Jump into ‘Death Pool’ at Cabongaoan Beach in Pangasinan

From a sleepy town to a thrill-seeker’s destination, Cabongaoan Beach and its Death Pool have been grabbing tourists’ attention

Pangasinan is one of the best places in the north of the Philippines for beach adventures. We all know about the popular Hundred Islands in Alaminos, the sugary-white sand of Patar Beach in Bolinao, and a number of enchanting side trips you might want to add to your list – falls, caves, farms, mountains, and much more. 

But Pangasinan has more to offer when it comes to booming beach hot spots. Burgos, a municipality located 30-minutes away from the provincial capital Alaminos, is gaining momentum to become the next big tourist attraction, all for its thrilling offering – Cabongaoan Beach.

After an hour’s tricycle ride from the municipal proper, the sound of gentle waves will tell you that you are nearing the place. The area is not like other touristy places in Pangasinan. Since the beach is a tad remote, there are only few accommodations available in the area. If you want to feel more of the beachside vibe, pitching a tent would be a great option too. 

Touching the fine white sand while walking along the beach barefoot will give you a laidback vibe. Nipa huts, a few boats for fishing, and local kids playing by the shore are common sights. 

In the morning, you will be greeted with calm waters, which will entice you to take a dip. Be careful though, as there are many rocky parts of the beach.It is better to find the safe spots for kids to frolic in. For family and barkada bonding, there are a few resorts offering nipa huts for rent, often paired with karaoke rentals for the usual belting voices. 

Death Pool

But a trip to Cabongaoan Beach will never be complete if you forego checking out the reason for which it is most famous – the Death Pool. 

Originally called Depth Pool, locals coined the term “Death Pool” because it suited the site’s thrilling effect. The Death Pool is a natural pool located on the far right side of the beach. 

Getting there is not for the faint-hearted. A couple of minutes of walking towards the pool and you’ll need to pass through rocky paths leading to even bigger rock formations. You might enjoy walking barefoot by the beach, but having footwear is advisable when walking to the pool.

After passing big boulders, you will be greeted by the crashing sound of waves and probably the shrieks of tourists at the famed Death Pool. The natural tidal pool, with a crooked circle shape, looks deadly. Waves that crash into it might make swimmers lose their balance, as if they are being wiped out. It also drains out water, which makes it look frightening to jump or swim in. People would sit around the pool, thinking whether they should jump or just hold a firm grip on sharp rocks. Some would jump into it as the waves crash, while some will just opt to look on.

But get this: the Death Pool is not really a deadly destination. From the looks of people visiting the place, it is more of a thrilling and fun experience rather than a dangerous one. It is for – from kids to those young at heart. 

And for those who want a less thrilling swimming experience while enjoying the view of waves and the sea, there are many small natural pools within the area. Some will opt to just float in the pools hidden in big rocks, or frolic in safer pools scattered all over the place. 

Planning to go?

With the thirst to discover more and more destinations in the Philippines, it is not surprising to know that Cabongaoan Beach and its Death Pool is bringing in tourists.  Before, when roads were not developed, it took almost a couple of hours to reach the place. Roads are way better now, which makes it easier for many to drive to the beach. There is already a tourism information booth in the town proper to help visitors with their itineraries. 

If you are planning to go to the place, here are some tips you might want to check out:

1. Always wear slippers or protective footwear. Do not try to torture your feet by walking to the Death Pool barefoot. 
2. Buy your supplies already in Alaminos City market or in Burgos market. There are no restaurants on the beach. Some resort owners can cook the food for you, but you need to coordinate with them beforehand.

Getting there

1. Ride bus bound to Alaminos, Pangasinan at Cubao. Victory Liner and Five Star buses have trips going there. The fare is about P350 to P400.
2. From Alaminos City, ride another bus bound to Santa Cruz, Zambales. Fare is P30.
3. Tell the driver to drop you off at Burgos Market.
4. You can also ride a bus straight to Santa Cruz, Zambales from Victory Liner or Five Star Cubao and alight in Burgos. 
5. From Burgos, where you can also buy some of your goods, charter a tricycle bound for Cabongaoan Beach. The fare is P600 back and forth. You may tell the driver what time he will fetch you the next day. – Rappler.com

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Source: https://www.rappler.com/environment/when-baby-turtles-give-jolt/