I want to go to a place where I can experience a wonderfully-made creation of God. Just like what other traveler is dreaming of, I am dreaming of a simple place that will make me realize how blessed and gifted the world is. And as I discover this wonderful place in Zamboanga City, no such word or artwork can fully described how heavenly this place is – Paseo Del Mar.

A lot of people say that Paseo Del Mar in Zamboanga City is one of the most beautiful parks in the Philippines. Here, one can witness the most spectacular sunsets in the city and the stunning view of Santa Cruz and Basilan Island. A view of the city’s busy port could also be seen from Paseo del Mar. There are several cement benches at the park and there is long walkway along the shoreline or breakwater.

In the afternoon when there are visitors, the Bajao kids in their bancas paddle along the breakwater walkways and entice the visitors to throw coins into the sea water. It's fun to watch the Badjaos dive and fetch the coin before it hits bottom.

Nightlife in Paseo Del Mar is one of the most-awaited moments. There are live bands, food stalls and colorful decorative lamps lighting up the park. Then if you are planning to spend night or days in the place, Lantaka Hotel is also only about 150 feet to the west of Paseo del Mar.

How to get there

By plane: There are daily flights to/from Manila by Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific, flights to/from Sandakan by Asian Spirit and South East Asian Airlines (SEAIR) Philippine Airlines, Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific have regular flights to Manila, Cebu, & Davao and vice versa.

By boat: Super Ferry boats are available 2 days a week for sailing from Cebu City, Davao, and Manila and vice versa. Ferries are also available to and from Sandakan. The Port of Zamboanga is an international port of entry. It has a schedule passenger trip to Sandakan, Malaysia, a cruise ship destination and several shipping lines offer regular trips from and to Davao, Cotabato, Dipolog/Dapitan, General Santos, Pagadian, Jolo, Bongao, Isabela City, Cebu City, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Bacolod and Manila.

By road: If you are from Luzon and Visayas, the Nautical Highways (RoRo) can bring you here. Buses from major cities in Mindanao are also available.

Getting Around

Jeepneys and motorcycles are available as a common mode of transportation around the city.