Zambales - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Zambales

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Zambales, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Zambales and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Zambales, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Zambales for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Zambales

Zambales is a province located in the central part of the Philippines, on the western coast of the island of Luzon. It is known for its scenic beaches, clear blue waters, and beautiful mountain ranges. It is also home to Mount Pinatubo, an active volcano that last erupted in 1991. The province is divided into 13 municipalities and 1 highly urbanized city, Olongapo. Visitors can explore the diverse natural attractions, such as Anawangin Cove, Capones Island, and Potipot Island, and experience the culture and history of the province by visiting the ancestral houses and museums.

What to visit in Zambales

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Zambales, Philippines along with some information about each place: 1. Anawangin Cove - Anawangin Cove is a picturesque cove situated in San Antonio, Zambales, and is well-known for its unique landscape that combines pine trees, white sand, and crystal clear water. Visitors can spend a day or night camping, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and trekking.
2. Nagsasa Cove - Nagsasa Cove is a remote location, with uncrowded beaches and tranquil atmosphere. One of its major attractions is the Nagsasa Waterfalls. Visitors can also enjoy trekking, hiking, and beach camping here.
3. Capones Island - Located in San Antonio, Zambales, Capones Island features a beautiful lighthouse that offers stunning sunset views of the South China Sea. Visitors can also try out snorkeling, diving, and swimming in this beautiful island.
4. Potipot Island - Potipot Island is a small, uninhabited island in Zambales characterized by its powdery white sand and crystal clear waters. Visitors can camp, swim, snorkel, and relax on the beach.
5. Mt. Pinatubo - The popular Mt. Pinatubo trekking adventure involves a hike to the summit of the dormant volcano, followed by a rejuvenating dip in the crater lake. The stunning landscape, rich flora and fauna, and panoramic views are just some of the highlights of this trekking experience.
6. Subic Bay - The Subic Bay Freeport Zone offers various attractions such as Ocean Adventure Park, Subic Bay Yacht Club, and Zoobic Safari. Visitors can enjoy water sports activities, night life, and shopping in Subic Bay.
7. San Salvador Island - This island is off the coast of Masinloc and is known for its stunning coral reefs and marine life. Visitors can go reef diving, snorkeling, and swimming in the crystal-clear seas.
These are just some of the many beautiful tourist attractions that Zambales has to offer visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Zambales.

When to go on holiday to Zambales

The best time to visit Zambales in the Philippines is usually during the dry season which runs from November to April. The weather is sunny and less humid during this period, making it ideal for beach activities and water sports. However, it is important to note that Zambales can be visited all year round but there are chances of rain showers year-round.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Zambales

There are different ways to get to Zambales, depending on where you're coming from. Here are some options: By air: The nearest airport to Zambales is Clark International Airport. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to get to Zambales. Alternatively, you can fly to Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport and then take a bus or rent a car to reach Zambales.
By bus: Zambales is easily accessible by bus from Manila. You can take a bus from various terminals in Manila, such as Victory Liner, Five Star, and Genesis Transport. The bus ride takes around 4-5 hours.
By car: If you're driving from Manila, take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and exit at San Fernando. From there, take the Olongapo-Gapan Road, which will lead you to Zambales.
By private transfer: You can also hire a private transfer service, such as a van or a car with a driver, to take you from Manila to Zambales. This option provides more comfort and convenience, especially if you're traveling with a group or carrying a lot of luggage.
I hope this information helps. Let me know if you have any more questions!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Zambales, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Zambales

Sure, here are some typical foods of Zambales in the Philippines with short descriptions: 1. Bagnet - a deep-fried pork belly dish that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
2. Binagoongan - a dish made of pork belly cooked in shrimp paste and various spices.
3. Sinigang - a tamarind-based soup with pork, fish or shrimp, and various vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and radish.
4. Pakbet - a vegetable dish made of mixed vegetables like eggplant, okra, squash, and bitter gourd cooked in shrimp paste.
5. Adobong Kambing - a goat meat version of the popular Filipino dish, Adobo, cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves.
6. Chicharon - a snack made of deep-fried pork cracklings that are crunchy and flavorful.
7. Inihaw na Bangus - grilled milkfish marinated in vinegar, garlic, and pepper.
8. Mangoes - sweet and juicy mangoes are abundant in Zambales, and often eaten fresh or served as dessert.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you need any more information.
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Zambales an expensive destination for tourists?

Zambales is not particularly expensive compared to other tourist destinations in the Philippines. Accommodation and food options in Zambales range from budget-friendly to high-end, so travelers can easily find options that fit their budget. Additionally, many of the popular activities in Zambales, such as island hopping and beach combing, are low-cost or even free. That being said, transportation costs may vary depending on where you are coming from and the mode of transportation you choose. Overall, Zambales can be enjoyed on a moderate budget.

Where to find accomodation in Zambales

Some of the best areas to find accommodation while visiting Zambales in the Philippines are: 1. Subic Bay - a popular tourist destination with many hotels and resorts along the coastline.
2. Pundaquit - a small fishing village with guesthouses and homestays that provide access to scenic beaches and Capones Island.
3. San Antonio - an ideal place for budget travelers with many affordable guesthouses and hostels.
4. Olongapo - a city that serves as the gateway to Zambales with various accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget-friendly inns.
5. Zambales countryside - for those who prefer a more relaxed and secluded stay, there are many resorts and inns in the countryside that offer a peaceful ambiance.
You can check hotel prices at Zambales here:
Booking.com

Is Zambales a safe destination for tourists?

Zambales, Philippines is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like any other tourist destinations, visitors should exercise caution and take necessary safety precautions to avoid becoming a victim of theft or other types of crime. It is recommended to travel in groups, stay in well-lit areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Always keep important documents and belongings secure at all times. It is also advisable to check weather and travel advisories before visiting to avoid any potential hazards. Overall, Zambales is a beautiful and safe place to visit as long as you follow common safety practices.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Zambales.

What type of travelers will enjoy Zambales the most?

Zambales offers a variety of activities that can cater to different types of travelers. However, it mostly caters to outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The place offers beautiful beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping sites. Couples may enjoy the romantic vibe of the beaches and watch beautiful sunsets together. Some beaches also offer romantic activities such as island hopping, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Young people looking for fun can indulge in adventure activities such as surfing, trekking, and camping. They can also explore the beauty of the place through ATV rides, Banana boat rides, and jet skiing.
Families can also have a great time in Zambales. The beaches are perfect for family picnics and swimming. Children can also enjoy building sandcastles, flying kites, and playing beach volleyball while parents relax on the shore. There are also camping sites and hiking trails perfect for nature trips that families can enjoy together.
Overall, Zambales is a great place to visit for any type of traveler who loves nature and adventure.

How to get around Zambales

In Zambales, you can use various modes of transportation to move around such as tricycles, jeepneys, buses, and private cars. Tricycles are commonly used for short distances while jeepneys and buses are ideal for longer distances. Private cars may also be rented for convenience and flexibility. It's best to plan your transportation ahead of time to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

What to see around Zambales

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Zambales: 1. Subic Bay Freeport Zone - Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, eco-tourism, beach hopping, water sports, shopping, and dining.
2. Anawangin Cove - A beautiful cove with white sand beach surrounded by lush greenery. You can swim, camp, hike, and explore the nearby waterfalls.
3. Capones Island - A perfect island getaway with clear blue waters, stunning rock formations, and a lighthouse that offers a panoramic view of the islands around.
4. Potipot Island - An unspoiled island paradise with crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and lush vegetation. You can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe.
5. San Salvador Island - A serene island with white sand beach, coral formations, and diverse marine life. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and island hopping.
6. Mt. Pinatubo - A scenic volcano that offers a thrilling trek and an incredible view of the summit crater lake. 7. Pundaquit Beach - A popular place for surfing, kayaking, and beach bumming. You can also visit the nearby Nagsasa Cove and Silanguin Cove.
8. Magalawa Island - A peaceful island with long stretches of fine sand, crystal clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
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