Things To Do
in Olongapo

Crispy deep-fried pork belly, usually served with a side of atchara (pickled papaya) and a dipping sauce. Try it at J.Eleazar Street Market or Gad's Grill.

Must-Try!

Sour shrimp soup made with tamarind broth and a variety of vegetables. Savour this dish at Meat Plus Café or Anne's Kitchen.

A sizzling dish made from parts of pig’s head and liver, seasoned with calamansi, onions, and chili peppers. Head to Mango's Grill or Pier 18 for a delicious serving.

A sweet purple yam pudding, often used as a filling or flavoring in various desserts. Indulge in this delightful treat at Gourmet Garage or Cindy's Fastfood.

A vibrant market offering an assortment of Filipino street food such as balut (boiled fertilized duck embryo), fish balls, and kwek-kwek (deep-fried quail eggs). Located at Inocencio Street, Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

A popular spot for grilled seafood and local delicacies like halo-halo (mixed shaved ice dessert) and bibingka (rice cake). Embrace the lively food culture at Gordon Avenue, Olongapo City.

Tipping is not mandatory in Olongapo, Philippines, but it is appreciated in certain situations. In restaurants, a service charge may already be included in the bill, but an additional tip of 5-10% is a common practice for exceptional service. Tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated, but not required.

Cash is the predominant form of payment in Olongapo, Philippines. Major credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions and when visiting markets or street vendors. ATMs are readily available for withdrawing cash. It's important to have small denominations when paying for transportation or small purchases, as change may not always be readily available.

The best time to visit Olongapo is during the dry season, from December to May. During this period, you can expect sunny and hot weather with a lower chance of rainfall. It is an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach vacations.

In the rainy season, from June to November, Olongapo experiences heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons. This might not be the best time for outdoor activities, but it is a great time to experience lush greenery and enjoy cultural events and festivals in the region.

While traditional Filipino cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Olongapo offer vegetable-based dishes such as Pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and Laing (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk) to cater to vegetarians and vegans. Look for these options at Blue Rock Restaurant and Top Australian Beers.

It can be challenging to find explicitly gluten-free dishes, but grilled seafood and fresh fruit options are abundant, providing great alternatives. Check with the chefs at local establishments for customized gluten-free options.