Inspiring Story
What happens when a couple moves from the tropical beaches of Bali to Pangasinan Philippines? For founders Bob and Meliza it meant transforming a forgotten piece of land into an eco conscious oasis. Established as a passion project in 2019 and fully launching seven stylish rooms by 2025 148 Guesthouse and Resort blends global inspiration with authentic Filipino hospitality. Bob a renewable energy professional and Meliza the founder of a sustainable swimwear line made from recycled ocean plastics have built a unique pet friendly sanctuary that runs on environmental mindfulness and community spirit.
Holiday Getaways
This boutique resort is best suited for families couples and groups seeking intimate Holiday Getaways close to the famous Hundred Islands National Park. It is highly recommended for pet owners who want their four legged companions to enjoy a vacation too.
Pros
- Beautiful Bali inspired architecture and peaceful gardens
- Pet friendly with a warm welcome and onsite resident golden retrievers
- Free communal kitchen facilities with zero corkage fees
- Refreshing outdoor swimming pool and relaxing spa services
Cons
- Onsite parking is limited to a few spaces
- Not recommended for travelers with severe pet or food allergies due to shared spaces and resident dogs
- Strict quiet hours observed from 10 PM to 6 AM
In-Depth Spotlights
When analyzing pricing observations 148 Guesthouse and Resort delivers exceptional value for a mid range boutique property. Standard rooms range from affordable double rooms for budget travelers to larger barkada rooms capable of hosting groups up to twelve people. Compared to traditional regional hotels like Proxy Plus by The Oriental or Island Tropic Hotel which offer a standard commercial experience 148 Guesthouse and Resort stands out by offering a highly personalized home away from home feeling. Its inclusion of a shared fully equipped kitchen helps travelers save significantly on dining expenses making it a more economical choice for extended family vacations.
Customer Reviews
Overall Rating 9.2 out of 10
Service 9.5 out of 10
The staff and owners are highly accommodating frequently helping guests arrange tours and providing local hospitality that feels personal.
Facilities 8.8 out of 10
The outdoor pool garden lounge areas and communal cooking setup are highly rated though parking can be tight.
Value for money 9.4 out of 10
Guests find the room rates very reasonable especially given the quality of the amenities and lack of food corkage fees.
Cleanliness 9.3 out of 10
Rooms are modern clean well maintained and equipped with comfortable bedding and fresh toiletries.
Location 9.2 out of 10
Conveniently situated along the national highway in Lucap making it incredibly easy to access the main island hopping wharf.
Solving the Travelers Problem
Many travelers visiting Alaminos face the dilemma of choosing between expensive beachfront resorts or low quality crowded transient houses. 148 Guesthouse and Resort solves this exact problem by providing a clean safe boutique environment at an affordable price point. It eliminates the frustration of expensive hotel food by allowing guests to cook their own meals freely while offering a relaxing pool area to unwind away from the crowded tourist docks.
Travel Guides and Tips
Safety and Scams
Always book your Hundred Islands boat tours directly at the official Lucap Wharf tourism office to avoid unauthorized street guides who overcharge. Keep your belongings secure while island hopping and always wear your life jacket during boat transits.
Packing Guides
Pack reef safe sunscreen light breathable clothing swimwear aqua shoes for rocky beaches and waterproof dry bags to protect your electronics during boat rides. Bring your own pet supplies if you are traveling with animals as the resort requires guests to bring their own pet food.
Transportation Tips
If you are coming from Manila take a public bus such as Victory Liner or Five Star directly to Alaminos City. From the city center terminal hire a local tricycle and ask the driver to drop you off at 148 National Road in Barangay Lucap. The property is located right along the main highway before reaching the wharf.
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive at the resort check in at 2 PM relax by the outdoor pool and enjoy a home cooked barbecue dinner in the shared garden area.
Day 2 Wake up early for a full day island hopping tour at the Hundred Islands National Park visiting Governor Island Marcos Island and Quezon Island. Return in the afternoon for a hot stone massage at the resort.
Day 3 Take a 15 minute drive to the private Seraya Beach or explore the Bued Mangrove Park before checking out at 11 AM.
Local Food and Local Attractions
Do not miss out on tasting Alaminos Longganisa a distinct local garlic sausage that goes perfectly with fried rice. For dining options check out the local seafood restaurants near Lucap Wharf. The primary attraction is the Hundred Islands National Park featuring over one hundred limestone islands. Nearby attractions include the scenic Lucap Lighthouse the peaceful Bued Mangrove Park and the beautiful shores of Bolo Beach.
Events and Festivals
Alaminos City celebrates the vibrant Hundred Islands Festival every March. This annual event features street dancing competitions agricultural trade fairs colorful parades and musical performances highlighting the rich culture and natural beauty of Pangasinan.
Things to Know and Trivia
The guesthouse requires a fully refundable damage deposit of 1000 PHP upon check in which doubles if you bring a pet. A fun piece of trivia is that you will likely be greeted upon arrival by the owners two friendly fully vaccinated golden retrievers who serve as the unofficial resort ambassadors.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is 148 Guesthouse and Resort pet friendlyYes the resort is fully pet friendly and welcomes dogs and cats though a refundable pet deposit is required at check in
- How far is the resort from Lucap WharfThe property is located along the Lucap Highway just a brief two minute drive or a short tricycle ride away from the wharf
- Can guests cook their own food at the propertyYes guests have full access to the free communal cooking facilities and charcoal grills with absolutely no corkage fees
- What is the check in and check out timeStandard check in begins at 2 PM and check out is required by 11 AM with early or late options subject to hourly fees
- Does the resort have a swimming poolYes there is an outdoor swimming pool on site complete with pool sun loungers and a poolside bar
- Are there large rooms available for big groupsYes the resort features a specialized Barkada Room that can comfortably accommodate up to twelve adults
- Is free wireless internet availableYes the property provides free high speed wireless internet access with speeds reaching over 100 Mbps
- Does the property have an elevatorNo this is a low rise ground floor accessible boutique property that does not use or require elevators
- Can the resort help arrange island hopping toursYes the accommodating staff can easily assist you with inquiries and bookings for Hundred Islands and Bolinao tours
- Is smoking allowed inside the roomsNo all guest rooms are strictly non smoking though designated outdoor smoking areas are available on the premises
