Subic Bay: A 2-4 hour drive from Manila offers thrilling activities, stunning beaches, and rich history. Explore the Subic Freeport Zone, but note its entry rules and regulations; avoid weekends and holidays. Choose transport (car, taxi, bus, ferry) and book accommodation in advance, especially during peak periods. Plan your visit to this vibrant destination.
Getting to Subic Bay
Subic Bay is approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers) west of Manila. Expect a 2- to 4-hour drive, depending on traffic.
Avoid peak holiday periods (like Easter) and weekends. The Subic Freeport Zone has its own rules and regulations for entry.
For faster travel, drive on weekdays via NLEX to Clark/Angeles, then SCTEX to Subic Bay.
Alternatively, take an express bus from Sampaloc to Olongapo, then a jeepney to Subic Bay.
Subic Bay International Airport has limited flights; only one scheduled Manila flight, which is operated by Diosdado Macapagal International Airport's regional economy airlines.
Transportation Options
Subic Bay offers private cars, taxis, buses, jeepneys, and ferries. Choose transport based on cost, convenience, and route. Several Asian carriers have expressed interest in including Subic Bay among charter flights destinations. The Winstar bus service provides a low-cost transportation option within the Freeport, with buses running on specific routes.
Private Car and Taxi
Private car services are the most convenient and cost-effective Subic Bay travel option, especially for groups or those with luggage. 24/7 availability offers chauffeur-driven cars and vans. Save up to 40% versus metered taxis. Additionally, experienced drivers ensure safe and timely transportation between Manila and Subic Bay.
| Service Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Availability | 24/7 |
| Vehicle Options | Air-conditioned cars & vans |
| Service | Door-to-door |
| Pricing | Tolls & taxes included |
| Destinations | Manila & Clark airports, Clark Freeport Zone |
Private car services provide door-to-door service, competitive rates, and various vehicle options. Ideal for groups or those with luggage. Suitable for airport transfers, sightseeing, or special events. Reliable companies ensure safe journeys. When renting a private car, the daily rental cost can range from PHP 2,000 to PHP 10,000 per day.
Public Bus Services
Subic Bay, Luzon, is accessible via public buses.
Victory Liner and Saulog Transit run Olongapo-Manila; Genesis serves Dau/Mabalacat to Olongapo.
The Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) shortens travel time.
Manila to Subic takes 2-4 hours.
From Olongapo City, take a jeepney or taxi to Subic Bay.
Olongapo jeepneys are color-coded by route.
Mini buses and coasters operate within Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
The mains roads are maintained by the Department of Public Works and Highways, making the journey smoother.
Victory Liner buses (45-49 seats, air-conditioned, TV) cost PHP 200-226.
Check schedules and fares before traveling.
You can also book your ticket online through Victory Liner's bus ticket booking system for convenient travel arrangements.
Alternative Travel Options
Subic Bay transportation is straightforward. Options include:
| Transport Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Taxis | Expensive |
| Trikes | Short distances (around P150) |
| Private Car Transfers | Various providers available |
| Door-to-Door Services | Air Flags Rem's (popular with expats) |
| Shuttle Services | Philippines port Transfers by Vince Group (taxis & shuttles) |
Alternatively, rent a car or hire a driver. Local tour operators offer transport, including airport transfers and tours. Some packages include transport. Buses from Manila are also available with Victory Liner operating hourly services to Olongapo. Choose your option and explore Subic Bay. Many people also choose to use private transfers services, such as Private Transfers which have an average rating of 4.8/5 stars.
Accommodation Options
Subic Bay offers diverse accommodation. Luxury travelers should consider Kamana Sanctuary Resort & Spa (€131+/night), featuring a pool and sailing/boating.
Vista Marina Hotel & Resort (€63+/night) offers a beach location (note: average water/sand quality).
Mid-range options include Grand Hoyah Hotel and Court Meridian Hotel & Suites.
Budget travelers can choose Bumble V Hotel Subic (€47+/night, free breakfast),
Subic Residencias, or Mañana Hotel (both offer free WiFi).
Unique options include Club Morocco Beach Resort (Arabic/Spanish architecture) and Samba Bluewater Resort (pool, garden).
Activities and Attractions
Explore Subic Bay's best: Zoobic Safari offers close tiger, crocodile, and ostrich encounters.
Interact with ostriches, camels, and guinea pigs at Animal Encounters.
Thrill-seekers:
Tree Top Adventure provides ziplining and canopy walks.
Hike El Kabayo and Boton Falls, or explore the Pamulaklakin Forest Trail.
Networx Jetsports offers jetskiing, parasailing, and flyboarding.
History enthusiasts:
Visit the Subic Bay History Museum and the Spanish Gate (declared a historical site in 2013).
The Subic Bay Freeport Zone and Boardwalk offer shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Diving and Marine Life
Subic Bay's underwater world features historic wrecks, including the USS New York and El Capitan, teeming with diverse marine life.
Expect fish, invertebrates, and reef dwellers such as sweetlips, jacks, bluespotted stingrays, and pufferfish.
Numerous dive sites cater to all skill levels, offering courses and certifications.
Dive Sites and Wrecks
Subic Bay's underwater world holds numerous WWII, Spanish-American War, and 19th-century Spanish wrecks.
The USS New York (110m, 17-27m depth) and the Spanish gunboat San Quentin (12-16m depth) are key sites.
Aircraft wrecks include the Japanese L2D "Tabby" DC-3/C-47 and a Douglas Skyraider.
Sites are 5-15 minutes from shore, 5-27 meters deep, suitable for all skill levels.
The El Capitan is easily penetrable; the LCU wreck offers historical insight.
Marine Life Diversity
Subic Bay teems with marine life: coral fish, shellfish, stingrays, turtles, octopus. Wrecks like the San Quentin host lionfish and groupers.
Soft corals and abundant marine life surround these habitats. Mangrove forests are breeding grounds for fish and crustaceans. Coral reefs are teeming with life.
Nearby, you might see sea turtles and whale sharks. Conservation efforts, including local women acting as MPA guards since 2013, increased fish biomass and economic benefits. Coral protection and fishing prohibitions maintain biodiversity.
Diving Courses Available
Subic Bay's premier diving status is reinforced by its diverse diving courses.
Choose from recreational to technical diving certifications to match your skill level.
Available courses:
- PADI and RAID certifications: Open Water to Technical Diving certifications.
- Specialty courses: Wreck diving, sidemount, or trimix.
- Technical diving courses: Advanced wreck and trimix certifications.
Experienced instructors, quality facilities, historical wrecks, and diverse marine life ensure optimal training.
Local Tips and Essentials
Reach Subic Bay by car, bus, or plane.
Transportation options include taxis, jeepneys, rental cars, or scooters.
Drive safely, avoiding Manila traffic.
Book Subic Bay accommodations in advance, especially during peak times.
Choices range from resorts to budget hotels.
Package deals are available.
Choose bars wisely.
Walk to explore the Waterfront Park.
Hold necessary diving qualifications for advanced wreck dives.
Wear closed-toe shoes for jungle trekking.
Best Time to Visit
Subic Bay has a hot climate year-round.
The dry season is best for outdoor activities with sunny weather and minimal rainfall. The dry season is from November to May.
The wet season has heavy rain and overcast skies. The wet season is from June to October.
Best Weather: January, February, March, April, November, and December (76°F–90°F average, minimal rainfall).
Peak/Low Seasons: December is peak season. November has the lowest hotel prices. The low season includes January, February, March, April, May, August, and October.
Best Diving: November–May (less current, better visibility).
Safety and Precautions
Subic Bay prioritizes safety. Security patrols are frequent. Follow minimum health standards: mask wearing, social distancing, hand hygiene.
SBMA enforces safety protocols.
Subic Bay Safety Protocols
| Measure | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Vaccination Cards | Checked at Freeport entry |
| COVID-19 Test Results | Negative RT-PCR for unvaccinated visitors |
| Business Closures | Announced for COVID-19 cases |
| Reporting | Report suspected cases to SBMA Public Health & Safety |