A Traveller's Guide to 5 Best Tourist Attractions in Ozamiz

Exploring Ozamiz is one of the best things to do because of its rich historical and cultural heritage. Known to be Mindanao's pilgrimage destination, Ozamiz City is considered among the best places to stay and has great investment opportunities.

Ozamiz City at a Glance

Ozamis or Ozamiz City is among the best harbor locations in Northern Mindanao. Nearby provinces like Zamboanga, Maguindanao, Lanao, and Misamis Occidental took advantage of their place for transporting agricultural products and mineral deposits to other parts of the country.

But, do you know that the original name of Ozamiz City was Misamis? It was named Misamis during the eighteenth (18th) century when Spaniards built a fortress at Nuestra Señora de la Concepción del Triunfo to station their soldiers. It was to control the town against pirates' activities, and it grew out into an old Spanish village. Later, Misamis was renamed Ozamiz during World War II by a hero named Jose Ozamiz, which also means “a variety of coconut” from the Subanen word “Kuyamis.”

Today, this formerly underrated city became one of the best travel destinations because of its breathtaking views, mouthwatering foods, and people’s impressive hospitality. It is also the reason why Lumina Homes Ozamiz has developed house and lot in the Philippines because of the remarkable advantages it has to offer. Affordable house and lot for sale are readily available for those who want to move in.

So, do you want to check out some of the best tourist attractions in Ozamiz City?

Best Things to Do in Ozamiz City

Ozamiz City is famous for some of the country’s top tourist attractions. From pristine beaches to a series of sumptuous food to eat, this city never fails to amaze you. Believe it; you might decide to stay here a little longer.

1. Chasing Waterfalls with a Twist of Adventure

Among the best-kept secrets of Ozamiz City are its nearby waterfalls. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, there are several majestic waterfalls you can dive into and explore.

• Cobra Falls

Located at Mount Malindang, the 30 feet towering cascades of Cobra Falls will greet you with enchantment. This shallow circular pool waterfall is ideal for thrill-seekers and travelers with good stamina because it can be found in one of the city’s farther barangays. Its water source comes from the upper slope of Mount Malindang and lies along the Sebase River. 

• Piduan Falls

Another waterfall you can explore is the Piduan Falls. It is also located at Mount Malindang with a 60-meter curtain-like cascading waterfall. This hidden waterfall has easy-to-moderate trails, which are suitable for seasonal travelers, although you have to cross shallow riverbanks and streams. Piduan Falls is near several vegetable plantations, including bell peppers, chayote, tomatoes, and cabbage. 

2. Best Beaches You Can Chill and Relax 

Ozamiz City is also filled with some of the finest beaches in town, where you can relax and unwind.

• Cotta Beach

Cotta Beach is just outside Cotta Fort if you want the most affordable tourist attraction. This beautiful beach has a narrow shoreline bearing black sand, best for family picnics and short gatherings. Most locals enjoy the cool breeze while eating at the nearest food stalls within the Plaza De Los Jesuitas. 

• Dolphin Island

Dolphin Island is the main attraction of Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park. Just a 30-minute ride from the city, you can enjoy a unique experience swimming with the bottle-nose dolphins.  

 3. Restos That Can Satisfy Your Hunger

Your ultimate Ozamiz trip will never be complete without tasting some of their local specialties.  

• Puesto

Puesto is both a restaurant and a coffee shop located at the heart of the city of Ozamiz. Take a bite of their local specialties, especially the "kinilaw," perfectly cooked sisig, and other seafood menus. They also offer sweet delicacies, wines, liquor, and other Filipino food.

• Isla Grill

Isla Grill is one of the best restaurants to visit in Ozamis City. They offer a mix of Asian and Western cuisine that will satisfy your buds. From dim sum platters to tasty pancit guisado and crusty pizza, there's something everyone can eat that satisfies food cravings.

• House of Suman

The House of Suman is a cottage industry supported by the local government, which provides alternative income to more than 30 local families. This famous “suman” shop makes 2000 pieces daily, varying from different flavor fillings. “Suman,” or glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaf, is a favorite Filipino delicacy and is the best pasalubong you can buy in Ozamiz. 

4. Learn its Rich and Historical Culture

The main reason why Ozamiz is a must-see destination is because of its incredible history and rich culture. Despite the current infrastructure development, most historical structures are well-kept and the best places to take a heritage tour.

• Cotta Fort and Shrine

Formerly known as Fuerte de la Concepcion y del Triunfo, the Cotta Fort is the original home of the Virgin Mary’s venerated image in a small chapel. Then, it was transferred to Immaculate Conception Cathedral. Today, it has become an outdoor shrine for most pilgrims because of its sacred image carved outside the fortress.

• Rodriguez Ancestral House

Ozamiz City also features some of the few historical structures left: the Rodriguez Ancestral House. It’s a Spanish house built with coral stone walls and large capiz shell windows - a classic “Bahay na Bato.” It was known that the National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal spent a night here before he was exiled to Dapitan.

5. Colorful Festivals You Can Celebrate

Besides being an excellent heritage tourist spot, Ozamiz is also full of festivities. From colorful parades to fireworks displays, it’s one of the best experiences you’ll miss.

• Subayan Keg Subanon Festival

Every 16th of July is the feast of Our Lady of Triumph at Cotta Shrine and the Charter City anniversary, where Ozamiz is declared officially the city. This memorable day is also a celebration of the Subayan Keg Subanon Festival. There will be various shows and live music concerts in the Cotta Entertainment area. Plus, there are fireworks displays at Cotta, which can be seen across Panguil Bay.

• Balanghoy Festival

Balanghoy Festival is also celebrated every year. It’s the feast of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception every 8th of December, where the only existing pipe organ is also placed. Then, a festive Sr. Santo Nino Fluvial Parade every 4th of January, held at Panguil Bay.

Find the Best Place to Stay in Ozamiz City with Lumina Homes

Indeed, Ozamiz City has plenty of reasons you should stay. So, enjoy the city it offers while living comfortably with your family. 

If you want a family-friendly environment with great people around, Lumina Homes offer affordable house and lot fit for your housing needs.