Olongapo City Guide

Local dishes like adobo and sinigang are must-tries. There's American and Korean food too. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but can be limited. Late-night food is mostly fast food and some local spots.

Bars, KTVs, and clubs are mostly along Magsaysay Drive. Subic Bay has some upscale options too.

Growing coffee scene with local cafes and some chains, including specialty offerings.

Tipping isn’t required but appreciated. Restaurants often add a 10% service charge. Taxi tips typically round up the fare.

SIM cards from Globe and Smart are sold at airports and stores. Coverage is good. Registration requires an ID or passport. eSIM options exist but are limited.

Main commercial areas are clean, some residential spots less so. Waste pickup is regular.

Some convenience stores, fast food, and pharmacies open 24/7 but medical services are limited at night.

Supermarkets like SM, Puregold, and Savemore carry local and some international products. Local public markets offer fresh produce and seafood where bargaining is common.

Cards are accepted in malls and big stores but cash is preferred for smaller shops and public transport.

ATMs are common in malls and near banks like BDO, BPI, and Metrobank. Foreign card fees usually run around 200-250 PHP per withdrawal.

Local schools teach mainly in Filipino and English. Some international options are near Subic Bay Freeport Zone.

A small, growing community with some cafes and informal meetups, but limited compared to big cities.

Rizal Triangle Park and Subic Bay Freeport Zone provide good green spaces and trails.

Running routes are mainly waterfront and parks. Safety is good in populated areas.

Fitness centers and gyms are available around the city.

Tennis courts exist mainly in private clubs and resorts around Olongapo and Subic Bay.

Padel is rare but can be found in select sports complexes.

Some studios and wellness centers offer yoga classes mainly in the resort areas.

Facilities offer training in Taekwondo, Karate, and Boxing.

No skiing in the Philippines due to the tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and sailing are common in Subic Bay with rental and guided options.

Olongapo is inside Subic Bay and doesn’t have surfing spots. Surfing requires travel to the west coast of Zambales or farther.

Subic Bay is popular for wreck dives and marine life. Dive shops offer gear and lessons, with best conditions in the dry season.

Olongapo has public and private hospitals with English-speaking staff mainly in private ones. Pharmacies like Mercury Drug and Watsons are widespread and open late.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink; bottled water is recommended.

Parks like Rizal Triangle have playgrounds. Nearby Subic Bay offers attractions like Inflatable Island and Zoobic Safari. Family-friendly cafes and baby supplies are available.

Generally accepting with safe spaces in the city, reflecting the broader Filipino openness to LGBTQ+ communities.

Some places accept pets and vet services exist. Pet parks are limited and import rules are strict.