2025 Samal Island Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

🌍🌟Davao, located in the southern part of the Philippines, is renowned for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and abundant natural landscapes. Here is a guide to Davao, inviting you to explore the allure of this tropical paradise.📚✨ 🏖️🌴First and foremost, the beaches and islands of Davao are must-visit attractions. Enjoy the sun and sand on Samal Island, or explore the coral reefs and marine life on Talicud Island. These experiences are not to be missed.🌅🏖️ 🌿🌳Secondly, the natural beauty of Davao is equally impressive. Take in the scenic beauty of Lake Sebu near Davao City, or go hiking in Mount Apo National Park to experience the region's natural beauty and cultural history.🏞️🌄 📸🌺For photography enthusiasts, Davao's landscapes and culture offer excellent subjects. Capture the unique architectural styles in front of the colorful buildings in Davao City, or document the culture and folklore during local festivals and events.📸🎥 🍽️🍴Food is an essential part of any journey. In Davao, be sure to try the local specialties, such as lechon (roast pig), pancit (Filipino noodles), and seafood barbecue. Each bite is an irresistible temptation for your taste buds.🍽️🥢 🎉🎊Finally, Davao's festivals are vibrant and diverse. Annual events like the Kadayawan Festival, Araw ng Dabaw, and Christmas celebrations offer great opportunities to experience local culture and traditions. Join in the local festivities and feel the warmth and charm of Davao.🎉🎊

It was a trip to Davao, Philippines. Davao, nestled in the southern Philippines, is a paradise for travelers and photographers alike. With its diverse attractions ranging from urban wonders to natural gems, it offers picture-perfect moments at every turn. During our trip, we visited People’s Park in the morning ☀️ where the beautifully landscaped gardens, sculptures, and vibrant playgrounds create a burst of color. The soft morning light made it perfect for capturing the intricate details of the park’s giant durian dome and art installations. For a more urban vibe, we explored Roxas Night Market in the evening, snapping street food shots and lively scenes under neon lights. People’s Park 📍Palma Gil St, Poblacion District, Davao City Roxas Night Market 📍Roxas Ave, Poblacion District, Davao City For breathtaking views and cooler temperatures, we ventured to Eden Nature Park and Resort early in the morning ⛅️ We captured lush landscapes, the signature “Skycycle,” and serene pine trees 🌳 under soft morning hues. By mid-afternoon, we visited Philippine Eagle 🦅 Center, where the iconic national bird posed beautifully amidst its natural habitat. These spots are perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts 😍 Eden Nature Park 📍Matina-Biao, Toril, Davao City Philippine Eagle Center 📍Malagos-Baguio Rd, Malagos, Davao City We also explored Samal Island 🏝️ for crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches. A short boat 🚤 ride brought us to Pearl Farm Beach Resort, a serene location perfect for capturing luxurious seaside views 🙌 For adventurous photos, we snorkeled 🤿 and kayaked in the afternoon, making the most of the golden hour by the beach. Pearl Farm Beach Resort 📍Adecor, Kaputian District, Samal Island, Davao del Norte We also visited the Museo Dabawenyo, where we captured artifacts and exhibits that told stories of Davao’s vibrant culture. A short walk away, we explored San Pedro Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece, especially in the soft light of early evening. Museo abawenyo 📍Cor. A. Pichon and Claveria Streets, Davao City San Pedro Cathedral 📍San Pedro St, Poblacion District, Davao City This itinerary is crafted from our firsthand experiences and we highly recommend these spots for both their beauty and their photo opportunities 🙌🙌🙌 #philippinestrip #Vacation #travel

#philippinestrip Nestled in the southern Philippines, Davao City offers a unique combination of rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and modern city conveniences. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a tranquil escape, Davao has something to captivate every traveler. Start your journey at San Pedro Cathedral (圣佩德罗教堂), the oldest church in Davao. With its distinct design featuring a curved façade resembling a traditional sail, the cathedral stands as a symbol of faith and resilience. Inside, you’ll find a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection. For a dose of island paradise, take a short trip to Samal Island (萨马尔岛), just a ferry ride from the city. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, Samal is a haven for relaxation and adventure. Dive, snorkel, or simply lounge on the beach to soak in its tropical charm. Nature lovers will enjoy a visit to the Philippine Eagle Center, home to the critically endangered Philippine eagle. This sanctuary offers an opportunity to learn about conservation efforts while admiring these majestic birds up close. Don’t miss Eden Nature Park, where you can indulge in fresh air and panoramic views of Davao's lush landscape. Activities like zip-lining and hiking add an adventurous touch to your visit. Foodies will find delight in Davao’s local flavors. From the exotic durian fruit, known for its pungent aroma, to delicious seafood dishes, the city’s culinary scene reflects its rich cultural tapestry. Davao City offers an unforgettable journey through its blend of history, natural beauty, and modernity. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites or unwinding on Samal Island, this vibrant destination is sure to leave lasting memories.

Here is a travel guide for Davao: 1. Recommended attractions: • Mount Apo: Located about 30 kilometers southwest of Davao City, with an altitude of 2954 meters, it is the highest peak in the Philippines. It is an active volcano, but it has not erupted for nearly a hundred years. The surrounding area is covered by tropical hardwood forests. There are waterfalls and hot springs, which have been developed into Mount Apo National Park, a great place for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts. Climbing to the top of the mountain offers stunning views of Davao City, but it requires a certain level of physical fitness. • Malagos Garden Resort: The resort is covered by lush vegetation, like a large botanical garden. It has a chocolate museum and a DIY chocolate experience center, where you can learn about the chocolate making process and taste delicious chocolate. There is also a bird park, and the woods are dotted with giant chocolate dessert models, perfect for taking photos. • Eden Nature Park and Resort: Built on a mountaintop, overlooking Davao's coastline. It offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking in the pristine forest, strolling through the organic farm, aerial cycling, jungle zipline, and high-altitude bungee trampoline, allowing you to fully experience the thrill of outdoor sports. • Pearl Farm Beach Resort: The hotel is located next to a pearl farm, hence the name. You can stay in a water villa, each room with a sea view. The hotel's facilities and dining reach five-star standards, allowing you to enjoy a comfortable vacation. • Davao Riverfront Crocodile Park & Zoo: The park houses the world's second-largest crocodile, as well as pythons, lizards, and other animals. Although smaller in scale compared to domestic zoos, it provides an insight into the local animal ecology. • Talikud Island: Not far from Davao City, it is a beautiful island. The seawater is clear, the beach is white, and there are large coconut groves, with stunning scenery. You can swim and snorkel in the sea, admire the underwater world, or sunbathe and relax on the beach. • Samal Island: Only 900 meters from Davao City, a boat trip from Davao City's pier to the island takes about 40 minutes. There is no industry on the island, only lush trees and wooden houses, with a very good ecological environment. You can enjoy a leisurely vacation here. 2. Recommended food: • Durian: Davao is the hometown of durian, and the durian here is rich in flavor and sweet. There is also a durian festival in August, so durian lovers should not miss the opportunity to taste it. • Seafood: Davao, located near the sea, has abundant seafood resources. Grilled seafood and seafood soup are must-try dishes. You can taste fresh and delicious seafood dishes at night markets or seafood restaurants. • Roast chicken: Philippine roast chicken is also very special, with tender and juicy chicken meat, golden and crispy skin, and a special sauce, the taste is very delicious. • Fruits: In addition to durian, Davao also produces mangosteen, custard apple, mango, coconut and other fruits. These fruits are fresh and juicy, with high sweetness, and can be purchased and tasted at local markets or fruit shops. 3. Recommended shopping: • SM City Davao: Located in the city center, it is one of the largest shopping malls in Davao. It offers a wide variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and other brands. There are also supermarkets, restaurants, and cinemas, which can meet your shopping and entertainment needs. • SM Lanang: Only 10 minutes by car from the airport (20 minutes during traffic jams). There are also many brand stores and restaurants here, making it a good place for tourists to shop and relax. • Gaisano Grand City Gate: If you arrive in Davao on the first day, this small mall near the airport is a convenient choice, where you can buy some daily necessities and snacks. 4. Accommodation arrangements: • City hotels: If you want to shop and visit attractions conveniently, you can choose to stay in a city hotel. There are many types of hotels in the city, ranging from budget to luxury, you can choose according to your budget. • Beach resorts: If you want to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the beach and a leisurely vacation, you can choose to stay in a beach resort, such as Pearl Farm Beach Resort and Eden Nature Park and Resort. These resorts have beautiful environments and complete facilities, but the prices are relatively high. • Homestay: There are also some homestays available in Davao, which are relatively cheaper and allow you to experience the local life. However, when choosing a homestay, pay attention to the reviews and facilities to ensure a safe and comfortable stay. 5. Transportation guide: • Airplane: Davao International Airport is the main transportation hub for entering and exiting Davao, with domestic and international flights. You can take a flight from Manila and other cities to Davao. • Taxi: In Davao City, taxis are a convenient means of transportation. Try to choose a white taxi and confirm that the meter is working properly. • Jeepney: This is a unique Philippine transportation tool, similar to a small bus, with cheap fares, usually 8 pesos per trip. You can hail a jeepney on the road, but pay attention to the route and direction. • Car rental: If you want to visit attractions further away, such as Mount Apo and Enchanted River, you can choose to rent a car. Car rental can be arranged according to your itinerary and time, which is relatively free and convenient, but the price is relatively high. 6. Precautions: • The climate in the Philippines is hot and sunny, so take precautions against sunburn and moisturizing. Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats with you. • When participating in outdoor activities, pay attention to safety and follow the guide's instructions to avoid accidents. • Respect local culture and customs, and abide by local laws and regulations. • When tasting food, pay attention to food hygiene and avoid eating unclean food or drinking raw water.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort is surely a gem! Our stay was truly unforgettable and the food was amazing! When we got there, we were greeted by the infamous Parola Bar, with a welcome drink and hot hand towel. What a way to start our day! What I love most about during our stay was the food 😄 dinner, breakfast and lunch were served, buffet style! I did eat more than swim hahaha!!! I highly recommend Pearl Farm! and I can’t wait to go back!😍 #pearlfarm #beach #resort #davao #davaocity #samalisland

#2023travelwish Wishing Island is small but beautiful. Pristine water surrounds it. So blue and mesmerising to see. In this island is a grotto of Virgin Mama Mary where you can utter your wishes and prayers. Wishing Island is a notable tourist destination encircled by gorgeous mangroves too and crystal-clear waters of turquoise. Because it is only visible at low tide and disappears during high tide, the locals gave it the nickname "Enchanted Island." Don't forget to take remembrance pictures in this location, which is decorated with a sea view.

#2023travelwish I can't get enough of taking pictures under the clear pristine water of Wishing Island in Samal. Beautiful creatures are abundant like the starfish. What catched my attention was the donation box I have spotted and got be intrigued of what such item is doing in the island. How did it get there? How long it has been there? I am the only have seen it? Such things happen, unexpected encounters of weird stuffs but still beautiful to cherish. Have you encounter such one too?

#2023travelwish Wishing island is located in the beautiful Island Graden City of Samal, Davao. The island has no shore but it is still beautiful. It is surrounded by mangroves and the water was so blue and indulging. They said, the island can only be seen during low tide and disappears during high tide. Wishing Island is included in our Samal Island hopping tour. I do wish my travel plans to South Korea and Japan will come true in 2023.

Our favorite place! It is located in Talicud Island. Talicud Island is a smaller island next to Samal Island. It is near to our place Davao City. You can take the ferry boat from Santa Ana wharf and it will take 1 hour and 15 minutes to be exact. Just two trip in a day. Davao -Talicud is 10:30 am & 5:30. Talicud-Davao is 6:30 am & 3:30 pm. It is a quiet place and not crowded because of the trip schedule😅 so if you wanna enjoy the place to the fullest you must stay overnight😊 Their accomadation is not expensive compared to the other resort because it doesn’t have Aircon. Concrete room cost 900ph with its own bathroom. I guess it is the best room. Foods are also cheap which is good for 2-3 people.

Address - Isla Reta Beach Ambiance/Facilities - Restaurant, Tents, Rooms, Cottages Highlights - Beautiful private beach where you can set up a tent for overnight stay. You can sleep and relax. Avg. Price per Person - 1500 including food and transportation Rating - 4/5

Nature feels and get some adrenaline to walk on the stairs at San Agustin Botanical Park.

There are a lot of beautiful beaches to visit in Davao Region. Canibad beach is one of my favourite go to beach in Davao. It is a secluded beach with crystal clear water plus you can do activities like cliff diving or just chill. If you want to explore other parts of Davao region, you can also visit Langoyon Beach in Banganga, Oriental where you can also see the magnificient Aliwagwas falls on your way. #davao #beachlife #bucketlistreboot #bucketlistreboot

Address - Costa Marina Beach Resort Ambiance/Facilities - Highlights - Came early and the views was really good. Low tide in the morning and can usually walk all the way to the barrier then high tide in the afternoon. Food was good and we didn’t have to wait long, the clean up crew was efficient and cleaned up nice. Bathrooms were good and had plenty of stalls for showering and toilets. Avg. Price per Person - Rating - 5 out of 5

the ambiance is wow 🤩 it’s really nice the rooms are very beautiful clean comfort room too ☺️ the food is the best 😋 and the stuff are too accommodating and humble (mahihiya kang di mag bigay ng tip promise 😊) it’s so relaxing and refreshing, if you plan to get a prenups or beach weeding in samal, club samal resort is a good choice 👍 💕

An hour's boat ride away from the city brings to you an island of peaceful and natural ambiance. Bury your feet in sun-kissed sand and let your hands lap at the pristine waters. Catch a shade under a beautiful row of Talisay trees lined up near the shore and breathe in the salty sea breeze. Enjoying good food and great accommodations. This is where you should be. Come to Isla Reta Beach Resort ⛱ #staycation #beachlife #foodie

clear water and refreshing highly recommended for the tourist solemn place this pic taken 4years ago

Getting There - ourok 7 barangay caliclic Igacos samal island Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

The Island Buenavista Resort located in Babak Samal Katpunan Street, Buenavista Island, Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte, Philippines. The island has a fine white cottony sand that reflect the brilliant tropical sun. You can enjoy relaxing under coconut trees swaying to the gentle sea breeze and meet glorious sunrises and pastel sunsets or sit back and enjoy a cocktail while gazing up to a velvet canopy of brilliant stars and silvery moon. #beaches

Day 1 Arrive as early as possible, then go straight to your resort on Samal Island. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the island. Day 2 Check out at noon, then stay as long as you like before taking a ferry back to the mainland. Check in at your hotel in Davao City. Day 3 Hire a car for the whole day. If you start early enough, around 8 AM, then it’s possible to visit Malagos Garden Resort, the Philippine Eagle Center and Eden Nature Park all on the same day. If you want to do the “Sky rides” at Eden Nature Park, then it’s best you visit them in this order: 8-9AM – Drive to Malagos Garden Resort 9-10:30AM – Malagos Garden Resort 10:30-11:30AM – Philippine Eagle Center 11:30AM-12:30PM – Drive to Eden Nature Park 12:30PM-4PM – Eden Nature Park 4-5PM – Drive back to Davao City 5-7PM – Have dinner at Jack’s Ridge The reason why I suggest doing it like this is because the SkyCycle, SkyCider, and SkySwing rides aren’t available until 1 PM on weekdays (Mon-Thurs). For that reason, it’s best to go to Malagos Garden Resort and the Philippine Eagle Center first. If you can make it to Eden Nature Park by around noon, then that would be perfect since the price of admission comes with lunch. If you go over the weekend (Fri-Sun), then it matters less in which order you visit these places since the aforementioned rides at Eden Nature Park are open from 8AM-12NN and 1-4PM. You can stay as long as you want in this area before driving back to the city. I suggest having dinner at Jack’s Ridge that same night to make full use of the rental car. #maydaytrip #urbanexplorer

Discover the Irresistible Gemstones of Samal Island! Samal is not known as the “Island Garden City” for nothing. With a pristine environment that presents a stark contrast with the metropolitan place of Davao — while sitting just a few minutes away from it by ferry — Samal is the perfect getaway for those looking for a reprieve from the bustling city. But a trip to Samal island is useless unless you can visit its hidden gems. Hop around the island and discover new bits of paradise. Samal Island Hopping Tour starts from taking off from Sta. Ana Wharf and touching base with the following destinations: Angels Cove or Coral Garden,Babu Santa Beach Resort (Talikud Island),Sabang Cliff, Giant Clam Sanctuary, Sightseeing at Pearl Farm Beach Resort and Malipano Island. #maydaytrip #urbanexplorer #urbanexplorer

When in Davao don't forget to stay for a night at #pearfarm. The perfect place to experience the extra ordinary comfort, leisure and service. Check their website for rates and promos. #merrychristmas #merrychristmas

#davao #visitsamalisland #philippinespride #beachtravel #summer #vitaminsea #samalisland

[Philippine Photo Resort] Davao's only five-star hotel Hotel name: Pearl Farm Beach Resort as the only five-star hotel in Davao, Pearl Park Beach The resort is definitely a resort with unlimited potential. can be said to be one of the best hotels in Davao, Philippines Features: Water House, Mountain View House Transportation: Pearl Farm Beach Resort is not far from Davao Island On the road, you can arrive by road or by boat. Guests booking Pearl Farm Beach Resort will be provided with a roundtrip transfer from the airport to the boat. Pearl Garden Beach Resort is a pearl farm, so it is beautiful and clean. The hotel is close to Tariq Island, Coral Garden and other famous attractions. A wide range of facilities, such as pristine beaches, adult and children's pools, large lounges, restaurants or conference halls, gazebo bars, spas and fitness rooms. There are many types of rooms at , Mandaya Villa, Hilltop Standard, standard rooms, suites, etc. Each room is a perfect sea view room, with a large sea view and direct facing the sea. The natural landscape is certainly OK.

Travel Tips to Samal! If you have a private car then head straight to Sasa wharf I recommend to go there in the wee hours of the morning to get on the barge quickly. But if you are like us and you are commuter from SM Ecoland ride a taxi and let the taxi know you are going to Samal and to drop you off to Samal Bus Terminal Pro tip: Since you will be staying long in Samal get your food and neccesities in Davao! Ride the bus going to Samal 120 pesos for regular and 100 pesos for student this includes the barge and environmental fee. You sometimes have to wait for the bus to be full but other than that everything is smooth! After arriving at Samal port stop at where your resort is near. In our case it is at Kaputian Terminal. You can ride a baobao going to your resort. It is usually 150-200 per person. We stayed at Zariel's Beach Resort which is a 10/10. Signal is good and staff are very accomodation.#samalisland #Commuter #davao

Feeling the sunset and thelovely view of samal island is worth it! ❤️ book at trip.com was fast.