Liwliwa has become one of Zambales’ most beloved surf towns, attracting both beach lovers and budget travelers. While many resorts cater to comfort seekers, Aluntala Hostel offers something simpler and more practical. It’s a stay designed for travelers on a shoestring budget, where affordability meets the free-spirited vibe of coastal living.
Affordable Comfort for Backpackers
Aluntala Hostel is perfect for travelers who find even budget rooms for two still beyond their means. Rates in the shared dorm room start at around Php 1000 on weekends and during low season. It can go even lower on weekdays, making it one of the most affordable places to stay in Liwliwa, for solo travelers.
I arrived at the hostel late in the afternoon, around 4 PM, without any reservation. Luckily, a bed was still available, though it was the topmost bunk. To my surprise, the dorm room had three layers of bunk bed, a setup I only experienced once, in Hong Kong if I remember it correctly. The room accommodates ten people, with four bunk beds in total: two for two guests each and another two for three guests each.
Each bed has its own light and fan, which is a thoughtful touch considering the shared setup. Going up is easy since the stairs for the lower bunks are parallel, and the beds are close enough to climb using both sides. Guests staying in the shared dorm also have lockers that can fit a weekend-sized backpack, around 32 liters. Anything larger, unfortunately, might won’t fit.
The space feels basic yet functional, perfect for travelers who simply need a place to rest after a long day of surfing or exploring Liwliwa.
Morning Perks and Common Spaces
In the morning, guests can enjoy free bread and coffee. It’s a simple offering that fuels your day before heading out to the beach. However, the shared area beneath the dorm rooms has limited tables and chairs. The extra table outside helps, but it becomes unusable when it rains.
Despite that, the open layout creates a sense of community among travelers. You’ll often find backpackers chatting over coffee, swapping stories about their Liwliwa adventures.
Experience
While the facilities are decent, the check-in experience could use improvement. The staff member at the front desk seemed a bit unwelcoming, almost as if guests were interrupting his time. He even gave an incorrect access code to the room’s autolock, which caused confusion for new arrivals. Thankfully, other travelers were kind enough to share the correct one.
It was also odd to see him helping himself to the free bread and coffee in the morning before guests could. In contrast, the maintenance staff appeared far friendlier and more accommodating. Their genuine smiles and willingness to help made the stay feel lighter and more comfortable.
Facilities and Overall Impression
The toilet and bathroom are clean, though the water pressure can be inconsistent. Still, for a hostel in this price range, it delivers what backpackers need most—affordable comfort and convenience. The dorm setup provides just enough space and privacy without losing its communal vibe.
Aluntala Hostel also offers cabin rooms for small groups or barkadas. I didn’t get the chance to check them out, but they seem like a good option for those wanting more privacy.
Overall, this hostel works well for short stays and travelers who value affordability over comfort. If you’re after a quick, low-cost stop in Liwliwa, it’s a practical choice. However, if you expect warm hospitality and attentive service, you might want to explore other stays in the area.
