Things To Do
in Subic
Subic, officially the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales, sits along the northwest coast of Luzon at the mouth of Subic Bay. It blends history and natural beauty, from lush rainforest and coral reefs to WWII relics and modern eco-tourism. The area is known for family-friendly attractions, water sports, and convenient access from Manila.
Today, SBMA fosters a mix of resorts, cruise ship visits, and markets while preserving its natural charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Filipino dishes like longganisa and tapsilog. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic center of Subic, where you can admire the preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Visit the Subic Bay Heritage Park, where informative plaques narrate the rich history of the area.
For lunch, indulge in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the bay. Spend the afternoon at the Ocean Adventure, where you can witness marine life up close, including dolphins and sea lions in interactive shows. Don't miss the chance to learn about marine conservation efforts and the importance of protecting the ocean.
As the sun sets, head to the beachfront for a relaxing evening stroll along the shoreline. Dine at a beachside shack, enjoying grilled fish and local delicacies while listening to the soothing sound of waves. Cap off your night with a visit to a local bar for live music, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture.
After breakfast, gear up for an exhilarating day at the beach by visiting the popular White Rock Beach. Engage in water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides, feeling the thrill of the ocean breeze on your face. The morning sun glistens on the water, making it the perfect backdrop for some fun in the sun.
Enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of palm trees, featuring local snacks and refreshing drinks. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or try your hand at paddleboarding, where you can paddle across the calm waters. For those seeking adventure, consider taking a guided snorkeling trip to explore the vibrant marine ecosystems just offshore.
As evening approaches, join a beach bonfire where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow travelers. Enjoy a seafood feast right on the beach, with fresh catches grilled to perfection. End your night by stargazing, with the sound of the waves creating a serene atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-100 |
| 🛒Basic groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly attractions and abundant outdoor activities
- Proximity to Manila and diverse dining options
- Some attractions can be crowded on weekends
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities and occasional travel times due to traffic
- "Kamusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ano ang pangalan mo?" - What is your name?
- "Oo / Hindi" - Yes / No
Places to Visit in Subic
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide views of the bay, marinas, and ship traffic against colorful sunsets; good for long exposure and skyline shots.
Clear water, small beaches, and rugged coastlines perfect for landscape and seascape photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Tropical foliage, palm-fringed shorelines, and reef views ideal for nature and travel photography.
Photogenic marine-themed settings with aquariums, displays, and family-friendly moments to capture.
Night scenes with market lights, reflections on the water, and a relaxed waterfront vibe for candid and street photography.
Food in Subic
Subic Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Filipino dish of meat marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. Widely available at local eateries and beachfront restaurants.
Must-Try!
A tangy shrimp soup made with tamarind, tomatoes, and vegetables. Common in many Filipino restos around SBMA and Olongapo.
Freshly grilled seafood skewers sold at waterfront stalls and night markets; great for a quick bite with a bay view.
Filipino ceviche-style raw fish typically prepared with vinegar, calamansi, onions, and chili—often found at seafood spots and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling spot for fresh seafood, produce, and regional snacks; ideal for sampling local flavors and grabbing quick bites.
Night stalls along the waterfront offering grilled skewers, fried treats, and local sweets; perfect for an casual evening stroll and tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Kamusta' or 'Hello' and use 'po' when addressing elders or authority figures as a sign of respect.
Dress modestly in religious sites and avoid loud public behavior in residential areas. Basic etiquette such as not pointing feet at people or sacred objects is appreciated.
Ask for permission when photographing locals or private property. In some markets or small shops it may be best to avoid taking photos without asking first.
Safety
Tipping in Subic
Ensure a smooth experience
In tourist areas a tip of around 10-15% for good service is common if a service charge isn’t already added. In casual eateries and market stalls tipping is optional and appreciated for good service.
Cash is widely accepted, with many venues also accepting credit/debit cards. Smaller markets may be cash-only; ATMs are common in SBMA and Olongapo. Mobile wallets are increasingly accepted in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent short showers. Dry spells are common, making beach days ideal, but stay hydrated and use sun protection.
June to October brings heavy rains and occasional typhoons. Waterproof gear helps, and seas can be rough for water activities; indoor attractions are good options during downpours.
November to February offers cooler evenings and milder humidity, making outdoor exploration pleasant and comfortable for hiking and sunset photography.
Subic at Night
Hiking in Subic
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike to a crater lake with dramatic scenery; best accessed via Clark for logistical ease.
Challenging peak and forested terrain in the Zambales range; a longer trip requiring proper planning and guides.
Airports
How to reach Subic by plane.
About 1.5-2 hours by road from Subic; good for international connections and domestic flights, with coach transfers to SBMA.
Major hub in Manila; roughly 2-3 hours by car depending on traffic, with wide domestic and international connections.
Small facility primarily used for charter and private flights; good for quick regional access or special events.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Filipino families and workers in SBMA, with a mix of coastal communities and service industries.
A growing community of expatriates and domestic travelers visiting Subic for beach days, adventure activities, and family trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular team and informal street games; local courts are common in residential areas and near schools.
Jet skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and diving/diving schools are widely offered around the bay and Grande Island.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Subic.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in many SBMA eateries; look for vegetable dishes, tofu, and rice bowls. When in doubt, ask for vegetable-based curries or stir-fries and request no meat stock.