Samal Island IGaCoS
Samal Island, the Island Garden City of Samal, offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and natural wonders like waterfalls and bat sanctuaries, just a ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Samal Island IGaCoS
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Samal Island, the Island Garden City of Samal, offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and natural wonders like waterfalls and bat sanctuaries, just a short ferry ride from Davao City.
"Samal Island truly offers something for everyone, a perfect family getaway with unforgettable memories."
🚗 Bring Your Own Vehicle
Having your own car or motorbike makes exploring Samal's diverse attractions much easier.
⏳ Avoid Weekend Ferries
Weekend ferry queues can be extremely long, especially for the return trip. Plan accordingly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hagimit Falls
Samal Island
Discover a refreshing oasis with cool, cascading waters amidst serene natural surroundings. Perfect for a family dip!
Monfort Bat Sanctuary
Babak District, Samal Island
Witness millions of fruit bats in this unique, Guinness World Record-holding sanctuary. An educational and awe-inspiring experience.
Discovery Samal
Samal Island
Experience luxury at the first 5-star resort on Samal Island, offering stunning views and a famous 'Service That's All Heart'.
Vanishing Island
Samal Island
A magical sandbar that appears and disappears with the tide, perfect for exploring shallow waters and collecting seashells.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Samal Island
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Bring Your Own Vehicle
Having your own car or motorbike makes exploring Samal's diverse attractions much easier.
⏳ Avoid Weekend Ferries
Weekend ferry queues can be extremely long, especially for the return trip. Plan accordingly!
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
While some resorts are luxurious, many offer affordable day tours and accommodations.
🥽 Island Hopping Adventures
Explore multiple beautiful spots with island hopping tours. Many offer crystal clear waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Bring Your Own Vehicle
Having your own car or motorbike makes exploring Samal's diverse attractions much easier.
⏳ Avoid Weekend Ferries
Weekend ferry queues can be extremely long, especially for the return trip. Plan accordingly!
💰 Budget-Friendly Stays
While some resorts are luxurious, many offer affordable day tours and accommodations.
🥽 Island Hopping Adventures
Explore multiple beautiful spots with island hopping tours. Many offer crystal clear waters.
🦇 Bat Sanctuary Visit
Don't miss the Monfort Bat Sanctuary for a unique wildlife encounter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Samal Island is praised for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and proximity to Davao City, making it an accessible tropical escape. Visitors enjoy the diverse attractions, from refreshing waterfalls to unique wildlife sanctuaries. While many resorts offer luxurious experiences, budget-friendly options and public beaches are also available. Some travelers note that weekend ferry queues can be long and that many beaches are part of resorts.
"Adventure Review: Garden City of Samal with Fam!
Our family adventure to the Island Garden City of Samal was nothing short of magical. Nestled in the Davao Gulf, this tropical paradise offered a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. From the moment we stepped off the ferry, we were greeted by pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Highlights of Our Trip:
1.Hagimit Falls: A hidden gem, Hagimit Falls provided a refreshing escape. The kids loved swimming in the cool, cascading waters, while we enjoyed the serene surroundings.
2.Monfort Bat Sanctuary: This unique experience was both educational and awe-inspiring. Home to millions of fruit bats, the sanctuary offered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these nocturnal creatures.
3.Pearl Farm Beach Resort: A day at this luxurious resort was a treat for the whole family. We indulged in water sports, relaxed on the beach, and savored delicious local cuisine.
4.Vanishing Island: This sandbar, which appears and disappears with the tide, was a highlight for the kids. They had a blast exploring the shallow waters and collecting seashells.
5.Mt. Puting Bato: For a bit of adventure, we hiked to the highest point on the island. The panoramic views from the top were absolutely worth the effort.
Samal Island truly offers something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this island paradise is the perfect family getaway. We left with unforgettable memories and a promise to return soon.
Have you visited Samal before, or is it on your travel bucket list?"
The Weekend Photographer
"It is a beautiful island that deserves more than a day of tour. Aside from the already great experience of island hopping, you can also visit different attractions in the island.
Maxima Aquafun’s Slide. This resort sets itself apart with its 40m slide.
Mt. Puting Bato. 410 MASL. Reaching the top will provide you with bird’s eye view of the island. Trail takes only about 30-60 minutes to finish.
Canibad Beach. A secret paradise on the island.
Monfort Bat Cave. Samal Island’s Babak District is home to fruit-eating bats holding a Guiness Book of World Records for the most number of its kind within a colony.
Pearl Farm. One of the most famous resorts on the island. Not for those in a tight budget.
Kaputian Beach. It's not entirely white, but good enough. It also has some rocks, so keep that in mind in case you're expecting a plain white sand.
Wishing Island. Among the destinations for island hopping."
Clive Cariaga
"Nice place for the people of Davao. Ferry only 15 pesos and 15 minutes. All the beaches are part of a resort except Kaputian Beach. Beaches not realy beautiful like in Palawan. Nice to explore with a motorbike."
Pim van den Toorn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Samal Island is easily accessible via a short ferry ride from Davao City. Several ferry terminals operate routes to different parts of the island. The journey typically takes about 15-30 minutes.
Ferry schedules vary depending on the terminal and operator. The cost is generally affordable, with some sources mentioning around 15 pesos for a one-way trip. It's advisable to check the latest schedules and fares before your trip.
Yes, you can bring your own vehicle via the ferry. This is highly recommended for exploring the island at your own pace.
The Island Garden City of Samal has implemented a curfew for minors aged 18 and below from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. to enhance safety measures.
Absolutely! Samal Island is a popular choice for short getaways from Davao City due to its proximity and beautiful beaches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most beaches on Samal Island are part of resorts and require an entrance fee for day tours or accommodation. Kaputian Beach is an exception, being a public beach.
Day tour rates vary significantly between resorts. Some TikTok videos mention day tours costing around 150 pesos, while others are part of more luxurious resorts.
Some resorts, like Hamugaway Beach Resort, have offered discounts during their grand opening periods. It's worth checking for ongoing promotions.
Yes, with good planning, especially if you have your own transport, you can visit multiple attractions like Hagimit Falls and a beach resort in a single day.
Accommodation prices range widely. Some standard rooms start around 2600 pesos, while luxury resorts like Discovery Samal offer a premium experience. +1
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Popular beaches include Muni-Muni Beach, Alorroc Crystal Beach Resort, Costa Marina, Isla Reta, and Canibad Beach. Many offer white sand and clear waters. +3
Yes, Hagimit Falls is a beautiful waterfall where visitors can swim in its cool, refreshing waters.
Activities include swimming, snorkeling, island hopping, exploring waterfalls, visiting the bat sanctuary, and enjoying resort amenities like water slides (e.g., Maxima Aquafun).
Samal Island is a great family destination, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure. Kids enjoy the beaches, waterfalls, and unique attractions like the Vanishing Island.
Many of Samal's beaches boast crystal-clear waters, with some areas having the bluest waters. However, some beaches may have rocks, so be mindful.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Photogenic spots include the pristine beaches with clear waters,+1 the cascading Hagimit Falls,
unique resorts with Bali-inspired designs,
and panoramic views from Mt. Puting Bato. Drone shots also capture the island's beauty well.
Casas Convistas Beach Resort is noted for its Bali-inspired design, and Discovery Samal is a luxurious option with stunning visuals.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for beach and landscape photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue waters.
Drone photography is possible and captures the island's beauty from a unique perspective, as seen in some travel reels.
Many resorts offer picturesque settings, from white sand beaches to unique architectural designs. Look for spots with clear blue waters and lush greenery. +2
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a truly memorable experience, consider visiting Maxima Aquafun for its thrilling water slides.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save on expenses within resorts. Renting a motorbike is a cost-effective way to explore the island compared to hiring taxis for multiple trips.
couples
Explore secluded spots like Canibad Beach, described as a secret paradise,
The island's natural beauty provides a perfect setting for creating lasting memories.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Samal's Diverse Attractions
Beyond natural beauty, Samal also features man-made attractions. Maxima Aquafun is known for its thrilling 40-meter slide, adding an element of adventure to a beach day.
When exploring, remember that many of the most beautiful beaches are part of private resorts, requiring entrance fees. However, public options like Kaputian Beach are available, though they may have some rocky areas.
+1Resort Experiences on Samal Island
For those seeking a more unique aesthetic, Casas Convistas Beach Resort offers a Bali-inspired ambiance, creating a dreamy escape.Other popular resorts mentioned by travelers include Muni-Muni Beach Resort,
Camp Holiday Resort & Recreation Area is also highlighted as an accessible option with white sand beaches.When choosing a resort, consider what you're looking for: pure relaxation, adventure activities, or a specific ambiance. Many resorts offer day tour packages, allowing you to experience their facilities without an overnight stay. It's always a good idea to check recent reviews and booking information for the most up-to-date details on rates and offerings.
Navigating Samal Island: Transport and Logistics
Once on the island, renting a motorbike is a popular and efficient way to get around, especially for exploring beaches and smaller attractions.
It's also worth noting that Samal Island has implemented a curfew for minors aged 18 and below from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. to enhance safety.
Understanding these transport and logistical aspects will help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit to this beautiful island paradise.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit