Last updated: 24 April 2024
The province of Zambales is often a go-to choice for weekend getaways and long holidays because of its accessibility by land and the many beaches, islands, and attractions one can visit during their trip. San Antonio which is a municipality of the province has a handful of noteworthy destinations such as the stunning coves of Anawangin and Nagsasa. Both have beautiful views of the beach and rolling hills as seen from a viewpoint. They also have shorelines big enough for camping and leisurely activities or you can also go swimming and sunbathing during your visit.
Potipot Island and Capones Island are also tropical getaway destinations for beach bummers and nature lovers. These attractions are also easy to access by public transportation and there are plenty of enterprising boatmen who will offer their services for island-hopping at a reasonable price. If you want to surf, the place to be is Liwliwa Beach. It has decent swells for both beginners and experienced surfers.
The province is also a possible jump-off point for day hikes to Mt. Pinatubo. This volcano erupted more than a decade ago. You will still see vestiges of its devastation, but locals have persevered and overcame the challenges the eruption created. The trip starts with a 4×4 ride through rough but beautiful terrain. You’ll see lahar and rock formations before reaching the trail for hiking. You will then begin the trek to the stunning crater lake. Once you see the jaw-dropping view of the lake, you will realize the effort and time it took to get there was worth it.
Zambales is a possible biking destination because of its landscape. There are many trails with gradual ascents and descents, as well as flat surfaces for a fun ride. Mount Samat and Pastolan are two places to hop on your bike and break a sweat.
The province is accessible by land. Here are ways to reach Zambales from Manila, Clark, Baguio, and La Union.
WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?
How to Get to Zambales
From Manila
Manila has many bus companies that travel to different parts of Zambales or at least pass by it. There are bus stations in Cubao, Pasay, and Manila. There are also multiple companies that operate this route such as Victory Liner and Genesis Transport, just to name a few. The fare and travel time will depend on which part of the province you will visit.
- If you plan to visit ANAWANGIN and/or NAGSASA Cove, buses to San Antonio Public Market in Iba costs around P360 with Victory Liner. Once at the station, hire a tricycle to take you to Pundaquit for P80 for two persons.
- If you are going to CRYSTAL BEACH, you can alight at San Narciso. After alighting at the town center (your landmark will be the San Narciso Municipal Hall), hire a tricycle to take you to the resort.
From Clark
Zambales is also accessible via Clark!
- If you are coming from the airport, Victory Liner has buses going to Olongapo. Fare is around P254.
- In Olongapo, get on the bus traveling to San Antonio, Zambales. Travel time may take 1 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic. There are also buses that go to other parts of Zambales from Olongapo.
If you have time, there are a couple of attractions worth checking out while in Clark. There are museums, theme parks, and a 4D Theatre. The city is developed and has plenty of restaurants, hotels and entertainment districts to keep you busy during a layover or a day’s long stay.
You may also read our CLARK AIRPORT Bus Guide article for more information.
From Baguio
It is possible to reach Zambales from Baguio.
- Go to the Victory Liner terminal and hop on the bus traveling to Olongapo. The trip may take up to 4 hours and costs approximately P488.
- Once in Olongapo, board another bus bound for San Antonio. The trip takes around 1 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
If you have time to spare, Baguio has a number of noteworthy attractions. Places of interest include Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, Mines View Park, the colorful Stobosa Houses, BenCab Museum, the Strawberry Farm and Tam-awan Village just to name some. You may check out our Baguio Travel Guide article for more details.
From La Union
If you are coming from La Union, you’ll need multiple transfers before you reach Zambales.
- From San Fernando or San Juan, board a bus to Dau Bus Terminal. Viron Transit Buses and Partas Buses usually ply this route but just make sure they are bound for Dau.
- At the terminal, buy a ticket for a bus bound to Sta. Cruz or Iba in Zambales.
If you have time, La Union is a good place to try surfing. You can also go to Tangadan Falls, Ma-cho Temple, and try the restaurants and cafés in San Juan. You may go over our La Union Travel Guide article for more details.
Where to Stay in Zambales
Zambales is a developed tourist destination with plenty of accommodation options. San Antonio, San Narciso, and San Felipe are possible places to stay because of the choices you have, and their proximity to the beach and transportation. You can go camping along the coves as well, either in Anawangin or Nagsasa.
Iba is another place to consider because of its nearness to the beach as well as its slew of resorts and guesthouses to choose from. Subic also provides many hotels for budget travelers and those who are willing to spend. The area also has plenty of shopping and dining options.
Top Hotels on Agoda
- CRYSTAL BEACH RESORT
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - YOUHAN BEACH RESORT
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - THE PENTA BEACH RESORT
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - FUNTASEA HOTEL AND BEACH RESORT
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - BOM DIA HOSTEL
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
Top Hotels on Booking.com
- WHITE CASTLE BEACH RESORT
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - MEGANS PARADISIO BEACH RESORT
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - PLAYA ALBA BEACH FRONT AND RESORT
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - THE PALMS RESORT & BAR
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here! - BAKASYUNAN RESORT AND CONFERENCE CENTER
✅ Check Rates & Availability Here!
If you want more suggestions with more details about each hotel, you can also check our Top 10 Beach Resorts in Zambales article.
Find more Zambales Hotels!
Watch Related Videos on YouTube
You can watch our 10 Best Beaches in Zambales video below. You can also find other related videos on our YouTube channel.
Updates Log
2024.04.24 – Updated information and Where to Stay section and added related article links
2019.04.16 – First uploaded
Written by: Joshua Berida
Edited and Updated by: Hannah Manalo and Astrid Alvarez
Related Article: Top 10 Beach Resorts in Zambales
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