What To Do
There is a myriad of attractions waiting for you in Zamboanga to keep you busy exploring for days. Included in this list are just some of the better known ones. We will continue to grow this list with less known but just as interesting things to do and places to go. So check out this page for future updates.
If you have the luxury of spending a longer vacation, we invite you to visit the countryside and stay for at least a couple of nights so you can experience the more laid-back way of life, the natural and unspoiled scenery. You can find adventure exploring the waters, hiking, bicycling and several other activities for nature lovers. Viva la vida buena!
Sightseeing - Downtown
City Hall & Rizal Park
This historic Amercan-era edifice was built in 1905 and completed in 1907. It now houses the Office of the City Mayor and several key departments of the city government. Infront of the capitol, is the city's Rizal Park with monument in honor of the country's national hero,...
Fort Pilar
This Spanish old settlement fortress was originally built in 1635 to ward off foreign invaders and intrusions from pirates. It is now a Shrine to the Lady of the Pillar and the center of festivities every October 12, Fiesta Pilar, the city's feast day. It also houses the...
Pettit Barracks
This arch over what was the main gate is what remains of the facility. Named after Col. James Pettit, Commander of the 2nd Military District, it was occupied by US forces in 1899, held by the Japanese from 1942-1945, and turned over to the Philippines July, 4, 1946. Nesting in a tree-lined...
Plaza Pershing
A typical Spanish square of the old ayuntamiento of the 17th century. First named after a conquistador of the 16th century - Plaza de Juan de Salcedo. Later renamed Plaza Pershing in honor of Gen. John Pershing, Governor of the US established Moro province.
Sunken Garden
Among the City’s few remaining old Spanish gardens, it used to be an open public park next to the City’s Public Market. Now fenced off, the recessed garden with its lush greenery and blooms is now the site of the City Tourism Office. It is located on J.S. Alano Street, a very short distance from...
Metropolitan Cathedral
The Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Zamboanga. Formerly, it was the Immaculate Conception Church until its reconstruction in 1998. Designed by foremost Zamboangueño architect Domingo Abarro III, it is considered the most...
Sightseeing - Uptown
Pasonanca Park
World-renowned tourist attraction that lies 500 feet above sea level, is dubbed “Little Baguio” of the south because of its crisp air and verdant hills. It is home to the Zamboanga Convention Center, the Boy Scout Camp and Amphitheater, the famous Tree House, an aviary, butterfly garden and natural...
Climaco Freedom Park
Popularly known as Abong-Abong Park, is a project of and final resting place of legendary Mayor Cesar Climaco. A favorite destination during Holy Week, it hosts a 14-station way of the cross leading to a giant cross perched on a hilltop with a panoramic view of the city. Other...
Beach Fun
Sta. Cruz Island
Known for its pink sand beach, the island has a fishing village, a lagoon, and an old Muslim burial ground. Its coral heads hold a dazzling variety of aquatic life and tropical fish. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, beach combing or plain sun worshiping. Fifteen minutes from...
Zamboanga Beach Park
Managed and operated by the Philippine Tourism Authority, this beach is next to a golf course so it is a combo swim and swing attraction. Its pebbly shore and strip of gray-blackish sand lend the beach its own unique appeal. Little beach stores, picnic tables and huts dot the area near the...
La Vista Del Mar
A beach resort with the ambience of the tropical glory of old Zamboanga. It boasts of a profusion of bougainvilleas, vinta sails silhouetted against a spectacular view of the sunset, a fine restaurant, a tree house, air-conditioned cottages and picnic huts. It is 7...
Bolong Beach
A rustic community known for its long stretches of fine tan sand, Bolong is a locale of beach resorts and picnic grounds. The main Bolong beach area is a preferred leisure and holiday destination of many residents and tourists and is ideal for couple nights stay to experience the countryside. It is...
Sports & Recreation
Zamboanga Golf Course and Beach Park
Originally named Zamboanga Golf Course and Country Club, it is one of the country's oldest golf courses founded in June 1910 by Gov. John Pershing who also served as its first president. With 18 holes in 64 hectares, the course features winding fairways, dog-leg situations and good...
Joaquin Enriquez Sports Complex
Every morning and afternoon at 5 o’clock, groups of avid joggers congregate at this sports complex, popularly referred to as Grand Stand on R.T. Lim Boulevard. There’s a good 400 meter rubberized track oval to jog around. Admission is P5.00. Other sports facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming...