Pinsal Falls

Pinsal Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall located in Barangay Babal-lasioan, Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur, in the Ilocos Region of northern Luzon, Philippines. Regarded as the largest waterfall in the Ilocos Region, it features an 85-foot main cascade, smaller secondary falls, natural pools and distinctive rock formations including large footprint-shaped depressions. Surrounded by forested hills, it is known for its natural scenery, swimming basins and folklore associated with the giant Angalo.

Visitors can expect a forested valley setting with a wide main cascade dropping into a natural pool suitable for wading and swimming, plus smaller cascades and shallow rock pools nearby. The site includes large footprint-like depressions in the rock attributed to local legend, simple viewing areas and picnic cottages. Access involves a short walk and steps from the parking area through trees and rocky terrain to the falls basin.

Pinsal Falls is associated with Ilocano folklore of Angalo, a mythical giant believed to have created the large footprint-shaped depressions in the rock near the falls. The site has long served as a natural landmark for Santa Maria municipality.

The falls hold cultural significance through the Angalo legend, part of local oral tradition in Ilocos Sur, and functions as a community eco-tourism and recreation site for residents and visitors.