Table of Contents
- About Samal
- Best time to Visit
- How to Get There
- Environmental User’s Fee (EUF)
- Things to do
- Where to Stay in Samal Island
- Where to Eat in Samal
- Sample Itinerary
- Other Information
About Samal Island
Samal Island or Island Garden City of Samal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Davao Region. Located in the Davao Gulf, it is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and scenic views. It is composed of the main island of Samal and 7 islets, with a total land area of 30,130 hectares and a 118.5-kilometer long coastline. There are many activities to enjoy on the island, from swimming and snorkeling to hiking . Samal Island is also home to a number of resorts, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Whether you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply want to experience some of the best that the Philippines has to offer, Samal Island should definitely be on your list.
Best Time to Visit
Summer time is the best time to have a trip in Samal Island. Of course, have your bikinis ready and hit the water. This is the perfect place to get that perfect sun-kissed tan you’ve been craving. Plan your trip in May and witness Visit Samal Islands Summer Saya sa Isla. For the whole month of May, Samal Island come alive with the vibrant colors and sounds of Visit Samal Islands Summer Saya sa Isla festival.
How to Get There
There are a few ways to get to Samal island from Davao city. The most popular way is to take the ferry. The ferry leaves from the port in Davao city and arrives at the port in Samal island. The trip takes about an 15 to 25 minutes. Another way to get to Samal Island is by Lansta from Km 11 Sasa Port. You can also take the bus from Davao City to Samal Island.. If you are planning to go to Talicud Island you can ride boat from Sta. Ana Wharf.
The schedule of ferries, boats and bus that go to Samal Island is as follows. The rates are also listed below:
By Air:
Fly from Manila to Davao City, the jump-off point to the Samal Island. Time travel is around 2 hours. You also have the option to fly from Clark, Cebu, Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, and Tagbilaran . You can book your tickets on Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and Philippine Airlines.
Upon arrival at Davao International Airport, you’ll need to ride a public utility jeepneys or a taxicab to get to the seaports. This is where you’ll need to ride a boat or ferries going to Samal Island.
Ferry:
DavSam Ferries
(KM 13, Sasa Davao City to ACFA, Brgy. Villarica, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal)
24/7 Operation as of July 29, 2022
Rates:
- Person – Php 10
- Light Vehicle- Php 250 (1 driver, 3 passengers free)
- Bonggo, Canter, Elf and Mini Dump Truck – Php 300
- Motor – Php 60 (free 2 pax)
Mae Wess Co Inc / Cole Inc Ferries
(Km 11, Sasa, Davao City to Brgy. Kinawitnon, Babak Dist., Island Garden City of Samal -outside Camp Holiday Beach Resort and Recreation Area)
24/7 Operation as of December 21, 2021
Rates:
- Person – Php 10
- Tricycle – Php 180
- Light Vehicle- Php 250 (1 driver, 3 passengers free) Bonggo, Canter, Elf and Mini Dump Truck – Php 250
- Motor – Php 70 (free 2 pax)
Lansta
(Boat Km 11. Sasa, Davao City)
5:00AM to 9:00PM
Rates:
- Person – Php 15
- Bike – Php 26 + Php 2 tax
Boat to Talicud Island
SCHEDULE: (The boat schedule is not regular, they usually depart once it’s full, especially during peak season)
Sta. Ana Wharf (Davao) to Sta. Cruz Wharf (Talicud Island)
9:00 AM (isla reta boat) to Isla Reta
10:00 AM (Pacific) to Sta. Cruz port
12:00 PM (Robjan ) to Sta. Cruz port
Sta. Cruz Wharf (Talicud) to Sta. Ana Wharf (Davao)
6:10 AM (Robjan)
6:15. AM (Talikud Express)
3:00 PM (Pacific)
3:00 PM (Isla Reta)
Rates:
- Isla Reta Boat – Php 200/pax
- Other Liner Boat – Php 130/pax
Bachelor Express Bus to Samal Island
Schedule:
First Trip – 6:00 AM Samal to Davao
First Trip – 6:00 AM Davao to Samal
Last Trip – 6:00 PM Samal to Davao
Last Trip – 6:00 PM Davao to Samal
Environmental User’s Fee (EUF):
EUF is a fee levied to any person for the use of natural resources of the city by engaging to any activities under City Ordinance No. 319 Series of 2020.
- Environmental Fee: Php 40/pax
- Boat Entry Fee for island hopping: Php 500 (20 pax)
- Php 1,000 (21-30)
- Php 1,500 (31-50)
- Php 2,000 (51-100 pax)
- Scuba Diving Fee – Php 500/pax
- Snorkeling fee within the dive site of the city – Php 500/pax
Things to do in Samal Island
Please visit Samalguide.com for more Detailed Map
Explore Monfort Bat Cave
Monfort Bat Cave is home to the world’s largest concentration of a single species of bat. Every night, more than two million Geoffroy’s rousette bats (Rousettus amplexicaudatus) emerge from the cave to forage for food. The cave itself is an important roosting site for the bats, and it provides them with a safe place to rest and raise their young. The Monfort Bat Cave is also an important tourist destination, as it provides visitors with a rare opportunity to see these amazing creatures up close. In addition to the bats, the cave is also home to a variety of other animals, including snakes, lizards, and spiders.
Hike at Puting Bato Peak
Puting Bato is one of the highest points in Samal Island and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean and coastline. The hike to the top is relatively easy and can be done in less than an hour. However, the heat can be intense, so it is best to start early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Once at the top, there are several rocky outcroppings where you can sit and enjoy the view. Puting Bato is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so be sure to visit early to avoid the crowds.
Take a Dip at Hagimit Falls
Hagimit Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Samal Island. Visitors can take a dip in the refreshing water, or simply enjoy the beauty of the falls from the viewing platforms. The falls are also a popular spot for picnics, and there are plenty of benches and tables available for visitors to use.
Visit Sanipaan Vanishing island
Photo by Ken Suico
A visit to Vanishing Island in Samal Island is a must for any traveler to Samal Island. It’s easy to get there and only takes about 5-10 minutes by boat from Barangay Tambo.
Snorkeling at Coral Garden
If you’re looking for an amazing snorkeling trip, head to Coral Garden near Talicud Island. The water is home to a beautiful array of aquatic life, making it definitely worth a visit. The journey there is just 15 to 20 minutes by boat, so it’s easy to get to.
Giant Clam Sanctuary
The Giant Clam Sanctuary in Kaputian is a place where clams can live in peace and grow to their full size. It’s a beautiful place where visitors can come to see these amazing creatures up close.
Scuba Diving
Samal Island is a great place for scuba diving with its clear waters and abundance of marine life. The coral reefs here are in excellent condition, making it a great place for divers of all levels of experience.There are several accredited operators who can take you on a dive, so you can explore the underwater world.
- Kostal Dive
+63920 938 7207 - Pro Dive Davao
+63 915 426 9557 - Davao Marine Venture Corp (Carabao Divers)
+63 917 716 6991 - Glide Freediving and SpearFishing
+63 917 716 6991
Samal Island Hopping
Samal Island known for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters. There are plenty of things to do on Samal, including swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The best way to see the island is by hopping from one beach to another.
Sabang Cliff Diving
It can be scary to take a leap of faith, but it’s also incredibly exhilarating. When you jump in Sabang cliff jumping, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view and an incredible rush of adrenaline. It is located in Kaputian.
Beach Bum
Samal Island has many beautiful white sand beaches and resorts to choose from. It’s the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Where to Stay in Samal Island
The different resorts in Samal offer the comfort you need to have a lovely night. Prices vary depending on the luxury you want. Huts and rooms near the shore are offered almost all of the resorts. You can even rent an open cottage if you intend to spend the night on chitchats and partying with friends. You can always choose to pitch a tent if you want a more adventurous evening. If those did not entice you, spend your night with your mat at the shore and just fall to sleep as the fresh air and splashes of waves lullaby you.
Here are the top 15 best resorts/hotels to stay in if you are considering of visiting the island for more than a day.
Villa Amparo Garden Resort
Room starts at Php 3,900
Contact Number: +639 99 880 0225
Address: Sitio Dasag, Barangay Camudmud, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal
The newly renovated Villa Amparo Garden Beach Resort is a premier garden resort, focused on crafting unforgettable experiences for guests. Boasting magnificent garden landscapes, turquoise waters, a pristine beach and breathtaking views, the resort provides a rejuvenating getaway that will leave a lasting impression.
Casas Con Vista
Room starts at Php 10,000
Contact Number: +639 966 880 2063
Address: Brgy. Pangubatan, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal
Club Samal
Room starts at Php 7,500
Contact Number: +639 917 622 4967
Address: Caliclic, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal
Hof Gorei
Room starts at Php 3,500
Contact Number: +639 917-711-3868
Address: P-7 Tambang Adecor, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal
Holiday Ocean View Resort / Residence
Room starts at Php 2,500
Contact Number: +639 933 618 2176
Address: Sitio Ilihan, Camudmud, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal
Bali-Bali Beach Resort
Room starts at Php 7,000
Contact Number: +639 917 700 9529
Address: Brgy. CatagmanSamal District, Island Garden City of Samal
wChemas by the Sea
Room starts at Php 7,500
Contact Number: +639 917 123 0225
Address: Limao, Samal District, Island Garden City of Samal
Secdea Beach Resort
Room starts at Php 7,000
Contact Number:(082) 295 7912
Address: Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal
Paradise Island
Room starts at Php 5,000
Contact Number:+632915238
Address: Caliclic, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal
Buenavista Island Resort
Contact Number: (082) 299 2992
Address: Buenavista Island, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal
Leticia by the Sea
Room starts at Php 12,000
Contact Number:+639 936 062 7988
Address: Talicud Island, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal
Costa Azalea – Crusoe Cabins and Aqua Water Park
Room starts at Php 7,500
Contact Number:+639 919 076 2182
Address: Limao, Samal District, Island Garden City of Samal
Cavanico il Mare
Room starts at Php 2,500
Contact Number:+639 961 416 6584
Address: Camudmud, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal
Isla Reta Beach Resort
Contact Number:+639 998 991 6690
Address: Talicud Island, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal
Pearl Farm Beach Resort
Room starts at Php 9,500
Contact Number:(082) 285 0601
Address: Adecor, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal
If you are looking for a cheap place to stay while in Samal, here is a list of some great options:
- La Vida Hotel
- Kaputian Beach Park Hotel
- Alta Vista Resort
- Camp holiday Resort
- Punta del Sul Resort
Where to Eat in Samal:
Most people visit samal island for white sand beaches, but some don’t realize that it’s home to some of the best restaurant. If you are looking for some great restaurants to enjoy while you are there, then check out this list.
- Aznebo Grill & Restaurant (Seafoods and Grill)
- Virtu Trattoria House N Café (Coffee, Pasta, and Pizza)
- Mambu House Grill & Restaurant (Grill and Filipino Food)
- Zagpa Grill & Resto Bar (Beer, Grill, and Filipino Food)
- Hobbiton Cafe (Coffee and Pizza)
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 (Samal Inland Tour)
9:00AM- Vanishing Island
11:00AM Monfort Bat Cave
12:00NN Lunch
1:00PM Early Check – in
1:30PM Maxima Aqua Fun (Currently Closed) or Aqua Water Park
3:00PM Hagimit Falls
5:00PM Back to Hotel
Day 2 (Island Hopping in Talicud)
8:00AM Kaputian Beach Park
9:00AM Isla Reta Beach Resort
12:00PM Coral Garden
1:00PM Babu Santa Beach
2:00PM Giant Clam Sanctuary / Sight Seeing at Wishing Island
3:00PM SightSeeing at Pearl Farm and Malipano Island
4:00PM Sabang Cliff Diving
5:00PM Back to Kaputian
6:00PM Back to Hotel
Day 3: (Relax Checkout)
Other Information:
- Bringing of mango fruit and seedling is not allowed. (CITY ORDINANCE NO. 2010-168)
- Bringing of any pork product is not allowed due to swine fever. (EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 201)
- Boat from Sta. Ana Wharf schedule is not regular. They usually depart once it’s full, especially during peak season.
- You can contact Local Accredited Tour Guides here: Samal Island Gabay Association.
- Most establishment including hotels and resorts prefer cash.
- Samal Island does not offer big time beach parties. However, shores have always been a good venue to have a good chitchats with friends. Videoke bars also stud the place and songs are priced in pennies.
About the Author: WayPH
I also would suggest an island tour package which brings us to travel within in the island only.
And highlights places to see. Example the new city hall, and the small barrios and its peoples culture erc. Samal has a lots to offer aside from its each beautiful beaches.