A Detailed Guide on Going To and Around Ozamiz City
Ozamiz City is a coastal city in the province of Misamis Oriental. It is located close to other key cities in the Northern Mindanao region, such as Iligan City, Oroquieta City, and Cagayan de Oro City, making it a prime location for tourists and businesses in the area. People tend to view the city as a mere gateway to the rest of the province, but it is more than just that.
Over the years, the city and provincial government have amped up efforts to cultivate tourism. Get to know the numerous historical, ecological, and lifestyle Ozamiz tourist spots you must visit.
How to Get to Ozamiz City via Ferry
Cebu to Ozamiz
- Book a trip to Ozamiz City with Trans-Asia Shipping Lines via Chelsea Travel booking page.
(Routes are available every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 7:00 PM)
- Present your ticket at the Cebu Port before departure.
- Depart from Cebu City.
- Arrive at the Port of Ozamiz in approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes.
Iligan to Ozamiz
- Book a trip to Ozamiz City with Trans-Asia Shipping Lines via Chelsea Travel booking page.
(Routes are available every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 4:15 PM)
- Present your ticket at the Port of Iligan before departure.
- Depart from Iligan City.
- Arrive at the Port of Ozamiz in approximately 2 hours.
Getting Around Ozamiz City
Private Car
You can take your vehicle along using Trans-Asia’s RoPax (rolling cargo) vessels going to Ozamiz City. It makes the trip easier and less tiring.
Car and van rentals are available in Ozamiz City, which is convenient for those traveling in large groups. Contact vehicle rental services such as A&A Car Rental or Ozamis Budget Rent A Car for more information.
Public Transportation
Due to the small size of Ozamiz, there are no jeepneys or taxis, but tricycles or pedicabs can get you around the city hassle-free starting around Php 15 minimum fare.
If you plan on visiting Tudela, Oroquieta, Molave, Tangub, and other nearby towns from Ozamiz City, you can find provincial buses, jeepneys, and UV express in the Integrated Bus and Jeepney Terminal (Agora) in Barangay Carangan.
12 Top Ozamiz Tourist Spots You Must Visit
Historical Spots in Ozamiz City
1.Fuerte de la Concepcion y del Triunfo (Cotta Fort)
The historic Cotta Fort is one of the first Ozamiz tourist spots to greet travelers coming via the Port of Ozamiz. It was built by the Spaniards from 1755 to 1756 to serve as quarters and protect the seaside town from the attacks of Moro pirates. You can roam around the fort and visit the museum to see curated artifacts and learn about the history of Ozamiz City.Location: Cotta Road, Brgy. Baybay Triunfo, Ozamiz City
Entrance Fee: Php 25
2.Archdiocesan Marian Shrine of the Birhen sa Cotta (Cotta Shrine)
This outdoor shrine is located right next to Cotta Fort. Cotta Shrine is dedicated to the Virgin Mary (Birhen sa Cotta) and has become a pilgrimage site for her devotees. There are benches where visitors can relax and bask in the serenity of the shrine.
Location: Cotta Road, Brgy. Baybay Triunfo, Ozamiz City
Entrance Fee: None
3.Immaculate Conception Metropolitan Cathedral
Another Ozamiz City tourist spot and historical landmark is the Immaculate Conception Cathedral. It is the new home of the Birhen sa Cotta relic, which was originally located outside Cotta Fort. The Birhen was stolen in 1975 and returned to the city in 2017, over 40 years later. It also houses the second largest bamboo pipe organ in the country, the only one in Mindanao.
Location: Rizal Avenue, Ozamiz City
Entrance Fee: None
4.Rodriguez Ancestral House
Among the remaining Spanish colonial structures in the city is the Rodriguez Ancestral House. It is said to be the house where national hero Jose Rizal stayed in before his exile to Dapitan. This is one of the Ozamiz tourist spots popular for its collection of antiques and well-preserved relics of a bygone era. In March 2025, the local government of Ozamiz acquired the property from the Rodriguez clan as part of its historical conservation efforts.
Location: St. Columban Drive, Brgy. Aguada, Ozamiz City
Entrance Fee: None
Ozamiz City’s Rural and Urban Escapes
5.Asenso Ozamiz Wellness Park
The Asenso Ozamiz Wellness Park is situated close to the port and right across Cotta Shrine, making it one of the most accessible Ozamiz tourist spots. The city government opened this park in 2023, creating a space for both residents and tourists to gather, play, dine, shop, and enjoy their time together. The park features an amphitheater, food stalls, a children’s playground, an outdoor circuit and exercise area, souvenirs, and handicraft shops. Every night, the place lights up with color and music. Major events and shows are also held in the park.
Location: Cotta Road, Brgy. Baybay Triunfo, Ozamiz City
Entrance Fee: None
6.Cotta Beach
Local residents of Ozamiz City frequent the tranquil Cotta Beach for morning swims and hanging out. It can be found behind the Cotta Fort and Shrine. You can find black sand in a small portion of the beach. Pay a visit for amazing sunset scenery and a view of ships approaching the port.
Location: Brgy. Baybay Triunfo, Ozamiz City
Entrance Fee: None
7.Timfanel Garden Ornamental Plant Farm (Naomi’s Botanical Garden)
Looking for Ozamiz tourist spots where you can relax with your family? Timfanel Garden Ornamental Plant Farm was formerly known as Naomi’s Botanical Garden. It began as a nursery garden selling ornamental plants, seedlings, and other gardening essentials. Over the years, the owners expanded the property to build accommodation, function halls, and swimming pools. It is a venue for luxury in the middle of nature.
Location: Purok 2, Ozamiz City
Entrance Fee: Php 20
8.Cobra Falls
Adventurers will love exploring this hidden gem. Cobra Falls, a 30-feet waterfall, is nestled in the mountains of the farthest barangay in the city. Despite its biting name, this is one of the tranquil Ozamiz tourist spots you can explore outside the urban landscape. Water flows down into a small pool that carries it onward to the Bati-Bati River. Note that it takes a bit of a mountain trek to reach the lush green and rushing water of Cobra Falls.
Location: Brgy. Stimson Abordo (Montol), Ozamiz City
Dine, Shop, and Relax Around Ozamiz City
9.Oakhill Park
This is one of the newest Ozamiz tourist attractions, as well as a lifestyle center for residents. The Oakhill Park is perfect for shopping, dining, and relaxing. Try out different restaurants, coffee shops, massage and beauty parlors, karaoke rooms, billiards centers, and bars. It is a lively place to hang out after a day of exploring the city.
Location: Purok 1, Brgy. Manabay, Ozamiz City
10.Puesto Resto
Fuel your tummy with Puesto Resto’s wide range of Filipino comfort food. This new food spot in Ozamiz City is the best stop to dine with your family and friends. Visitors have commended the excellent service, which is only second to the top-tier menu. Most of their dishes like sisig, kare-kare, and crispy pata are available in generous servings. For large groups, make sure to secure a reservation as this place is quite popular in Ozamiz! They also have a coffee shop right below the restaurant.
Location: City Hall Drive, Ozamiz City
Bonus: Must-Visit Tourist Spots Near Ozamiz
11.Asenso Global Gardens (Tangub City, Misamis Occidental)
In the neighboring city of Tangub, you can find one of the newest developments near Ozamiz City. The Asenso Global Gardens is a 191-hectare tourist spot, featuring botanical gardens inspired by international destinations, such as Italy, Japan, and the Netherlands. Its position atop Mt. Malindang range treats visitors to heavenly views of the lush green mountains and fluffy clouds. It was opened to the public in February 2023 and is continuously being developed.
Location: Brgy. Hoyohoy, Tangub City
Entrance Fee: Php 200
12.Clarin House of Suman (Clarin, Misamis Occidental)
Visit the House of Suman for last-minutelast minute pasalubong. This vibrant green building can be found along the highway connecting Clarin to Ozamiz City. Choose from a wide variety of homemade, locally-sourced suman (Filipino rice cake wrapped in banana leaf), with mouthwatering flavors like chocolate, mango, buko, cheese, ube, and more. They also carry a selection of delicacies and souvenirs you can take home.
Location: Ozamiz-Oroquieta National Highway, Clarin, Misamis Occidental)
Entrance Fee: None
From historic relics to relaxing spots, the city of Ozamiz is a notable destination in the south. It is just a taste of what you can get from the whole Misamis Occidental province. Begin your Northern Mindanao journey at Ozamiz and discover its up-and-coming wonders.
ALSO READ: The Essential Backpacker’s Guide for a Low Budget CDO to Cebu Escapade
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