Isla Reta Beach
A no-frills beach paradise with white sands and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and disconnecting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds than weekends
Isla Reta Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds than weekends
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A no-frills beach paradise with white sands and clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and disconnecting.
"Come for the beach, stay because your hammock won't let you leave."
Order Food Upon Arrival
Lunch takes 20-30 mins to prepare. Order right away to save time.
Bring Snorkel Gear
Explore the vibrant marine life! Gear rental might be limited.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
White Sand Beach
Enjoy soft, white sands and clear waters for a truly relaxing beach experience. Not rocky like other spots.
Snorkeling & Marine Life
Discover rich marine biodiversity. Bring your own gear to explore the underwater world.
Peaceful Ambiance
A tranquil escape where you can lose all sense of time and disconnect from the world.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Ride & Fees
Basic Amenities & Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Order Food Upon Arrival
Lunch takes 20-30 mins to prepare. Order right away to save time.
Bring Snorkel Gear
Explore the vibrant marine life! Gear rental might be limited.
Check Pavilion Availability
Some pavilions are reserved. Confirm usage at the arrival port.
Basic Accommodation
Rooms are clean but basic. Expect sea-water quality showers.
Tips
from all over the internet
Order Food Upon Arrival
Lunch takes 20-30 mins to prepare. Order right away to save time.
Bring Snorkel Gear
Explore the vibrant marine life! Gear rental might be limited.
Check Pavilion Availability
Some pavilions are reserved. Confirm usage at the arrival port.
Basic Accommodation
Rooms are clean but basic. Expect sea-water quality showers.
Limited Electricity
Embrace the disconnect! Electricity is limited, so plan accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Isla Reta offers a beautiful, natural escape with clear waters and white sand, perfect for a relaxing getaway. While accommodations are basic and amenities limited, the stunning marine life for snorkeling and the peaceful ambiance are major draws. Some visitors have noted issues with noise and bathroom conditions, suggesting it's best for those seeking a no-frills, nature-focused experience. +1
"We stayed here for a quick day tour on a Friday. Once you arrive at the port, be careful on walking as the road is not paved and dusty. There are 2 carinderia near to have you lunch/snack. Once you arrive, you have to pay 200 pesos for the one-way boat fee and 50pesos environmental fee. The boat trip will be around 1 hour. Upon arrival, you have to pay the Day Tour fee (200pesos/head/day) or Overnight fee (400pesos/head/day). They have 4 large Pavillion huts with several picnic tables for free of use. But there is redundancy as some pavillions can't be used because it is reserved. So confirm beforehand at the arrival port for the available pavillions for use. The lunch takes around 20-30minutes to prepare upon ordering so I suggest you order once you arrive. The taste of the food can compensate to the price and time of preparation. One of the big improvements of the resort is the common comfort/shower rooms. Some of the doors in the female CR are broken, and cleanliness and ventilation of the cubicles can be improved."
Theressa Aviles
"I've been to Isla Reta in Talicud Island so many times as I'm a local in Davao City. This is my first time booking a room there as I often bring my tent whenever I go there. The room rate as of May 19, 2025 for air-conditioned concrete room costs 3,500. It's quite pricey compared to standard deluxe rooms that you can find in Samal Island. I can say it's clean, but not on par for its price. It has a toilet but only the shower works which has the same quality as sea water, which is already known by everybody if you are a regular guest in Isla Reta. The faucet nor the sink doesn't have any water, just the shower works. Luckily, the staff at the resort are accommodating. They aren't snobbish to us. Also, the resort now has a cafe which passed our standard. They also have cakes though limited but really tasty. We found a secluded spot at the resort and went snorkeling there. It was a sight to see. Make sure to bring your snorkeling gear when you go there."
romelyn dueñas
"A no-frills escape where the sand’s soft, the water’s clear, and your phone signal goes on vacation too. Electricity’s limited, accommodations are basic, and grilled food is the star of the show. Come for the beach, stay because your hammock won't let you leave. Not for the high-maintenance traveler—but perfect if you just want to chill (and don’t mind a little sand in your life decisions)."
Jaye Travels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You'll need to take a boat from Sta. Ana Wharf in Davao City. The boat ride typically takes about 1 hour.
The one-way boat fee is approximately 200 pesos per person.
Yes, there is a 50 pesos environmental fee per person.
Yes, you can bring your own tent and there are spaces available for camping.
The boat trip from Sta. Ana Wharf to Isla Reta takes around 1 hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The day tour fee is 200 pesos per person.
The overnight fee is 400 pesos per person.
Yes, room rates vary. An air-conditioned concrete room was priced at 3,500 pesos as of May 2025.
While not explicitly stated, booking in advance is recommended, especially for rooms, to secure your spot.
Day tours are generally available, but it's best to confirm specific hours upon arrival at the wharf or resort.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, beach camping, and simply relaxing on the white sand beach.
Yes, there are carinderias (eateries) near the port and a cafe at the resort offering grilled food and some cakes. +1
Options include concrete rooms, native huts, picnic huts, and tent spaces.
While it offers nature, be aware of potential noise from parties and ensure management addresses disruptive behavior near family areas.
The beach water is generally clear and clean, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the large welcome sign upon disembarking and the colorful paintings at the canteen. The beach itself offers beautiful natural backdrops.
There are no specific regulations mentioned, but always be mindful of other guests and resort rules regarding drone usage.
Expect stunning shots of white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life if you go snorkeling. +1
Yes, the natural beauty of Isla Reta makes it easy to capture great photos with just a smartphone. +1
The resort has decorative elements like a large sign and paintings that serve as good photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the resort has basic accommodations, the quality of bathrooms and water can be a concern. Bringing essentials and managing expectations for a 'no-frills' experience is key. The availability of food at carinderias and the resort's cafe can cater to family needs, but ordering in advance is advised.
💰 Budget Travelers
While room rates can be higher (around 3,500 pesos for an air-conditioned room), opting for day tours or camping significantly reduces costs. Food options at the local carinderias offer a more budget-friendly alternative to resort dining.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Isla Reta: The Journey
Upon arrival at Isla Reta, the path to the resort might be unpaved and dusty, so wear appropriate footwear. The resort itself has a welcoming ambiance with decorative elements like a large sign and paintings, making for a good first impression and photo opportunity.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, bringing your own tent is a viable choice, as there are designated camping areas. This allows for a more immersive experience with nature.
Accommodation and Amenities: A No-Frills Experience
While rooms are generally clean, guests should be aware that the water quality for showers is comparable to seawater, a known characteristic for regular visitors. Faucets and sinks may not always have running water, with only the shower functioning.
The resort also features a cafe that serves grilled food, which is a highlight for many visitors. While the selection might be limited, the taste is often praised.
Marine Life and Activities: Dive into Nature
The beach itself is characterized by soft, white sand, making it a pleasant place to relax and swim. Unlike some other beaches, Isla Reta is not as rocky, offering a more comfortable experience for beachgoers.
Beyond snorkeling and swimming, the resort offers opportunities for diving and beach camping, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. The peaceful ambiance further enhances the appeal for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit