Subic Bay Freeport Zone is a perfect spot for a weekend getaway! Thanks to its location, it’s easily accessible for Manileños seeking a quick escape from the city. It’s also one of my favourite childhood destinations whenever I go on a road trip with my family. Apart from its exciting attractions and scenic coastal views, what I love about Subic is its relaxing, quiet yet gloomy ambience that’s far from the chaotic metro life. Looking forward to spending your weekends in this coastal town? Read on to find out!
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Must-do weekend activities in Subic
1. Go horseback riding at El Kabayo Stables
El Kabayo Stables is arguably the best place to go horseback riding in the country because of its beautiful and strong horses. The ranch is utterly beautiful with its manicured lawns, country-style atmosphere, and vast fields. You can go horseback riding around its ranch or go on a scenic trail that leads to a river with majestic waterfalls. So, if you love riding and the feel of the wind in your hair, this spot is definitely worth paying a visit!
For more information, visit El Kabayo’s official website and Facebook page.
Rates: Starts at ₱250
Address: 1411, El Kabayo Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City
2. Explore the El Kabayo Waterfalls
If you love to trek and nature in general, the El Kabayo Waterfalls should be on your Subic bucket list! It’s about a 20-minute trudge, depending on your pace. At the end of your journey, you will see two beautiful hidden waterfalls. One thing to note is that the trail can get quite muddy, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. If you’re a bit worried about hiking, don’t worry, it’s definitely one of the easiest paths to trek.
Rates: ₱100
Address: Binictican Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
3. Visit Funtastic Park
Funtastic Park is perfect for weekends out with family and friends! This indoor theme park near Camayan Beach features fun and unique activities that’ll unleash your inner child. Enjoy attractions like the Mirror Maze, Dark Room, and Enchanted Forests. Of course, don’t forget to snap photos at the Trick Art Paintings and Costume Room. Overall, it makes for an ideal venue for kids and kids at heart.
For more information, visit Funtastic Park’s official website and Facebook page.
Rates: ₱350
Address: Bldg. 2070 Corregidor Highway, Ilanin Forest, East District, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
4. Experience a jungle tour at Pamulaklakin Forest Trail
For more tropical adventures, visit the Pamulaklakin Forest Trail. Besides being another popular spot for families to visit in Subic, it is also home to the Ateas people of Binictican. In fact, the park’s name comes from a native Aeta word which means “herbal vine.”
Here, visitors can experience all sorts of exciting sightseeing tours: a mini jungle tour, an ecology tour, and even an overnight jungle tour. This peaceful trail also offers a picnic area where you can bask under lush foliage and simply enjoy the natural beauty around. Clearly, Subic is nothing short of a nature-filled destination!
Rates: Starts at ₱100
Address: Binictican Drive, Subic Bay, Freeport Zone
5. Test your survival skills at Adventure Beach Waterpark
Adventure Beach Waterpark is a waterpark in Subic open to anyone who loves to splash around. From swimming pools and water slides to private beaches and complex playgrounds, this amusement park welcomes guests of all ages.
For more information, visit Adventure Beach Waterpark’s official website and Facebook page.
Rates: Starts at ₱528
Address: Camayan Wharf, West Ilanin Forest Area, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
6. Get close encounters with wildlife at Zoobic Safari
Want to encounter wildlife up close? Zoobic Safari lets you meet all sorts of wild animals like tigers, crocodiles, snakes, and more. It houses different zones that cater to different species: Rodent World, Serpentarium, Tiger Safari, and Croco Loco. You and the family can also witness the talent of different animals in action! No doubt, it makes for a dynamic tourist spot for animal lovers and zoophiles alike.
For more information, visit Zoobic Safari official website and Facebook page.
Rates: ₱595 for kids; ₱695 for adults
Address: Group 1 Ilanin Forest, Forrest Adventure, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
7. Swim with the dolphins at Ocean Adventure
Of course, this list of things to do in Subic wouldn’t be complete without Ocean Adventure! Play with the smartest dolphins you’ll ever meet at this open-marine park. Here, you’ll also spot playful sea lions, sharks, and turtles. What’s more? You can explore the Wild World area where you can encounter more wildlife like bearcats, bats, pythons, and scops owls!
For more information, visit Ocean Adventure’s official Facebook and Instagram pages.
Rates: ₱628 Kids and Senior Citizens; ₱788 Adults
Address: Camayan Wharf, West Ilanin Forest Area, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
8. Relax at Camayan Beach Resort
Camayan Beach Resort is one of the best beachfront resorts in Subic. It has beautiful stays and a wide beach shore where you can relax all day. You can enjoy water sports like kayaking by the mangroves, snorkelling, playing water gladiator, or simply cruising along Subic Bay. If you prefer a more luxurious place to stay and spend the weekend, this is just the place for you! You can also visit during the day with an entrance fee.
For more information, visit Camayan Beach Resort’s official website and Facebook page.
Rates: Starts at ₱450
Address: Camayan Wharf, West Ilanin Forest Area, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
9. Go beach bumming at All Hands Beach Resort
If you want to frolic on the beach, All Hands Beach Resort is another option. It has a fair swimming area and accommodation. So, if you prefer to stay at a beachfront resort, this is another option in Subic. Apart from swimming, you can also play some water sports such as jet skiing, banana boating, kayaking, etc.
For more information, visit All Hands Beach Resort’s official website.
Rates: Room rates start at ₱5,600. Entrance fee is ₱150. Sunrise to Sunrise beach package is ₱450.
Address: San Bernardino Road, Subic Bay Freeport Zone
10. Shop ‘til you drop at duty-free stores
Of course, your trip to Subic won’t be complete without shopping at the duty-free shops and other malls such as Royal, Puregold, Duty Free Superstore, and Harbor Point Mall. It’s a place known for tax-free products such as chocolates, grocery items, bags, clothes, shoes, perfumes, and more. Shopping here is the best way to end your quick weekend trip in Subic!
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The list goes on for awesome spots and things to do in Subic! If you prefer a short getaway from Manila, this is the place to be. It’s also an ideal destination for those who want to avoid traffic (take note of stricter traffic rules) and are seeking a quiet place to unwind. Did your favourites make it to our list?
Featured image credit: Tiza Lee Mamar via Canva Pro
