Things To Do
in Subic

Subic, Philippines is a former U.S. naval base turned eco-tourism destination located along the coast of Luzon. Known for its pristine beaches, lush forests, and family-friendly attractions, Subic offers a unique blend of nature and adventure. The Subic Bay Freeport Zone is a hub for business and leisure, featuring various recreational activities.

With its rich history and modern amenities, Subic is an excellent getaway for both local and international tourists.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Adventure in Subic
morning
:

Start the day with a visit to Ocean Adventure, an ocean park that showcases marine life and offers interactive experiences with dolphins and sea lions.

afternoon
:

Head over to Zoobic Safari, where you can enjoy a safari adventure and get up close with exotic animals.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the waterfront promenade for a beautiful sunset view.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Subic Bay Yacht Club and enjoy a morning of sailing or relaxing by the marina.

afternoon
:

Explore the lush trails at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone and visit the Pamulaklakin Forest Trail for a guided eco-tour.

evening
:

Dine at a beachside restaurant and experience local music and dance performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi Fare (within Subic)$3
🍦Ice Cream$1.50
🏨Budget Hotel (per night)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and beaches
  • Family-friendly attractions and activities
  • Rich history and culture with warm local hospitality
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Higher prices in tourist areas
  • Weather can be unpredictable during the rainy season
  • "Kamusta?" - Hello!
  • "Salamat" - Thank you
  • "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
  • "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Paalam" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Subic

Visit one of these nice places.

Subic Bay

A picturesque bay with clear waters and stunning sunsets, perfect for landscape photography.

Ocean Adventure

Capture amazing moments with marine animals, including dolphins and sea lions.

Pamulaklakin Forest Trail

A lush forest with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Subic

Subic offers a delightful culinary experience with its mix of local and international cuisine that reflects the region's rich culture.

Subic Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Adobo

A savory stew of meat marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and spices, often served with rice.

Must-Try!

Sinigang

A sour soup usually made with pork, shrimp, or fish, flavored with tamarind and various vegetables.

Lechon

Roasted whole pig, known for its crispy skin and tender meat, often served during celebrations.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Subic Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food, local delicacies, and snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Popular spots around Subic offering skewered meats, fish balls, and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Subic has a tropical climate characterized by two distinct seasons: the dry season from November to April and the wet season from May to October. Temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F) throughout the year, with humidity levels rising during the wet season. The dry season is ideal for outdoor activities, while the wet season provides a lush landscape but is prone to heavy rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; use polite greetings and gestures.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Polite Greetings

A warm smile and a polite greeting go a long way in Filipino culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Subic is considered a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and being aware of your surroundings. It's also advisable to keep your valuables secure and to use reliable transportation options.

Tipping in Subic

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in restaurants and hotels, but it's advisable to carry cash for local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect sunny weather and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (May to October)

Be prepared for frequent rains and tropical storms; indoor activities are recommended.

Christmas Season (December)

Experience festive decorations and local celebrations; it's a great time for cultural immersion.

Summer (March to May)

Hot weather prevails, making it ideal for beach outings and water sports.

Nightlife Guide

Subic at Night

Subic's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants. The waterfront promenade features numerous bars offering live music and entertainment. You can find dance clubs that play both local and international music, with a friendly atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, beachside lounges offer a perfect setting to enjoy cocktails while watching the sunset.

Hiking in Subic

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Pinatubo

A challenging hike that takes you to the stunning crater lake formed by the eruption of Mount Pinatubo; it's a popular trekking destination.

Pamuntukan Trail

A scenic trail within the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, offering beautiful views of the surrounding forest and bay.

Airports

How to reach Subic by plane.

Subic Bay International Airport

Located approximately 15 minutes from the town center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, providing easy access to Subic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Subic is relatively walkable, especially in the Freeport Zone where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, and pedestrian areas are well-maintained, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. However, some areas may require taxis or other transportation, especially when venturing outside the central zone.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The local population consists mainly of Filipinos, primarily Tagalog speakers, who are warm and hospitable.

Foreign Expats

Subic also hosts a number of expatriates, many of whom work in business and tourism sectors, contributing to the diverse community.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a beloved sport in the Philippines, with many locals playing in community courts.

Water Sports

Given Subic's coastal location, water sports such as kayaking, jet skiing, and sailing are very popular.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Subic is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. The Freeport Zone has well-maintained roads, making it easy to navigate. Public transportation includes jeepneys and tricycles, but renting a car or using taxis is often more convenient for tourists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Subic.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to ask for modifications.

Seafood Allergies

Seafood is prevalent in local cuisine, so be cautious and communicate any allergies clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Subic are generally good, with several clinics and hospitals available for both locals and tourists. The most notable facility is the Subic Bay Medical Center, which offers a range of medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as some treatments may need to be referred to larger hospitals in nearby cities.

Discover Philippines

Read more in our Philippines 2025 Travel Guide.

Philippines Travel Guide