There are many Samal Island tourist spots and things to do in Samal Island, Davao. Rachel and I decided to pack our bags and plan another month-long trip, visiting Samal Island Davao as the first leg of our journey from Davao City going up to Cebu.
Philippines is definitely an island gem, or should we say, a gem filled with thousands of amazing islands. The views here are priceless, and the locals are welcoming. keep reading our Samal Island travel guide.
So, today, we are here to give you a view of our first stop in our spectacular journey: Samal Island Davao in the province of Mindanao. We will be telling you how to get to Samal Island, Davao, best time to visit Samal Island, best things to do in Samal Island and where to stay in Samal Island Davao.
Read here how to get to Davao City and where to stay in Samal Island, Davao!
SAMAL ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE
HOW TO GET TO SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
GETTING TO SAMAL ISLAND FROM DAVAO CITY
If you are getting to Samal Island from Davao City. There are two options:
Option 1: Take 2 jeepneys from the city to Sta. Ana Wharf and from there, ride the Palboros boat to go to Kaputian, Samal. This is the cheapest option and it will cost around 20 PHP for the jeepneys and 60 PHP for a one-way boat.
Option 2: Take 2 jeepneys to Sasa Wharf and from there, ride the bus. The bus will go on board a vessel ship to Samal. We really love these local experiences in our travels. From Penaplata, you can ride the shared tricycle to Kaputian for 75 PHP each for around 20 kilometers. This can be an option if the weather is bad since the ferry takes only 5 minutes to get to Samal Island.
We had to choose the second option to get to Samal Island from Davao City (we definitely wanted the first). As there were some locals who informed us that the boats from Sta. Ana Wharf were not sailing the day we were traveling due to some weather complications.
From Kaputian, we walked a few minutes to Purok Cacao, where we stayed with Russian friends while doing Couchsurfing. Turns out, there was a small Russian community in this area, which made our trip visiting Samal Island much more interesting
SAMAL ISLAND TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
1. SNORKELING IN SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
The waters in Samal is definitely super clear, even in the port area! We stayed in Kaputian, and instead of swimming directly in the resort (where there is an entrance fee), we walked more towards where the local boats were parked and started to swim there.
In the Philippines, you need to pay for every local beach that you visit. So we swam and snorkeled as much as we could. You can easily see fishes, corals and even starfishes in the crystal clear waters.
2. SWIMMING IN KAPUTIAN BEACH
Of course, if you are near the beach, it will be a crime not to swim. Kaputian Beach is perfect for swimming. Mind you, there were a couple of beaches in Asia we didn’t get to swim. Such shame, we know. Kaputian Beach is accessible, very beautiful waters like the one in Samal Island, we made sure we swim all the time.
3. ISLAND HOPPING IN SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
If you want more of those good island vibes, you can visit Talikud Island. It´just a few minutes away from Samal Island and almost an hour away from Davao. Talikud is the perfect place to watch the sunset, relax in the beach and do some snorkeling.
MORE SAMAL ISLAND TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
4. WATCH THE SUNSET
Our favorite time of the day is whenever we get to watch the sunset with a beer in our hands. It´s a special moment that you feel at home wherever you are in the world.
5. MEETING NEW PEOPLE
Can you believe that the locals we met in Samal were actually Russians? We stayed in a small Russian community of 6 adults and 3 children, and they were all raw vegans. It’s actually a challenge to do that in the Philippines, but since they are in the islands, they have easy access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
Also they home-grow a lot and helps them keep their food fresh and delicious. Pretty amazing, right? There are so many interesting people you can meet and cool stories to hear when you travel!
6. MAXIMA AQUAFUN
If you’re visiting the wonderful island of Samal with the family, you will surely enjoy a getaway to Maxima AquaFun. It is one of the best things to do in Samal Island for big groups because of the super slide, banana boats, jet skis, snorkeling and diving gear you can enjoy.
Maxima AquaFun entrance fee is only 300 PHP for majority of the activities in the resort. You can take a boat that goes to Maxima Aquafun from Sta. Ana Wharf at 9 AM and heads back at 4 PM. A round trip tickets costs 150 PHP per person.
7. HAGIMIT FALLS
You can also make the most out of your stay in Samal Island by visiting Hagimit Falls, one of the coolest places to visit in Samal Island. Here, you can enjoy the falls’ waters and spend the whole day relaxing on the cottages. You can even pitch your own tent and stay overnight!
Hagimit Falls entrance fee of 60 PHP which even includes the environmental fee. It is one of Samal’s untouched attractions. You better come visit before everyone discovers this hidden gem in the Penaplata area.
8. MOUNT PUTING BATO
With a trail that’s manageable even by beginners, travelers from all over will enjoy hiking Mount Puting Bato. This is actually the highest peak in Samal at 1,755 feet above sea level so you will get wonderful views of the island and other neighboring provinces from here.
Mount Puting Bato is also an excellent training ground for those who want to climb Mount Apo, the Philippines’ tallest mountain.
9. MONFORT BAT SANCTUARY
Monfort Bat Sanctuary entrance fee is 100 PHP. The place is surprisingly breathtaking because it is home to the biggest colony of Rousette fruit bats in the world! There are more than 2.5 million bats living in the cave that has 5 different entrances to explore. Nature lovers will surely appreciate this spectacular sight.
10. VANISHING ISLAND
Another must-see in Samal Island is a unique area a few minutes from the coast of Tambo, Babak. Vanishing Island, as its name implies, goes underwater during high tide and resurfaces during low tide.
It has crystal clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling when the water gets deep and is also fun to walk around on and explore during low tide. A boat to this stretch of sand costs around 250-300 PHP and usually comes with lunch and a 3-hour stay on the island.
11. TALICUD ISLAND
The word “Talicud” literally means behind, as this paradise is located just behind Samal Island. Like many of the beaches in Samal Island, Talicud Island has beautiful stretches of sand and gorgeous waters. It also has a diverse marine life perfect for snorkeling and has protected sanctuaries to visit and explore.
There are several resorts in the island with entrance fees of around 75 PHP for a day trip and 50-150 PHP for an overnight stay in a tent. On the other hand, cottage rentals cost around 400-1,800 PHP and is ideal for larger groups.
12. CORAL GARDEN MARINE PARK
Coral Garden Marine Park is located in Talicud Island. Coral Garden Marine Park is a perfect place to visit during your island hopping in Talicud Island you will see beautiful corals and fishes. You can’t miss it in the list of things to do in Samal Island.
13. WISHING ISLAND
Wishing Island is worth it to visit in the high tide since the low tide will not be so beautiful. Wishing Island docking fee is 200 PHP and you can go with the island hopping from Talicud Island.
14. SPELUNKING BAGA CAVE
Located in Talicud Island is a huge cave that visitors explore not just for its beauty but for the legend that surrounds it. Baga Cave is involved in many stories of local folkore because of its huge chambers and seemingly endless depths.
After all, the cave got its name from the Filipino word for “lungs,” as the chamber is shaped like the capillaries of the organ. The longest trek in this cave lasts 4 hours but you can always decide how long you’ll stay.
15. MOVING AROUND THE ISLAND BY MOTORBIKE
Another great way to explore Samal Island aside from visiting tourist attractions is riding a motorbike. You can get a feel of the place by people-watching and going to local spots. This is something you need to try for at least a day in Samal Island so that you won’t only see the touristic spots of the island but also the local culture and everyday life of its people.
If you don’t know how to drive a motorcycle, you can always rent a habal-habal, the motorbike taxis of the Philippines.
16. SABANG CLIFF
Sabang Cliff is located in Kaputian and it’s the perfect place if you like adventure. There are 3 possible places for jumping in the clear waters for your Samal Island itinerary.
17. BLUEBIRD VIEW DECK
Bluebird View Deck is also located in Kaputian area. If you want to get the best views of the island you can reach the top and take a look. Bluebird View Deck entrance fee is 10 PHP.
18. GIANT CLAM SANCTUARY
Giant Clam Sanctuary is located around Kaputian beach and it’s a great place for snorkeling too around the area. Giant Clam Sanctuary entrance fee is 100 PHP. Make sure you are bringing your snorkeling gear if not you will be able to rent there for 100 PHP extra.
WHAT TO EAT IN SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
If you are very new to the Philippines, you will know that the locals have a very different diet. It consists mostly of meat, especially in the cities. We live in Northern Philippines (the country has 3 main divisions). And in our own city, people really like to focus on meat as a main ingredient for their dishes. It’s definitely different in the South.
Just looking at their regular local carinderias (Filipino term for canteens or eateries), you will see various vegetable options. We definitely needed a much more balanced diet and this was very refreshing. Seafood, fruits, and vegetables – there are so many healthier options! Vegetables are definitely more affordable compared to the city.
WHERE TO STAY IN SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
PEARL FARM BEACH RESORT
If you’re into panoramic ocean views, gorgeous beach fronts and luxurious spaces, Pearl Farm Beach Resort is the place for you. This is the only 5-star resort in Mindanao and takes pride in its promotion of local culture and products. The resort also offers plenty of thrilling water activities and tours. It has a spa for relaxation and a lounge for movie nights. The rooms are spacious and have enchanting decor.
Those looking for budget hotels in the island will find a B&B that goes for as low as 600 PHP. Mid-range resorts typically cost around 2,500-3,750 PHP while other luxury spots can be afforded at 5,500 and above.
LA VIDA ORCHARD SAMAL BED AND BREAKFAST
From it’s beautiful garden to its shared lounge, you will surely love the simplicity of your stay here. They have air-conditioned rooms paired with private bathrooms, and free Wifi. If you have children with you, they would surely enjoy the children’s playground. You could reserve your basic double room for only 40 USD.
La Vida Orchard Samal Bed and Breakfast can be found at Barangay Catagman, Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte, Samal. Click here to book your stay!
KARA KUBOTEL BEACH RESORT
Yes, you saw that right!. This place is at the Sunset Beach. Kubotel may be derived from Kubo, Filipino Traditional Homes, and Hotel. For that reason, it may be simple because the rooms are kind of traditional. Don’t worry, you’ll still enjoy yourself waking up at the beach after your free breakfast. Just so you know, the breeze that these homes give are unbeatable. The rooms cost only for about 10 USD.
Kara Kubotel Beach Resort is at Sunset Beach. Circumferential Road, Babak, Samal Island, Babak District, Samal. Click here to book your accommodation.
KALIPAY SA BAYBAY
Rated highly by visitors, this place boasts its value. Every room has its own air-condition and a private bathroom. They also have a kitchen and a bar. If you’re feeling a little bit bored, you could also play billiards at the resort. All of this for only 45 USD.
Kalipay sa Baybay can be found at Kaputian, Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte, Pangubatan. Click here to book your accommodation.
To get the most amazing room deals, you can book a place in Samal Island before you travels with Booking and Agoda.
FESTIVALS IN SAMAL ISLAND DAVAO
KABASAN FESTIVAL
Another much awaited event in Samal Island is Kabasan Festival. It is a celebration of the abundance of marine life that greatly defines the identity of Samaleños. “Kabasan” literally means “seashells” and is the perfect thanksgiving event during the last few days of May as the summer months come to an end.
IGACOS FESTIVAL
Celebrated on the 7th of March by Samaleños is the Igacos Festival, a three-day day event that honors the founding of Samal launching sand sculpture competitions, fluvial parades, boat races, mountain biking tours, a mascot competition and many more. Each event highlights what makes Samal Island special and is the best time to visit Samal Island if you’re looking to soak in their culture.
Hope it’s useful this Samal Island travel guide. Let us know in the comments below your favorite Samal Island tourist spots and things to do in Samal Island.
Feel free to use our links for discounts. By using our links, you will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys.
Happy Travels!
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.