plane.
Main gateway to the Manila area; from here you can take a bus or car to Dasol with a several-hour drive depending on traffic.
Alternative gateway in Pampanga; generally a shorter drive to Pangasinan than MNL, with road connections to the highway network leading toward Dasol.
Northern gateway in Ilocos Norte; further from Dasol but serves as an option for travelers continuing north or linking with other routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of long-time Pangasinan residents, fishing families, and nearby rural communities; Tagalog-speaking with local Pangasinan influences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched in towns across the Philippines, with informal games on courts near markets and schools.
Traditional fishing activities, boat-based outings, and waterfront games are common along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dasol.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable dishes like pinakbet and veggie-based soups; ask for bagoong on the side or for dishes to be prepared without fish sauce.