Samal, Davao del Norte (Travel Guide and Sample Itinerary)

Officially known as the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS), Samal is located in the province of Davao del Norte. It is part of the Metropolitan Davao area, and is composed of two islands: Samal Island and Talikud Island.

Samal is not only blessed with beautiful white sand beaches and rock formations, but also with abundant marine life. No wonder why it is also one of the top tourist destinations. It is a place for island hopping, cliff diving, snorkeling, hiking, and a lot more. Definitely, a place for an adventure.

I have actually been to Samal twice. During my first visit, we explored Samal Island and quite had an adventure. We hiked Mt. Puting Bato which is the highest peak of Samal Island, jumped into the sea at Sabang Cliff, enjoyed the refreshing water of Hagimit Falls, and so much more. The second time, we explored Talikud Island, did snorkeling, and went to places such as Isla Reta and White Sandbar.

WHAT TO EXPECT AND PLACES TO VISIT IN SAMAL

Enjoy the white sand and crystal-clear water of Kaputian Beach

Kaputian Beach Resort is located at the south-most part of the Island Garden City of Samal. It is owned and managed by the local government of Samal. As the name implies, it offers crystal-clear water and fine white sand.

During our visit, I sat, thought and reflect on things, enjoyed the view, and swam under the heat of the sun. We were blessed that it was not crowded that time. We were able to enjoy its serenity. And oh, you can ride a boat from here at the Kaputian Port if you plan to go to Talikud Island.

Take a dip into the refreshing water of Hagimit Falls

Aside from the beautiful white sand beaches, a pristine waterfall can also be found in the Island Garden City of Samal, which is located in Brgy. Peñaplata. Hagimit Falls is composed of series of cascades where water flows through until it reaches the pool, where you can take a dip, relax, and enjoy its cold and refreshing water.

By the way, did you know that Hagimit Falls has a small cave wherein you can pass through and exit on the other end? I was amazed when we tried it. I was actually afraid at first because I thought it would be very dark inside, but it was not dark as I imagined. There is an adequate ray of light inside enough for us to see the way. To finally make it out, you have to dip your head below and swim a little. Definitely, you will also enjoy it here too like how we enjoyed our experience at Hagimit Falls.

Tables and cottages are also available for rent. If you plan to stay for a night, you can pitch a tent.

Note: Hagimit Falls is currently closed due to rehabilitation.

Slide your way into the sea at Maxima Aquafun

Looking for something else to do? Then you might want to try Maxima Aquafun. Just few minutes away from Hagimit Falls, Maxima Aquafun is like a resort floating on the sea.

I can still remember how to get to the main area. We rode this cart-like thingy that would take you down slowly. It is somehow steep, but you can still enjoy the view of the sea through it.

Maxima Aquafun has this slide made of tarpaulin that is probably 40-meters long. Once you hop-in, you will slide your way down into the sea that is very deep. So better wear a life jacket for safety. Aside from that, there are other more activities that you can do at Maxima which we did not try anymore since we wanted to spend more time at Hagimit Falls.

Jump into the water at Sabang Cliff in Kaputian

Sabang cliff is perfect for those who have no fear of heights and are courageous enough to jump off a cliff. It has three jumping spots. The height of the first level is around 14 feet while the highest is around 40 feet.

I am not afraid of heights, yet it took me a lot of courage before I finally jump off the cliff. In my mind, I kept on telling myself to just go and jump. Otherwise, I would regret it. So, I did. Hoooray! By the way, don’t forget to ask someone to film you before you jump. You might want to have something for keeps. Also, for precautionary measures, make sure someone will spot you down below as you jump. In our case, our tour guide went in first.

Hike the highest peak of Samal, Mt. Puting Bato

Mt. Puting Bato is known to be the highest peak in Samal Island. Its height is 1,345 feet above sea level and it is located in Brgy. Guilon. There are two trails to get there, the Guilon trail and the Tayapok trail.

The Guilon trail is for those who are up for a challenge since it has steep slopes and narrow paths. Depending on your pace, it would take you around 2 hours to reach the peak. On the other hand, the Tayapok trail is recommended for beginners and it is the shortest route according to our guide.

We chose to take the Tayapok trail. As far as I can remember, it took us around 30 to 40 minutes from the jump-off point to reach the peak. Though it is a beginner-friendly trail, somehow it is also steep. I saw how tiring it was for my friend who has no prior experience in hiking. Still, I was glad he made it. Now, we can say it’s worth it. It is quite amazing at the peak. It offers relaxing views of the sea and refreshing mountain sceneries.

Go farther to Canibad Beach

Going farther at the other side of Samal Island is the Canibad Beach, a hidden paradise. It is a beautiful and untouched beach in Samal which is located in Brgy. Aundanao and faces the province of Davao Oriental.

The beach has a white-granular sand. There are pebbles as well, yet it has a crystal-clear water. Getting here would take time. There are unpaved parts of the road which makes the ride slightly bumpy (at least when we went few years ago). But still, it is worth it. This place is not only perfect for those who wish to take a break, relax, and meditate, but also for those are looking for an adventure. In case you do not know, facing the sea, there is a cliff jumping spot at the left side near the rock formation.

A boat ride to the Vanishing Island

The Vanishing Island of Samal is a small strip of sand that is just few minutes away from the coast of Brgy. Tambo, Samal. It is noticeable from afar not just during low tide, but also because of the floating houses built and the mangroves that were planted.

To reach the island, you can rent a boat at Brgy. Tambo. We did not really spend too much time exploring the island, but I noticed there are sea grasses and small fishes from the clear water. Airplanes which are about to take-off or land are also noticeable in this island.

See a huge colony of bats at Monfort Bat Sanctuary

I actually did not attempt to visit this place. I have to admit, I am afraid of bats especially if there are plenty of them. Don’t judge me though, but seeing them will give me goosebumps. Anyway, Monfort Bat Cave has been the home for a huge colony of Geoffroy’s Rousette fruit bats. It is said that there are millions of them that they cover the ceilings and walls of a 75-meter-long cave. Visitors can see these bats up close from the outside, but entering the cave is prohibited since it might disturb the bats which in turn might cause them to panic.

Explore Talikud Island

From its name, Talikud Island is a small island which is located behind Samal Island. Though it also offers white sand beaches and clear turquoise water, the island is known for its abundant marine life. You can rent a boat to take you around the island, places such as Isla Reta, Costafba Beach, Coral Garden, Starfish Sandbar (I think this is also known as the White Sandbar), Babu Santa Beach Resort, and so on.

It would be better if you can bring your snorkeling gears with you. It would lessen your expenses instead of renting one.

A quick visit at the Bluebird View Deck, Balete Tree, and Moncado White House

From the Bluebird View Deck, you can see Malipano Island, an island that is just few meters away from the coast of a well-known luxurious resort in Samal, the Pearl Farm Beach Resort.

Another attraction people go for a photo op in Samal is this old Balete Tree situated in an elementary school. I was reminded the first time I saw this kind of tree in the province of Aurora.

The Moncado White House might look creepy since it’s old and dilapidated, but I still actually find the architecture of this ancestral house beautiful. The surrounding by the way is quiet and very spacious. You can feel the breeze of air, napakapresko.

HOW TO GET TO SAMAL

Davao City, which is accessible via air, land, or water from major cities in the country, is the gateway or jump-off point to Samal and it’s just few kilometers away. You can book a flight with Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, or Air Asia.

From Manila, it would take around two hours to reach Davao. There are also flights available to Davao if coming from other parts of the country such as Bacolod, Iloilo, Cagayan De Oro, and Zamboanga, or internationally if coming from Singapore.

To Samal Island:

• From Davao International Airport, take a taxi and tell the driver to drop you off at Sasa Wharf or Sta. Ana Wharf.
• Ride a ferry going to Babak Port if you wish to drop off at the Northwestern part of Samal, or Kaputian Port, which is at the Southwestern part of Samal.

To Talikud Island:

• From Davao International Airport, take a taxi going to Sta. Ana Wharf.
• At Sta. Ana Wharf, ride a ferry going to Sta. Cruz Port.

Traveling between the two islands, you can take a boat from Kaputian Port in Samal Island and Sta. Cruz Port in Talikud Island.

Note: Make sure to plan your trip and check for the ferry schedules beforehand.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAMAL

Though a day tour in Samal is possible, it is still better to stay for at least a night or two to fully enjoy the beauty of the island.

There are a lot of accommodations to choose from in Samal, from luxurious ones to mid-range, budget inns, and even vacation house rentals. But if you are traveling on a budget, I would recommend La Vida Hostel. I personally have booked and stayed in this place twice already. The rooms and toilet & bath are neat and clean. It’s comfortable enough to stay for few days. The owner and staff are nice and accommodating too. For more information, you may check on this blog post: La Vida Hostel: A Budget-friendly Accommodation in Samal Island.

MODE OF TRANSPORTATION IN SAMAL

The most common mode of transportation in Samal Island is the habal-habal (motorcycle). Upon arriving Samal Island, you can easily find a habal-habal driver and ask to take you around to explore the island. The first time we went here, we tour around Samal in a habal-habal. I don’t know if they still allow having 2 passengers aside from the driver in a motorcycle. It might not be safe, still, we enjoyed the ride.

SAMAL LOCAL TOUR GUIDE

If you are looking for a local guide who can tour you around Samal, I would recommend Kuya Manuel Jan Sagario. It is better to book with him ahead of your trip. Though there are packages he would suggest, you can arrange and discuss with him if there are any particular places you want to visit. Here are his details and contact number:

• Name: Manuel Jan Sagario
• Facebook Page: Samal Island Tours – Manuel
• Contact Number: 0955 513 6976

SAMPLE ITINERARY FOR 3D2N

Day 1 – Talikud Island

9:00 AM – Arrival at Davao International Airport

9:15 AM – Taxi to Sasa Wharf

9:45 AM – RORO to Babak Port

10:30 AM – Explore Talikud Island (Isla Reta, Costafba Beach, Coral Garden, Starfish Sandbar, Babu Santa Beach Resort). Buy snacks and meal for lunch beforehand.

12:00 PM – Lunch

4:30 PM – Back at Samal Island

7:00 PM – Dinner

Day 2 – Samal Island

8:30 AM – Start of Inland Tour (Balete Tree, Bluebird View Deck, Kaputian Beach, Sabang Cliff, Maxima Aquafun, Hagimit Falls, General Moncado White House, and so on)

12:00 PM – Lunch

4:30 PM – End of Inland Tour

7:00 PM – Dinner

Day 3 – Samal Island

7:00 AM – Start hike to Mt. Puting Bato (30-minute hike)

8:15 AM – Descend Mt. Puting Bato

8:45 AM – To Canibad Beach

9:15 AM – Explore Canibad Beach

10:00 AM – To Vanishing Island

10:30 AM – Explore Vanishing Island

11:30 AM – Back at the hotel, freshen-up

12:00 PM – Checkout

By the way, you may want to extend your trip for at least another day and tour around Davao City. Here are some of the places to visit: Malagos Garden Resort (which also houses the Malagos Chocolate Museum), Eden Nature Park, Ramon Magsaysay Park, San Pedro Cathedral, Davao City Hall, Museo Dabawenyo, Philippine Eagle Center, and Jack’s Ridge. If you want to buy pasalubong, you may go to Bankerohan Market for fruits such as durian and marang, and Lola Abon’s or Apo ni Lola for some local delicacies.

Samal is indeed a paradise. My first visit was a sudden one because I just really want to breathe and take a break for a while. I was glad I decided to book that plane ticket to Davao. I enjoyed all the activities and the places we visited. I found peace at some places, yet I also had an adventure at the same time. It was a memorable trip for me. Now, I am looking forward to more places to visit in the Davao Region.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about the Island Garden City of Samal, you may visit the following websites:

• Island Garden City of Samal (samalcity.gov.ph)
• Samal Island Beach Resorts and Hotel Guide (samalguide.com)

Anyway, how about you, have you been to Samal? Share your experiences with me in the comment section below. 🙂