Manila Bay (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Manila Bay?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Kids can play on Dolomite Beach, ride MOA Eye, or visit Manila Ocean Park nearby, yet the Baywalk lacks guardrails, toilets, and playground equipment, so adults must supervise closely.
Positives:
- Free waterfront access: The Baywalk promenade and Dolomite Beach have no entrance fee and stay open until midnight.
- Easy transit links: Roxas Boulevard buses, jeeps and MRT ride drop you near Baywalk and SM Mall of Asia.
Challenges:
- Strong sunlight: Minimal shade on Dolomite Beach and Baywalk. Sun protection and water breaks are essential.
- Weekend crowds: Promenade and beach get busy at sunset on weekends. Space can feel tight with strollers.
What is Manila Bay?
- A natural harbor on Luzon’s western coast, bordered by Metro Manila to the north and Cavite province to the south
- One of the world’s premier deep-water bays that has served as the Philippines’ primary maritime gateway since the 16th century
- A roughly 2,000-square-kilometer embayment that supports commercial shipping, coastal fisheries, and diverse mangrove ecosystems
What is so special about Manila Bay for with kids?
- Sunset baywalk strolls with open-air art and promenade breeze
- Safe artificial beach play at Dolomite Beach
- Kid-friendly rides and Ferris wheel at SM by the Bay
- Interactive marine shows and animal encounters at Manila Ocean Park
- Hands-on seafood dining by the water at Seaside Dampa
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a sunset stroll, beach play and one kid-friendly attraction without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Manila Bay
Dolomite Beach:
A 500 m stretch of artificial white sand along the Baywalk promenade. Kids can build sandcastles in shallow water.
Tip: Bring hats and towels. Visit 1 hr before sunset to avoid crowds.
SM by the Bay Amusement Park & MOA Eye:
Outdoor park with 12 rides and a Ferris wheel offering bay views from enclosed gondolas.
Tip: Buy unlimited-ride passes online. Take the Ferris wheel at dusk for best views.
Manila Ocean Park:
Oceanarium tunnel, penguin and sea-lion shows, plus interactive marine encounters.
Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before the 11 AM or 3 PM shows. Book family passes in advance for a discount.
Seaside Dampa Macapagal:
Seafood market stalls by the water’s edge. Pick fresh catch and have it cooked Filipino-style.
Tip: Budget around ₱1,200 for a family meal. Arrive by 5 PM to beat the dinner rush.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Manila Bay
- Time your arrival: Get to Dolomite Beach 1 hr before sunset for good beach play time and clear views.
- Pre-book tickets: Buy Ocean Park and amusement-park passes online to skip ticket lines and secure child spots.
Reviews of Manila Bay
Bruce Bellette
Nice place to sit watch world go by very busy lots of ships families kids the beach is more like white gravel no one in water but still ok
Desmond Lee
Good place to watch the sunset. But it was clouded at the entrance area. You can walk along the beach to find a quiet spot and enjoy the sunset.
Justyna Matuszewska
Open from 6:00 am with free entrance. I had to bin my plastic water bottle which I had in my hand at the gate, as I have been told that I can’t go with it. I couldn’t place it in my bag. I guess they take care of the beach environment that way. Beach was very tidy. You can have there maybe 10-15 mins walk. Apparently you can’t swim there. At least you sit and relax or exercise like some people the...
Joanne Bodanio
Me and my boyfriend visited Manila Bay, and it was such a beautiful and relaxing experience. The sunset view was stunning — one of the best we’ve ever seen — and it felt so romantic just sitting by the bay together, enjoying the scenery. The atmosphere is peaceful, and it’s definitely a must-visit spot for couples who want to spend a quiet and memorable moment in Manila.
Ha Jung Kim
I can’t say this beach blew my mind. Its a nice clean place (it shows how hard they are trying to upkeep it) where you can relax and enjoy sunset and hangout. There are a handful of people but in my opinion it’s not to crowded. But I must say it was quite shocking when the security at exactly 7PM lead us all off the beach. My first time experiencing this (as a European).
When is the best time to visit Manila Bay (Manila, Philippines)?
Visit November–April to avoid heavy rains. In hot months (Mar–May), plan activities before 4 PM and carry refillable water bottles.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Baywalk stroll & Dolomite Beach | PHP 0 |
| Manila Ocean Park family passes (2A + 2C) | PHP 6,600 |
| SM by the Bay unlimited-ride passes (4 pax) | PHP 1,520 |
| Seaside Dampa family meal | PHP 1,200 |
| Total Estimated | PHP 9,320 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Manila Bay
Address: Roxas Blvd, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines
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About Manila Bay
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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