Cape Bolinao Lighthouse and Bolinao Town

Two parts of Bolinao are worth visiting on a stay at Veue, the Cape Bolinao Lighthouse (about seven minutes from the property) and Bolinao town itself (about thirty-five minutes away).

Cape Bolinao Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse built in 1903, standing 107 meters tall, with panoramic views of the coast. The grounds have grown into a small spot in their own right, with local shops selling souvenirs, food, and clothes alongside the view.

• Distance from Veue: 7 minutes by car
• Best time: sunset for the view, or early morning for the light

Worth a quick stop on the way in if you arrive in daylight, or on the way out as a last view of the coast.

Bolinao Town

The main town is about thirty-five minutes from Veue. It has the markets, the church, and the practical stops that round out a longer visit to the area.

St. James the Great Parish

Built in 1609 and one of the oldest churches in the Philippines.

• Daily Mass: 6:00 AM
• Sunday Mass: additional services at 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM
• Best time: mid-morning or late afternoon

Even if you are not religious, the church is worth seeing for the history alone.

The Wet Market

A short distance from the church. Fresh seafood landed that morning, plus vegetables, fruit, and meat from local sources.

• Best time: early in the morning for the freshest catch
• What to bring: cash, and a cooler bag if you are buying seafood for the cabin

A Note on Bolinao History

Bolinao was founded around 1575 by Spanish Captain Pedro Lombi. The town moved to the mainland in 1596 because of attacks by Moro pirates. The name has three traceable origins: the Pamulinawen Tree where the original settlers met, the abundance of Monamon bolinao fish in the waters, and the local legend of Bolido and his love Anao.

Planning Your Visit

• A half-day in town is enough for the church, the wet market, and lunch.
• Combine with the lighthouse on the way back to Veue.
• Drive yourself using Google Maps or Waze.