Unwind and Relax on the Shores of Samal Island

Just a short boat ride away from Davao City lies Samal Island, officially known as the Island Garden City of Samal. This tropical haven is a favorite weekend getaway for locals and a rising gem for tourists looking to experience white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back island vibe. With its perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, Samal Island offers an accessible escape without the need for long travel hours.

Samal Island is dotted with stunning beach resorts, hidden coves, and natural wonders such as waterfalls and caves. It’s also home to a growing eco-tourism scene, with marine sanctuaries and nature parks promoting environmental sustainability. Whether you’re into snorkeling, island hopping, trekking, or simply lounging under a coconut tree, there’s something for everyone here.

The island boasts a warm, friendly atmosphere and a strong sense of community. With fewer crowds compared to other popular beach destinations, Samal Island offers a more intimate and authentic experience. It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike who seek beauty, serenity, and adventure all in one place.

Davao Car Rental – Easiest Way to Get to Samal Island

Traveling should be about comfort, convenience, and creating unforgettable memories—not the stress of public transportation. Whether you’re starting your journey anywhere in Davao City, our reliable car rental service ensures a seamless trip to any destination in the Davao Region, with effortless pick-ups and drop-offs tailored to your schedule.

Choose from our diverse fleet of well-maintained vehicles, ranging from sleek sedans to spacious vans, designed to provide the perfect ride for your travel needs. For an even more relaxing experience, opt for our professional chauffeur service, allowing you to sit back, unwind, and make the most of your time—saving both money and valuable travel hours.

With our affordable rental options, you can explore Southern Mindanao at your own pace, embracing the freedom of having private transportation. From scenic landscapes to vibrant attractions, let us enhance your journey by making every mile a part of your adventure. Experience comfort, reliability, and convenience—because your trip to Davao deserves nothing less.

Contact us for all your transportation needs:
Globe: +63 936 812 9010
Smart: +63 981 632 5289
Whatsapp: +63 936 812 9010
Facebook: facebook.com/ahrounddavao
Website: davao.ahroundph.com
Email: info@ahroundph.com

Public Transport From Davao Airport to Samal Island

Step 1: Davao Airport to Sasa Wharf or Sta. Ana Wharf

Option 1: Taxi or Grab
Ride to Sasa Wharf (for vehicle ferry) or Sta. Ana Wharf (for Island City Express boats)
Travel Time: 20–30 minutes

Option 2: Jeepney (Budget Option)
From the airport, ride a jeep to Sasa or Lanang
Ask to be dropped near Sasa Wharf
Travel Time: 30–40 minutes

Step 2: Ferry or Boat to Samal Island

Option 1: Sasa Wharf to Babak Port (RoRo or Barge)
Ferry runs every 15–30 minutes, even at night
Travel Time: 10–15 minutes
Operating Hours: 24/7

Option 2: Sta. Ana Wharf to Kaputian or Talikud Island
Ride an Island City Express passenger boat
Travel Time: ~45 minutes
Limited schedules (check early morning or noon departures)

Step 3: Samal Port to Your Destination

Once you arrive at Babak, Kaputian, or Peñaplata:
Ride a Habal-Habal (Motorbike Taxi) or Tricycle to your resort or attraction
Travel Time: 10–45 minutes depending on location

Beach-Hopping
Samal is known for its pristine beaches like Kaputian Beach, Isla Reta, and Canibad Beach. Each spot offers its unique charm, from powdery white sands to crystal-clear swimming spots.

Snorkeling and Diving
Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life at spots like Coral Garden and Giant Clam Sanctuary. The underwater scenes in Samal are vibrant and relatively untouched.

Visit Hagimit Falls
Cool off at this beautiful waterfall nestled in a lush forest. It’s a great spot for swimming and picnicking, with scenic natural pools perfect for families.

Island-Hopping Adventure
Discover nearby islets like Talikud Island and explore hidden lagoons, snorkeling spots, and sandbars. Many local tours offer this as a half- or full-day activity.

Monfort Bat Sanctuary
Witness the world’s largest colony of fruit bats in this protected sanctuary. It’s both educational and awe-inspiring.

Climb Mt. Puting Bato
For outdoor enthusiasts, this mountain offers panoramic views of Davao Gulf and the surrounding islands. A rewarding hike for nature lovers.

Relax at Luxury and Eco-Resorts
From budget-friendly stays to high-end resorts like Pearl Farm, Samal Island has accommodations that match your travel style and budget.

Environmental Fee: ₱ 40 per pax

Boat Entry for Island Hopping:
20 pax and lower – ₱ 500
21-30 pax – ₱ 1000
31-50 pax – ₱ 1500
51-100 pax – ₱ 2000

Scuba Diving Fee – ₱ 500 per pax

Snorkeling Fee – ₱ 500 per pax

ACCOMMODATION:
Casas Con Vista – room starts at ₱ 10000
Club Samal – room starts at ₱ 7500
Hof Gorei – room starts at ₱ 3500
Holiday Ocean View Resort – room starts at 2500
Bali-Bali Beach Resort – room starts at ₱ 7000
Villa Amparo – room starts at ₱ 3500
Chemas by the Sea – room starts at ₱ 7500
Secdea Beach Resort – room starts at ₱ 7000
Paradise Island – room starts at ₱ 5000
Leticia by the Sea – room starts at ₱ 12000
Costa Azalea – room starts at ₱ 7500
Cavanico il Mare – room starts at ₱ 2500
Pearl Farm Beach Resort – ₱ 9500

You can contact the Casas Con Vista through these:
Mobile: 0966 880 2063
Address: Brgy. Pangubatan, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Club Samal through these:
Mobile: 0917 622 4967
Address: Caliclic, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Hof Gorei through these:
Mobile: 0917 711 3868
Address: P-7 Tambang Adecor, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Holiday Ocean View Resort through these:
Mobile: 0933 618 2176
Address: Sitio Ilihan, Camudmud, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Bali-Bali Beach Resort through these:
Mobile: 0917 700 9529
Address: Brgy. Catagman, Samal District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Villa Amparo through these:
Mobile: 0917 123 0225
Address: Sitio Dasag, Camudmud, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Chemas by the Sea through these:
Mobile: 0917 123 0225
Address: Limao, Samal District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Secdea Beach Resort through these:
Telephone: (082) 295 7912
Address: Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Paradise Island through these:
Address: Caliclic, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Buenavista Island Resort through these:
Telephone: (082) 299 2992
Address: Buenavista Island, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Leticia by the Sea through these:
Mobile: 0936 062 7988
Address: Talicud Island, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Costa Azalea – Crusoe Cabins and Aqua Water Park through these:
Mobile: 0919 076 2182
Address: Limao, Samal District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Cavanico il Mare through these:
Mobile: 0961 416 6584
Address: Camudmud, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Isla Reta Beach Resort through these:
Mobile: 0998 991 6690
Address: Talicud Island, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal

You can contact the Pearl Farm Beach Resort through these:
Telephone: (082) 285 0601
Address: Adecor, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal

Lightweight clothing and swimwear
Waterproof bag and dry pouch
Reef-safe sunscreen
Snorkeling gear (optional but useful)
Insect repellent
Trekking shoes if planning to hike
Drinking water and snacks
Cash for local purchases (ATMs are limited)

Respect marine life and coral reefs—no touching or stepping on corals
Dispose of trash properly to keep the island clean
Observe quiet hours in resorts and natural areas
Entry fees may apply to some beaches and attractions, so prepare small bills
Coordinate with tour guides or locals for safer hikes and snorkeling trips