Whenever we’re asked what are favorite local destinations are, we always include Zamboanga City in the list. And almost always, we get a one-word follow-up question delivered with a lot of curiosity — “Why?”
In my circle of friends, I can count with my fingers those who have set foot in this corner of Mindanao. But what’s in Zamboanga? Why should you visit? As one of the biggest urban hubs in the Philippines in terms of land area (and population), Zamboanga City is brimming with attractions that are worth going the distance.
Zamboanga City’s travel scene has been developing fast over the past few years. It is, after all, Region IX’s primary gateway. Tours are becoming more organized. Promotion of the city has been relentless, especially after travel restrictions have eased. Most tourists flock to the islands and the beaches, but the local food scene is steadily drawing in more visitors, too.
The team has been to Asia’s Latin City five times already, but each time we felt like there was still more to see and discover! On our most recent trip, AirAsia, which now flies daily to Zamboanga, toured us around the city and we got to visit some attractions for the first time!
If you’re curious about what awaits you there, here’s a full rundown of the things to do and places to visit in Zamboanga City.
WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?
Pink Beach (Sta. Cruz Grande Island)
Off the coast of Zamboanga Peninsula lies an island that, when kissed by the sun, glows with a natural rosy blush. Hailed by the National Geographic as one of the World’s 21 Best Beaches in 2017, Pink Beach is Zamboanga City’s most popular tourist attraction.
To manage your expectations, the pink hue isn’t vivid or bright. From afar, the sandy shore looks like the usual white beach, but the closer you get, the pink taint becomes more apparent. The sand’s pale pink tint is the result of the weathering of the red organ-pipe corals (tubipora musica) that were brought to the shore by the waves.
Punctuating the southeastern side of the peninsula, Zamboanga City’s Paseo del Mar is the main jump-off point to the island and its Pink Beach. Visitors can hire a tricycle from the city center to Santa Cruz Island Ferry Terminal in Paseo del Mar. The boat ride takes about 20 minutes.
Because the number of visitors is strictly regulated, you need to register in advance before going. Registration and boat service start at 7:00 AM. Overnight stay is not permitted…
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