The capital Pangasinan Province, Lingayen is a historic Filipino city that’s slowly trading its colonial character for a nondescript modern façade. Most visitors are weekenders from Manila intent on enjoying the beach.
The historic and modern quarters of town are separate, and tourists will find little of interest along the newest streets. In the old quarter, you’ll find Lingayen Church, a Spanish colonial structure with a unique bell tower; the provincial capitol building; and access to one of the longest beaches in the province.
The beach itself is not especially memorable though things pick up over the weekends when domestic tourists from Manila arrive to escape city life. There is plenty of room to stretch out here, and crowds are seldom a problem. The beach played an important role in WWII conflicts, commemorated by a memorial plaque.
Aside from the beach, there’s little to keep tourists in Lingayen. But this provincial capital can be a good launching point for trips to neighboring sites in Pangasinan Province. The most popular attraction in this area is Hundred Islands National Park near Alaminos.
Getting There & Away
The North Luzon Expressway is the main artery running through Pangasinan Province, and it connects through Lingayen. Most international tourists enter the Philippines through the international airport at Manila and then proceed to Lingayen Gulf by bus or hire car. The drive takes around 4 hours.
Things to Do
Lingayen Attractions
- Lingayen Beach
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This was the landing point for general douglas macarthur when north luzon was liberated, but now it is the city’s major tourist attraction with plenty of waterfront facilities.
- Lingayen Gulf War Memorial
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This open-air museum adjoins the public beach and features airplanes and weapons from wwii.
- Pangasinan Capitol Building
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Built in the late colonial days and then renovated after wwii, this is one of the finest buildings in the province.
- Lingayen Church
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Another important heritage building, this one features a tiered bell tower that looks something like a pagoda.