Camayan Beach Resort is a long-running coastal spot situated inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales, around 130 kilometers to the northwest of Manila. The property lies in a quiet cove on the eastern side of Subic Bay, where there is a short stretch of light sandy shore and generally calm water because the area is partly shielded by natural rock formations. It faces the South China Sea and is positioned on land that used to be part of the former U.S. Naval Base in Subic, which is now kept as a protected marine zone under the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
The resort has direct access to the beach and is also close to places like the Ocean Adventure marine park and the nearby Camayan Wharf, so visitors find both relaxing and family-focused activities within short distance. Operations are handled by the JEST Group, known for environmental programs, and the management keeps construction limited so the shoreline does not lose its natural look. Coral and reef conservation efforts are also carried out in the area.
Fun Fact About Camayan Beach Resort
One feature that stands out at Camayan Beach Resort is how close the living coral areas are to the shore. Only a few metres from the sand, the water already begins to show patches of hard and soft corals, and the resort keeps this part marked as a small marine sanctuary. People can see groups of sergeant major fish and, at times, even a sea turtle passing by, all without needing to swim far out. Because of this easy access, the place is often considered one of the most reachable snorkeling spots for anyone coming from Metro Manila.
History of Camayan Beach Resort
The area now known as Camayan Beach Resort once formed part of the large U.S. Naval Base in Subic Bay, which had been set up in the early 1900s and later expanded after the Second World War. In those years, the small cove was mostly used as a leisure spot for American naval staff. When the base finally closed in 1992 and the Subic Bay Freeport Zone was created, the land shifted slowly from military to civilian use under the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.
Around the late 1990s, the JEST Group, originally recognised for giving jungle survival lessons to foreign troops, took over the property and began shaping it into a place where visitors could learn about the local environment while enjoying simple coastal activities. The resort opened to the public in 2000, and the nearby Ocean Adventure facility was added the following year.
Since its establishment, Camayan has joined several conservation efforts organised by SBMA, including coral restoration work. The resort also enforces a rule that boats may not drop anchors inside its protected water area. These measures have helped maintain the marine life of the bay and allowed Camayan to develop as an example of a more careful type of coastal tourism within the old military zone.
Activities Available at Camayan Beach Resort
At Camayan Beach Resort, visitors will find several activities arranged in a fairly orderly manner, suitable for both younger and older guests. People usually begin with swimming or resting along the beach, where the water is calm and marked off for safety. Snorkeling is also common, as the reef starts quite near the shore, and there are simple diving lessons offered for beginners who want to try it with a guide.
Because the resort stands close to Ocean Adventure, many guests walk over to see the shows featuring dolphins and sea lions, along with the small aquarium displays. For those who prefer something more active, the water sports area prepares kayaks, paddleboards, and sometimes banana-boat trips when the weather is steady enough.
During busy months, certain floating play structures are placed in the water, especially for families with children. Meals are usually taken at the beachside restaurant, where dishes follow both Filipino and general international styles, with an emphasis on what seafood is available. From time to time, the resort also organises simple environmental programs, such as guided walks along the shallow reef or small coral-planting sessions, mainly to raise awareness among visitors.
Best time to visit Camayan Beach Resort
The most favourable months for visiting generally fall between November and May, when the weather stays mostly dry and the sea is calmer. During this period, sunlight is steady through most days, and the water stays warm enough for swimming or other marine activities. The busiest time tends to be from around March until May, as well as during major holiday breaks, when many travellers arrive at once.
From June to October, the conditions shift toward the wet season. Rain becomes more frequent, and there is always the chance of a passing storm, though mornings are often still clear enough for short outings or walks by the shore. Fewer travellers come during these months, and accommodation is usually easier to secure, as rates and demand both go down.
Practical Recommendations
It is usually better to reserve ahead, mainly on weekends or holidays, because the resort’s day-use and overnight slots tend to fill quite fast.
Sun protection is important here, as the beach gets strong heat most of the day; many people use rash guards and reef-safe lotion to avoid any harm to the corals.
Environmental rules are followed strictly, such as not taking shells or marine creatures and staying inside the marked zones for snorkeling.
Accommodation ranges from simple cottages close to the shore to regular air-conditioned rooms.
