Subic is an unusual holiday destination, located in Zambales, Philippines. But of course, with a lot of things to do in Subic, the place is very worth visiting.
It has a long story. Subic was once the site of a major US naval base, but today, it is transformed into a busy freeport zone. On the other hand, Subic is famous because of the beaches and some family-friendly attractions, including the popular Zoobic Safari.
Subic is a combination of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and adventure-oriented attractions. Within a more laid-back and less crowded setting compared to major Philippine cities like Manila or Cebu, Subic is the right destination for people that look for some serenity.
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Location: Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Bataan, Philippines
Opening Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM
El Kabayo Waterfall is a natural attraction located in Subic Bay, Philippines. The waterfall is a popular spot for hiking and outdoor adventures, offering a serene retreat surrounded by lush greenery.
You must hike through forest trails to reach the falls, making it ideal for nature lovers looking for a bit of adventure and a peaceful setting. The falls are not too high, but their natural beauty and the cool water pools make them a great spot for a refreshing dip.
Since it's situated near the El Kabayo Stables, you can combine your trip with horseback riding tours, making for a perfect outdoor day.
Location: Ilanin Forest West, Subic, Bataan, Philippines
Opening Hours: 8 AM - 4 PM daily
Possibly the best zoo in the country, Zoobic Safari is a 25-hectare area that simulates the natural habitat of animals so they will feel safe and at home.
The highlights of the place is the close encounter with the big cats, both tigers and lions.You can even feed them by riding the safari vehicle and actually experience how ferocious they are when you throw them some chickens!
Other than those big cats, you can see their collections of crocodiles in a pit at the Croco Loco section. Those majestic animals will be seen as you walk through the see-through walkway. If you want, you can feed them too.
Zoobic Safari also has more animal collections, such as ostriches, bears, monkeys, albino caribou, lizards, snakes, turtles, all placed in different areas fun to explore. It offers over a dozen attractions that the whole family will enjoy, including the country’s only Night Safari. If you dare, don’t forget to take a picture with the tigers!
Zoobic Safari Tickets
Subic Bay Freeport Zone
₱ 889.25
Location: Ocean Adventure Approach Rd, Ilanin Forest West, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, 2222 Bataan, Philippines
Opening Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM
The next thing to do in Subic is visiting Ocean Adventure Subic Bay. As one of the best Subic tourist spots, Ocean Adventure is the first open water marine theme park in Southeast Asia.
If you claim your family is adventurous, of course you have to prove it here. Get ready to meet dolphins, sea lions, and more sea creatures up close. Only in Ocean Adventure Subic Bay that diving with dolphins doesn’t feel impossible. You can also take your children to hang out with the turtles and sharks, then feed them. This intimate experience will last forever, right?
Anyway, it may be called Ocean Adventure but the theme park also introduces guests to some amazing forest animals. From bats to pythons, parrots to owls -- all are present at the Wild World show.
For a more unforgettable experience, you can watch the Sea Lion Marine Patrol and learn so many kinds of dolphins. It’s going to be fun and educational for everyone, and indeed enjoyable for all ages.
Location: Olongapo - Bugallon Road, Olongapo, 2200 Zambales, Philippines
Opening Hours: 8 AM - 6 PM
Unleash the inner “Ninja Warrior” in you in a safe, fun and wet environment at Inflatable Island. The 3,400-square meter floating playground is the first in Southeast Asia and the biggest in the entire continent. It features inflatable attractions like the Human Launcher, the Giant Tarzan Swing and Slide, and giant trampolines. And they’re all on water!
The colorful inflatables are not only fun but also provide an eye-catching view, especially when set against the backdrop of Subic's clear blue waters. This destination is great for both kids and adults, making it a perfect spot for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a unique beach experience.
Afterwards, you can also relax at the "Unicorn Island" section or lounge on the Bali-inspired bean bag areas by the shore.
Inflatable Island Tickets
8.7/10
Barretto
₱ 897.19
Location: Bldg. 2070 Corregidor Highway, Ilanin Forest, East District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
Opening Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM.
Who said learning can’t be fun? At Funtastic Park Subic, education is synonymous with entertainment! The theme park offers over 10 attractions and unique activities that kids and kids-at-heart will enjoy!
Challenge yourself by entering the Mirror Maze and see if you can get out easily. At the outdoor area, there’s also a Garden Maze, where you must find your way out while enjoying the weather. Aside from two of them, you can explore more like the 3D Art Paintings in which you can take a lot of photos with, Dark Room, Enchanted Forest, Trampoline, and more.
Anyway, Funtastic Park is just a few minutes away from Zoobic Safari and Ocean Adventure, so plan your Subic tourist spots itinerary well.
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Location: Sampson Rd, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo, Zambales, Philippines
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
If you’re a history enthusiast, you must visit the Spanish Gate in Subic. This next recommended thing to do in Subic allows you to explore the historical structure, which FYI, still features the original stonework, gun ports, and jail remnants. You must take photos in front of the gate.
Anyway, this is the backstory of the Spanish Gate. It was a remnant of the Spanish Naval Station in Subic Bay from the 1880s, the Spanish Gate served as the entrance to the naval station and a jail during both the Spanish and American occupation.
The wall is made from locally quarried stone and has been one of the iconic Subic tourist spots. Now a national historic landmark, the Spanish Gate is still one of the famous things to do in Subic.
Anyway, make sure to view the recently installed Spanish Gate marker that details the history of the heritage site.
Location: Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Bataan, Philippines
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
Subic Bay is known for its beaches, but not everyone knows about its hidden gem, Dungaree Beach. Known before as “Dog Beach”, it was frequented by the American Military in the day for its clear blue waters, fine sand, fresh breeze and beautiful sunset. The beach is far cleaner and less crowded than other Subic shores, making it the perfect swimming spot.
FYI, you can rent the entire beach for yourself! Yes, Dungaree Beach is available to rent for your special events - one whole stretch of fine sand and blue waters!
Should you plan to stay the night, there are a few beachside hotels that offer 24-hour beach swimming, 24-hour bars and comfortable accommodations at a cheap price.
Location: Sitio Cawag, Subic, Zambales
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
Remember that cliche “Life’s a climb, but the view is great”? Well, it couldn’t be more appropriate for Mt Balingkilat. The Subic tourist spot isn’t an easy one to hike -- it takes around 14 hours to reach the peak and with the scorching sun and absence of many trees, the trek is not for the faint of heart or health. But the summit is all worth it. The view on top of the mountain is breathtaking, making the two-day climb a piece of cake.
So, make sure that you are physically ready to reach the top of Mount Balingkilat. As the terrain is quite difficult and steep, you also need persistence in mind to successfully arrive at the top. Good luck and don’t forget to take a lot of photos!
Location: Subic Bay, Rizal Hwy, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, 2200 Zambales, Philippines
Opening Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM
After some outdoor exploration, you should take a breather by visiting this place: Ayana Malls Harbor Point. It’s a one-stop entertainment place for everyone, where you can shop, find the best eatery, and even watch a movie.
You can shop for local and international brands, and if you’re lucky, there’s usually some events outside, like a concert or weekend markets.
photo via Instagram, @Davendonfranche
Location: Ilanin Road, Camayan Wharf Rd, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, 2222 Republic of the, Philippines
Opening Hours: 9 AM - 5.30 PM
Everybody will have a pleasant time in a waterpark, right? In Subic, the next famous thing to do is checking out all the slides in Adventure Beach Waterpark.
Suitable for all ages, the attractions here are varied, starting from Splash and Play where little children can go crazy and Twin Twister Slide for older children and adults.
If you’re hungry, just stop by the unique Forest Grill Restaurant to fuel up your energy. When the weather is cooling down, maybe you want to relax at the River Bend.
Adventure Beach Waterpark Admission Tickets
Subic Bay Freeport Zon...
See Price
If you want your trip in Subic to be more authentic and unique, you should try this Subic Indigenous Forest Experience. Meet the Aetas, the indigenous people that inhabit some areas in the Philippines, including in Zambales.
The Aetas are very friendly and traditional. After hiking the Pamulaklakin Forest Trail, you’ll finally meet them and learn how they live their daily life. FYI, they still cook with bamboo!
Subic Indigenous Forest Experience from Manila | Philippines
Subic Bay Freeport Zone
₱ 6,168.90
Location: Inside Zoobic Safari , Group 1, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Philippines
Zoobic Glampz is presented by Zoobic Safari, allowing you and your family to have a unique and wonderful stay in safari-themed glamping! You can discuss it with your children, what theme they want to pick, whether it’s tiger, zebra, or peacock.
With the Zoobic Park around the corner and a swimming pool and Kawa bath for a refreshing dip, your kids and you will have fun to the maximum. Not to forget that you’ll have a complimentary breakfast and dinner during your stay.
Zoobic Glampz: Glamping Experience in Subic
Subic Bay Freeport Zone
₱ 1,492.57
Location: Boardwalk, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
Opening Hours: 24 Hours
Appreciate the beauty of Subic's sunset at Boardwalk Park, where the serene blue waters and sandy shores provide the perfect spot to relax, much like Santa Monica Beach in California.
The Boardwalk area is lined with hotels and restaurants, making it one of the top tourist spots in Subic. You can swim, sunbathe, stroll along the beach, or enjoy a picnic. The park also hosts some of Subic’s biggest events, and if you're lucky, you might catch live music or beachside entertainment.
For those looking to stay close to the beach, nearby hotels along the Boardwalk strip and Waterfront Road offer convenient accommodations.
The last thing to do in Subic that will last forever as a great memory is having a special dinner buffet on a sunset cruise with dinner buffet at Subic Bay. When most of us know that the sunset view in Subic Bay is extraordinary, you can make it even more memorable by also having delicious dinner.
It is going to be a 3-hour journey with Trimaran, the name of the yacht. As the sky turns dark, you will enjoy the feast, and the live music will play as your backdrop. Unlimited iced tea and coffee will be your best company for the night.
Having this sunset cruise is perfect, whoever you’re with when you’re in Subic. It’s perfect for romantic dinner, reunited best friends, or even bonding time with family. It’s relaxing too!
Sunset Cruise with Dinner Buffet in Subic Bay | Philippines
Subic Bay Freeport Zone
₱ 2,475.21
₱ 2,475.20
With all those things to do in Subic, we’re sure that you don’t need to delay your visit any longer. For all the travel needs, from the nearby hotels from your desired destination, flights to Philippines, and plenty of attraction tickets, you can find the best price only on Traveloka!