davao city tourist spot tagalog

15 Best DAVAO CITY Tourist Spots (Heritage, History & Nature)

Davao City is undoubtedly one of the most popular urban cities in the Philippines along with Metro Manila and Metro Cebu where the majority of the country’s economic developments are concentrated. Davao is also the most populous city on the island of Mindanao where more than 1.7 million Filipinos live and thrive. Aside from the bustling economic activities, grand infrastructure projects, and thousands of thriving businesses in Davao, another special reason to love it more is the fact that it is one of the safest places to live in the country. This is why more and more Filipinos and even foreign investors are attracted to visit the hometown of our country’s president, Rodrigo Roa Duterte.

Despite Davao’s continuous economic growth, the city still managed to perfectly preserve its breathtaking natural wonders! From stunning tropical islands, majestic mountains, and hidden gems of tourist destinations, Davao is indeed one of the best places to visit in the Philippines. The city’s rich culture and history also play a huge role in attracting the interests of not only Filipinos but also people from different parts of the world.

So, what are you waiting for? Come and join me as we both explore all the best places of “King City of the South”. These are the 15 Best Tourist Spots in Davao City!

1. Eden Nature Park and Resort

The Eden Nature Park and Resort of Davao City is truly a paradise you shouldn’t miss. Named after the biblical Garden of Eden, this park is nestled 3,000 feet above sea level where towering trees, lush forests, and stunning landscapes are found. The park is indeed a perfect place to explore and appreciate the beauty of our nature and embrace the peaceful ambiance.

There are a lot of things to discover here in Eden Nature Park and Resort such as colorful species of flowers, incredible designs of native houses like the Balai-Kalimudan, and also the Prayer Garden where everyone can take their time to offer prayers and meditate.

The Eden Nature Park and Resort is truly a wonderful place for soul-searching and knowing more about Davao City’s rich culture. But not only that, but there are also a lot of fun and exciting activities to do here such as horseback riding, camping, swimming, and oh, taking on the challenge of trying to conquer your fear of heights in their famous SkyRider! CHECK THE BEST HOTELS IN DAVAO HERE

2. Samal Island

The Island Garden City of Samal or simply known as the breathtaking Samal Island is the largest resort city in the entire country. There are approximately 100 registered resorts scattered all around the island with a combined capacity of more than 1,000 rooms! Yup, expect to enjoy everything about an island getaway adventure here on Samal Island such as island-hopping, exploring sparkling waterfalls, and discovering the beautiful world underwater.

From its pristine white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and all the unforgettable activities waiting for you, I’m sure that visiting Samal Island for your next summer adventure will be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made in your life.

There are countless Samal Island travel guides out there but here are some of the must-visit destinations you shouldn’t miss: Hagimit Falls, Mt. Puting Bato, Monfort Bat Cave, Kaputian Beach, Talikud Island , and many more!

READ THE BLOG POST: Samal Island Experience 

3. Monfort Bat Sanctuary

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Davao City is the incredible Monfort Bat Sanctuary which is also found on the famous Samal Island. This 245 feet long cave is said to be housing more than 2.3 million Rousette Fruit Bats which is the largest colony in the whole world! The experience only gets better when the colony leaves the cave by dusk or approximately at 6 PM.

Photo by Mindanao Recreational Hub

The best part? Visitors are allowed to witness this amazing phenomenon every day but only to a limited capacity. This is to protect the ecosystem and the surrounding animals as well. There are also several educational posters on your way to the cave itself to learn more about the bats so be sure to read them when you have the chance!

4. Davao Crocodile Park

Another amazing attraction in Davao City is the famous Davao Crocodile Park where the impressive state-of-the-art crocodile farming system of the Philippines is showcased. Of course, it is the perfect place for visitors to meet the lovely reptiles up close from saltwater crocodiles, freshwater crocodiles, pythons, and other wild animals as well.

The crocodile park also features a lot of educational attractions like the Butterfly Museum, the Tribu K’Mindanawa Cultural Village, and also a chance to meet Pangil, the largest saltwater crocodile in captivity! I’m sure that everyone, especially children, will have a wonderful time here in Davao Crocodile Park.

Oh, and the park is also an established field laboratory that helps young professionals like biologists, zoologists, and veterinarians to master their crafts and learn more about the animals. So all in all, visiting the Davao Crocodile Park is both an educational and entertaining experience!

5. Jack’s Ridge

Well, nothing compares to the excitement we feel whenever we’re about to try the signature foods of a new place, right? Here at Jack’s Ridge Resort and Restaurant, tourists are given the chance to enjoy a gastronomic adventure featuring the delicious treats and delights of Davao while looking at the breathtaking view of the city’s landscape.

There are several fine dining restaurants and coffee shops here like Kai’s Bar and Grill, Taklobo Restaurant, Karlo’s Gourmet and Coffee, and many more! After eating, you can also explore and wander around the resort to enjoy the views, discover the historic Lumad Statues, visit the Amphitheater, and many more!

Jack’s Ridge really is a beautiful laid-back place where guests can just sit back and relax while enjoying everything that Davao has to offer. The best part? You can book a room or cottage here to further maximize all of the facilities and amenities of the resort!

6. Philippine Eagle Center

The Philippine Eagle, also known as the Monkey-Eating Eagle is considered the largest eagle in the world when it comes to overall length and wingspan. The eagle served as the country’s face and pride in many aspects which highly speaks of its significance to the whole Philippines.

Photo by Philippine Eagle Foundation

Unfortunately, due to heartless hunting activities and habitat loss, the Philippine Eagle has become one of the most endangered species in the world. This is why the establishment of Davao City’s Philippine Eagle Center gives us high hopes of preserving the lives of these beautiful animals. The center is nestled within a rainforest covering a huge area of 8 hectares where the eagles can fly around safely.

Of course, the Philippine Eagle Center also gives tourists a chance to explore the beauty of not only our country’s avian wildlife but also other animals as well like monkeys, crocodiles, and many more!

7. Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum

For those who don’t know, Davao City is hailed as the “Chocolate Capital of the Philippines” because it is the Philippines’ biggest producer of cacao. Well, this is also one of the major reasons why the famous Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum was established in 2017!

Covering a huge area of more than 12 hectares, the resort features countless fun and exciting activities that will let them enjoy everything that Davao City has to offer! From horseback riding, calesa rides, bird feeding, visiting butterfly sanctuaries, and many more, the Malagos Garden Resort definitely offers an all-in travel experience to everyone!

You can create your own chocolate at Malagos Chocolate Museum.

Photo ops with my chocolate. LOL

Aside from the already spectacular attractions that Malagos Garden Resort offers, it also opened the first-ever chocolate museum in the country in 2017. The Malagos Chocolate Museum beautifully displays everything to know about Davao City’s thriving chocolate businesses. The museum is actually divided into four (4) phases namely: Museum Section, Interactive Zone, Chocolate Bar, and the Malagos Chocolate Laboratory where guests are given the chance to make their very-own chocolates! See? Such a fun-filled and educational experience indeed!

The “Tree to Bar” experience brought by the Malagos Chocolate Museum truly is an unforgettable adventure, especially for children! So be sure not to miss visiting the amazing Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum, okay?

8. People’s Park

One of the best things to do when visiting a new place is to interact with the locals because it gives us a chance to know more about the rich culture and history of the place. Well, the best place to do that in Davao City is at the People’s Park. It’s a four-hectare cultural theme park featuring some of the most impressive attractions you’ll ever find in the country.

Credit: Davao City Gov

There’s the Mini Forest, Giant Durian Dome, Children’s Playground, the Philippine Rainforest, and many more! The prestigious park actually offers a lot of fun and exciting memory-making opportunities for both children and adults because you can easily spend a whole day at this park and still be able to constantly discover new things!

So whether you’re looking for the most beautiful places to take pictures, buy souvenirs, or watch entertaining performances, People’s Park Davao is definitely the perfect place to be. Oh, and you know what the best part is? The entrance fee is absolutely free-of-charge!

9. Davao Cathedral | San Pedro Cathedral

Another prominent landmark in Davao City that should be included in your itinerary is the San Pedro Cathedral or better known as the Davao Cathedral. Built way back in 1847, the cathedral is considered the oldest one in Davao City. It is also hailed as a Natural Cultural Treasure and treated as a very important piece of Davao’s religious and cultural history.

Credit: San Pedro Cathedral Parish

What captures the attention of everyone visiting the cathedral is its unique architectural design featuring a frontal-curved solid facade which is genuinely fitting to be the center of a thriving community. Taking a nice picture here would be a great proof of visiting Davao City!

10. Mount Apo

Ah, of course! Davao City is known for a lot of things but probably the most significant of those is the fact that the tallest mountain in the Philippines, Mount Apo, is situated here. Towering with an elevation of 2,954 meters above sea level, the mountain sits on top of the list of all mountaineers and hikers all over the country. It is the ultimate dream of each and every one of them to conquer the highest peak in the country. With Mount Apo’s lush forests, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking sea of clouds, having the chance to hike atop the highest mountain in the country truly is an experience you won’t forget.

Photo by Mount Apo Natural Park RXII

Oh, and don’t worry! If you’re not into mountain-climbing and hiking activities, you can still admire the beauty of Mount Apo by visiting Mount Apo Natural Park. This enormous park spans an area of more than 64,000 hectares where tourists can enjoy the firsthand experience of exploring the mountain’s incredible natural features such as its beautiful flora and fauna, the 272 bird species living in it, and the several indigenous tribes inhabiting the area.

11. Museo Dabawenyo

Part of exploring and visiting a new place is learning more about its culture and history. And aside from interacting with the locals, one way to do it is by visiting a museum. So for our next destination, we’ll be exploring Museo Dabawenyo which is famous for depicting the city’s rich history through fifty (50) incredible artifacts.

Photo by Davao City Gov

Yup! From its history, culture, and art, to the latest technology and environmental developments of Davao City, everything is covered and beautifully displayed in this museum. All the prominent figures in history, historical places, and events are represented here at Museo Dabawenyo.

12. Davao Durian and Fruit Stands

Aside from being known as the Chocolate Capital of the Philippines, Davao City is also hailed as the Durian Capital of the Philippines thanks to its abundant supply of the Durian fruit and other products made of Durian. Although it is popularly known for its strong and funny smell, Durian is considered the “King of All Fruits” because it is said to contain very high levels of nutrients.

Despite its reputation, Durian is still one of the most significant attractions in Davao City, and your trip wouldn’t be complete without buying it as your pasalubong! So don’t forget to buy Davao Durian and other local fruits from any fruit stand you can come across during your trip, okay?

13. Davao Butterfly House

The Davao Butterfly House is also a wonderful experience for people of all ages thanks to the colorful exhibit of live butterflies wandering around the house. It’s definitely a must-visit attraction, especially for butterfly enthusiasts but I’m sure that everyone will have a good time viewing the aesthetic species of flowers along with other wonderful insects like crickets, tarantulas, and scorpions, and many more.

The Davao Butterfly House is just nearby the Davao Crocodile Park so be sure to pay a visit when you have the chance!

14. Roxas Night Market

Just like what we’ve mentioned earlier, Davao City is also one of the highly-developed metropolises in the country. So aside from the stunning natural wonders and its rich history, Davao City is also the perfect place to have some fun!

Well, the best place to do that in Davao City is no other than the famous Roxas Night Market. It is the most popular place in Davao City where you can truly immerse yourself in the Dabawenyo culture featuring their food delicacies, fashion, and even wellness experiences. Hundreds of vendors and massage therapists have their own stores here at the Roxas Night Market so be sure to drop by and have some fun during your visit!

15. Kadayawan Village

Ah, yes! Finally, our last destination is the beautiful Kadayawan Village located at Magsaysay Park where tourists are given a chance to witness how the native houses from the 11 indigenous groups are constructed. It gives us a glimpse of how significant these indigenous groups are to the culture and history of our country as a whole.

The incredible exhibit also showcases how the location of each tribe in the country plays an important role in preserving and promoting the indigenous culture of Davao City.

FAQ: Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

1. What are the top natural attractions in Davao City? Davao City is blessed with stunning natural attractions. Eden Nature Park and Resort is perfect for a serene mountain retreat. For beach lovers, Samal Island offers beautiful beaches and clear waters. Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, is a must-visit for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.

2. Are there any unique wildlife experiences in Davao? Absolutely! The Monfort Bat Sanctuary is known for its massive colony of fruit bats. For a more diverse wildlife experience, the Davao Crocodile Park is home to crocodiles and other exotic animals. Also, don’t miss the Philippine Eagle Center, dedicated to the conservation of the majestic Philippine Eagle.

3. Can you recommend places for cultural and historical experiences? Davao’s rich history and culture can be explored at several spots. The Museo Dabawenyo offers insights into the region’s history and culture. San Pedro Cathedral is an iconic historical landmark. For a glimpse into the local indigenous cultures, visit Kadayawan Village.

4. Where can I enjoy local food and night markets in Davao? The Roxas Night Market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. It’s famous for its street food and local delicacies. For fruit lovers, Davao’s Durian and Fruit Stands are ideal to taste the famed Durian and other tropical fruits.

5. What are some family-friendly spots in Davao City? Families will enjoy the Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about chocolate making. The Davao Butterfly House is also great for kids, offering a chance to see various butterfly species up close. People’s Park, with its beautiful landscapes and art, is perfect for a family day out.

6. Is there any place in Davao for scenic views or relaxation? Jack’s Ridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of Davao City. For a peaceful escape within the city, People’s Park is ideal with its lush greenery and artistic installations.

7. Are there any hidden gems in Davao City I should know about? While not as widely known as other spots, the Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum is a delightful hidden gem, especially for chocolate enthusiasts. Also, exploring the local fruit stands for exotic fruits can be a unique experience.

8. Is Davao City suitable for adventure seekers? Yes, adventure seekers will find Mount Apo an exhilarating challenge. Additionally, Samal Island offers various water activities like diving and snorkeling.

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Top 15 Tourist Spots in Davao Mindanao: Home to Mount Apo Hiking & Nearby Samal Island Resort City

1. Explore Samal Island

2. discover eden nature park.

• 3. Unwind at Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum
• 4. See the Reptiles at Crocodile Park

5. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center

• 6. Relax at People's Park Davao
• 7. See Panoramic View at Jack's Ridge

8. Taste Durian Fruit

9. spend time at roxas night market, 10. stop by at museo dabawenyo.

• 11. Trek Mt. Apo — The Highest in the Philippines
• 12. Visit Davao Butterfly House
• 13. Try Civet Coffee
• 14. Immerse in the Kadayawan Village
• 15. Visit Nearby Tourist Spots in Davao Region

Dahican Beach

Aliwagwag falls.

Visit Davao and be surprised by how much is in store for you. Find the top things to do in this beautiful province and what food or drink you should try while in the area by checking out this guide. 

Davao City  is one of the most well-known destinations in the  Philippines . The city is the right mix of both natural and man-made attractions, and  Davao Airport makes it accessible from other tourist destinations.

• Looking for a return ticket? Check out flights to Manila for a hassle-free Manila-Davao trip
• Book Davao City airport transfers

From parks, beaches, conservation centers of rare animals, outdoor adventures, unique local cuisine, top-notch Davao hotels , and the famous Kadayawan Festival , the province has it all for you. Read on to find out what top activities and attractions in Davao you should definitely add to your bucket list.

See our popular Davao Tours and Activities

Private davao city nature & culture tour b | philippine eagle center, malagos garden resort & more, exciting 4-day davao city & nature budget tour package with hotel, breakfast & transfers, davao samal island land tour | bluebird view deck, kaputian beach park, vanishing island.

Hagimit Falls is a beautiful place to relax and unwind. The falls may be too developed for some, but it still has its natural charm. Jump off one of the tiers into the pool, go swimming, or take photos.

• Samal Davao island-hopping tour
• Samal Island tour

Climb up Mt. Puting Bato to break a sweat or get beautiful overlooking views. There are several beaches and resorts here where you can get a tan, bum around, or wade in its waters.

You can also add Monfort Bat Cave to your itinerary. They have a night immersion wherein you get to see them emerge from inside the caves! It's a great way to get close to these species. However, flash photography is not allowed, as this would disturb them.

Samal is easy to reach. From Davao City first, then make your way to the Sta. Ana Wharf for the ferry to the island. You can also join a  Samal Island tour  or a  Samal island-hopping tour  if you want a hassle-free experience exploring the various attractions in and near Samal Island.

If you want to commune with nature, you have to visit this next destination. Eden Nature Park and Resort in Davao City was named after the famed Biblical Garden.

Trying out Eden Nature Park activities is highly recommended because its serenity and tropical forest climate will remove anybody's anxiety from the stress and noise of the busy city.

Whether you want to meditate alone or take a break with your family and friends, a tour in Eden Nature Park is worth it.

The Amphitheater, Lola's Garden, the Flower Garden, Plaza Maria, Mayumi's Well, and others are all tourist spots in the nature park.

Have a look at the lives and lifestyles of the Mindanaoan ancestors, and take a walk to Tinubdan and enjoy their swimming pools, playgrounds, cottages, souvenir shops, accessible areas, and a wireless internet business center. 

The nature park is also a resort. They have a 24-hour front desk, an outdoor pool, and buffet breakfast. Their rooms are equipped with a flat-screen TV, a wardrobe, and an en-suite bathroom.

Staying at the park means direct access to everything it offers, which is a great way to spend time with your loved ones during your trip to Davao.

3. Unwind at Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum 

One of the best attractions in Davao is the Malagos Garden Resort . It's a 12-hectare Davao nature theme park and is a one-stop destination for travelers wanting to enjoy the environment and at the same time, find refuge in the serenity of the area.

You can encounter bird species that you can feed as you interact directly with them at the bird feeding dome.

Get close to other animals at the petting zoo, know the habits of butterflies in the butterfly sanctuary, and simply enjoy the great outdoors when you try a Malagos Garden tour .

Along with these natural locations, Malagos is also home to the Philippines' first chocolate museum. The famous tree-to-bark chocolate from Malagos is manufactured in Davao and sold to other countries like Japan.

Malagos also houses the Mindanao Contemporary Art Gallery, which showcases art and history that tackle Mindanao's rich culture.

See our popular Davao Vacation Packages

4. see the reptiles at crocodile park .

The Davao Crocodile Park is one of the popular tourist spots included in a Davao City Tour C . This destination showcases state-of-the-art crocodile farming in the country and is complete with modern equipment and facilities.

This park is home to thousands of crocodiles, both the freshwater and saltwater kinds, which are bred and born on site. Visitors can also tour the incubator room, where hundreds of crocodile eggs are cared for.

Other than crocodiles, the Davao Crocodile Park is also home to different species of birds, monkeys, snakes, and other reptiles. They also offer lectures, educational experiences, and wildlife conservation awareness.

There are several food stalls and souvenir shops just outside the park. If a culinary experience is what you are after, there is a guy selling an unusual variety of ice cream like crocodile tea, durian crocodile, crocodile roll, and chocolate ostrich at one of the food stalls.

Every cent that is donated to the Philippine Eagle Center is spent on the conservation of the country's national bird. This center has dedicated effort and time to protect the endangered species while providing an exciting and fun platform for locals and visitors. 

The center is home to 36 Philippine Eagles, with 18 of them being captive-bred. It is also a sanctuary for ten other species of birds, four species of mammals, and two species of reptiles. It's a well-known sustainable attraction included in the usual  Davao City tour . 

Visitors can watch these birds eat raw meat by slicing it with their beaks and claws. This center also provides an opportunity to watch these eagles fly freely around the property and take up close photos.

6. Relax at People's Park Davao 

Visit Davao People's Park, one of the Philippines' most coveted parks. It's one of the cleanest and greenest parks in the country. The Durian Dome is one of the park's highlights and is one of the most photographed landmarks in Davao. A fitness center is also located here for everyone interested in getting active.

On one side of the complex is a learning center for children and adults. The Sunken Garden, the garden haven, and the Children's Library are located in one corner of the park, where kids of all ages can read their books whenever they like.

The Philippine Eagle replica is the most important of the major sculptures. Children can play with swings, slides, monkey bars, and much more in the children's playground.

3-Day Stress-Free Package to Davao at Seda Abreeza with Breakfast & Airport Transfers

Thrilling 1-week sightseeing & adventure tour package to davao & cagayan de oro from manila, 7. see panoramic view at jack's ridge.

Jack's Ridge is the way to go to get the full eagle-eye views of Davao City. Other than the marvelous views, visitors can also find two restaurants here: Karlo's Gourmet, which serves coffee and different baked treats, and Taklobo, which serves Philippine food  in an open-air dining area with a majestic view of the whole city.

Jack's Ridge is also part of the history of the Philippines. It was initially used as the headquarters for fleeing Japanese during the Second World War. 

There is a legend that somewhere in the caves here are gold bullion bars and other loot the Japanese took from different countries and brought to Davao. 

The region of Davao is generally free from typhoons. Throughout the year, the town has balmy weather. It has consistent rainfall, temperature, humidity, and air pressure distribution.

The rainy and dry season is not pronounced, and predictability in the climate makes agricultural production highly favorable. The temperature varies between 20°C and 32°C, with an average precipitation of up to 2,000 millimeters annually.

The fruit is well-known for its scent. The majority of people say it has an odorous flavor. You can try a lot of durian varieties, such as shakes, ice creams, and many more, during your trip to Davao.

Taste the different cuisines that Davao City has to offer through the Roxas Avenue Night Market. The various stalls in this famous night market are home to fresh and cooked kinds of seafood, veggies, meat, and more.

Sit down and savor a hot bowl of soup or talk to your friends while enjoying some grilled barbecue.

The prices are low, and the environment is vibrant and lively. Tables are kept close to each other for a more local feel. But, because there is no room to wash dishes, tables are wrapped in plastic, and consumers can eat with thin plastic gloves on their fingers.

Once the food stalls are closed, the clothes and accessories shops open. If you want to spend some time shopping, go for it!

The Roxas Avenue Night Market is located between the ADD University and Aldevenco Shopping Center. Spend the daytime sightseeing and doing some pasalubong shopping, and then stop by the night market after to satisfy your hunger.

The Museo Dabawenyo, or also known as the Museum of the People of Davao, is one of the most known museums in the country. This building is formally known as the Court of First Instance and was restored and rehabilitated to showcase the diverse cultural heritage and the rich history of the city.

Within the museum, visitors can see stilt house replicas, weapons, and musical instruments used by indigenous people. It also houses a full gallery of antiques like armors, chairs, crowns, and lamps of Moro People as well as traditional Filipino clothing, Filipino bills, musical notes, clothes, and more.

The Dabawenyo Museum is located on Fr. Salga Road, which is on Pichon Avenue, only a few meters from the Bonifacio Rotunda and the Osmeña Park. It is accessible from 9 AM to 12 NN from Tuesday to Sunday and from 1 PM to 6 PM on Mondays.

Local holidays wherein the museum accepts visitors are Holy Week, All Saints Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

11. Trek Mt. Apo — The Highest in the Philippines

Photo from the Philippine Department of Tourism

A trip to Davao City is not complete without a visit to the King of Philippine Peaks or Mount Apo.

Mount Apo is on top of the list of the highest mountains in Southeast Asia, and it has an elevation of 10,311 feet. Before reaching the top of Mount Apo, there is a crater lake naturally created by volcanic activities.

Seven peaks can be spotted at Mt. Apo's summit. You can see the beautiful sunset and sunrise in good weather. You'll be treated to a panoramic view of South Cotabato's Mt. Matutum, Lake Venado, and many more.

Going to Mt. Apo is one of the must-try activities while in Davao. There are various trails you can choose from, and it depends on the level of difficulty.  

This mountain also houses rubber plantations as well as the Tudaya Falls, along with wild deer and boars. Experienced mountain explorers can climb the summit for March, April, and October. Various tour and mountain climbing groups organize mountain climbing events. You can also book a Mount Apo camping package for a hassle-free experience.

12. Visit Davao Butterfly House 

The Davao Butterfly House is a protected sanctuary for different species of butterflies, flowers, and plants, as well as exotic species of insects and animals. 

In addition to displaying colorful butterflies to the public, Davao Butterfly House also breeds them in the Learning Garden.

They allow such butterflies to help pollinate flowering plants of Davao City and to attract domestic and international travelers. Butterflies take one month to grow from eggs.

The best time for visiting the area is in the morning when it is not hot and butterflies are the most active. It is the time when these beautiful insects dance, match, and date. In the heat of the day, many species take shelter under the leaves. It's a great chance to watch and photograph them.

13. Try Civet Coffee 

Photo from Mt. Apo Coffee

Civet Coffee is one of the most unique yet expensive coffee in the world, not only because of its taste but also the way it is prepared.

Civet Coffee is made with the help of a civet, a cat-like wild animal that is native to the country, particularly in Davao. It eats the sweet coffee cherries and then poops the beans.

This organic process gives the coffee beans a more profound and smoother flavor with no bitter taste, making it a favorite among coffee lovers. However, purchasing it in Europe or America can cost a fortune!

Getting it from the source is a less expensive option. Mt. Apo has a cafe where visitors can buy a cup and take home a bag of beans of this world-class coffee.

The strength of its dark chocolate-like scent is so natural that it tastes like roasted hazelnuts. It's a must-try drink during your stay in Davao.

14. Immerse in the Kadayawan Village 

The Kadayawan Village at Magsaysay Park shows how houses of the eleven indigenous and Moro groups in Davao City are constructed. It's a popular attraction in Davao as it gives visitors not only a deeper appreciation of the indigenous and Moro's history but also an appreciation of Philippine architecture.

Here, you can get a glimpse into the Lumad and Moros’ lives and traditions. Most of the ethnic groups, such as Ata, Ovu Manovu, Bagobo-Klata, Bagobo-Tagabawa, and Matigsalug, are in the lower part of the house with a veranda or a waiting shed.

Besides the unification of these eleven communities, the village will always be witness to the heritage and culture of Davao. 

15. Visit Nearby Tourist Spots in Davao Region 

Explore nearby tourist spots outside the city and Samal Island. If you're up for an adventure, you can visit two of the popular attractions, Dahican Beach and Aliwagwag Falls! It's the perfect way to make your trip to Davao as complete as possible.

Visitors can rent a lounge chair and relax for a day or soak up the sun and explore the 7-meter-long sandbar and the crystal-clear turquoise water.

This is one of the most popular natural sights in Davao Oriental. It is also considered the highest waterfall in the Philippines. The cascades, comprising more than 100 waterfalls, are situated just 30-40 minutes from the municipality of Cateel.

See our popular Davao Hotels

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• Book flights to Davao

Explore Davao and everything it has to offer! Look into Davao tours and activities that you can add to your itinerary. You may also check out options if you want to rent a car in Davao for a hassle-free trip. Just make sure you have all the requirements to rent a car in the Philippines .

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Coron Palawan

El Nido Palawan

Siargao Island

Iloilo City and Nearby

14 Things to do in Davao + Tourist Spots

Davao City is the largest urban center in Southern Philippines and the third-largest metropolitan area in the Philippines after Manila and Cebu. Davao is famous for its natural attractions, many of which are easily reached from the city center.

Within an hour’s travel from the airport or Davao City hotels, you can already enjoy the pristine white sand beaches of Samal Island or visit the highland nature parks at the foot of Mount Apo, the Philippines’ tallest peak. A trip to Davao isn’t complete without a taste of the iconic Durian fruit and meeting the gigantic Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird.

Davao City is also the gateway to surrounding provinces in the Davao Region as well as nearby regions in the southern & eastern parts of Mindanao.

Here’s a list of beautiful places to visit in Davao including top things to do & the best Davao tourist spots.

To make your trip planning easy, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app. Seeing all your saved locations on the map will help you get started on planning your Davao itinerary and know the best areas to stay, near places you want to go.

See also: Best Travel Apps .

View all travel tips on: Davao .

1. Philippine Eagle Center

Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City, Philippines

Location : Barangay Malagos, Calinan district, Davao City . Save on Google Maps .

Mindanao’s rainforests are home to the great Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird and one of the largest eagles in the World. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center and meet the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. Here, the eagles are bred for eventual release into the wild. Resembling a typical rain forest, it’s a great place to get a feel of nature. There’s a number of other birds, mammals and reptiles as well, most of which are endemic to the country and some are considered rare.

Book your trip to Davao

Before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip! Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Davao Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

Popular tours & discounts booked by other travelers:

Davao (DVO) Airport to Hotel/City Private Transfer

Davao 24hr COVID-19 RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Testing

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2. Eden Nature Park

Davao City skyline view from Eden Nature Park, in Davao City, Philippines

Location : Barangay Eden, Toril, Davao City . Save on Google Maps .

Explore a pine forest, breathe the cool mountain air, and enjoy the breathtaking viewpoints. Eden Nature Park is a relaxing highland area that you can easily visit from the city center. This park resort offers homey accommodations, various restaurants that use ingredients food freshly harvested from gardens in the area, fun outdoor activities, hiking trails, and a cultural village.

Samal Island

Location : Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCOS), Davao del Norte . Save on Google Maps .

Looking for a beach near Davao City? Samal Island is the go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. Samal, officially the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCOS) is part of Metro Davao and Davao del Norte Province. Easily reached from the city, it is known for its many white-sand beaches, beautiful resorts, island hopping tours, and inland attractions.

Samal Travel Essentials

Where to stay

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3. Samal Beach Resorts

Samal Island is home to one of the most famous luxury resorts in the Philippines ⁠— The Pearl Farm Beach Resort, a former pearl farm made iconic by its stilt-house inspired villas. You can also find more beach resorts dotted around the island…. from accommodations offering peaceful retreats to resorts featuring fun water sports and activities.

Popular resorts in Samal

Pearl Farm Beach Resort Location: Kaputian, Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps . See room discounts

Isla Reta Location: Talicud Island.  Save on Google Maps .

Bluejaz Beach Resort and Waterpark Location: Babak, Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps . See room discounts

Paradise Island Beach Resort Location: Babak, Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps . See room discounts

Maxima Aquafun Resort Location: Peñaplata, Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps . See room discounts

Hof Gorei Beach Resort Location: Kaputian, Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps . See room discounts

Chema’s by the Sea Location: Limao, Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps . See room discounts

Bluewaters Village and Resort Location: Limao, Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps .

4. Samal Islands & Beaches

Babu Santa Beach in Talikud Island, Samal, Davao del Norte, Philippines

Go on a tour of Samal’s beautiful white-sand beaches and underwater sights. There are many places to go in the main island of Samal, remote Talicud Island and off-short islets.

Beautiful islands, tourist spots and beaches in Samal

Kaputian Beach Location: Samal Island.  Save on Google Maps .

Isla Reta Beach Location: Talicud Island.  Save on Google Maps .

Babusanta Beach Location: Talicud Island.  Save on Google Maps .

Coral Garden Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Angel’s Cove Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Wishing Island Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Taklobo (Giant Clam) Sanctuary Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Malipano Island Location:   Save on Google Maps .

5. Monfort Bat Colony

Monfort Bat Colony in Samal Island, Davao del Norte, Philippines

Location : Monfort Bat Sanctuary, Babak, Samal Island . Save on Google Maps .

This is one of the most unusual sights in the Philippines! The Monfort Bat Colony is a must-visit when in Samal. Here, you can see small caves filled with millions of Geoffroy’s Rousettes fruit bats, which call the sanctuary home. The caves are so tightly covered with these bats that the cave walls look like one dark living mass.

6. Davao Crocodile Park

Crocodile Park, Davao City

Location : Riverfront, Corporate City, Diversion Highway, Ma-a, Davao City . Save on Google Maps .

The Davao Crocodile Park is one of Davao’s top tourist spots. Thousands of cultured crocodiles can be found here including Pangil, one of the largest captive crocodiles in the Philippines. If you’re fascinated with these giant reptiles, this is the place to go. Nearby, you can also visit the Tribu K Mindanawan Cultural Village and Davao Butterfly House.

Tourist spots near Davao Crocodile Park

Tribu K Mindanawan Cultural Village Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Davao Butterfly House Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Davao City Center

Travel Essentials

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7. People’s Park

People’s Park in Davao City, Philippines

Location : Palma Gil Street, Poblacion, Davao City . Save on Google Maps .

A well-maintained public park in the city center, People’s Park features a gigantic statue of the Philippine Eagle, a Durian-inspired dome, fascinating sculptural works by local artists, and paved walking paths covered by shady trees.

8. Davao Cathedral (San Pedro Cathedral) & San Pedro Street

Davao Cathedral, Davao City

Location : San Pedro Street, Poblacion, Davao City . Save on Google Maps .

The oldest church in Davao City. The Davao Cathedral, also known as San Pedro Cathedral, is a historical landmark, recognized as a National Cultural Treasure. One of the first things you’ll notice is its distinct curved roof said resembling a vinta (traditional sailboat)

Other places of interest in San Pedro Street area

Davao City Hall Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Osmeña Park Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Rizal Park Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Quezon Park Location:   Save on Google Maps .

Commemorative Monument of Peace and Unity / Davao City Council Location:   Save on Google Maps .

9. Jack’s Ridge

Jack’s Ridge in Davao City, Philippines

Location : Shrine Hills Road, Matina . Save on Google Maps .

Make your way up the mountain and get a panoramic view of Davao City while enjoying a sumptuous dinner at Jack’s Ridge. Taklobo restaurant offers open-air dining and Filipino comfort food while Karlo’s Gourmet serves coffee and pastries.

10. Davao Durian & Fruit Stands

“Tastes like heaven but smells like hell”, Durian is considered as the symbol of the city. There’s no better place to try the exotic Durian than at the fruit markets in Davao. Head to the street-side fruit stalls fronting Magsaysay Park and have the sellers crack open a fruit. After you get used to the strong signature odor, take a pinch of the golden pulp and savor the creamy goodness. Bangkerohan Market is also a great place to go for a more local market feel.

Where to buy durian and fruits in Davao City

Magsaysay Park Location: Quezon Boulevard-Leon Garcia Street.  Save on Google Maps .

Bankerohan Market Location: Marifori Street.  Save on Google Maps .

Madrazo Fruit Stands Location: C. Bangoy Street.

11. Chinatown

Davao Chinatown Unity Archway in Davao City, Philippines

Location : Ramon Magsaysay Avenue, Poblacion, Davao City . Save on Google Maps .

Davao’s Chinatown is the largest in the Philippines by land area and the only one in Mindanao. It is the primary residential area of the Filipino-Chinese community in the city. There are four Chinese-style archways in Davao Chinatown. A large arch is located across the street from Magsaysay Park). Within the area, you can go the temples including the Long Hua Buddhist Temple, Polian Temple and Mindanao Taoist Temple.

12. Mount Apo

Mount Apo view from Davao International Airport, Davao City, Philippines

Location : Near Davao City-Kidapawan City, Cotabato border . Save on Google Maps .

13. Malagos Garden Resort & Chocolate Museum

Location : Malagos, Davao City . Save on Google Maps .

After a visit to the Philippine Eagle Center, drop by Malagos Garden Resort. This 12-hectare nature park is a popular tourist spot for its butterfly sanctuary, waling-waling orchid forest, a bird feeding dome, and the Chocolate Museum.

14. Davao Malls & Shopping

Davao is not spared from the mall-craze in the Philippines. Huge shopping malls can be found all over the city offering cool comforts, great shopping, food courts, and a wide selection of restaurants.

Popular malls and shopping centers in Davao

Abreeza Mall by Ayala Location: Abreeza Ayala Business Park, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Poblacion.  Save on Google Maps .

SM Lanang Premier Location: Daang Maharlika Highway, Lanang.  Save on Google Maps .

Gaisano Mall of Davao (G-Mall) Location: J.P. Laurel Avenue.  Save on Google Maps .

SM City Davao Location: Ecoland Drive, Matina.  Save on Google Maps .

NCCC Mall Location: MacArthur Highway.  Save on Google Maps .

Aldevinco Shopping Center Location: C. M. Recto Street.  Save on Google Maps .

Other places of interest in Davao City

Giant Durian Sculpture at Davao International Airport, Philippines

Durian Monument Location: Davao-Francisco Bangoy International Airport grounds, Buhangin, Davao City.  Save on Google Maps .

Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus of Prague Location: Shrine Hill, Talomo.  Save on Google Maps .

Apo ni Lola Durian Factory Location: San Miguel village, Talomo.  Save on Google Maps .

House of President Duterte Location: Doña Luisa Subdivision Phase I, Davao City.

Davao 911 Center

Davao Museums

Museo Dabawenyo (temporarily relocated to Philippine Women’s College Mindanao Folk Arts Museum)

Philippine Women’s College Mindanao Folk Arts Museum Location: Juna Subdivision, Talomo.  Save on Google Maps .

Davao Museum of History and Ethnography Location: Insular Village, Lanang.  Save on Google Maps .

D’ Bone Collector Museum Location: San Pedro Street, Poblacion, Davao City.  Save on Google Maps .

Aliwagwag Falls

Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel, Davao Oriental, Philippines

Location : Cateel, Davao Oriental . Save on Google Maps .

Aliwagwag Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines. It is truly a must-visit for all waterfall lovers. This is Aliwagwag Falls, often remarked as the “Highest Waterfall in the Philippines.” Unlike most falls with only one or a few vertical drops, Aliwagwag Falls is composed of 84 steps with a combined height of 340 m (1,110 feet), and what’s more, it is surrounded by one of the largest remaining blocks of tropical lowland rainforest in the Philippines.

How to go :

Aliwagwag Falls is located in the quiet town of Cateel in Davao Oriental Province. The drive from Davao City to Aliwagwag Falls is around 4 to 5 hours. You can get a nice view on the bridge along the Compostela-Cateel Road. No hiking required!

Explore more spots near Davao

General Santos

General Santos Fish Port (Tuna Market) in General Santos City, South Cotabato, Philippines

Location : South Cotabato Province . Save on Google Maps .

Located 2 to 3 hours away from Davao by land, General Santos City is the “Tuna Capital of the Philippines” and the gateway to the Soccsksargen Region, which occupies the South Central part of Mindanao Island.

General Santos Travel Essentials

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Paragliding Experience in South Cotabato

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See more : General Santos travel tips

Visit the scenic lakeside town of Lake Sebu known for its beautiful waterfalls, 180-meter high 7 Falls zipline (the highest in Asia), and T’boli mountain tribe culture. Travel time from General Santos to Lake Sebu is around 2 hours.

Lake Sebu Travel Essentials

See more : Lake Sebu travel tips

Balut Island & Sarangani Islands

Location : Sarangani (islands), Davao Occidental . Save on Google Maps .

Go on an adventure to remote Balut Island in Davao Occidental Province. Go on a trek to the forest-topped summit of Balut Volcano, see the Sabang Hot Spring and go on an island hopping tour to see the pink sand beach in Olanivan Island.

Beyond Davao

Virgin Island in Bantayan, Cebu, Philippines

Location : Central Visayas region, central Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Cebu Travel Essentials

Where to stay Tours + discounts Tours + discounts Check Fares

See more : Cebu travel tips

Location : Metro Manila, Luzon, northern Philippines . Save on Google Maps .

Manila Travel Essentials

Manila-Luzon Shuttle – Tagaytay, Baguio, Laguna, La Union & more

Manila Ocean Park Attraction Pass

Enchanted Kingdom Admission Ticket

See more : Manila travel tips

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Davao that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Davao

Davao tourist spots, things to do in Davao, where to go in Davao & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Book your way to Davao

How much does it cost to travel to Davao? Click below to compare flight, ferry & buses fares posted on these booking sites:

Where to Stay in Davao

Click below & search recommended Davao hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

Where to Stay in Samal

Click below & search recommended Samal hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

Don’t Stop Here

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February 22, 2019 at 6:11 pm

Davao is my all time fav city

February 23, 2019 at 12:53 am

Awesome Levia! What do you like most about Davao City?

April 18, 2019 at 12:48 am

Wow!! so many great things It is Very helpful for planning a trip to davao. Thanks for sharing this.

April 20, 2019 at 4:55 am

My pleasure! Thanks for visiting abdou :)

April 21, 2019 at 7:37 am

Thanks a lot your blog, It’s Very helpful for planning a trip

June 3, 2019 at 4:10 pm

I’ve been eyeing for Davao for quite a while now and this post inspired me. Thanks for this informative post, Sir Marcos! :)

June 13, 2019 at 2:55 am

Thanks for visiting by travel blog Dea!

September 16, 2019 at 10:25 am

How far are these tourist spots from Buhangin Davao?

September 19, 2019 at 11:21 am

Hi Pauline! Google Maps is really helpful with this. I use it always when I plan my trip! Just save all the locations on Google Maps to have a quick overview of how close destinations are to each other.

October 22, 2019 at 9:15 pm

Hi! Your blog is very helpful and informative for a first-timer in Davao! Thanks for sharing!

November 21, 2019 at 12:26 pm

12 out of 14. I’m almost complete in experiencing the beautiful Davao.

March 6, 2020 at 4:32 pm

Very informative!

March 6, 2020 at 4:39 pm

September 9, 2020 at 3:55 pm

Davao does hold a lot of cultural places and most of them are accessible. I hope I could travel there again when this pandemic is over.

February 18, 2021 at 1:46 pm

Agree. Hoping that this pandemic will end soon so that you can explore more in Davao City

June 27, 2023 at 2:15 pm

You should add Governor Generoso area to your list of areas near Davao. Its truly an amazing place and not well known, other than people in Davao. So it doesn’t get as many people as all the popular spots in the Philippines.

Home » Travel Guides » The Philippines » 26 Best Things to Do in Davao (the Philippines)

26 Best Things to Do in Davao (the Philippines)

There is something in Davao city that you won’t experience often in other areas of the Philippines , and that is a local experience. As Davao isn’t the #1 rated tourist spot in the Philippines, you won’t bump into as many resorts, western restaurants, or high-priced tours, but what you will get is real Filipino food, experiences, prices, and interactions.

Go to a museum and learn about the city’s cultural heritage, walk down a market to taste dishes from family recipes, or walk through acres of wildlife sanctuaries to create lifelong memories.

If you start getting that craving for white sand, Davao is only a boat ride away from some of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines where you can enjoy spectacular beaches with plenty of water activities for a day or two.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Davao :

1. Crocodile Park

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Davao city is the Crocodile Park, which is home to thousands of crocodiles. Yes, thousands!

They’ve got both freshwater and saltwater crocs that are bred and born on site. You can visit the incubator room where you’ll see hundreds of crocodile eggs growing baby crocs!

Beyond the crocodiles, you’ll also have the chance to see monkeys, snakes, birds, and other reptiles. The Crocodile Park offers educational tours, lectures, and offers public awareness of wildlife conservation efforts. All around, a great place.

2. Jack’s Ridge

If you want full eagle-eye views of the city, you’ll want to make your way to Jack’s Ridge.

In addition to marvelous views, there are two restaurants to choose from when you make your way up here: Karlo’s Gourmet which serves coffee and baked treats, and Taklobo where you can sit in an open-air dining area sharing big portions of beautifully plated Filipino food.

If you decide to stay the night, there are cottages, a pool, and lovely views for sunrise.

There is also quite a bit of history on Jack’s Ridge as this land was previously used as the headquarters for retreating Japanese forces during World War II. You can read all about it at the Jack’s Ridge monument. Just goes to show that you’re never too far from a history lesson in the Philippines.

3. Dahican Beach

The most beautiful beach on the mainland is hands down Dahican Beach where 7 kilometers of gorgeous sand and turquoise water awaits. Rent a lounge chair for a day or bring your towel so soak up the sun for as long as you’d like.

If you’d like a more adventurous beach experience, there are shacks along the beach renting boogie boards and surfboards perfect for catching some waves. Some of the resorts here offer activities such as island hopping tours that leave from Dahican Beach.

Bring a tent and you can pitch it on the beach overnight for a small fee. Fall asleep to the sounds of waves crashing, wake up to fresh morning air then go take a bath in the sea!

4. Kopiat Island

Take a day trip to Kopiat Island off the coast of Davao. This desolate little island is home to heaps of wildlife and beautiful nature. You can go with tour group, which transports you via an exhilarating speedboat ride from the mainland. You’ll set foot ashore within a half an hour. These tours include a visit to the Lubi (coconut) plantation, some incredible food, coffee and desert. And you will of course have time to frolic on the beach as well.

If you’d like a more carefree day, hire a private boat from Davao and have them take you on a 1-2 hour tour where you can come ashore and explore the white sand beaches lined with overhanging coconut trees.

5. China Town

I bet you didn’t expect to find such a huge China Town in Davao. The Mindanao China Town is a collection of Chinese restaurants, shops, business, and malls spread out over 44 Hectares. Many of the businesses here are actually run by Chinese Filipinos who hold on strong to their Chinese roots.

You’ll enter China town under a traditional bright red Chinese archway with a shingled roof and be transported to a different universe- or at least it feels that way.

Visit the Long Hua Temple that is home to Kung Fu monks or the Mindanao Taoist Temple with beautiful Chinese architecture. Stop in some malls where you can buy electronics and makeup. And of course, eat everything!

6. Island Buenavista

Gather 10 of your favorite people and plan the most incredible overnight stay on your very own private island off the coast of Davao! Island Buenavista is a small, pristine island with white sand beaches, clear water, full staff, comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, and water activities, if you please.

For just PhP 105,000, your crew gets all of that to themselves! The island is yours, which means complete privacy and total security with no day trips from random tourists. This is your chance to live like a celebrity!

7. People’s Park

People’s Park is a nice place to come where you can breath in some fresh air, stretch your legs without, be one with nature, and ponder the meaning behind some interesting art.

Created by then mayor President Duerte in 2007, this park is 4 acres of sprawling tropical rainforest, ponds, waterfalls, shady trees, and even some wild eagles.

Sit in the park and feed the pigeons, exercise with a run around the colorfully paved paths, or even take a public Zumba class with literally hundreds of locals (every Sunday at 6am).

8. Isla Reta

The entrance fee for Isla Reta Beach Resort will grant you a day pass that includes the use of the pavilion, picnic tables, Volley Ball court, open function hall, and an outdoor grill.

Take a quick pump boat from Davao city along with your picnic goods and enjoy a day on this beautiful little island grilling and relaxing with friends. The scenery offers that classic Philippines combination of white sand and turquoise water, but instead of coconut trees, you have big billowy trees that provide some much-needed shade.

If you choose to stay overnight, you can rent a tent and bedding or stay in one of the accommodation choices including dorms.

9. Maxima Aquafun Resort

Set your inner child free at Maxima Aquafun Resort on Samal Island, just a quick boat ride away from Davao city.

For PhP 300, adults can enjoy a 40-meter super slide that spits you out into the sea, and a water blob that catapults your into the air.

This resort also offers water activities such as banana boat rides, snorkeling, jet skiing, and kayaking.  Dry off on the canopy walk with a suspended bridge that you can rappel down. It will be an adrenaline-filled day!

10. Philippine Eagle Centre

Every dollar that comes through the Philippine Eagle Center is put towards Eagle conservation and education. This incredible center dedicates time and efforts toward protecting endangered eagle species while opening up an interesting platform for the public.

During your visit, you will watch eagles feeding on raw meat as they cut into it with their sharp claws and beak, watch eagles soar around the property with huge wingspans, and take some up-close and personal photos!

There are also huge snakes, monkeys, and an assortment of endangered plant species to see.

11. Museo Dabawenyo

What used to be the city court, Museo Dabawenyo now stands to represent the rich history of the people of Davao. The aim is to teach people about the diverse cultural heritage on this island via beautiful artwork, historic photos, and informational monuments.

Within the Museo Dabawenyo, there is the Indigenous People’s Gallery with replicas of stilt houses, musical instruments, and weapons, the Moro People’s Gallery full of antiques such as crowns, armors, chairs, and lamps, the Contemporary Gallery where you can see traditional Filipino clothing, and the Memorabilia Gallery that is home to Filipino bills, clothes, musical notes, and more.

Admission is free!

12. Davao Museum

If culturally-inspired artwork and vintage maps are your thing, the Davao Museum is for you. This two-story building located inside Insular Village in Lanang is quite bigger than Museo Dabawenyo so dedicate at least an hour to touring this amazing space. Focusing on cultural minorities within the Philippines, you’ll get a glimpse into their cultures with a large collection of artwork and memorabilia.

You’ll find rare maps of Mindanao, centuries-old artifacts, modern paintings, and hand-carved artifacts that all tell a story. This museum is a bit more upscale and is to be respected with no photography and your best behavior!

13. Roxas Avenue Night Market

Live like a local by perusing this Filipino night market that is widely popular with native Davao residents. Roxas Avenue has stall after stall of fresh and cooked seafood, meats, veggies, and more for you to pick and choose. Sit down for a flavorful soup or take some grilled pork on a stick to go.

Located between Aldevenco shopping center and the ADD University, you could easily do some sightseeing and shopping during the day and then stop by the night market after you’ve worked up an appetite.

14. Civet Coffee

Coffee freaks will be excited to try a weird and wild coffee brew called Civet Coffee. A civet is a cat-like wild animal native to the Philippines who helps out with the harvesting process by eating sweet coffee cherries and then pooping out the beans. Apparently, this organic process gives the beans a deep flavor that is out of this world delicious and has no bitter taste.

Trying buying Civet Coffee in the United States and you’ll pay a fortune for these beans, but the closer you go to the source, the less expensive it gets. Mt. Apo has a shop and café where you can buy a cup of Civet Coffee or a bag to take home for cheap!

15. Mount Apo

“King of Philippine Peaks”, as it’s called, Mount Apo is one of South East Asia’s highest mountains and it’s right here in Davao. The mountain’s peak reaches an elevation of 10,311 feet which is 3,144 meters above sea level. Towards the top, there is a 500-meter wide crater lake created by volcanic activity. The mountain is home to rubber plantations, a 150-meter tall waterfall called Tudaya Falls, along with wild boar and deer.

During the moths of March, April, and October, experienced climbers can climb the summit during a two-day hike organized by various tour groups around the area.

16. Eden Nature Park

In the District of Tril in Davao City, you’ll find Eden Nature Park cozily tucked at the foot of Mount Talomo. Across 80 hectares, you’ll have a chance to explore a wildlife sanctuary full of exotic birds, plants, flowers, and insects.

95% manmade, this nature park has some jaw-dropping scenery including 100,000 tall forest trees and 100,000 pine trees. It smells so fresh!

If you’re feet are too tired, hop aboard a 45-minute shuttle tour of the park which ensures that you see the very best that this park has to offer.

17. D’Bone Collector Museum

Just like it sounds, this Davao museum is a comprehensive collection of skeletal bones from animals of all kinds, including the skeleton of a 41-foot Sperm Whale.

There are over 200 preserved skeletal remains that represent species from every walk of life and every environment you could imagine.

The museum was opened in 2012 by an American missionary with a fascination for more than just the religious world beyond. The collection keeps growing year after year- you never know what will turn up next!

18. Davao Butterfly House

Curving brick paths surrounded by lush green trees, grass, and flowers is only the beginning of your experience at Davao Butterfly House!

A protected refuge for butterflies, plants, flowers, as well as exotic animal and insect species like scorpions, birds, fish and more- this place is not to be skipped during your visit to Davao!

Butterflies are the most active during the morning while it’s not too hot. This is the best time to see them mating, dating, and dancing! Photographers will love this place!

19. BlueJaz Water Park

Cool off from the heat at BlueJaz Water Park, a place that is great for both kids and adults. On land, there are two long, winding water slides that spit you out into a cool pool. You can go down these slides as many times as you’d like. There is also a water slide built on stilts about 100 meters from the shore which gives you a nice view of the scenery before you fly into the sea.

Enjoy the beach where you can lounge or sign up for some water activities such as jet skiing or banana boat riding.

Tip: Avoid the weekends and holidays when the waterpark gets crowded.

20. Visit Magsaysay Park

This outdoor park is more than just a place to sit on a park bench and watch the day go by.

Famous for it’s long row of fruit stands featuring mostly Durian, Magsaysay Park is a wonderful place to work on your haggling skills.

Stop in the Fishcado, an open-air seafood restaurant who serves dishes with fresh seafood collected from the local market. Davao is famous for tuna and swordfish dishes so be on the lookout!

As the sun sets, more and more food stalls and snack carts will start rolling in, creating an unofficial night market where you can sample plenty of small treats!

21. Balut Island

There is a relatively underrated volcanic island at the southern tip of Davao Oriental that should be explored if you’ve got the chance.

Balut Island is home to a super interesting mixture of cultures including Muslims, Bilaans, and Sangils, who are native to Indonesia. Most of the locals here are farmers who export coconuts to surrounding areas. The mix of cultures means that you can find an international display of restaurants here.

While you’re on the island, you can take a dip in the Sabung Hot Spring overlooking the sea, stroll the undisturbed white sand beach, watch for Pygmy Sperm Whales in the water, and check out the ruins of Fort Villa from WWI.

22. Philippine-Japanese Historical Museum

World War II has left its imprint on different islands in different ways- including Davao. Come to the Philippine-Japanese Historical Museum where you’ll learn how Davao served as an island of retreat for the Japanese during the war and how some 20,000 Japanese remained on the island after the war to work on abaca plantations.

In this museum, you’ll witness how the Japanese lived via replicas of their living quarters from the time spent living on the plantation. You’ll see bunk beds, camera, trinkets, and more. You’ll also see relics from the war such as weapons and clothing. This museum offers unique Japanese perspective of war times that you don’t often see.

• 23.  Blue Post’s Boiling Crab and Seafood

Don’t be afraid to get messy at this eat-with-your-hands seafood spot in Davao.

Put on some plastic gloves, a bib, and get ready to dig in like a seaside caveman. You can order a seafood boil with tuna belly, muscles, clams, shrimp, crab and more, tossed in a big plastic bag with incredible sauces and hunks of corn on the cob. The feast is then dumped on a big pan in front of your table to share.

With such close proximity to the waters, it would be a shame to pass up a seafood feast in the Philippines. It’s a fun and delicious experience!

24. Davao Zorb Park

Let loose and be silly at Davao Zorb Park. If you’ve never heard of a Zorb before, it’s basically one humongous plastic ball that you climb inside to be tossed around. Experience a day of weightlessness with two Zorbing activities at this park.

The first activity is where you climb inside the Zorb and it is then pushed down a giant hill, which sends you flying and rolling inside.

The second activity is where you take the floating Zorb on water as you try to walk around and bump into your friends.

You’ll be laughing all day.

25. Eat Davao Dishes

Filipino food isn’t all just sisig and lechon. Each island offers their own spin. While you’re on Davao, go to some local restaurants to try dishes like Sinuagbang Bihod (grilled tuna fish roe), Inato (grilled chicken with Davao spices), Pasayan (deep-fried shrimp), or Imbaw (clam soup).

Go to restaurants such as Bistro Selera, Ahfat Sea Foods Plaza, Filipino Comfort Food (FCF), or stop by a local street stall for cheap eats to find the most authentic foodie experience possible.

26. Marina Tuna Seafood Restaurant

Love tuna? Well, you’re in luck as Davao is popular for their tuna dishes. It’s only fitting, then, that Marina Tuna Seafood Restaurant boasts a menu where they offer tuna cooked 10 different ways. To say they are the experts of tuna is an understatement.

Step outside of your comfort zone and try some parts of the fish that you normally wouldn’t find in a western restaurant such as the crispy tail, eye soup, grilled jaw, and more.

If you aren’t super adventurous when it comes to eating, no worries. Marina Tuna makes some impressive grilled tuna belly and to die for tuna sashimi. Oh, and they have beer!

26 Best Things to Do in Davao (the Philippines):

• Crocodile Park
• Jack’s Ridge
• Dahican Beach
• Kopiat Island
• Island Buenavista
• People’s Park
• Maxima Aquafun Resort
• Philippine Eagle Centre
• Museo Dabawenyo
• Davao Museum
• Roxas Avenue Night Market
• Civet Coffee
• Eden Nature Park
• D'Bone Collector Museum
• Davao Butterfly House
• BlueJaz Water Park
• Visit Magsaysay Park
• Balut Island
• Philippine-Japanese Historical Museum
• Davao Zorb Park
• Eat Davao Dishes
• Marina Tuna Seafood Restaurant

Top 20 Best DAVAO CITY TOURIST SPOTS + Things to Do

Davao city attractions: historical landmarks & outdoor adventures.

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Davao City Tourist Spots: Your Ultimate Guide to Things to Do in Davao City

Table of Contents

Davao City is a bustling metropolis in the southern part of the Philippines. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and friendly locals. As one of the largest cities in the Philippines, Davao City offers a variety of tourist spots and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Aside from being the largest city in the county, it is also hailed as one of the cities with the cleanest air in the Philippines, based on a 2018 survey of the Switzerland-based IQ AirVisual and Greenpeace.

Aside from its natural wonders, Davao City is known for its vibrant food scene. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as durian, pomelo, and other tropical fruits at the city’s many food markets and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Davao City has something for everyone.

If you’re visiting Davao soon, we’ve listed our top 15 things to do in Davao to make your visit memorable.

History and Culture

San Pedro Cathedral

Dating back to 1847, San Pedro Cathedral is a historic landmark in Davao City. Located in the heart of the city, near the City Hall and the People’s Park, this majestic church is one of the oldest and largest churches in the area.

Its Spanish colonial architecture has been preserved over the years, with renovations to maintain its original beauty. Inside, visitors will find stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings, making Davao Cathedral a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Museo Dabawenyo

Unlock the secrets of Davao City’s past at Museo Dabawenyo! Here, you can explore the history and culture of the Dabawenyos, from the indigenous people to the Spanish colonial period, World War II, and modern culture.

Discover artifacts, photographs, interactive exhibits, and replicas of traditional weapons and clothing from GMA’s Amaya. Plus, you’ll find antiques, clothes, musical notes, and more to uncover the story of Davao’s past and present. Come discover the wonders of Museo Dabawenyo!

Kadayawan Village

Kadayawan Village is a vibrant cultural hub located in Davao’s Ramon Magsaysay Park, where the traditional homes of the Lumad and Moro groups were relocated and reconstructed. This village, established by the Davao City Tourism Office, is an effort to protect and preserve the Philippines’ beautiful and colorful culture for future generations.

Here, visitors can explore the huts that represent the different tribes of the region, watch thrilling demonstrations of traditional dances, music, and crafts, and sample delicious traditional Filipino food. Souvenirs from the village’s gift shop are also available, allowing visitors to take a piece of the Mindanao indigenous culture back home with them. Kadayawan Village is an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors with a greater appreciation for the country’s rich heritage.

Japanese Tunnel

Explore the historic Japanese Tunnel in Davao City , a World War II relic created by Filipino prisoners of war. Journey through the winding corridors and discover the artifacts that tell the story of the war in the southern Philippines.

See how the Japanese army used the tunnel as a hideout for soldiers and their belongings, and marvel at the engineering feats the prisoners of war achieved during the U.S. takeover of Davao City. Step back in time and be transported to a more tumultuous era of history.

Discover Davao’s Chinatown

Come explore the largest Chinatown in the Philippines, based on land area, in Davao City! Launched in 2009, this Chinatown symbolizes unity between Filipinos and Chinese, with its arc made of Chinese symbolic figures.

Here, you can find shopping centers selling electronics, groceries, restaurants, and banks. The area is bustling with people every weekend, so why not join the crowd and try some delicious Chinese food? With so much to offer, Davao Chinatown is an experience you don’t want to miss!

Take a picture of the Durian Monument at the Davao Airport

Another notable you can check out is the impressive Durian Monument outside the Davao International Airport. It represents the tri-people of Davao: the Lumads, the Muslims, and the Settlers, making this a perfect backdrop for every visitor wanting to take pictures before and after leaving Davao.

Experience Kadayawan Festival

The Kadayawan Festival is the biggest in Mindanao. Its name derives from the friendly greeting “Madayaw,” from the Dabawenyo word meaning good, valuable, superior, or beautiful. The festival is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, the wealth of culture, the bounties of harvest, and the serenity of living. It is held every third week of August.

Natural Attractions

Davao City is blessed with a variety of natural attractions that are worth exploring. From lush rainforests to pristine beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Davao City:

Eden Nature Park

Experience the wonders of nature and adventure at Eden Nature Park and Resort, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of its 12-hectare landscape.

Situated 3,000 feet above sea level, you can take in the majestic trees, lush forests, and stunning landscapes while participating in thrilling outdoor activities like hiking, biking, zip-lining, horseback riding, sky-wheeling, sky cycling, fishing, and even skydiving. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, you can simply sit back and take in the area’s natural beauty.

The park has balcony rooms and an amphitheater, where special occasions like masses, wedding ceremonies, and small concerts are held. Navigate the Bamboo Maze and have the time of your life at Eden Nature Park and Resort!

Philippine Eagle Center

Nestled in the lush foothills of Mt. Apo, the Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) is a conservation center dedicated to protecting the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. Spanning 8.4 hectares, the center is home to several of these majestic creatures and other endemic species of birds and animals.

Visitors to the PEC have the unique opportunity to learn about the importance of conservation efforts and even witness the eagles in their natural habitat at the bird-feeding dome. Come experience the beauty and grandeur of the Philippine Eagle at the PEC!

Mount Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. The mountain is located in the Davao Region and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the summit to catch a glimpse of the stunning sunrise or explore the lush rainforests surrounding the mountain.

Samal Island

Samal Island , also known as the Island Garden City of Samal, is a popular destination for beach lovers. The island is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. Visitors can enjoy various water activities like snorkeling, diving, and island hopping or simply relax and soak up the sun.

Davao Butterfly House

Discover the enchanting world of butterflies at the Davao Butterfly House! Located just 300 meters from the Crocodile Park, the Butterfly House is a dedicated sanctuary for the conservation of these exquisite creatures. Explore the life cycle of butterflies and get up close to observe their captivating beauty.

With a ticket to the Crocodile Park (Php 250), you can also enjoy the entrance to the Butterfly House. Though the place may be small and appear a bit old and run-down, the staff are passionate about butterflies and are eager to share their knowledge. Plus, there are informative posters on the life cycle of butterflies throughout the sanctuary.

Davao Crocodile Park

At the Davao Crocodile Park , visitors can explore the wonders of nature and conservation. Opened in 2005, the park is home to various animals, including crocodiles, birds, snakes, lizards, and even tigers!

Guests can even get up close and personal with some animals at the petting zoo or make a wish before feeding the kois for good fortune. But the park’s highlight is the 18-foot saltwater croc, ‘Pangil,’ the biggest in captivity in the country. With so much to explore, it’s no wonder the Davao Crocodile Park is one of the most visited attractions in Davao!

Food and Dining

Davao City is not only known for its beautiful tourist spots but also for its diverse food scene. From street food to fine dining, visitors can indulge in various cuisines during their stay.

Durian Experience

Davao is home to one of the most sought-after delicacies in the world – the infamous Durian fruit. With its unmistakable smell and one-of-a-kind taste, Durian has become a must-try for locals and tourists alike. If you’re looking to experience the full flavor of Durian, you won’t want to miss out on the city’s many Durian-infused dishes, such as Durian ice cream, Durian pie, and Durian candy.

Although the smell may be strong, Durian is undeniably the best-tasting fruit. For a genuinely unique Durian treat, head to Marina Tina Restaurant and try their delicious Durian-infused desserts like ice cream and shakes. You won’t regret it! Sample some of the city’s most popular durian varieties such as Puyat, Arancillo, D101, D24, Red Prawn and Cob. Experience the full flavor of Davao’s Durian, and you’ll never forget it!

Roxas Night Market

Roxas Night Market is the perfect place to explore for those passionate about street food! From 6 p.m. until midnight, the bustling market is filled with food stalls offering exciting Filipino street food options, such as grilled meat skewers, seafood, and even the exotic balut (a fertilized duck egg).

Plus, there are plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, souvenirs, and trinkets to take home. The prices are incredibly affordable, so you can pick up a few items without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the Roxas Avenue Night Market is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and find some unique souvenirs!

Taklobo Restaurant at Jack’s Ridge

For those looking for a unique dining experience, Taklobo Restaurant offers a seafood buffet with a twist. The restaurant is known for its giant clam (taklobo) dishes, which are cooked in various ways, such as grilled, adobo-style, and soups. The restaurant also offers other seafood dishes, such as shrimp, crab, and fish.

Jack’s Ridge is a must-visit for those seeking a dining experience with a view. The restaurant is located on a hill, offering a panoramic city view. Visitors can enjoy Filipino and international cuisine while taking in the breathtaking view. The restaurant also has a bar where visitors can enjoy cocktails and other drinks.

Fun Activities

Davao City offers a wide range of fun activities for tourists. From parks to resorts, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top fun activities to check out:

People’s Park

Located in the heart of Davao City, People’s Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park features a playground, amphitheater, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park’s lush gardens or participate in one of the many organized events held throughout the year.

Maxima Aquafun Resort

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, Maxima Aquafun Resort is the perfect destination. This resort offers a variety of water sports activities, including jet skiing, banana boat rides, and snorkeling. Visitors can also relax on the resort’s white-sand beaches or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort

Welcome to Pearl Farm Beach Resort , an idyllic destination on Samal Island! Our resort is a luxurious getaway with beautiful houses on stilts designed by Ar. Francisco & “Bobby” Mañosa. Each room has all the modern amenities you need for a comfortable stay.

Enjoy various activities, from swimming in our pools and beach to island hopping tours and water sports. And don’t forget to take in the incredible views of the ocean from our iconic parola or lighthouse, which has been a beacon of welcome and relaxation for centuries.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Davao City offers many shopping options for tourists looking for souvenirs, crafts, accessories, and chocolates. Here are two popular shopping destinations that are worth visiting:

Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum

The Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum is a must-visit destination for those looking for high-quality chocolates and unique souvenirs. The resort is located on the outskirts of Davao City and offers a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by nature.

The Chocolate Museum showcases the history of chocolate-making in the Philippines and offers visitors a chance to see the chocolate-making process firsthand. Visitors can also purchase a variety of chocolates, including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and chocolate-covered fruits and nuts.

In addition to chocolates, the resort also offers a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs made by local artisans. Visitors can purchase woven bags, wooden carvings, and pottery, all of which make great souvenirs to take back home.

Travel and Planning Tips

Best time to visit.

Davao City is a great place to visit all year round, but the best time to go is during the dry season, which lasts from December to May. The weather is generally sunny and warm during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, if you want to experience the Kadayawan Festival, which is held every August, then plan your trip accordingly.

Getting Around

The most convenient way to get around Davao City is by taxi or private car. Taxis are widely available and are relatively cheap. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Angkas to book a ride. If you prefer public transportation, jeepneys and buses are available but can be crowded and uncomfortable.

What to Wear

Davao City is a tropical destination, so lightweight and breathable clothing is recommended. It is also important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. When going on outdoor activities like hiking or trekking, wear comfortable shoes or sandals and bring a hat or sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular tourist spots in davao city.

Davao City has a lot of popular tourist spots that visitors can explore. Some of the most popular ones include the Philippine Eagle Center, where visitors can see the majestic Philippine Eagle up close, and the Davao Crocodile Park, where visitors can interact with crocodiles and other wildlife.

What are some nature destinations to visit in Davao?

Davao City is known for its beautiful natural attractions. Some of the best nature destinations to visit include Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, and Samal Island, which boasts pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Where can I find an overlooking view in Davao City?

If you want to enjoy a panoramic view of Davao City, head to Jack’s Ridge Resort and Restaurant. This hilltop resort offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

What are some recommended activities for a one-day visit to Davao City?

If you only have one day to explore Davao City, there are still plenty of things to do. Some recommended activities include visiting the Philippine Eagle Center, exploring the Davao Crocodile Park, and taking a stroll through People’s Park. You can also sample some of the city’s famous durian fruit at the Magsaysay Park.

What makes Davao City a unique tourist destination?

Davao City is a unique tourist destination because of its rich culture, beautiful natural attractions, and exciting activities. The city is known for its friendly people, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. It also has a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, making it a great destination for eco-tourists.

Who are some famous people from Davao City?

Davao City has produced many famous people over the years. Some of the most notable include the current President of the Philippines, Rodrigo Duterte, and the world-renowned boxer Manny Pacquiao. Other famous Davaoeños include singer Regine Velasquez and actress Cherie Gil.

Davao City Travel and Tour Packages

Searching for the best Davao City hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our complete list of cheap hotels and resorts via Agoda , or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.

Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Davao City? Like, Follow, and Subscribe to  OutofTownBlog.com  on  Facebook ,  Twitter ,  Instagram , and  Pinterest , and  Team out Of Town  on YouTube for more Travel Tips.

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Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Top 20 Davao City Tourist Spots

Delve into the top 20 Davao City tourist spots. As the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area, Davao City captivates with its stunning landscapes, thriving wildlife, and vibrant cultural heritage.

With a huge land area (Davao City used to be the biggest city in the world in terms of land area) the territory has so much amount of natural features that can easily be turned into major tourist attractions. From the highest mountain in the Philippines to rivers and even urban sites, Davao City can easily serve as a major tourist hub in this part of Mindanao.

Here are 20 of Davao City tourist spots you may include in your travel list:

Mount apo, talomo district.

Begin your journey in Mount Apo in Talomo District, the highest peak in the Philippines. Its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit for nature lovers.

Philippine Eagle Center, Malagos

Visit the Philippine Eagle Center in Malagos, home to the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. This center showcases efforts to conserve these majestic birds and their habitat.

Eden Nature Park and Resort, Toril District

Explore Eden Nature Park and Resort in Toril District. This mountain resort offers a host of outdoor activities set in a refreshing, verdant landscape.

Davao Crocodile Park, Ma-a

Experience the thrill at Davao Crocodile Park in Ma-a. This park is home to a variety of wildlife including crocodiles, tigers, and birds.

San Pedro Cathedral, San Pedro Street

Marvel at the unique architecture of San Pedro Cathedral. This Spanish-era church is a defining city landmark, featuring a curved facade resembling a traditional Filipino salakot.

D' Bone Collector Museum, Bucana

Discover the fascinating D' Bone Collector Museum in Bucana, home to a wide collection of animal bones from around the world.

People's Park, Poblacion District

Stroll through the People's Park in Poblacion District. This beautifully landscaped park features large sculptures, a man-made pond, and a variety of local flora.

Davao Museum of History and Ethnography, Insular Village

Delve into local culture and history at the Davao Museum of History and Ethnography in Insular Village.

Jack's Ridge, Shrine Hills

Enjoy a panoramic view of Davao City at Jack's Ridge in Shrine Hills. This hilltop destination offers dining, accommodation, and a stunning city view, especially at night.

Malagos Garden Resort, Calinan District

Experience nature at its finest at Malagos Garden Resort in Calinan District. This botanical garden features a butterfly sanctuary, bird feeding area, and an orchid nursery.

Lon Wa Buddhist Temple, Cabaguio Avenue

Find peace at Lon Wa Buddhist Temple on Cabaguio Avenue. This temple is one of the biggest Buddhist temples in the Philippines, featuring a large golden Buddha.

Roxas Avenue Night Market

Experience local street food and find unique trinkets at the Roxas Avenue Night Market. This bustling market is a must-visit for foodies.

Museo Dabawenyo, Poblacion District

Learn about Davao's history at Museo Dabawenyo. This museum showcases artifacts and exhibits representing the city's rich cultural heritage.

Bankerohan Public Market, Bankerohan

Immerse yourself in the local culture at Bankerohan Public Market. Here, you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and a variety of regional specialties.

Times Beach, Matina Aplaya

Relax at Times Beach in Matina Aplaya. This public beach offers calm waters, beautiful sunset views, and a variety of local food stalls.

Samal Island

Although politically included in the province of Davao del Norte, Samal Island is just a quick ferry ride from Davao City. Samal Island offers stunning beaches, clear waters, and a relaxing ambiance. This island paradise is a must-visit for beach lovers.

Davao Baywalk, Lanang

Take a leisurely stroll along the Davao Baywalk in Lanang. This popular seaside promenade offers scenic views of Davao Gulf and Samal Island.

Gap Farming Resort, Maa

Discover the Gap Farming Resort in Maa. This themed resort pays tribute to Davao's rich agricultural heritage with its farming landscapes and statues depicting local folklore.

Tribu K’ Mindanawan, Ecoland

Experience the vibrant indigenous culture at Tribu K’ Mindanawan in Ecoland. This cultural village features traditional houses, dance performances, and fire shows.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort

End your journey at Pearl Farm Beach Resort. Located on Samal Island, this luxury resort offers stunning beachfront views, relaxing accommodations, and a variety of water activities.

From the magnificent heights of Mount Apo to the pristine waters of Pearl Farm Beach Resort, the top 20 tourist spots in Davao City present a vibrant tableau of diverse attractions. Whether you're an adventure-seeker, a history buff, or a nature lover, these top 20 Davao City tourist spots offer an unforgettable travel experience that encapsulates the captivating allure of this dynamic city in the Philippines.

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Best Tourist Spots in Davao City: 16 Attractions You Must Visit

by Wanderful Philippines | Attractions , Blog , Davao

Check out this best tourist spots in Davao City and what you can do as you tour around the lovely city of Davao.

Davao City, well-known for its slogan “Life is Here” has gained reputation as one of the safest and cleanest cities in the Philippines.

This beautiful city of the south of the Philippines has a total land area of 2,444 square kilometers. It is the largest city in the Philippines in terms of land area.

Davao City has a population of 1,907, 721.

Tourist Spots in Davao City

Are you wondering what to do and what are the best  tourist spots in Davao  to explore?

Check out this comprehensive list of tourist attractions that you can include in your itinerary when you visit Davao City.

>Remember, you can book your flights to Davao via 12go here.

Free Tourist Spots in Davao City

There are various attractions and tourist spots in the city of Davao. Let us start off with Davao City free tourist spots in this list.

People’s Park

People’s Park  is one of the most lovely leisure parks in Davao City, Philippines. It is known for its beautiful durian-inspired building near the entrance.

This park has a lush vegetation, pocket gardens, and has a large collection of bamboos. These are strategically planted all over this 4-hectare public park.

This park has trees that provides shades to the park goers. It also has benches that provide seating for visitors to relax and unwind.

There are few native huts or  kubo  for you to use and relax as well.

What to do : If you have children, you can let them play at the children’s playground.

You may just sit at the benches and enjoy seeing the doves that visit the place. You may also check out the pond and enjoy seeing those lovely fishes of different colors.

You can also just roam around and enjoy this lovely, colorful place.

Davao People’s Park – Palma Gil Street, Davao City

Open daily from 5AM to 11AM | 1PM to 9PM

> See full blog post of People’s Park here .

Davao Coastal Road

One of the best latest developments in Davao City is the construction of the Davao Coastal Road.

Thanks to former President Duterte’s Build Build Build Program.

This coastal road project is a 17.352 stretch highway that starts at Bago in the South side of Davao.

It then traverses to Matina Aplaya, Roxas Avenue, Sta. Ana wharf up to R. Castillo Avenue in the north side of Davao.

This coastal road is not just an ordinary highway but it also serves as coastal shore protection from sea waves action, water surges and shore erosion.

The Bago junction has a parking space for visitors, an esplanade, and a park for the people to enjoy.

What to do : The coastal road is not yet open to public transportation as the whole project is not done yet. However, it is open to public and you can do walking, jogging, biking, exercising and skating in the Bago junction of the coastal road.

Moreover, you can just relax and enjoy the city views and feel the cool sea breeze at this coastal road.

Bago, Davao City

Magsaysay Park

This park is built in honor of the 7th president of the Philippines Ramon Magsaysay, hence the name. It has a life-size monument of President Ramon Magsaysay. It is one of the oldest parks in the beautiful City of Davao.

This park has trees and benches where you can relax and chitchat with friends. It also has a skating rink where you can enjoy and have fun with your family and friends.

Since this park is located along the seashore and fronting Samal Island, you can chillax here in the afternoon and enjoy the nice breeze from the ocean.

What to do : Aside from skating, you can do picnics and enjoy the sea view at this park.

You can also visit the  Kadayawan Tribal Village  at this park. Check out the different tribe’s house designs and learn about the 11 tribes in Davao City.

Moreover, you can have your fill of durian and different fruits that are abundant in Davao City which you can just buy from the fruit stands located at the Magsaysay Park entrance.

Ramon Magsaysay Avenue, Davao City

San Pedro Cathedral

San Pedro Cathedral is named after the patron saint of Davao Saint Peter or San Pedro. The original structures of San Pedro Cathedral was built by Spanish conquestador Don Jose Uyanguren in 1847.

The San Pedro Cathedral is an important historical landmark that witness the progress of Davao.

It is located along San Pedro Street, one of the oldest streets in Davao City.

What to Do : Say a prayer or even join a Holy mass in this cathedral. If you are not a Catholic, you can simply visit the nearby Osmeña Park and the Davao City Hall which is just across this church.

San Pedro corner S.M. Recto Streets, Davao City

Shrine of the Holy Infant Jesus

Shrine of the Holy Infant of Jesus of Prague or simply known by the people of Davao as Matina Sto. Niño Shrine is located along the Shrine Hills, Matina Davao City.

Many devotees go to this church to say a prayer. Moreover, many board exam takers pray to the Sto. Niño for the successful passing of their exam.

The wide field in this shrine is great for chit chatting and bonding. There are also seating areas for relaxing.

What to do : Join a holy mass as there are scheduled masses in this shrine. Say a prayer to the Holy Infant Jesus. There are many prayer areas in this shrine.

Buy some souvenir in the souvenir shops and food in the canteen.

Shrine of the Holy Infant of Jesus of Prague

Broadcast Avenue, Shrine Hills, Matina Davao City

Shopping in Davao City

There are numerous shopping centers in Davao like several malls and markets.

However, for this list we are including the ones that you can find souvenirs and affordable deals.

Davao Chinatown

Unknown to many, Davao has the biggest Chinatown in the Philippines in terms of land area at 44 hectares. The place is the main residential and commercial area of Chinese-Filipino community in the City.

This place has lots of business establishments like restaurants, malls, banks and fruit stands.

This is also the place where a lot of business owners in neighboring places in Davao region source out their goods. Many of the stores here offer wholesale and retail prices of their products.

What to do : Eat out with family and friends at restaurants that offer Chinese cuisine like Davao Famous Restaurant and Shanghai Restaurant.

You can also buy a lot of things here at a lower price.

Ramon Magsaysay Avenue and neighboring streets, Davao City

Poblacion Market Central

Poblacion Market is the newest place that houses souvenir shops, foods stalls, money changers, ready to wear goods and native products in Davao.

This place is where the former Aldevinco Shopping Center stores transfer as the area of Aldevinco will be transformed into a high-rise building.

What to do : You can shop for Davao souvenir items in this place. You may also dine out with family and friends.

C. Bangoy Street (former Madrazo Fruit Stand), Davao City

Roxas Night Market

Roxas Night Market is perfect place if you are craving for street foods. Different stalls sell different kinds of foods.

You can find here pork and chicken barbecue, fried and grilled innards, ice cream stalls, and even seafoods.

You can also find here used and surplus  “ukay-ukay”  goods.

What to do : Pick your favorite street foods or you may try out new ones.

You can also check out ukay-ukay goods that are affordable. Moreover, you can enjoy a good massage in this place.

Roxas Avenue, Davao City

Overlooking Places in Davao City

Davao City is a place with a mixed terrain of plains and mountains. With this, there are overlooking spots that you can visit in Davao City.

Eden Nature Park

Eden nature Park is a popular tourist destination in Davao. It is located at the highlands of Eden, Toril, Davao City.

It has a lovely balmy weather being situated in the mountains and elevated at approximately 3,000 feet above sea level.

There are a lot to explore and do in this 80-hectare mountain resort.

There are numerous amenities in this park. They have function rooms for seminars and events. They have also guesthouses, lodge, villa and cabin for guests who will stay overnight at the place.

What to do : Have a tour of the entire place and marvel the beauty of God’s creation.

Eat out at the Vista Restaurant where sumptuous meals are being served.

You may try out recreational activities in the area like riding a skyrider, skycycle, skyswing, skywheel, horseback riding, and Indiana Jones.

You can also go swimming at the pool.

Another exciting activity you can do in the area is to go fishing. Experience fun and joy in catching fish and eat what you catch.

You can catch tilapia, dory and catfish at the fishing village. Then have the staff cook your catch the way you want it cooked-pinaputok, grilled, fried or paksiw for a minimal fee.

Other than that, you can enjoy various attractions at Eden Nature park like the amphitheater, bird walk, deer park, flower garden, hiking trail, Lola’s garden, playground and hydroponics garden.

Moreover, they have also a butterfly garden, Tinubdan, a village that showcase Mindanaoan culture, and bamboo maze.

What to do: Have fun with the Indiana Jones at this park. Go swimming at the pool or you may go fishing and have it cooked for you.

You may try the various rides like sky wheel, sky swing and sky cycle.

Or simply roam around the area and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Eden Nature Park and Resort

Barangay Eden, Toril, Davao City

Day Tour contact number: (082) 286 0383 |Front Office contact number: (082) 286 0385

Business Hours: Monday to Sunday | 9AM – 5PM

Jack’s ridge Resort and Restaurant

Jacks ridge is an overlooking restaurant and resort that is located at Matina Shrine Hills, Davao City. You can enjoy delicious Filipino foods at the restaurant or go swimming at the swimming pool.

This place is great because it is just near the city center and is easily accessible via commute or private vehicle.

What to do : Enjoy the lovely vista of the Davao City and the mountains as well as the ocean and Samal Island. Eat out at the restaurant while enjoying a band playing at Taklobo restaurant.

You may also go swimming if that is what you prefer.

Jacks Ridge

Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City

Contact Number: (082) 297.8830

There are various museums that you can visit in Davao City. Check out some of them.

Davao Museum

Davao Museum showcased history and ethnography of Davao. You will learn the culture of the Indigenous people and  lumads  of Davao region.

This museum is located at Insular Village, Lanang, Davao City.

What to do : Learn the culture of the people of Davao especially the indigenous and different tribes in Davao.

Be amazed by the costumes and other instruments and things that were used in the olden times by these indigenous peoples.

Davao Museum of Culture and Ethnography

Insular Village, Lanang, Davao City

The Bone Collector Museum

The Bone collector museum is a great place to visit. You will find here display of bones of animals of different species from around the world.

Founded by Darell Blatchey, the museum has now approximately 700 specimens of bones.

Family Circus Compound, Barangay 76-A Bucana Blvd (San Pedro Ext), Davao City +63-919-624-0744

Farms and Resorts

There are a number of farms and resorts that are interesting and lovely to see. Do check them out.

Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum

Malagos Garden Resort is known for its world-class chocolate. More than their chololate, this agro-ecotourism park has various amenities that you and your family and friends can enjoy.

They have a restaurant where you can enjoy fresh and delicious foods. You can hold events and celebrations at their place like birthdays, weddings and even pre-nuptial pictorials.

They have rooms available if you want staycation or you intend to stay overnight.

What to do : Eat out at the restaurant that serves sumptuous meals.

You may also try your hand at making chocolate at the chocolate museum. Or simply chill and relax and be one with nature.

Davao Crocodile Park

Davao Crocodile Park and Zoo  is a resort where you can meet freshwater crocodiles of various sizes. Aside from crocodiles, you can also see tigers, snakes, ostrich, and other rare animals at their zoo.

What to do : You do crocodile feeding, ostrich and koi feeding. You can also watch their schedules show and be amazed with the different animals’ performance.

Moreover, you may try to eat out at their restaurant and try some exotic foods like crocodile ice cream.

Philippine Eagle Center

Do you want to meet and greet the Philippines’ National bird? You can find them here at Philippine Eagle Center in Davao City.

The place is an 8.4 hectare in size and is located at Malagos, Baguio District, Davao City. It is a breeding facility of the endangered Philippine Eagle and other birds.

What to do : Check out the Philippine Eagle that are being taken cared of at this place.

Enjoy the flowers and trees in the area and have a delightful tour at the place.

Malagos, Baguio Disctrict, Davao City

Do you love adventure? Do you have the tenacity and adrenaline to conquer the highest mountain of the Philippines?

If yes, prepare yourself for an exciting yet precarious trek and climb to Mt. Apo.

There are various jump-off site to climb Mt. Apo. You can go via Kapatagan trail, Bansalan or Kidapawan.

What to do : Have an experience of your lifetime by trekking the trail and finally conquer Mt. Apo.

Experience how it is to sleep in tents atop the crater of the mountain.

Gap Farm is a old resort and educational park where you can see the huge writing on its mountain “Land of Promise” referring to Mindanao.

It has swimming pool, statues of animals and tunnel.

What to do : Have a picnic at the wide area of this farm resort. You can also dine at their restaurant that serve delicious foods.

Diversion Road, Maa, Davao City

Tamayong Prayer Mountain

Do you want to go to a tranquil and lovely place that seems to be a paradise on earth? This place is for you.

The Tamayong Prayer Mountain also known as the Garden of Eden Restored is located at Tamayong, Calinan, Davao City.

The place has well manicured plants and pocket gardens, it is indeed a paradise you will experience.

This 8-hectare prayer mountain is owned by Pastor Apollo Quiboloy.

What to do : Take lots of picture in this place of paradise, relax and marvel God’s creation. Meditate if need be.

Enjoy this chilly and lovely place.

Japanese Tunnel

The Japanese Tunnel Family Resort and Restaurant is a resort perfect for family and friends. It has function rooms for events and it has rooms for overnight stays.

It has a swimming pool and a restaurant for you to dine.

The tunnel at this resort brings you back during the Japanese era. It was excavated by Filipino prisoners of war which was supervised by Japanese Imperial era in 1942-1944.

What to do : Explore the tunnel and be transported to the time of Japanese occupation in the Philippines.

Dine out at the restaurant and take a dip at the pool.

The Japanese Tunnel Family Resort and Restaurant

Tahimik Avenue, C.P. Garcia Highway, Davao City

Contact Number: 0905 265 1956

Planning to visit Davao and explore various attractions? Check flights via  12go here . If you need car rentals, you can book  here .

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Davao Travel Guide: Top 20 Best Davao Tourist Spots & Things to Do

What are the best Davao tourist spots to visit, aside from the famous Samal Island? Find out more in this article.

Davao City is one of the few places in the Philippines which offer a mix of natural, historical, and cultural attractions. In just a day, you’ll discover a lot of interesting sights here and learn much about its rich culture and history.

Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Davao City surely beams for its famous Durian or as a home to the Philippine Monkey-Eating Eagle. There are also tons of unusual and fun-filled activities to do here.

Without further ado, here are some of the tourist spots in Davao City. Take note. Most of the attractions included in this article relate to environmental preservation and cultural promotion. Some of which, are off-beaten destinations.

Here we go.

1. Philippine Eagle Centre

If you are looking for a rustic experience near the city center, this is the perfect place for you.

The center provides a safe refuge for the country’s national bird, the Philippine Monkey-Eating Eagle. It is a critically endangered species with less than 400 pairs left in the wild.

The sanctuary has around 36 eagles, 10 other bird species, 4 species of mammals, and 2 reptile species including huge snakes.

When you visit here, you’ll not only appreciate nature and its wildlife. You also contribute to the saving of the Philippine Eagles. Every penny you give helps in the protection and conservation of these rare and endangered birds.

The entrance fee here is Php 250. You can add more if you want to help fund the conservation of these majestic eagles.

The center is one of the top tourist spots in Davao City.

2. Roxas Avenue Night Market

Come and experience various culinary specialties of Davao here at the Roxas Night Market. If you’re looking for budget-friendly clothes or souvenir items, don’t worry. You can find them all right here.

Stroll along with the market and prepare to savor fresh and cooked seafood such as tuna and squids. Experience fresh Durian treats or you can try Durian shakes at a relatively cheaper price.

If you like something different, they have charcoal ice cream and different butchi flavors.

The market opens at 6 am and ends at midnight.

If you are fond of local cuisine, this is among where to eat in Davao.

3. Samal Island

This one piece of tropical paradise is just a 15-minute of boat ride away from Davao City. Enjoy a ride around the island and drop by one of the numerous white, pristine beaches.

As you gaze at the crystal-clear blue waters, you can’t help but take a plunge and enjoy a refreshing swim.

There is a cave on the island where you can find millions of bats. Thankfully, these are protected and allow the local community to earn through ecotourism.

The island is also home to the biggest clams in the world. These are grown in a nursery, helping boost the conservation of these endangered species.

The island is one of the most beautiful Davao tourist spots.

4. Crocodile Park

Davao City may not only be the Durian Capital of the Philippines. It is also the land of crocodiles. Located just within the city proper, the Crocodile Park hosts thousands of crocodiles, both saltwater and freshwater species.

These crocodiles are bred and born on site. There is an incubator room where you’ll find hundreds of crocodile eggs and hatchlings. You’ll walk along the life cycle of a crocodile while you are here.

Visiting this park will also give you the realization that crocodiles are creatures to appreciate, instead of to fear.

Aside from the crocodiles, the park also homes different wildlife species such as monkeys, snakes, birds, and other reptile species. This is a great spot to visit if you want to learn about the importance of conserving wildlife.

The park sits near the Riverfront Hotel along the Corporate City Diversion Highway in Ma-a, Davao City. It is included in the Davao tour packages.

5. People’s Park Davao City

If you are looking to commune with nature, you don’t have to go far. Within the city proper, the People’s Park gives you that feeling like you are in the wilderness.

Established in 2007, the park covers 4 acres and contains a beautiful rainforest, man-made pools, cascading waterfalls, and some of the Philippine Monkey-Eating Eagles.

Feeding the pigeons is another adorable activity you can do here. You can also jog around the colorfully-paved paths, or join a public Zumba class every Sunday at 6 am.

There is just nothing like it when nature gives you a space to breathe and relax amidst a sprawling urban metropolis.

6. Magsaysay Fruit Stand

Just along a local highway, this is one of the best sites to buy the famous fruits of Davao City such as Durian, mangosteen, marang, and rambutan. You’ll have dizzying options but the good thing, is you can be sure that the fruits are of good and fresh quality.

Different fruits treat such as candies, jams, and crackers are also available here.

If you feel hungry after haggling across the stalls, there is the nearby Fishcado, an open-air seafood resto that offers various seafood specialties. Don’t forget to try the famous tuna here.

During the late afternoon, more and more food stalls and snack carts open and come streaming in, creating a paradise of street foods. You’ll surely feel like you are in Bangkok.

7. Jack’s Ridge

Coming here would give you a full bird’s eye view of Davao City, both during the night and day. It’s a great place to unwind and relax because of the abundance of trees and flowers. The landscapes here are also a sight to see.

Aside from the views, you can dine in two restaurants here. The first is Karlo’s Gourmet which serves brewed coffee and baked delicacies. The other option is Taklobo which offers an open-air dining area where you can immerse in sumptuous Filipino meals.

Also, you can spend an overnight in one of the cottages next to a pool. Catch sight of a beautiful sunrise the following morning.

Jack’s Ridge has also historical tales to tell. During World War II, the retreating Japanese used it as a headquarter because of its strategic location.

You can read about all these at Jack Ridge’s Monument. The ridge is one of the famous tourist spots in Davao City.

8. Davao City Butterfly House

Just like the Philippine Eagle Center, this is also a sanctuary within the city. It serves as a refuge for various species of butterflies, plants, and ornamentals, including exotic animal and insect species such as fish, birds, scorpions, and a lot more.

Experience trailing along with towering trees, relaxing grass, and colorful flowers as you tour around the sanctuary.

It is best to come here during the morning because the butterflies are most active during this time of the day. You can find their dating, mating, and dancing. You’ll surely catch a lot of photographic memories.

9. Davao Museum

If you love to learn about local culture and history, then do visit the Davao Museum. Here, you’ll find an extensive collection of artwork and memorabilia, showcasing the culture of the different indigenous peoples (IPs) of Mindanao such as the Manobo tribes. As you tour around, the more you’ll get into a fascination with such varied and beautiful cultures.

The museum also contains historical maps of Mindanao, centuries-old artifacts, modern paintings, and hand-carved artifacts. Each of these has an interesting story to tell. So don’t forget to ask your guide for stories.

Photography is prohibited here. The showcased materials are merely for your eyes only. Do respect that.

By the way, the museum is included in the Davao city tour package.

10. Mt. Apo

The King of the Philippine Mountains, Mt. Apo rises to more than 3,144 meters above sea level, making it the highest in the country. It is a premium mountaineering destination, attracting hundreds of both local and foreign hikers.

The number of hikers is limited to protect the mountain and the tours are organized to ensure compliance and safety.

Near the peak of the mountain, there is a 500-meter-wide crater lake where you can rest for a while or even camp as you enjoy the serene environment. For the Manobo tribes, the mountain is sacred. They believe that it is where one of the local gods resides.

To get to Mt. Apo’s summit, you’ll need to hike for hours/days along with grasslands, dipterocarp forests, and mossy forests.

While atop, you can catch a breathtaking view of the lowland farms, cities, towns, and other towering peaks of Mindanao. You’re even luckier if you chance on a stunning sea of cloud formations.

The mountain is also a haven for the critically-endangered Philippine monkey-eating eagle and numerous other species. Tracks of wild deer and boar can also be seen.

11. Tudaya Falls

Tudaya falls ranks as one of the highest falls in Davao, measuring more than 100 meters high. It drops like a bridal veil on the face of a massive cliff towards a beautiful pool. It is also one of the most popular in Mindanao and is frequented by both local and foreign hikers.

It may take hours of a hike along jungle trails to reach Tudaya falls. But the reward you get is superb. The trail itself communes you with nature and you’ll feel refreshed and invigorated. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch sight of endemic flora and fauna such as different species of birds and beautiful orchids and flowers.

Once you reach the falls, you can’t help but take a plunge in the crystal-clear waters. There’s more. The waters emanate from mossy forests upstream and it’s refreshingly cold!

If you’re not into swimming, you can just gaze at the falls, meditate, and feel your worries away with the caressing mists.

12. Eden Nature Park

When planning your Davao city tour itinerary, don’t forget Eden Nature Park.

Nestled at the foot of majestic Mt. Talomo, Eden Nature Park is a man-made park covering 80 hectares. It features thousands of forest trees and pine trees, most of which are introduced species to the area. You can also spot exotic wildlife species such as birds, flowers, and numerous kinds of insects.

This is a perfect getaway if you’re looking for a nature immersion without the need for extensive hiking. You’re on a relaxed pace here. Stroll around and smell the pine-scented breeze, giving you a mystifying and healing experience.

The park also offers a 45-minute shuttle tour to some of its best spots.

13. Museo Dabawenyo

Just like the Davao Museum, Museo Dabawenyo showcases the rich culture and history of the locals of Davao and neighboring provinces. Here, you can find various artworks, informational monuments, and historic photos.

The Museo Dabawenyo also contains four major galleries.

·         Indigenous People’s Gallery – houses various materials of the different Lumad tribes such as native house replicas, bamboo and bronze instruments, and native-style weapons

·         Contemporary Gallery – showcases traditional Filipino fashion, mostly leased with a cultural touch

·         Memorabilia Gallery – presents Filipino old bills, musical notes, and clothes

·         Moro People’s Gallery – displays the antiques of the Muslim people such as lamps, chairs, armors, and royal crowns

14. Mt. Talomo

Mt. Talomo stands adjacent to Mt. Apo. It also ranks as one of the top ten highest peaks in the Philippines. Many hikers take the Mt. Talomo to Mt. Apo traverse route to experience a more extreme adventure.

This traverse is one of the most difficult in the Philippines and would take days to complete.

Just like Mt. Apo, Mt. Talomo is rich in biodiversity, although many species are threatened with extinction. Much of the lower patches of the mountain have already been cleared for agriculture and logging.

There is then the need to set up and enforce conservation measures to protect Mt. Talomo.

Mt. Talomo also features beautiful mossy forests, huge dipterocarp trees, and views of stunning sunrise and sea of cloud formations.

Along the lower slopes of Mt. Talomo, one can find cascading waterfalls with pristine waters. This is one of the most pristine tourist spots in Davao City.

15. D’Bone Collector Museum

There is such a museum in Davao City!

It has an extensive collection of skeletal bones from various animal species. The highlight of which, is the skeleton of a 41-feet Sperm Whale, an endangered species.

The bones represent species from different stages and in varied environments.

An American missionary established the museum in 2012. Every year, the collection grows. That means you’ll discover and learn something new every time you visit.

So don’t hesitate to ask questions from the curator and listen intently to his/her stories.

16. Philippine-Japanese Historical Museum

Davao City served as a strategic base for the Japanese during World War II. The museum, therefore, chronicles the different happenings during this period. Here, you will find a camera, beddings, trinkets, and many other materials the Japanese used during the war.

There are also retrieved relics such as guns, ammunition, and army clothing. You’ll also see replicas of the living quarters of the Japanese during the war and until the time, they worked on abaca plantations.

This is a must-see Davao City attraction if you want to learn more about the Japanese’ conquest and retreat. It is one of the historical tourist spots in Davao City.

17. Malagos Garden Resort

This is one of the most visited tourist spots in Davao City.

The resort covers around 12 hectares and provides a perfect respite away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Experience magical moments with nature here especially during the early morning when the mists waft around. The sunrise view is also spectacular. Stroll around and catch sight of beautiful flowers and refreshing trees.

To get here, you need to take 30-45 minutes of ride from the city proper. It is around 32 kilometers away from the Davao International Airport. Getting here is easy and you can just ask around for directions.

You may also access their website to know more about arrangements and other basic information.

18. Japanese Tunnel

Carved along the slopes of Matina Balusong, this tunnel was built by Prisoners of War during World War II. It served as a hide-out and escape route for the Japanese. They also used this to transport military supplies while mobilizing their forces against the invading American forces.

You may feel a bit eerie coming here given the casualties and brutalities. But, you’ll learn a lot about history as well as important lessons about wars. Therefore, if you are historical savvy, this should make up for your Davao tourist spots itinerary.

19. Blue Post’s Boiling Crab and Seafood

If you want to experience seafood royalty, then do visit this favorite seafood spot in Davao City. But be prepared to get messy and make your hands dirty.

Here, you eat with your bare hands like you are in a boodle fight. You have a wide range of seafood options to choose from – tuna belly and muscles, crab, clams, and many more.

These are placed in a large plastic bag filled with mouthwatering sauces and hunks of corn. Once you hit your order, these are then laid out on your table, ready for a sumptuous feast.

You’ll miss a lot from your Davao tour if you don’t try this seafood hub. After all, it is one of the premium culinary tourist spots in Davao City.

20. Sicao Falls

Davao City is home to numerous waterfalls. Some are just around the corners while a lot remains hidden on pristine sites. One of these is Sicao Falls, named after a local Lumad datu (chieftain).

To get here, one needs to hike for 4-5 hours from Purok 6, Tamayong which is the nearest jump-off point. There is a designated camping site where hikers usually stay before chasing the falls the following morning.

Along the trail, nature’s surprises wait. Just make sure you get your eyes or camera-ready, otherwise, you’ll miss some natural shows.

But no worries, the grandeur and sheer beauty of the waterfall are enough to make your long trek exceedingly worth it!

Sicao Falls is one of the most challenging tourist spots in Davao City.

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Hi there fellow traveler! My name is Daniel although you can call me Kumafor. That's my indigenous name. I grew on a remote village called Lias in Barlig, Mountain Province.

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• Destinations

10 BEST Places to Visit in Davao (2020)

Davao may not be the most popular tourist destination in the Philippines, but for those who visit, they sure get a great experience. It offers an authentic insight into the Philippines, as there are less expensive tours and western restaurants than other parts of the country. All of that, and you’ve got the stunning Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines looming over the city!

Davao isn’t just an exciting destination to visit for the city and its surroundings. It’s also the gateway to some of the country’s most beautiful islands! So, when you’ve had enough of the hustle and bustle, you can just take a boat to turquoise waters and white sand beaches! 

If you’re reading this, you’re probably trying to come up with a Davao itinerary. Well, let us help you! Our expert travel writers have found ten of the best and most fun activities you can do in Davao. We’ve found a wide range of activities, taking budget and travel style into account. Not only that, but we’ve included some of the best places to stay in Davao too!

So, let’s take a closer look at the best things to do in Davao!

Best Places to Stay in Davao

Travelling to Davao? You’ll need somewhere to stay. We’ve scoured the city for the best places to stay and come up with the following three. Each one suits a different budget and travel style, so there should be one that’s perfect for you! 

Best Hostel in Davao: Napsule Suites

Best Budget Hotel in Davao: Sharana Pensionne

Best Hotel in Davao: The Bourke Hotel

These are the Best Places to Visit in Davao!

#1 – mount apo, a beautiful and scenic place to check out in davao.

• The highest mountain in the Philippines
• Look out for wild boar and deer
• Best times to climb are March, April, and October
• Take a tour to the top

Why it’s awesome: If you can say you’ve climbed the highest mountain in the Philippines, that’s pretty impressive! One of the highest mountains in South East Asia, Mount Apo stands at more than 3,000 metres above sea level – that’s over 10,000 feet! If you want to climb to the top, the best times are March, April, and October and a hike will take around two days. There are various tour companies in Davao that you can organise this with! The Kidapawan-Magpet trail is the easiest, but there are many others, with varying difficulty depending on previous experience. 

What to do there: Getting to the summit of Mount Apo is the aim of many hikers, but it’s not just the top that’s impressive! Yes, those views across Davao and the surrounding areas will take your breath away, but take some time to appreciate the volcanic crater lake at the summit. It’s 500 metres across! On the climb up, look out for flora and fauna – there are several species of amphibians, birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects that call the area around the mountain home. Look out for wild boar, deer, and the country’s national bird – the Philippine eagle!

#2 – Davao Crocodile Park

Awesome place to visit in davao with kids.

• Home to thousands of freshwater and saltwater crocodiles
• Educational Tours of the site
• Does lots of conservation work
• Lots more animals

Why it’s awesome: Now, a crocodile park may sound a little bit sketchy in terms of animal cruelty. However, Davao Crocodile Park is responsibly run and has the most modern equipment and facilities. It’s home to thousands of freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, so just make sure you don’t fall into one of the enclosures! There are several other animals on-site too, including birds of prey, snakes, and orang-utans. If you’re looking for places to visit in Davao with the family, then look no further than the Crocodile Park! 

What to do there: There are lots of things to keep you entertained if you decide to visit Davao Crocodile Park. Not only will you see a huge range of animals, you’ll be able to learn about them too. As well as the Save the Species show, you can visit the butterfly house, feed and pet the animals (under the watchful eye of a trainer) and there’s even a fire dance show. No animals involved in this! There are educational tours and lectures too which promote conservation and public awareness! 

#3 – D’Bone Collector Museum

One of the more unique places to visit in davao.

• More than 200 preserved skeletons
• One of Davao’s more unusual museums
• See the remains of a 41-foot sperm whale! 
• Great if you’re on a budget

Why it’s awesome: Davao has a lot of very interesting, but D’Bone Collector has to be the most unusual. Open in 2012 by an American missionary, Darrell D. Blatchley, it aims to educate people to take care of the environment around them. As well as the star attraction at the museum, a 41-foot sperm whale, there are skeletons and skulls of lions, monkeys, horses, and all sorts of other animals – some of which are from the Philippines but others from all around the world! 

What to do there: While D’Bone Collector Museum is one of the coolest and most unusual things to do in Davao, it’s only a small museum and visiting won’t take too much of your time. However, it’s interesting for all ages, and kids will particularly love it. It’s in the Family Circus Compound in Barangay. The museum has a very cheap entry price, so it’s good for families who are on a budget! Also in the Family Circus, you’ll find a coffee shop so you can pause for a minute after looking around this fascinating museum!

#4 – Roxas Avenue Night Market

A must-see for foodies in davao.

• Lots of stalls selling traditional Filipino food
• Seafoods, soups, meats, and veg!
• Popular with locals and tourists alike
• Great for picking up souvenirs

Why it’s awesome: Who doesn’t love a night market?! A chance to get cheap souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home, but even more importantly – a great place to try local food! The first half of this kilometre long market specialises in street food. Starting at the Marco Polo Hotel, you can enjoy Filipino soups, meat on sticks, and refreshing non-alcoholic cocktails! As well as the food stalls, there are several clothes stores. Roxas Avenue Night market runs every day from 6pm ’til midnight. Another place to check out in Davao if you love shopping is the Abreeza Mall! 

What to do there: Shop ’til you drop, then eat ’til you’re full! Roxas Avenue Night Market is one of the best places in Davao to relax and unwind. Although it’s open every night, the best time to come is the weekend – as the atmosphere is buzzing! We’d suggest getting the shopping out of the way first then picking and mixing from the food stalls. Once you’re happy with what you’ve got, find somewhere to enjoy your meal! It’s best to bring as little as possible with you when it comes to bags – they’ll be checked at the entrance as security is tight! 

#5 – Philippine Eagle Centre

A fascinating educational place to visit in davao.

• The number one attraction in Davao on Trip Advisor
• See the national bird of the Philippines
• Lots of endemic Filipino wildlife
• Admission fees go towards eagle conservation and education

Why it’s awesome: You don’t just have to take our word that the Philippine Eagle Centre is awesome, thousands of travellers have voted it as the top attraction in Davao! This conservation area first and foremost looks after the Philippine Eagle, one of the largest birds of prey in the world. However, there are lots of other animals on-site too. From snakes, to monkeys, to endangered plants species, you can everything you’d see in a tropical rainforest here! 

What to do there: Learn about wildlife from all across the Philippines. The centre is more than just a tourist attraction, the centre reinvests all the money it makes into conservation and protection of the country’s wildlife. As well as getting up close and personal with animals, guests can visit the audio-visual room documentary films by wildlife videographers are on show! And make sure that you exit through the gift shop. Here, you can get mementoes of your day and support conservation, research, and education programmes at the same time! 

#6 – People’s Park

A perfect place to visit in davao if you’re on a budget.

• Enter through the Durian Dome
• Cultural theme park dedicated to the Filipino people
• Public Zumba classes every Sunday at 6am
• Make sure to check out the colourful indigenous sculptures

Why it’s awesome: One of the most expensive public parks in the Philippines, this cultural theme park was opened in 2007 by the mayor of Davao City, Rodrigo Duterte. He’s now the country’s president. It covers four acres and is packed with things to see and do. You’ll enter through the durian dome, modelled on the smelly and spiky fruit, before being welcome to explore rainforests, man-made waterfalls, and ponds. Between them, you’ll see several colourful indigenous sculptures which are really beautiful. If you’re really lucky, you may even see a Philippine eagle soaring overhead!

What to do there: The beauty of the People’s Park is that there’s so much to do, no matter your age or fitness level. You can be at one with nature without leaving the metropolis of Davao. Sit on a bench and feed the pigeons, take a wander through the tropical rainforest, or get your binoculars out to take a closer look at those wild eagles. If you’re feeling full of energy, set your alarm early and come to the Zumba class at 6am on a Sunday. It’s a chance to get fit and meet lots of locals! 

#7 – San Pedro Cathedral

One of the best religious places to see in davao.

• A recognised National Cultural Treasure
• Modern design resembles a stadium
• The oldest church in Davao City
• Daily Mass held in English

Why it’s awesome: When looking at San Pedro Cathedral, you might find it hard to believe that it’s the oldest church in Davao City. However, it has been reconstructed since the original structure was built by Spanish settlers in 1847. The cathedral doesn’t look like a traditional church, it’s more like a stadium. This is because it is modelled on the prow of a vinta, a traditional boat fro the island of Mindanao. San Pedro Cathedral is a recognised cultural treasure and is named after the patron saint of Davao.

What to do there: Even if you’re not religious, San Pedro Cathedral is still worth a visit. It’s one of the more unusual religious buildings, thanks to its unique architecture. Head inside to see the original carvings of saints and the old altar, both of which were present before the renovation of the church. If you want to attend mass, there’s a daily ceremony held at 12 midday in English. On the island, around 70% of the population identifies as Christian. 

Quick Note – Staying Safe in Davao

The Philippines is generally a safe country for travellers, but there are a few things you should look out for when you travel to Davao. The island of Mindanao has issues with terrorism, but they are rarely in Davao. However, because of this, you’ll be patted down when entering the mall. Otherwise, most things to be wary of are generally common sense issues. Keep your personal belongings out of sight whenever possible, and don’t walk around on your own after dark if it can be avoided!

Smoking is illegal in public places in Davao. So, a cheeky cig in any public facility, even a park, is likely to be met with a fine. If you get caught multiple times, you might face a jail sentence. So, save a cigarette until you’re back at your accommodation!

Don’t forget to sort your travel insurance! We’ve put together a roundup of the best travel insurance for backpackers. If you’re low on time, get a quote from World Nomads now , our favourite travel insurance provider.

#8 – Jack’s Ridge

One of the nicer places in davao to sightsee.

• Spectacular views across the city
• Two restaurants for a delicious dinner
• Learn about the Japanese retreat at the Jack’s Ridge Monument
• Come here for sunrise if you can!

Why it’s awesome: Earlier on, we mentioned Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines as one of the best places to visit in Davao. And while we stand by that, we understand that climbing a mountain isn’t for everyone! However, if you want sublime views of the city and a challenging hike, why not try Jack’s Ridge? You won’t have to dedicate nearly as much time to this, yet you’ll still be treated to awesome panoramic views. What’s more, in this public park there are two restaurants on the ridge, so you may even make this into a romantic walk if you’re travelling with your other half. There are even a couple of places to stay! 

What to do there: What to do at Jack’s Ridge depends on the time that you’re visiting. Want the best photos? Considering coming at sunrise. Fancy a lie-in? Any other time of the day is bound to be pretty too. It’s most popular at sunset, so while you’ll get awesome views you might find it harder to get a table at one of the restaurants, or a spot to take a photo from. Jack’s Ridge was the headquarters for the Japanese forces during World War 2, and you can learn about that at the monument up here! 

#9 – Talikud Island

A very cool place in davao to go for a day.

• See some of the island’s 
• Snorkel and scuba to see the beautiful beach
• Check out one of the beach resorts

Why it’s awesome: Okay, so we said that Davao was the gateway to some of the prettiest islands in the Philippines. So it wouldn’t be fair if we didn’t include at least one on our list! At just two hours from Davao City, we’ve decided to go for Talikud Island (although there are many more well worth of your time). As well as some awesome beach resorts, it has some impossibly pretty white sand beaches that turquoise waters lap against! 

What to do there: It depends how long you have to spend on Talikud Island. We’d definitely recommend an overnight stay if possible, but if not you can still see a lot in a day. A day pass for the Isla Reta beach resort means you can not only enjoy the pristine beaches, but make use of outdoor grills, volleyball courts, and picnic tables. If you want to experience the cool blue waters of the island, there are lots of coral reefs where you can snorkel or scuba dive. One of the most popular is Coral Garden Beach Resort. To see wildlife without getting wet, you could always visit the Dadatan Bat Conservation Park! 

#10 – Dahican Beach

One of the most incredible free places to go in davao.

• One of the most beautiful beaches on Mindanao
• Seven kilometres of white sands and turquoise waters
• Try surfing and boogie boarding
• Relax on a sun lounger and top up your tan!

Why it’s awesome: Let’s round off our list of the best places to visit in Davao with a little day trip. The region may be the gateway to some of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, but you don’t need to leave the mainland for a stunning and memorable beach experience! Dahican Beach isn’t in the city though – it’s 200km away. Good excuse for a day trip, right?! It’s well worth going the time and effort of getting here, as there are seven kilometres of sand awaiting your arrival! 

What to do there: Once you arrive in Dahican Beach, you have plenty of choices when it comes to things to do. It just depends on how adventurous you are! Once you’ve set your towel down on that pristine white sand, no one would blame you if you chose to just lay there and top up your tan (make sure you use lots of sunscreen). However, if you’ve come all that way you may as well take advantage of those turquoise waters. Rent a boogie board or a surfboard and run down to the waves. We’ll be right behind you!

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Final thoughts on the best places to visit in davao.

So, that’s everything on our list of the best things to do in Davao. We hope you’ve found it helpful! Davao is full of places to eat, friendly locals, and unique sites. It’s perfect for getting to know Filipino culture and visiting a place that sometimes skipped by tourists and travellers! 

Whether you want to chill out on a paradise island, hike to the peak of the highest mountain in the Philippines, or sample street food at a Filipino market, you won’t be bored in Davao! 

Now that we’ve helped you plan your trip to Davao, our work here is done. All that’s left is to wish you a safe and fun trip. We hope you have a great time!

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Davao Adventure: Your Guide to Uncovering the Most Spectacular Tourist Destinations in the Philippines

Plan your dream vacation in Davao City. Experience the thrill of mountain climbing, explore beautiful islands, and indulge in the city's warm hospitality.

Davao City, located in the southern part of the Philippines, boasts a rich and diverse natural environment that draws visitors worldwide. The city has several national parks, reserves, and protected areas, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

A Guide to Exploring Davao, Philippines

Are you planning a vacation in Davao, Philippines, but need help figuring out where to start? Look no further! Davao is a city that offers a plethora of exciting tourist spots and activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

This guide will provide the ultimate roadmap to exploring the best tourist spots in Davao, Philippines. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we've got you covered. So get ready to explore Davao, Philippines, and experience the beauty and culture of this fantastic city.

Discover the best tourist spots in Davao, Philippines, including the iconic Philippine Eagle Center, where you can witness the beauty of one of the giant eagles in the world. Then, immerse yourself in the city's rich culture and history at Museo Dabawenyo and explore the stunning beaches of Samal Island. This guide will also introduce you to lesser-known gems, such as the unique Japanese Tunnel and the adrenaline-pumping activities at Eden Nature Park. So get ready to explore Davao, Philippines, tourist spots, and make your next vacation memorable!

The Top Must-See Tourist Spots in Davao City

Looking for things to do in Davao City? Look no further! A bustling metropolis that offers a range of exciting tourist attractions in Davao City will surely leave you in awe. In this guide, we'll look at the top 10 best places to visit in Davao City so that you can make the most out of your trip to this beautiful city.

Mount Apo majestic mountain is the highest peak in the Philippines, standing at over 9,600 feet tall. Mount Apo is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers looking for a challenging climb, but the views from the summit are worth the effort. The mountain is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Philippine eagle.

Eden Nature Park

Eden Nature Park is a sprawling nature reserve that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park features lush gardens, pine forests, and a variety of outdoor activities, including zip-lining, trekking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy the park's butterfly garden, bird-watching area, and organic vegetable garden.

Philippine Eagle Center

Philippine Eagle Center is a world-renowned conservation facility dedicated to preserving and breeding the critically endangered Philippine eagle. The center features a variety of habitats, where visitors can see the eagles up close and learn about their habitat, behavior, and conservation efforts. The center also offers educational programs and exhibits about the importance of conservation.

Davao Crocodile Park

Davao Crocodile Park is a wildlife sanctuary and home to a variety of crocodiles, snakes, birds, and other exotic animals. Visitors can get up close and personal with these animals through guided tours and animal shows. The park also features a butterfly garden, a koi pond, and a variety of restaurants and souvenir shops.

People's Park

People’s Park is a beautifully landscaped park in the heart of the city and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park features a variety of sculptures, fountains, and other attractions, including a durian dome and a giant chessboard. Visitors can enjoy a stroll or picnic in the park's peaceful surroundings.

Samal Island

Samal island is just a short ferry ride away from the city and offers stunning beaches, waterfalls, and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and island hopping. The island is also home to a variety of resorts, restaurants, and bars.

Read more : Exploring the Best Tourist Spots in Baguio City, Philippines

Malagos Garden Resort

Malagos Garden Resort is a botanical garden and wildlife sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers. The resort features a variety of activities, including bird watching, chocolate-making, and garden tours. The resort is also home to several endangered species of birds, such as the Philippine eagle and the Mindanao bleeding-heart dove.

Lon Wa Buddhist Temple

Lon Wa Buddhist Temple is a stunning Buddhist temple featuring intricate architecture, beautiful gardens, and spectacular views of the city. Visitors can also learn about Buddhist teachings and practices through guided tours and educational exhibits. The temple is also a popular destination for meditation and spiritual retreats.

Davao City has a range of exciting tourist spots that will make your trip memorable. From wildlife conservation to cultural heritage, beaches to museums, there's something for everyone in Davao City. So pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to explore the best places to visit in Davao City.

Exploring the Natural Wonders of Davao

If you're a nature lover looking for adventure, Davao City is your perfect destination. With its stunning beaches, majestic waterfalls, and breathtaking islands, Davao City offers a wealth of natural wonders to explore.

Beaches near Davao City

The beaches around Davao City offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Some of the most popular beaches include Samal Island, a short ferry ride from the city. Samal Island is the most popular destination for beach lovers in Davao City. It offers a range of beaches with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and a variety of water sports such as kayaking and jet skiing.

Other famous beaches include Gumasa Beach in Sarangani, Dahican Beach in Mati, and Kaputian Beach in Samal Island.

Waterfalls near Davao City

Davao City is also known for its stunning waterfalls, with several cascading falls that offer a breathtaking view of nature's power and beauty. For example, Aliwagwag Falls in Cateel, Davao Oriental, is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Philippines, with 84 cascading falls that make for a mesmerizing sight. Other waterfalls worth visiting include Hagimit Falls, with its stunning natural pool, and Tudaya Falls, in the midst of a dense forest.

Islands around Davao City

Islands around Davao City offer an opportunity to explore the beauty of nature at its best, with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Besides Samal Island, Davao City is surrounded by other beautiful islands such as Talikud Island, Malipano Island, and Pearl Farm Beach Resort. These islands offer a range of activities, such as island hopping, snorkeling, and diving.

Davao City is a natural wonderland that offers a range of exciting destinations for nature lovers. So whether you're looking to relax on the beach, chase waterfalls, or explore the islands around Davao City, there's something for everyone. So pack your bags, get ready to explore the natural wonders of Davao City, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

The Best Activities for Adventure Seekers and Thrill-lovers in Davao

For adventure seekers and thrill-lovers, Davao City offers a variety of activities that will get your adrenaline pumping. From extreme sports to outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of things to do in and around the city.

One of the most popular adventure activities near Davao City is white water rafting on the Davao River. This activity is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of rushing through rapids while surrounded by beautiful scenery. Other popular adventure activities in Davao City include zip-lining, mountain biking, and trekking.

Davao City has plenty to offer for those who are into extreme sports. There are plenty of extreme sports near Davao City. Mount Apo, the highest peak in the Philippines, provides a challenging and rewarding climb for experienced mountaineers. The city is also known for its world-class wakeboarding and skateboarding facilities, with several parks and courses that cater to both beginners and professionals.

If you're looking for an adventure that's a little less extreme, there are plenty of other activities to choose from. For example, you can explore the city on a bike tour, go on a wildlife safari, or take a scenic hike through one of the many nature reserves and parks.

Davao City is a playground for adventure seekers and thrill lovers. Whether you're into extreme sports or outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone. So if you're looking to get your heart racing and experience the natural beauty of Davao City, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.

Read more : 15 Fun & Unique Things to do in Baguio

Alright, fellow adventurers and travel enthusiasts, it's time to wrap up our exciting journey through the wonders of Davao City!

Remember, when you're planning your next getaway, look no further than Traveloka! It's your one-stop platform for flight tickets, hotel bookings, and so much more!. Plus, don't forget the awesome Traveloka Xperience , where you can conveniently order attraction and activity tickets all in one place, right from your smartphone!.

So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the fantastic city of Davao!. Thank you for joining us on this adventure, and we can't wait to see you embark on your own Davao escapade with Traveloka!. Happy travels!

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Ideal duration: 1-2 days

Best Time: December - March

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"Metropolis of Mindanao and Cultural Diversity"

Davao city tourism.

Davao City is a vibrant destination in the Philippines for travelers seeking the perfect blend of urban luxuries and stunning natural beauty. Located on the southern island of Mindanao, this bustling city offers stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and plenty of opportunities for adventure. With its wide array of attractions, Davao City is a great place to explore and experience Filipino culture.

The city is home to several popular tourist spots, including the Philippine Eagle Center, a sanctuary for the endangered Philippine eagle, and People's Park, a large urban park featuring monuments, gardens, and sculptures. For nature lovers, the city is home to several national parks and reserves, including the Mt. Apo National Park, with its spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Davao City is also known for its lively nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy drinks, food, and live entertainment. Shopping is also a popular activity, with several malls, markets, and boutiques offering a wide variety of products. For an adrenaline rush, adventure seekers can try out the city's extreme sports activities, such as white-water rafting, paragliding, and zip-lining. Davao City is also a great spot for nature lovers, with its vast array of wildlife, including monkeys, snakes, and tropical birds. When planning a trip to Davao City, it is important to keep in mind that the city has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather year-round. It is also important to bring insect repellent when visiting the city, as mosquitoes are common. Regardless of the season, Davao City is a great destination for travelers of all ages, offering a range of attractions, activities, and experiences.

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1-Day Davao City Itinerary

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Table of contents

1-day itinerary, sm city davao.

Matina Town Square

People’s Park Davao

Roxas night market, gaisano mall of davao, davao riverfront crocodile park & zoo, where to eat, the good food co., pepper lunch - g mall, marina tuna sm lanang, vikings luxury buffet - sm lanang, top searches in davao city, popular road trips from davao city, what's the weather like in davao city.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Davao City for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Davao City in January
• Weather in Davao City in February
• Weather in Davao City in March
• Weather in Davao City in April
• Weather in Davao City in May
• Weather in Davao City in June
• Weather in Davao City in July
• Weather in Davao City in August
• Weather in Davao City in September
• Weather in Davao City in October
• Weather in Davao City in November
• Weather in Davao City in December

All road trips from Davao City

• Davao City to Cebu City drive
• Davao City to Manila drive
• Davao City to Malay drive
• Davao City to Loboc drive
• Davao City to Oslob drive
• Davao City to Baguio drive
• Davao City to Cagayan de Oro drive
• Davao City to Iligan drive
• Davao City to Tacloban drive
• Davao City to Bacolod drive
• Davao City to Makati drive
• Davao City to Dumaguete City drive
• Davao City to Quezon City drive

Explore nearby places

• Panabo City
• Valencia City

All related maps of Davao City

• Map of Davao City
• Map of Toril
• Map of Panabo City
• Map of Mabini
• Map of Digos City
• Map of Tagum City
• Map of Magpet
• Map of Kidapawan
• Map of Arakan
• Map of San Isidro
• Map of Maragusan
• Map of Mati
• Map of Columbio
• Map of Malita
• Map of New Bataan
• Map of Kabacan
• Map of Kitaotao
• Map of Carmen
• Map of Taocanga
• Map of Malungon
• Map of Manay
• Map of Maramag
• Map of Don Carlos
• Map of Koronadal
• Map of Tampakan
• Map of Awao
• Map of Tupi
• Map of Valencia City
• Map of Tacurong
• Map of Polomolok
• Map of Cateel

Davao City throughout the year

• Davao City in January
• Davao City in February
• Davao City in March
• Davao City in April
• Davao City in May
• Davao City in June
• Davao City in July
• Davao City in August
• Davao City in September
• Davao City in October
• Davao City in November
• Davao City in December

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10 Tourist Spots for Your DAVAO CITY ITINERARY

Davao City is one of the main gateways to Mindanao. Frequent flights from Manila and other major cities make it an accessible destination. It is a bustling and vibrant metropolis with plenty of dining, entertainment and accommodation options. It is also a possible jump-off point to the tallest mountain in the Philippines Mt. Apo, a handful of beach destinations, and other natural attractions in the region. The city itself also has plenty to offer travelers.

If you’re planning a trip, here are some of the things to do and attractions to include in your itinerary.

WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?

Philippine Eagle Center

If you want to see the majestic Philippine Eagle, this is the place to go. This sprawling conservation park has several eagles under its care and protection. They are doing their best to protect this endangered animal. You can take a leisurely stroll around the park to get away from the city’s frenetic lifestyle. Plus, you’d get to see this beautiful raptor that has a wingspan of up to 7 feet long! There are also other birds in the park for scientific and conservation purposes.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jayn Sy (@thejaynsy) on Dec 4, 2018 at 7:40pm PST

People’s Park

Amid the urban sprawl is People’s Park. This destination is a green space where you can take leisurely strolls, have a picnic, relax and admire the works of Kublai Millan. Take a break here in between or after visiting other attractions in the city.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 👸 J e a n (@nhaejie003) on Mar 29, 2019 at 10:28pm PDT

Roxas Night Market

After a day of exploring the city, hang out at the Roxas Night Market to enjoy and try street food. The stalls in the market offer a variety of fresh food and drinks to satisfy your hunger pangs.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by cytophytes (@itsphytes23) on Apr 26, 2019 at 5:37am PDT

Jack’s Ridge

After trying the night market, another hangout place to consider is Jack’s Ridge. The place not only provides dining options but also beautiful overlooking views of the city. Get a cold drink and try the local delicacies while here.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 이은주 (@m0623.s0825) on Aug 22, 2018 at 5:27am PDT

Museo Dabawenyo

If you want to learn more about the city’s heritage, this is the place to go. The museum has various exhibits showcasing the diverse cultures of the region. You’ll see replicas and relics of traditional homes and clothing, instruments, pictures, weapons, and other antiques. A trip here is an educational and enriching experience.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by M E I R A c u l o u s 📷 (@meighra.litratography) on Jan 13, 2018 at 5:56am PST

Eden Nature Park and Resort

This park is an ideal place to enjoy nature and get away from the city. It has gardens, a hydroponics section, a playground, and a hiking trail. Get fresh air, exercise or just go on relaxing walks. You can also enjoy other activities during your visit. Try the Skyrider, Skyswing, Skycycle, horseback-riding, and fishing. The resort is also a possible venue for photo shoots, honeymoons, and team-building activities. You have the option to spend a night or so in one of the many rooms.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mark Alexis Cadigal Toñacao (@mactonacao) on Jul 13, 2018 at 4:16am PDT

Climb Mt. Apo

Davao City is a gateway to Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the country. There are tour companies offering guide services and transport in the city. Stock up on food, camping essentials and other items you might need for the couple of days trek. There’s nothing more rewarding than conquering yourself (and the peak).

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Andrew Ricaro (@iamsuper_andoy) on Dec 4, 2018 at 4:01am PST

Rent an Island

If you have more than P100,000 to spare for one night, you and your friends or family can rent Island Buenavista. The island has a pristine white sand shore, turquoise, glass-like waters and an idyllic atmosphere for the perfect, isolated getaway. Laze on the beach, go swimming, sunbathe, play a few rounds of volleyball or Frisbee and forget your worries during your stay. The island can accommodate up to 10 people, and once you made a reservation, no one else can enter.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Island Buenavista (@islabuenavista) on Mar 29, 2019 at 4:02am PDT

Crocodile Park

This attraction is both a park and a farming system for crocodiles and other animals. You can also visit the Butterfly House and Tribu K’Mindanawan.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Zaira Morales (@zaimrls) on Aug 9, 2015 at 10:27pm PDT

Samal Island

Not exactly in Davao City but is close and easily accessible from it. The island has many attractions and things to do which makes it a worthy day or overnight trip from the metropolis. Laze on its beaches and swim in its clear waters. Go to Hagimit Falls to get a water massage under one of its cascades or douse the heat by going for a swim. Climb Mt. Puting Bato for bird’s eye views of the island. Go see some bats at the Monfort Bat Cave or enjoy the slide at Maxima Aquafun Resort. These are only some of the things you can do on the island.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Matador Network (@matadornetwork) on Dec 4, 2018 at 9:01am PST

Where to Stay in Davao City

The city has many accommodation options for budget travelers and those who have a bit more to spend. When choosing a place to stay, look for one near a mall or bus station. This makes it easy for you to explore the city or go on day trips. You can also choose a place near the attractions you want to visit. There are hotels and inns near Abreeza, Gaisano, SM, and People’s Park.

Here are the top hotels in Davao City as rated by Agoda users, in no particular order.

• Marco Polo Davao Hotel. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Seda Abreeza Davao. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• The Madeline Boutique Hotel and Suites. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Park Inn by Radisson Davao. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

For more options, search here: Davao City Hotels

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Jude The Tourist

Top 10 Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

• February 13, 2023

A guide to the top 10 Best Tourist Spots in Davao City – The Durian Capital of the Philippines.

An article written by: Roselle Faye S. Haban

10. Hike at Mt. Apo — The Highest Mountain in the Philippines

Visit Davao and be amazed by the amount of things waiting for you. Find the most popular things to do in this gorgeous province and what foods or drinks you should taste while visiting Davao by reading this blog.

A very popular tourist destinations of the Philippines is Davao City. Davao City is the perfect combination of both man-made and natural attractions. Davao International Airport makes it accessible from other destinations for tourists.

From beaches to parks and conservation centers for endangered animals to outdoor activities and a feast of delicious local food, top-quality Davao hotels and the famed Kadayawan Festival , Davao is a paradise with that offers you everything. Find out the best attractions and activities in Davao City that you must include on your bucket list.

The Davaoeños  from Davao City, just like the rest of Filipinos are warm and welcoming. They make visitors feel like they are at the home of their guests. They are so welcoming and friendly, especially when they realize that the person they’re talking is a new visitor or a tourist to the area. They are willing to provide directions and help to people who come to the city.

Things To Do In The Top 10 Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

1. discover samal island – best tourist spots in davao city.

Get away from the hum from the cities and go towards Samal Island. The island is often the preferred destination of those who travel to this region of the country. It is an excellent place for island-hopping in the Philippines. It also hosts many Samal Beach Resorts on the island. Hagimit Falls is one of the many beautiful spots to unwind and relax. The waterfall may be too crowded for certain people, but it retains its natural beauty. Take a leap onto one of the rocks to the pool, swim or snap photos.

Climb up Mt. Puting Bato to work up some sweat and enjoy beautiful panoramic views. There are numerous resorts and beaches here that you can work on your sun-kissed look, nap, and swim into the waters. It is also possible to include Monfort Bat Cave to your itinerary. They offer a night-time engagement in which you can witness them emerge from the caves! It’s an excellent way to interact with these animals. But flash photography isn’t allowed since it can cause disturbance to the animals.

2. Explore Eden Nature Park – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

If you’re looking to be in touch with nature, you must go to this place. Eden Nature Park and Resort in Davao City have been named after the famous Biblical Garden, Garden of Eden.

Try out Eden Nature Park activities is highly recommended as the tranquility and tropical climate is sure to relieve anyone’s tension from the pressure or noises of the bustling city. If you’re looking to relax in solitude or have a relaxing time with family and friends, taking the tour through Eden Nature Park is worth the effort. The nature park is an accommodation. The park has a 24 hour receptionist and an outdoor pool and a buffet breakfast. The rooms come with flat-screen televisions and a wardrobe, bathroom with a private bath and much more. The park is a great place to stay, and it gives you the ability to access everything it has to offer, which is the perfect opportunity to bond with loved ones on your visit to Davao.

3. Relax at Malagos Garden Resort and Chocolate Museum – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

One of the most popular places to visit among the top 10 best tourist attractions in Davao can be found at the Malagos Garden Resort. It’s a 12 hectare Davao nature-themed park that is the perfect location for visitors who wish to take in the natural surroundings and at the same take peace in the tranquility of the region.

Have the opportunity to take care of animals from the petting farm, learn about the behavior of butterflies in the butterfly sanctuary, or enjoy a fun outdoor game for kids and younger people to take the  Malagos Garden tour .

Alongside these natural spots, Malagos is also home to the Philippines the oldest chocolate factory. The famous tree-to-bark-chocolate from Malagos is produced and exported to countries in Japan particularly. Malagos also houses the Mindanao Contemporary Art Gallery that provides art and historical information to learn about Mindanao’s rich cultural heritage.

4. Witness the Reptiles in Crocodile Park – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

It is the Davao Crocodile Park is among the most popular tourist spots included in a  Davao wildlife tour . This location showcases “state of the art” farming of crocodiles in the countryside equipped with the latest equipment and infrastructure.

The park is home for hundreds of crocodiles- both saltwater and freshwater reptiles. They breed and born in the park. Visitors can also explore the incubator in which hundreds of crocodile eggs are kept. Apart from crocodiles, Davao Crocodile Park is also home to various species of monkeys, birds and snakes as well as other reptiles. They also provide seminars, educational opportunities and awareness about wildlife conservation.

There are numerous food stands and souvenir shops right within the park. If you are a chef, there is a guy selling unique kinds of ice cream such as durian crocodile, crocodile tea as well as crocodile roll and chocolate Ostrich in any of the food stand.

5. Visit the Philippine Eagle Center – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

Every penny donated towards the Philippine Eagle Center is spent to protect the bird that is the national of the country. The center has dedicated its efforts and resources to safeguard the species that is endangered while also offering a thrilling and enjoyable venue for both visitors and locals.

The center is the home of the home of 36 Philippine Eagles, with 18 of them being captive-bred. It also serves as an area of sanctuary for ten different species of birds and four species of mammals as well as two reptile species. It is a well-known attraction for sustainable tourism which is included in an Farm tour that takes place within Davao City.

The birds can be observed by visitors consume raw meat by cutting it up with their beaks and claws. The center also gives visitors an opportunity to see the eagles freely move around the property and capture photographs that are not close.

6. Unwind in People’s Park Davao – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

Take a trip to Davao People’s Park , one of the Philippines most sought-after parks. It’s among the most clean and most lush parks in the world. Its Durian Dome is among the parks’ highlights and is among the most popular landmarks in Davao.

Take advantage of the nightlife in the park and see the walls of the park lit up by “waling-waling”. Table picnics can also be found at the People’s Park for children, however, the majority of people eat in the fields or beside the ponds, which are adorned with huge sculptures.

Fitness facilities are also accessible to anyone who is looking to be active. On the other part of the park, there is a learning center for adults and children. There is also the Sunken Garden, the garden refuge, and The Children’s Library that are located in one area and all ages are welcome to read their books at any time they want.

The Philippine Eagle reproduction is one of the most noteworthy of the main sculptures. Kids can enjoy swings slide, monkey bars, slides and more at the children’s play area.

7. Enjoy the Bird’s-eye View at Jack’s Ridge – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

Jack’s Ridge is where you should go for panoramic views from Davao City. In addition to the breathtaking views, visitors will enjoy two restaurants in the area.

Jack’s Ridge is a piece of the Philippine history too. It was originally utilized as a headquarters for the fleeing Japanese throughout the Second World War. A century later the Jack’s Ridge is brimming with memories of the years that followed.

Caves were dug in the area near the Japanese pocket marks and sometimes people find military materials in fertile soil. There is a myth that in the caves lie gold bullions as well as other treasures that the Japanese brought from other nations that they brought back to Davao. Whatever the truth about it, Jack’s Ridge retains the characteristic which made it a crucial location for the Japanese forces that were retreating. Japanese forces.

8. Eat at Roxas Night Market – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

Explore the diverse cuisines Davao City has to offer by visiting Davao’s Roxas Avenue Night Market. The various stalls of the famous night market house fresh and cooked varieties of vegetables, seafood meat, and much more. Enjoy the hot soup, or chat with your companions while enjoying a barbecue grill.

The prices are reasonable and the place is a buzzing atmosphere. Tables are set close to one another for an intimate feel. However, since there’s no space to wash plates, the tables get encased in plastic and customers can put gloves made of plastic on their fingers.

After the food stalls have shut, the clothing and accessories stores begin. If you’d like to do some shopping take advantage of it!

The Roxas Avenue Night Market is located between Ateneo De Davao University and Aldevenco Shopping Center. Explore the city during the day while taking part in some “pasalubong” shopping and then visit the market at night to satisfy your appetite.

9. Spend Time at Museo Dabawenyo – Best Tourist Spots in Davao City

The Museo Dabawenyo, also called The Museum of the People of Davao , is considered to be one of the most popular institutions in the Philippines. This museum is officially called The Court of First Instance and was renovated and restored to display the diversity of culture and extensive heritage of Davao City.

In this museum visitors can view stilt replicas of homes, weapons as well as musical instruments used for indigenous music by the locals. The museum also has a large collection of antiques, including chairs, armors, lamps, and crowns of the Moro People as well as traditional Filipino clothes, Filipino bills, musical notes, clothing and other items. The Dabawenyo Museum is situated on Fr. Salga Road Pichon Avenue, just several meters away far from Bonifacio Rotunda and the Osmena Parks. It is open from 9AM until 12NN from Tuesday through Sunday and from 1PM to 6 pm on Mondays.

The last in the list for the best tourist spots in Davao City is the Mt. Apo. An excursion towards Davao City is not complete without visiting the King of the Philippine Peaks or Mount Apo. Mount Apo is at the top of the list of most prominent Mountains within Southeast Asia, and it is at an altitude at 10,311 feet. Prior to reaching the summit of Mount Apo , there is a lake in the crater formed by volcanic activities.

Seven peaks can be seen on Mt. Apo’s summit. It is possible to see the stunning sunrise and sunset in perfect weather. The view will be an expansive view of South Cotabato’s Mount Matutum, Lake Venado, and more.

Going to Mt. Apo is among the activities you must try when you are in Davao. There are a variety of trails that you can pick between, which is based on the difficulty level. Due to the difficulty of climbing up the hill, it’s recommended for experienced climbers only. The most experienced mountain climbers can reach the summit in March, April and October. Many mountain climbing groups and tours organize mountain climbing activities.

How to Get to Davao City, Philippines

The easiest way to get to Davao City, Philippines, is via plane, which is through Francisco Bangoy International Airport. This airport also called Davao International Airport catering to international and domestic flights that fly into Davao City. Singapore Airlines, with its regional airlines Silk Air and Cebu Pacific is currently serving this city via Singapore.

Many direct flights are operating from the major cities of the country.

Getting Everywhere in Davao City, Philippines

1. car rentals.

The best method of traveling about Davao City, Philippines, is to rent a car. There are many car rental companies. are also available. Another alternative to taxis and jeepneys is to lease a vehicle. There are many vehicles available to rental. If you’re not familiar with the best routes, you can get drivers hired by asking the person who runs the company that rents them. Local businesses tend to be less expensive than national companies.

Another efficient and speediest method of moving around the city is to take a Taxi. Taxis are metered and some even give receipts to passengers.

If you’re not in a rush and desire to explore much more of your city then consider a jeepney that is colorful. You can ask your hotel staff or anyone you encounter on the street which direction to follow to avoid getting lost.

To pay, you just need to speak “bayad po” and simply pay the person in front of you. Once you have reached your destination, simply shout “lugar lang” or knock your coins onto the handle made of steel to draw an attention from the driver. Finally, then say “para.”

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Davao City Visitors Guide

This brief guide to Davao City will let you know how to get there, what to do, eat, and drink, where to stay, and must-see spots.

ABOUT SEE & DO EAT & DRINK STAY BUDGET ADVICE

Known for so many things like durian and Philippine eagle , Davao City is the easiest and safest city to explore in Mindanao.  Despite being located in the Southern Philippines where clashes between rebels and government forces take place, there hasn’t been any incident in Davao City involving insurgency.  Locals do not live in fear and tourists can explore the city and nearby towns without having to worry about their safety.

Tourism is actually a thriving industry with around one million tourists arriving in the city every year.  Afterall, it houses interesting natural attractions and several endemic species of flora and fauna so the city is definitely worth everyone’s time, effort, and money.

Best Time to Visit

It’s best to visit the Philippines during the dry season .  Dry season in the Philippines spans from November through April .  These are the summer months in this country.

Be aware that temperatures and humidity levels are particularly high in April and May .

The best time to be a beach bum and explore the islands is from March to May.

TIP:  This guide recommends that booking for Davao City summer trips should be done as early as possible, at least a month before your travel dates, since resorts get fully booked early.

The period from June to October is the rainy (wet) season and is best avoided due to the high possibility of typhoons. The typhoons can not only be destructive, but most tours and activities are cancelled under such circumstances.  Transportation via plane and boat is also seriously impacted as well.  This happens frequently so beware!

This guide recommends traveling to Davao City in April-May or in November-December , just before and just after the rainy season. This will likely bring fewer crowds, yet pleasant weather, and is also a great time to score a travel deal.

Getting Here

There are many ways to get to this destination depending on your starting point. This guide recommends using the following online tools to identify all the available options and cost for each while in Davao City:  Rome2Rio and PHBUS .  We have provided the major ports of entry for this destination below.

Francisco Bangoy

BUS TERMINAL

Davao City Terminal

Sasa Seaport

Take a plane to Davao City via major commercial airlines including Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia.  Philippine Airlines have multiple flights to Francisco Bangoy International Airport from Manila and Cebu while Cebu Pacific offers direct flights to Davao from Manila, Cebu, and Iloilo.  AirAsia offers flights from Manila only.

By Sea via Cagayan de Oro

You can sail from Manila to Cagayan de Oro via 2Go Travel.  The shipping company has four trips weekly – Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday.  The time of departure varies each day while the travel time is around 32 hours.  Fare ranges from P600 ($12 USD) to P7,400 ($148 USD) depending on the type of accommodation and date of booking.

From Cagayan de Oro City, take a bus to Davao City.  A bus leaves CDO every 30 minutes from 1:15 AM to 11:45 PM.  Travel time is around seven hours and the fare ranges from P700 ($14 USD) to P900 ($20 USD).

Getting Around

The following are the modes of transportation available in Davao City …

Car for Hire

Motorcycles

Ride-Sharing

SEE & DO

The following is your guide to places to see and activities to enjoy while in Davao City.

1 | Davao Butterfly House

If you look forward to seeing colorful butterflies, you’ll surely find them in Davao Butterfly House.  To see them fluttering their wings and hovering around flowers, best to go in the morning when the sun is shining.  During the hottest time of the day, they take shelter under the leaves thus a good opportunity for people to observe them closely and take pictures.  If you’re lucky, you will be able to witness a butterfly coming out of its cocoon.

2 | Davao Crocodile Park

Within walking distance from Davao Butterfly House is Davao Crocodile Park.  It’s where the biggest living crocodile in the country is housed and is a good place to see crocodiles in various life stages.  Aside from crocodiles, the park also houses other animals including monkeys, snakes, eagles, and other birds. The area is also where Tribu K’Mindanawan Cultural Village is located.  It showcases the rich culture of indigenous groups of Mindanao through the traditional houses, ornaments, and tools found in the village.

If you are looking for civet coffee, durian ice cream, and crocodile dishes, this is also the place to go.

3 | Eden Nature Park

Eden Nature Park is a great destination for people who want to indulge in the beauty and peace nature offers.  Marvel at the scenic views of the mountain and experience the cool mountain air as you explore every crook and cranny.  Choose from various accommodations including cottages, lodges, villas, and a cabin for your home in the mountain.  It also has several attractions like the amphitheater, bird walk, deer park, flower garden, hiking trail, hydroponics, butterfly garden, and bamboo maze.  For thrill-seekers, activities such as zipline, sky swing, sky cycle, and sky wheel will surely give them the adrenaline rush they’re looking for.

4 | Gap Farm Resort

One of the oldest attractions in Davao City, Gap Farm Resort is a 10-hectare orchard filled with a variety of fruit-bearing trees such as durian, rambutan, and pomelo as well as several other flora and fauna.  Other features of the farm are WWII Japanese carved tunnel, a chapel, swimming pool, restaurant, and statues of creatures from Filipino folklore.

5 | Mini Asik-Asik Falls

The Asik-Asik Falls in North Cotabato is one of the most stunning waterfalls in the Philippines.  But do you know that there’s a smaller version of it in Davao?  If you want to feast your eyes on the breathtaking view of the water flowing from the cliff surrounded by lush greenery, this is the place you need.

6 | Mount Apo

Probably every Pinoy mountain climber’s dream, Mount Apo is the highest peak in the country with an elevation of 2,954 meters above sea level.  It was declared a protected area and a natural park considering the hundreds of species of flora and fauna inhabiting the mountain.  It is home to the critically endangered Philippine eagle, the country’s national bird.  Considering its elevation and difficulty of the hike, the mountain is best explored by experienced mountaineers and hikers.

7 | People’s Park

Located in the business district of Davao City, People’s Park is living up to its name as it is truly for the people.  Entrance is free of charge and people are secured since the park is enclosed and visitors are inspected before being allowed to enter.  The park has a learning center and library, Sunken Garden, and Durian Dome which the design is inspired from the durian fruit which is abundant in the region.  The park is also home to a number of sculptures of indigenous people made by Mindanao artist Kublai Millan.  If you want a place to pass time while in the city, this is one of the places you may want to consider.

8 | Philippine Eagle Foundation and Nature Center

The Philippine Eagle, the national bird of the country, is a critically endangered species found only in the Philippines.  See this regal bird up close and personal at Philippine Eagle Foundation and Nature Center.  The center was established to protect and breed this bird in the hopes of increasing their population.  Aside from 36 Philippine Eagles, the center is also home to 10 other bird species, 4 species of mammals, and 2 reptiles.

9 | Tamayong Prayer Mountain

Found in the foothills of Mount Apo is Tamayong Prayer Mountain, a sprawling complex which makes for an ideal haven to relax, enjoy the beauty of nature, and meditate.  It has a prayer center, mini fountains, man made waterfalls, gazebos, and gardens with plants both local and imported.  It also has colorful European structures which house the workers and volunteers.  Since it is considered a place of worship, guests are expected to dress appropriately.

10 | Upside Down House Museum

Wonder how these pictures with upside down poses came to be?  You can find out more about it at Upside Down House Museum.  The museum has several art installations that when photographed give an impression that you are defying gravity and inside an upside down house.  Cool, isn’t it?

11 | Nearby Destinations

While it’s not part of the city, the Island Garden City of Samal is just two kilometers away hence usually a part of the itinerary of someone visiting Davao City.  The island city, which is a part of Metropolitan Davao, boasts of pristine beaches and rich marine life.  Pearl Farm Beach Resort, a luxury resort known for its stylish lodgings and amenities, scenic views, and excellent customer service, is found on this island.

NOTE: The Kadayawan Festival occurs annually in Davao City every 3rd week of August.

EAT & DRINK

The following is your guide to the flavorful food to enjoy and restaurants to try while in Davao City.

1 | Ahfat Seafood Plaza

For Chinese specialty, Ahfat is one of the top choices among locals.  It offers traditional Chinese-style seafood dishes like baked crabs, Australian scallops, and Lapu-lapu two ways.  The servings are large hence a good choice when dining in groups.

2 | Bon Appetit Restaurant

Bon Appetit Restaurant offers French cuisine in a cozy and elegant French-inspired set up.  Their prices are a bit high for local standards but considering the quality of foods and impressive customer service, it is definitely worth it.  Must-try are duck confit, lamb shank, French onion soup, and apple pie.

3 | Bondi&Bourke Davao

Attached to the Bourke Hotel, Bondi&Bourke Davao is a good choice when looking for fine dining experience.  Their price range is understandably pricey but their servings are quite large and the foods are tasty and of high quality.  Must-try dishes are Wagyu Beef, Ribs, Australian Beef Burger, and creme brûlée.

4 | Davao Dencia’s Restaurant

Opened in the 1960’s, Davao Dencia’s Restaurant serves Chinese and Filipino cuisines.  This budget-friendly restaurant with a homey ambience is the go-to destination for favorite Chinese and Pinoy dishes like tokwa’t baboy, congee, lechon kawali, and fried noodles.  If you are in Davao City and looking for high quality foods without the expensive price, Davao Dencia’s Restaurant is definitely a good choice.

5 | De Bonte Koe European Restaurant

Considered as one of the top restaurants according to customers, De Bonte Koe European serves European favorites like steak, Greek salad, schnitzel, and cordon bleu.  The restaurant has a nice interior and serves high quality foods with reasonable prices.

6 | Jack’s Ridge

Interested to dine while overlooking a part of Davao City?  Jack’s Ridge offers that exact experience.  Aside from the relaxing ambiance, the restaurant serves delicious foods such as tuna belly, sinigang, sisig, and pakbet.  While the view is breathtaking during daytime, it gets better at night with all the city lights from afar.

7 | Lachi’s

Known for the best desserts in Davao City, Lachi’s also serves main dishes like lechon kawali, grilled pork ribs, and laing.  Must-try desserts include sans rival and cheesecake.  While the restaurant space is small, the nice ambience makes up for it.  Better come before the peak hours to be seated immediately or call for reservations to avoid waiting.

8 | Marina Tuna

For your seafood cravings, there’s no other place to be but Marina Tuna.  The restaurant offers a wide variety of seafood dishes from sashimi and sinigang to grilled and fried seafood.  The restaurant is moderately-priced so even if you come in big groups, it’s highly likely that you’ll enjoy the restaurant and it’s tasty dishes.

9 | Penong’s Barbecue Seafoods and Grills

As the name implies, Penong’s Barbecue Seafoods and Grills offers tasty grilled seafood, chicken, and pork.  They have several branches all over Davao but the original in Lanang is said to be the best.  Must-try offerings are native chicken barbecue and pork barbecue.

KNOWN FOR: Durian Candy

WHERE TO STAY

There are many different types of accommodations available in this destination ranging from hostels to luxurious resorts. The following is your guide to our top choices for each range in Davao City.

1 |  Red Knight Gardens Apartelle (Budget)

2 | waterfront insular hotel davao (mid-range), 3 | seda abreeza davao (luxury | resort).

When doing research online of where to stay in Davao City or a for specific destination, this guide recommends using the following sites to conduct research:

Book your room with these trusted online booking sites.  Booking online in the Philippines almost always guarantees the best price and a room when you arrive.  We use these sites frequently to get the best prices and enjoy convenient bookings. Click each of the buttons below to find the best place for you at the lowest rates:

TIP: Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao is the best property to experience this destination.

Book Online & Save Money

Book Your Trip Flights Hotels Transportation Travel Insurance No-Fee Cards

Suggested Budget

This chart is your guide to get an idea of how much to budget daily in Davao City.  The actual amounts will depend on YOUR travel style. Keep in mind that these are daily averages … some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less. Prices are in USD.

Travel Costs

Accommodation.

A bed in a  hostel  dorm costs from 450-950 PHP ($8–17 USD), but smaller dorms can cost from 800 PHP ($15 USD).  For a private double, prices start around 850 PHP ($15 USD).

Most  budget hotels  begin at 900-1400 PHP ($16-25 USD) per night for a double room and usually include free wifi and breakfast. For  a three-star hotel , prices begin around 1,500 PHP ($26 USD) per night.  AirBnB  is also widespread throughout the country, with private rooms starting from as little as 900 PHP ($16 USD) per night.  For entire apartments, expect to pay at least 1,400 PHP ($25 USD) per night.

Resorts and luxury accommodations  vary greatly from 2,000 PHP ($35 USD) to 5,000+ PHP ($90+ USD).  However, there are some really nice resorts and luxury accommodations which are surprisingly affordable.

We use and recommend booking online to save money using  HostelWorld ,  Agoda ,  Booking.com , and  Expedia .

Local food is extremely cheap, with street food costing under 50 PHP ($1USD).  For an inexpensive meal at a local restaurant, prices start around 100 PHP ($2 USD).  For a meal at a mid-range restaurant with drinks and table service, expect to pay from 400 PHP ($7 USD).  Knowing that their target customers are primarily tourists, Western food venues can be pricey compared to Filipino food.  Also, some of the ingredients need to be imported, which contributes to the higher cost. Western food (burgers, pizza, pasta, etc.) is much more expensive but is still relatively affordable at around 200 PHP ($4 USD) for a meal and drink.

Fast food like McDonalds will cost around 200 PHP ($4 USD).  A beer at the bar will cost around 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD).

A week’s worth of groceries will cost between 300-600 PHP ($6-12 USD) per person.  However, food in this country is so inexpensive, and kitchens & refrigerators are hard to come by, I don’t recommend cooking your meals here since there is plenty of delicious street food to eat at very cheap prices. You won’t make it as good as they do and the food is too delicious to miss!

Transportation

There are many modes of transportation available in the Philippines and each varies greatly. 

Public Transportation is cheap.  Bus services on the islands are inexpensive.  Local buses (called jeepneys) are the most common type of transportation in towns and cities. The fare is usually between 13-25 PHP ($.26–.50 USD).

On islands without a bus system, a taxi or tricycle is the only form of transport with fares starting at 50-500 PHP ($1-$10) USD for short trips. 

Taxis are everywhere, and they’re very cheap.  Most fares shouldn’t cost you more than 500 PHP ($10 USD) around town.  

To get between islands, you’ll need to take a boat or to fly.  There are ferries that connect the island together since they aren’t too far apart but, generally speaking, flights are the most realistic option. 

Flights between islands usually cost about 2,000-3500 PHP ($40-70 USD).  However, this isn’t the cheapest way to travel.  It’s only recommended if you have limited time. 

We recommend booking online to save money using:  WayAway , Kiwi or Expedia .

Attractions & Activities

Most attractions and activities in the Philippines are pretty cheap. Most attractions throughout the area are FREE to enter, though some of the more well known and popular ones cost 5-100 PHP ($.10-$2 USD) to enter. 

Depending on the activity, most day tours only cost around 1,000-1,500 PHP ($20-30 USD), oftentimes less.  You have more bargaining power if you go with a group. If you are expecting to do some climbing, remember to pack some warm layers. It gets cold at the top!  

Other activities such as Island Hopping, scuba diving, helmet diving, swimming with whale sharks, jungle trekking, canyoning, ATVs, jet skis, wakeboarding, cruises, parasailing, horseback riding, cultural experiences, and tours can cost as much as 1,250-5,000+ PHP ($25-100+ USD).

The Philippines is one of the least expensive places to learn how to scuba dive. Learning to scuba dive usually costs about 15,000-20,000 PHP ($300-400 USD), but often includes FREE accommodation for the duration of the course, which lasts three or four days.

Always book your tours and activities when you arrive.  Stick to travel agents who are selling on the ground. If a travel agent won’t negotiate with you, move on to the next until you find one that will.  Booking tours online is almost always more expensive. 

Typical Costs in Davao City in 2024 :

• Hostel Dorm Bed: 450-950 PHP ($8–17 USD) night
• Budget Hotel:  900-1400 PHP ($16-25 USD) night
• Mid-Range Hotel:   1500 PHP ($26 USD) night
• Street Food: 70-200 PHP ($1.25–4 USD) meal
• Restaurant Meals: 400-600 PHP ($7–10 USD) meal
• Local Beer: 50-100 PHP ($1–2 USD) bottle
• 1.5L Bottle of Water: 38 PHP ($.75 USD) bottle
• Jeepney Ride: 13-25 PHP ($.26–.50 USD) ride
• Tricycle Ride:   20-100 PHP ($.4-2 USD) ride
• Taxi: 75-500 PHP ($1.50-10 USD) ride – use GrabTaxi app
• Long-Distance Bus Ride: 700-900 PHP ($14–20 USD) ride
• Public Ferry Ride: 20-300 PHP ($.4–5.5USD) ride
• Domestic Flight: 2,000-3,500 PHP ($40–70 USD) flight
• Island-Hopping: 1,500-2,500 PHP ($27-48 USD) trip

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The following is some of our best advice on traveling to this destination.  This is your guide on what you need to know BEFORE you go to Davao City!

Tips & Hacks

The following are this guide’s Top 10 Tips when visiting Davao City:

• Be aware that a tourist VISA is only 30 days. You can extend it upon arrival, or within the first 30 days, for an additional 30 days for a fee of approximately 3,000 pesos.
• Don’t buy into the fear factor. The Philippines has an unjustified reputation of being a dangerous place. It’s true there are security guards everywhere, but that is to deter theft.
• Manila is NOT the Philippines. Get outside of the cities to see the real Philippines.
• Don’t over plan. Boats, buses, and even airplane schedules are notoriously unreliable. Be flexible.
• Check the weather. The weather varies greatly throughout the Philippines daily.
• Typhoons can have a huge impact on your plans. Account for this when planning your trip.
• It’s not cool to raise your voice or show outward frustration in public.
• Be polite at all times. Realize that your country’s sense of humor may be different from Filipino humor and take this into account when interacting with Filipinos and while in public places.
• Things move at a slower pace. Accept it … don’t get frustrated … but do account for it.
• Don’t drink the tap water… but stay hydrated! Save money by buying large bottles (6-10 liters) of water and using it to fill your water bottle or hydration bladder in your backpack.

For a complete list of our travel tips & hacks, check out the following guide and be sure to download a FREE copy for yourself.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD : The Ultimate Travel Tips & Hacks Guide for the Philippines

Money Matters

The Philippines has its own currency called the Philippine Peso. Banks, ATMs, and money-changers can be found in Davao City. If you are exploring the neighboring islands or provinces, make sure to bring enough cash that will last until the next time you get to an ATM or bank since most tours, transportation, and budget accommodations only accept cash.

Health & Safety

While overall the Philippines is a safe country to visit, as is Davao City, you need to use common sense just as you would in any country, especially when traveling, and in a city, town, or area you are unfamiliar with.

Consult your hotel or resort front desk as they are more likely to give you reliable information than a random stranger on the street. Be careful when approaching strangers and selective about who you approach. Always pay attention to your gut feeling and follow it.

READ MORE: How to Avoid Scams & Thieves in the Philippines

There are many things to consider when traveling in order to stay safe … things that we may not be accustomed to during our normal everyday lives. The following are articles about tips on how to stay safe while traveling in the Philippines:

• 6 Common Accidents to Avoid   
• How to Beat the Heat in the Philippines
• Taxi Safety Tips: Dos and Don’ts
• Motorbike Safety Tips
• Beach & Ocean Safety Tips
• Sun Safety Tips   

TIP: The best way to avoid problems and stay safe is to travel with a local resident.

Staying fit & healthy can be challenging when traveling in the Philippines. 

The tropical Philippines climate requires you to prepare for illnesses that you may not normally be accustomed to. 

The following are our Top 10 Tips for Staying Healthy while Traveling in the Philippines:

• Maintain a Balanced Diet
• Stay Hydrated but Only Drink Bottled Water
• Get Plenty of Rest
• Allow Your Body Time to Adjust 
• Keep Active
• Sanitize Often 
• Be Aware of Food Safety Concerns
• Take Your Vitamins
• Practice Safe Sex
• Be Prepared Should You Get Sick

READ MORE:   Stay Healthy in the Philippines: How to Avoid Getting Sick

Staying Connected

You need to have a local-based SIM card in order to stay connected when in the Philippines. Network giants such as Globe and Smart have SIM cards you can use to make calls, send text messages, and also to connect to the Internet. A SIM card costs around 50 PHP ($1 USD) and usually comes with a FREE load worth 50 PHP ($1 USD). You can buy a card containing a code you can enter on your phone to replenish your load or buy an electronic load that is available almost anywhere in the city.

While you may not have problems with signal strength when in the city, it is not always the case when on islands or in remote areas of a province.  So when arranging for transportation pick up, say when renting a boat to take you to and pick you up from the island, it would be best that you make it clear what time you need to be picked up before the boatman leaves.

Recommended Travel Apps

Apps for smartphones and tablets can be useful both before you leave and while you’re traveling.  Most are available for iPhones and Android phones.

This list will serve as your guide to Top 10 most useful travel apps on your smartphones when traveling in Davao City or the Philippines in general:

• Grab (taxis/ride shares)
• Get Your Guide (tours & tickets)
• WhatsApp (phone calls)
• WayAway (flights)
• 12Go (transportation)
• Agoda (accommodations)
• Expedia (accommodations & Flights)
• Hostelworld (accommodations)
• Kiwi (flights)
• Klook (attractions & activities )

Be certain to download and set up apps BEFORE leaving on your trip to make certain each is installed and working properly.

READ MORE:   The Ultimate List of Travel Apps for the Philippines

Trying to decide what to do when traveling to a destination for the first time can be a bit overwhelming given your lack of familiarity with the place along with all of the available options. 

We’ve created the following itinerary to help simplify the process and ensure that you get the most out of your trip.  Although we provide a 7 day itinerary for this destination, it can always be adjusted to fit the length of your trip.

VIEW : Davao City 7-Day Travel Itinerary

Packing Checklist

The secret to a successful and stress-free trip is to start by using a packing list.  This will reduce anxiety from the start and ensure that nothing important is forgotten when packing.   To make this process easy for you, we’ve created a detailed packing list.  Click the link below to download it for FREE now. 

Carrying your checklist with you during your travels can be useful when repacking, by helping to ensure that you do not leave anything behind.

VIEW & DOWNLOAD : Our Ultimate Packing Guide & Checklist

Things to Remember

This guide recommends to take note of the following while traveling in Davao City or in the Philippines in general.

There is a nationwide ban which prohibits smoking in public places including indoors, the streets, on sidewalks, in restaurants , and on public transportation, requiring smokers to use designated smoking areas.  Selling tobacco to and purchasing from or for minors is also prohibited. Violators are subject to fines (up to 5,000 PHP | $100 USD) and even 4 months in prison.

The minimum legal drinking age is 18.  Alcohol such as beer and hard drinks can easily be bought in grocery and convenience stores.  The most common alcoholic beverage is beer, generally served cold.  Local alcoholic drinks include tuba (coconut wine which is usually very strong) and potent moonshine-like clear liquors made from sugar or fruit.  Imported beer, wine, and name brand hard alcohol are available but expensive.

Drugs are illegal in the Philippines.  Don’t use, buy, or sell any non-prescription drugs while in the Philippines … not even marijuana.  It is considered an especially heinous crime to buy from, for, or sell drugs to children.  The penalties are severe … up to and including death.

Public nudity is illegal in the Philippines and is not tolerated.  Most locals consider it offensive.  There are laws which prohibit provocative and erotic clothing and swimwear, therefore carefully consider your clothings and swimwear choices to make certain they are not too revealing.

Foreigners & Expats

If you are not a Filipino citizen, remember that you are a guest when visiting this country … be certain to act accordingly.  Respect the people, their customs, and the environment and wlidlife. You can be deported and banned … so behave … but have fun and enjoy all that this wonderful destination has to offer.

READ MORE : Practical Information about the Philippines

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

I always carry a Camelbak Hydration Pack with me when traveling. Not only does it allow me to pack all my daily gear and snacks, but it also has a 3-liter water bladder which holds enough water to get me through the entire day.

Bluetooth Speaker

Compact yet mighty, a bluetooth speaker setup is a breeze, and the sound quality it delivers for its size is nothing short of impressive. Beyond its audio prowess, it boasts exceptional durability, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

UV Shirt is an essential when travelling in a tropical country. Providing reliable protection during long hours in the water, not only comfortable but also ensures a secure shield against the elements.

Snorkel Gear

For my island-hopping escapades, a snorkel gear set has become indispensable. Designed to enhance the joy of snorkeling and free diving, each piece ensures comfort and functionality. Together, they create an immersive and enjoyable underwater experience.

Adventure Camera

As a long-time enthusiast of GoPro cameras, I can attest to their user-friendly nature, excellent image stabilization, and impressive footage quality. Waterproof and rugged, the GoPro is my reliable companion for capturing adventures in any environment.

When it comes to beach footwear, aqua shoes offer exceptional support, breathability, and overall comfort. Well-crafted and sturdy, it provides effective protection against rocky terrain, quick drying for added convenience, and easy maintenance. A must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.

CLICK FOR MORE TRAVEL GEAR

Don’t Forget …

Download our free travel guides.

We have dozens of guides to destinations throughout the Philippines. Download your FREE copy for your next trip today.

DOWNLOAD GUIDES

About the Author

Patrick is an entrepreneur, digital nomad, explorer, and photographer. Patrick is always in search of fun and adventure. He is well travelled throughout the world, and although location independent, his home base is Phoenix, Arizona in the USA. Patrick loves island lifestyle which is no wonder why he is so interested in spending time in the Philippines with it’s over 7,000 islands. Patrick created this site to share his knowledge of and experiences in the Philippines with Filipinos as well as other foreigners.

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Exploring the Hidden Gems of Davao City

• February 22, 2023
• Tourism Blog

Davao City is the city of a thousand faces, with its lush rainforests, stunning beaches and vibrant culture, it is an ideal destination for any kind of traveler. From historical gems to nature’s hidden treasures to adventurous activities – there’s something for everyone in Davao City. If you’re looking for an unforgettable vacation experience, look no further than this incredible Filipino city.

Explore the hidden gems of Davao City and discover why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. From majestic mountains to crystal-clear beaches, you are sure to find something that will make your trip truly spectacular! Pack your bags and come explore all that Davao City has to offer. You won’t regret it!

Davao City and Its Hidden Gems

From its serene beaches to its remarkable history and culture, Davao City is an extraordinary place to visit. It offers a variety of natural wonders such as the immense white sand beach of Eden Nature Park, located over 1,000 meters above sea level.

Additionally, adventurers will marvel at the majestic Malagos Garden Resort and its lush forest with a bubbling river that stretches throughout the property. History buffs have the opportunity to visit Fort Apo, built by the Spaniards when they occupied Davao City in 1848. The beauty of Fort Apo combined with the incredible views makes this spot a must-see while in Davao City.

Furthermore, there are many traditional markets full of colorful local merchandise such as exotic fruits and vegetables as well as handmade wood carvings. All in all, discovering these hidden gems helps visitors fully appreciate all of the sights, sounds, and amazing experiences that the city has to offer.

Historical Gems

Davao City is known for its rich history and culture, which can be explored through monuments, ancient artifacts, and other historical sites. The city is home to a host of churches and monuments, such as the San Pedro Cathedral, which was built in the late 1800s. Additionally, visitors can explore the historical ruins of an old Spanish fort at Fort Apo or visit Museo Dabawenyo for a glimpse into Davao City’s past.

1. Museo Dabawenyo

This museum showcases the rich history and culture of Davao City. It houses various exhibits, such as the history of the city, the Lumad, and the various ethnic groups that have contributed to the city’s growth. The museum also features a diorama of Davao’s history, which depicts the city’s significant events, including the arrival of the Spaniards and the Japanese occupation.

Address: Philippine Women’s University of Davao, University Ave, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur

Phone: (082)2226011

For pictures, booking, and more information, click here .

2. San Pedro Cathedral

This cathedral is the oldest church in Davao City and is considered one of the city’s historical landmarks. The church was built in the 1800s, and its architecture is a mix of Spanish and indigenous influences. The cathedral has undergone several renovations and repairs over the years, but its original design and beauty have been preserved.

Address: 3J75+WMV, San Pedro St, Poblacion District, Davao City, Davao del Sur

Phone: (082)2264740

3. Japanese Tunnel & View Deck

This tunnel and view deck is a historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into Davao’s past. The tunnel is a remnant of World War II and was used as a defense structure by the Japanese. Visitors can explore the tunnel and learn about its history, then take in stunning views of Davao City from the view deck.

Address: 3H87+77W, Pan-Philippine Hwy, Talomo, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur

Phone: (082)2990975

4. D’ Bone Collector Museum

This museum is a unique and one-of-a-kind attraction in Davao City. It is a privately-owned natural history museum that displays an extensive collection of animal skeletons and preserved specimens. The collection is used to promote environmental conservation and education, and it includes rare and endangered species.

Address: 76-A San Pedro St, Poblacion District, Davao City, Davao del Sur

Phone:   +639196240744 .

5. Davao Crocodile Park

This park is a conservation center that aims to protect the Philippine crocodile, which is an endangered species. The park offers visitors an opportunity to see crocodiles up close and learn about their behavior, biology, and habitat. The park also features other animals, including snakes, birds, and monkeys, and has a butterfly garden and a freshwater aquarium.

Address: 3HWX+RMH, Gadi Road, Talomo, Davao City, Davao del Sur

Phone: (082)2868883

Nature’s Gems

Davao City is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the Philippines. From majestic mountains and pristine beaches to lush rainforests and crystal-clear rivers, Davao City offers something for nature lovers of all kinds. Take a hike up Mt. Apo, the highest peak in the country, or visit the cool waters of Eden Nature Park and find a little piece of paradise.

1. Mount Apo National Park

Mt. Apo is the highest mountain in the Philippines, standing at 2,954 meters above sea level. The mountain features lush forests and stunning views of Davao City and its nearby provinces from the summit. The park is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts, as it features diverse wildlife, hot springs, and breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can enjoy camping, trekking, and bird-watching in the park, or take a dip in one of the many hot springs.

Address: X7Q9+3J9, Mt. Teril, Kapatagan,, Digos City, Davao del Sur

2. Philippine Eagle Center

This center is a conservation and breeding facility for the critically endangered Philippine Eagle. It houses over 30 eagles, including two of the world’s oldest captive eagles, as well as various other wildlife species. Visitors can view an impressive array of birds in the spacious aviary or take part in educational bird-watching tours.

Address: Malagos-Baguio Road, Brgy, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur

Phone: +639177089084

3. Eden Nature Park & Resort

Eden Nature Park & Resort is one of Davao City’s most popular tourist attractions. Located over 1,000 meters above sea level, the park is home to lush forests, stunning views of the city, and a crystal-clear white sand beach that offers a chance to cool off and relax. The park also has adventure activities like zip lining and horseback riding. Visitors can explore by taking a guided tour or going on a nature walk.

Address: 29HX+MPJ, Toril, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur

Phone: (082)2991020

4. People’s Park

This park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists, as it features a beautiful landscape with fountains, sculptures, and walking paths. The park has several amenities, including a playground, a fitness center, and a food court. Visitors can enjoy a picnic or relax in the park’s serene atmosphere.

Address: Uy Building, 49 Jln Palma Gil St, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur

Phone: +639079077807

Adventurous Gems

Davao City, located in the southern part of the Philippines, is a popular destination for adventure seekers due to its diverse natural resources and unique offerings. From river rafting and canyoneering to rock climbing and zip-lining, the city’s stunning landscapes provide plenty of opportunities for adventure.

1. Davao River Rafting

This popular activity offers visitors an exciting ride down the Davao River. Participants can experience breathtaking views of the city’s lush landscape, as well as some adrenaline-pumping rapids. This activity is suitable for all ages and skill levels, so everyone can join in on the fun.

Address: Crocodile Park Compound, Riverfront Corporate City, Ma-a Talomo, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur

Phone: +639209546897

2. Malagos Garden Resort

Malagos Garden Resort is the premier tourist destination in Davao. With its lush gardens and stunning vistas, visitors to Malagos can relax and unwind as they revel in nature’s beauty. Those looking for a touch of adventure may opt to take advantage of local attractions such as zip lining, rappelling, and mountain biking.

Address: Baguio District, Calinan-Baguio-Cadalian Rd, Davao City, 8000

Phone: +639176245727

3. Samal Beach & Island Garden City of Samal

Located just a short ferry ride away from Davao City, Samal Island is a popular destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The island is home to several beaches, including the famous Pearl Farm Beach Resort, where visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, island hopping, and scuba diving. There are also several hiking trails on the island that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

4. Hiking & Mountain Climbing

Davao City is home to several mountain ranges, including Mount Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines. Adventurous travelers can embark on a challenging hike to the summit of Mount Apo, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Other popular hiking trails in the area include the Marilog Trail, Mount Talomo, and Mount Hamiguitan.

5. Durian Tour & Sampling

Davao City is known as the “Durian Capital of the Philippines” due to its abundance of pungent fruit. Visitors can take a durian tour to learn more about the fruit, its history, and the various ways it is used in local cuisine. They can also sample different varieties of durian and other exotic fruits at the local fruit stands and markets.

Tips for Exploring Hidden Gems in Davao City

Davao City, located in the southern part of the Philippines, is a vibrant and exciting destination with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are some tips for exploring the hidden gems in Davao City:

Research and Plan Ahead : Before embarking on your adventure, it is essential to do your research and plan ahead. There are many online resources, travel guides, and blogs that can provide information on the best-hidden gems in Davao City. You can also talk to locals or tour operators who know the area well and can recommend unique and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Venture off the Beaten Path : Davao City is known for its popular tourist attractions, such as Crocodile Park, Philippine Eagle Center, and Samal Island. However, there are many lesser-known destinations that are just as exciting and worth exploring. Consider venturing off the beaten path and visiting local markets, historic landmarks, and neighborhoods to discover hidden gems that are often overlooked by tourists.

Be Adventurous : To truly discover hidden gems, you must be willing to be adventurous and step out of your comfort zone. Try new foods, explore new neighborhoods, and engage with locals to learn more about the area and its culture. You may be surprised by the unique and exciting experiences that await you.

Respect Local Culture and Customs : When exploring hidden gems in Davao City, it is important to respect local culture and customs. Dress appropriately, be mindful of your actions, and follow local customs to avoid offending or disrespecting locals.

Stay Safe : While exploring hidden gems in Davao City can be exciting, it is essential to stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid traveling alone at night, and take necessary precautions when engaging in adventurous activities, such as hiking or exploring remote areas.

Overall, exploring hidden gems in Davao City can be a rewarding and exciting experience, but it requires careful planning, a sense of adventure, and respect for local culture and customs.

In Conclusion

Davao City is a vibrant destination with plenty to offer visitors. From historical landmarks and nature parks to adventurous activities and hidden gems, the city has something for everyone. With careful planning and respect for local culture and customs, visitors can make the most of their time in Davao City and find unique experiences that will stay with them for years to come.

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Davao City Travel Guide (with 4 Days, 3 Nights Sample Itinerary)

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Davao City Quick Facts

Land area: 2,443.61 km2 Distance: 608 miles south of Philippine Capital Manila City Classification: Highy-urbanized Population: 1,632,991 (2015 Census) Language Spoken: ; Cebuano; Filipino; English Currency: Philippine Peso IDD  : area code (0)82 Local Chief Executive: Inday Sara Duterte-Caprio (Mayor) Mode of transportation: Air- Major airlines have daily flights to and from Davao City Land – Bus, taxi, jeepney

There’s a lot of reasons to visit Davao City. It is the home of Philippine eagle; the basket of the king of all fruits, durian; the economic gateway of Mindanao – you name it! And, of course, it is the hometown of the president, our President Rodrigo Duterte.

This Davao City travel guide is aimed at giving you a list of top things to do in the city. In particular, this is intended for those who are planning for a 3-day or so vacation. So, hope you’ll find this guide useful.

Davao City is big. And I mean BIG. In fact, you can put about three Metro Manilas in it.  Thus, if you are planning for a short visit to the city, it makes sense that you strategize so that you can make the most out of your stay – i.e. you can visit and enjoy more attractions, given your limited time.

Top things to do in Davao City

Touring the city proper (poblacion).

There is no better way to learn more about Davao City – its rich history, the people, products, and the way of life of the locals – but to tour the city by foot. Visit the famous and important landmarks within the city proper such as the following:

• The City Hall of Davao
• The City Council Building (Sangguniang Panglungsod)
• Davao Museum (Museo Dabawenyo)
• San Pedro Cathedral (the oldest church in Davao City)
• People’s Park (a public park – no entrance fee)
• Roxas Night Market (Street food bazaar along Roxas Avenue)

‘Bonding’ with crocs at Davao Crocodile Park

After touring the city proper, the next activity you could have is to visit Davao Crocodile Park, located at Riverfront, Corporate City, Diversion Highway Ma-a, Davao City 8000 Philippines. There you can see crocodiles of various sizes, including the biggest one in captivity, Pangil . The park also houses other animal species like raptors, monkeys, bearcats, snakes, birds, and other reptiles. You will surely enjoy visiting the place most especially during animal exhibits. Apart from that, the facility also boasts of their butterfly garden. Plus, if you are visiting in the late afternoon or early evening, you might be able to witness fire dance presentation from  Tribu K’Mindawawan .

Go extreme at Outland Adventure Camp

If you wish to do some extreme outdoor activities, then head to Outland Adventure Camp – a facility that offers various outdoor activities including rope courses and zip lines, which are ideal for group team building activities or even for a small group wanting to have some fun. This facility is located along Diversion Road, Ma-a Davao City – a 30-minute taxi ride from the city proper.

Whitewater Rafting at Davao River

If the extreme activities at Outland Adventure Camp makes you wanting more, then you can go even more extreme with whitewater rafting (aka wild river rafting) at Davao River. This blood-rushing, heart-pumping activity will surely leave your physical self exhausted but your spirit exalted with all the excitement that conquering the rapids gushing through the wide winding river brings you. Please note that this activity lasts about eight hours, so you need to dedicated a full day for this.

Visiting the Philippine Eagle Center and Malagos Garden Resort

Another must visit places in Davao City are the Philippine Eagle Center and Malagos Garden Resort. The former is an 8.4 hectare haven for the critically endangered Philippine Eagle and other birds of prey, mammals , and reptiles; it is located within the Malagos Watershed, at the foothills of Mt. Apo. The latter is a 12-hectare nature theme park located just a few distance away from the Philippine Eagle Center. If you want to breathe in cool mountain breeze and get even closer to nature, then you should not miss visiting the place. The resort cultivates a wide variety of plants, including the famous orchids, fruit trees, palms, and ornamental plants.

Engaging more with nature at Eden Nature Park

Located at the outskirt of the city, Eden Nature Park provides a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Its high elevation (about 1000 meters above sea level) results a significantly cooler temperature that is comparable to that of Baguio City. Besides giving you a wonderful taste of nature, the park provides for extreme outdoor adventure as well such as its zip line and sky-cycling facilities. Tourists can also enjoy its swimming pool along with other amenities. Its fishing village gives an exciting treat as well. Indeed, Eden Nature Park is an ideal place to go to for those who are looking for a refreshing and enjoyable vacation.

Talicud Island Hopping

Davao, indeed, has its fair share of nature’s gift – from highland to island, as they say it. If going to beach is your thing (and I call it “beaching”), you should go for island hopping. There’s quite a number of travel and tour companies that offer island hopping packages that you can avail; you can go for a joiner tour as well. This activity usually starts at sunrise and ends at sundown; you will be touring beautiful spots around Talicud Island – white sand beaches, diving spots, islets – so be sure to dedicate a full day schedule for this activity.

Where to eat in Davao City

Looking for a place to eat in Davao City should not be a problem; you can find one in almost every corner of the city – be it for a budget meal or for a more luxurious dine; from a regular plated meal to buffet dining.

Here are some popular options:

Dencia’s

Address: General Luna St, Poblacion District, Davao City, Davao del Sur Phone: (082) 226 4336 Business Hours: 07:00AM – 09:00PM

Davao Green Buffet Haus

Address: Pelayo St, Poblacion District, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur Phone: (082) 225 1860 Business Hours: 11:00AM – 02:00PM; 05:30PM – 10:00PM

Kuya Ed’s

Update: Kuya Ed’s no longer operating.

A. Pichon St, Barangay 2-A, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur Business Hours: 11AM–8:30PM Phone: +63 82 224 2162

Jack’s ridge (a chain of dining places and resort).

Shrine Hills Rd, Talomo, Davao City, 8000 Davao del Sur, Philippines Phone: +63 82 297 8830 Business Hours: 10AM–12AM

Penong’s (A chain of restaurants)

Mt.Apo St., Davao City 8000 Phone: (082) 321 2973 Business Hours: 10AM–2PM, 5:30–10PM

Zab’s Buffet

Update: Zabs Buffet is no longer operating

Where to stay in Davao City

A place to stay in Davao City should not be a problem either; you have a lot of options to choose from – from backpacker accommodations (you can get as cheap as 150 per day) to a budget solo room to a more luxurious choices.

Here are the popular accommodations:

Apo View Hotel ( Check room current rates )

Casa leticia boutique hotel ( check current room rates ), green windows dormitel, hotel uno ( check current room rates ), marco polo davao ( check current rates ), park inn by radisson davao ( check current rates ), red planet davao ( check current room rates ), seda abreeza davao ( check current room rates ), the pinnacle hotel and suites the royal mandaya hotel waterfront insular hotel davao, sample itinerary & budget breakdown, day 1: san pedro square; crocodile park; matina town square.

[7:00 AM] Arrival at Davao Airport [8:00 AM- 9:30 AM] Hotel Check-in (preferably within downtown) [9:30 AM – 12:30 PM] San Pedro Square (visit City Hall, City Council, Davao Museum, San Pedro Cathedral) – FREE [12:30 PM – 2:00 PM] Lunch (Recommendations: Penong’s; Kuya Ed’s (buffet) – 200 per person [2:00 PM – 5:30 PM] Davao Crocodile Park – Entrance fee: 250 adult; 150 kids [5:30 PM – 8:00 PM] Dinner at Vista View (option 2: Jack’s Ridge) – 200 per person [8:00 PM – 10:00 PM] Matina Town Square (for live entertainment, night out] – Free entrance fee [11:00 PM] Back to hotel / rest

Day 2: Eden Nature Park; Roxas Night Market

[6:00 AM – 8:00 AM] Breakfast, preparation for 2nd day tour [8:00 AM – 3:30 PM] Eden Nature Park Day Tour – Entrance Fee: 600 regular fee; 350 for kids 4 to 10 years old (with buffet lunch)

– Guided shuttle tour inside the park – 120 per person (first come, first serve) – Buffet lunch  – Included in the entrance fee of 600; served at 11:30 AM – Rides (Skycycling – 200 per person; Skyriding – 150 per person; Horseback Riding – 100 per person – Fishing Village – Entrance Fee: 40

[4:00 PM-7:30 PM] Dinner at Zabs Buffet – 375 per person for buffet (for limited budget, Roxas night market is a great option) [7:30 PM-9:00 PM] Stroll at Roxas Night Market [9:00 PM] Back to hotel/ rest (end of day 2)

Day 3: Talicud Island Hopping or Whitewater Rafting at Davao River

Option 1: Island Hopping (1,000 per pax)

[6:00 AM – 7:30 AM] Breakfast [7:30 AM – 8:30 AM] Sta. Ana Warf – Preparation for Island hopping [8:30 AM – 3:30 PM] Island hopping (Talicud) [3:30 PM – 6:00 PM] Back to hotel / rest [6:00 PM – 7:30 PM] Dinner (Recommendatons: Dencia’s; Green Buffet; Toryano’s) [7:30 PM – 9:00 PM] People’s Park  free entrance [9:00 PM] Back to hotel to prepare for departure and rest

Option 2: Whitewater Rafting (1,700 per pax)

[6:00 AM – 7:30 AM] Breakfast [8:00 AM – 9:30 AM] Assembly at Crocodile Park [9:30 AM – 11:00 AM] To Put-in area, Tamugan (base) [11:00 AM – 12:00 NN] Writewater Rafting [12:00 NN – 1:00 PM] Lunch [1:00 PM – 3:00 PM] To Take Out area, Purok 8, Lacson [3:00 PM – 4:30 PM] To Davao Crocodile Park [4:30 PM – 6:00 PM] Back to hotel / rest [6:00 PM – 7:30 PM] Dinner (Recommendations: Dencia’s; Green Buffet; Toryano’s) – 200 per person [7:30 PM – 9:00 PM] People’s Park – free entrance [9:00 PM] Back to hotel to prepare for departure and rest

Day 4: Shopping & Departure from Davao

[6:00 AM – 7:30 AM] Breakfast [7:30 AM – 9:30 AM] Shopping (for loved ones back home) – recommendations: Bankerohan (fruits); Pasalubong Center (RTW and food items); Aldevinco Shopping Center (RTW) [9:30 AM] To Airport – Depart for Home

Travel tips

• Early booking is recommended to secure slots, most especially for activities in the resorts that are on a first come, first serve basis.
• Ask and read brochure guide at the resort to ensure you do not miss the activity or attraction you most like.
• It pays to preserve nature; do not litter (just a friendly reminder, guys 😀 )
• Be friendly with locals; they are your buddies.

Content updated on October 8, 2019

[…] Davao City Travel Guide (with 4 Days, 3 Nights Sample Itinerary) […]

Hello there, its a big help. Ask ko lang po sana, im planning to go solo trip lang kasi, re island hopping on your sample IT, meron ka pong number na pwedeng contact for the island hopping?

Hi, island hopping is done usually in a per group basis. However, there are those who are accepting joiner. Please try to contact this one as they might be able to help you: https://www.facebook.com/pg/WayPhilippines/about/

we are 3 pax. 2 seniors all girls. we want to know your package tour in davao city. pls send thru email asap. we are arriving on friday 8am on cebupac. we already have a hotel

Hi, please provide your email…

Who to contact.

I’d like to inquire on your tour packages for Dec 27-29. I’m interested in Samal island, country-side, city tours package. Please send a price list. Thanks

Hi, apologies for missing your message…but for future reference, please contact the people from wayph.com for samal island and city tour packages. Thanks.

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Travel guide: mati city, davao oriental - tourist spots and attractions, how to get there, things to do, where to stay, itinerary and expenses.

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• 8:00 AM - Depart of Mati City from Davao City
• 11:00 AM - Drop by at the Sleeping Dinosaur
• 12:00 NN - Arrive in Mati City Proper, Lunch
• 01:00 PM - Depart for Dahican Beach
• 01:30 PM - Arrive at Dahican Beach, Check-in
• 03:00 PM - Swimming, beach bumming, explore
• 04:00 PM - Learn surfing or skim boarding
• 05:00 PM - Relax at the beach, swim, beach bumming
• 07:00 PM - Dinner
• 08:00 PM - Chill, have some drinks
• 10:00 PM - Sleep
• 05:00 AM - Wake up early for sunrise
• 06:00 AM - Walk at the beach
• 08:00 AM - Island hopping / Visit Masao Beach
• 12:00 NN - Check-out
• 12:30 PM - Depart for Mati City Proper
• 01:00 PM - Arrive at Mati City Proper, Lunch
• 02:00 PM - Visit Davao Oriental Capitol
• 03:00 PM - Depart for Davao City
• 07:00 PM - Arrive in Davao City

• Bus/Van (Davao City to Mati) - 250.00 pesos/way
• Tricycle/Habal-habal (Mati Proper to Dahican Beach) - 40.00 pesos each
• Accommodation at Botona Beach Resort - 1,800.00 pesos per night
• Food (2 days) - 600.00 / person
• Surfing Lessons - 400.00 pesos per hour
• Tricycle/Habal-habal (Dahican to Mati City Proper) - 40.00 pesos each
• Bus/Van (Mati to Davao City) - 250.00 pesos/way
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5 comments :.

is dahican beach free beach?

yes po... :)

Malayo ba ang sleeping dinosaur sa mati proper?

Malayo po ba ang sleeping dino sa mati proper?

Very informative. Kudos!

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

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11+ BEST Mati City Tourist Spots + Things to Do

Looking for a laid-back coastal town for a relaxing vacation? Nestled in the heart of Davao Oriental in the Philippines, Mati City is the perfect vacation spot for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, as well as families planning a well-deserved break for fun and bonding.

Mati City is relatively less crowded compared to other beach towns in the Philippines, as it is mostly visited by locals and balikbayans. But that may change soon as it continues to grow in popularity. In fact, in 2022, three of the bays located in Mati City were included in the most beautiful bays in the world by the Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World .

In this guide, we’ll take you to the top Mati City tourist spots and activities that you shouldn’t miss!

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1. Dahican Beach

2. sleeping dinosaur island viewpoint, 3. pujada island, 4. waniban island, 5. oak island, 6. subangan museum, 7. masao view resort and spa, 8. touch the sky via ultralight aircraft flying, 9. relax and eat at mati city baywalk, 10. tinikaran peak, 11. pangyan falls, 12. witness the sambuokan festival, how to get to mati city, where to stay in mati city.

The crown jewel of Mati City, Dahican Beach is a 7-kilometer stretch of pristine sand and crystal-clear waters, surrounded by coconut trees.

Its name is derived from the local word “ dahik ,” which describes the way sea turtles crawl up the shore to lay their eggs during summer. However, Dahican Beach is home not only to sea turtles but to other marine animals such as dolphins and dugong (sea cow).

This spot is not only perfect for swimming, sunbathing — and let’s admit it, doing nothing — but also a haven for surfers and skimboarders, thanks to its impressive waves.

These water activities come and go, depending on the season. If you’re interested in surfing, visit in the months of October to May to enjoy giant swells. Children as young as 7 years can also start charging surf breaks with their skimboards. Meanwhile, schedule your trip during the calmer months for a more relaxing ambiance or other activities such as stand-up paddle boarding.

One of the landmark attractions in Mati City, the Sleeping Dinosaur is a rock formation that resembles a reclining T-Rex when viewed from a distance. Contrary to common belief, it is not an island but a “ promontory ,” referring to a piece of land sticking out to the sea. The Sleeping Dinosaur is part of the protected 20,000-hectares Pujada Bay.

You can easily stop by this spot on the way to Dahican Beach for amazing photo opportunities. It’s also included in the usual Mati City day tour itinerary.

The Pujada Bay is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mindanao — including the small islands of Pujada Island, Waniban Island, and the vanishing Oak Island. These islands are accessible via island hopping tours.

Pujada Island is known for its powdery white-sand beach and vibrant marine life. Specifically, it is home to a variety of marine animals including fishes, dugong, hawkbill and green sea turtles, and even whale sharks.

A short boat ride away from the mainland, this island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply unplugging from the world.

Pro Tip : Don’t forget to bring your own food and drinks!

One of the beautiful islands along Pujada Bay, Waniban Island boasts a secluded fine, white-sand beach on one end and interesting rock formations on the other. It is smaller compared to Pujada Island but is just as interesting — and should be included in your top tourist spots in Mati City to visit!

The island is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with shallow pools that are perfect for dipping and taking IG-worthy snaps!

Bask in the solitude, wade into the transparent waters, and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding waters in Mati City.

Oak Island is a sand bar within Pujada Bay, which appears during low tide and “vanishes” during high tide. It is stripped entirely of everything but sand, so if you plan on staying for a sunbath, make sure to bring sunscreen and shade!

This sand bar is often likened to other attractions like White Island in Camiguin and Naked Island in Siargao .

Want to learn more about the local history and culture? Subangan Museum is a small museum in Mati City showcasing the history, cultural heritage and ethnic roots, and natural wonders of Davao Oriental province.

Subangan means “ where the sun rises ” in the local dialect, referring to the fact that the sun rises first at Susan Point in Caraga, Davao Oriental, in the whole country.

Here you’ll get to see everything from intricate indigenous crafts to exhibits on marine life and ecosystems. Another highlight of the museum is the remnants of a 53-feet-long sperm whale, which washed ashore in the province in 2010.

Exploring the museum usually takes around 30 minutes, so you can easily add it to your itinerary of Mati City tourist spots to see.

As a coastal town, Mati City offers a plethora of beach resorts for you to relax and unwind. One of its landmark resorts is Masao View Resort and Spa.

This resort is renowned for its picturesque waterfront cottages. It also features a fine, white-sand beach perfect for swimming and beach bumming, swimming pools, and a view of the Sleeping Dinosaur in Pujada Bay.

Ever dreamt of flying? At Mindanao Saga Flying Club , turn that dream into a reality with an ultralight aircraft. Take an aerial tour of Mati’s glorious landscapes — from the rich greenery to the blue sprawl of the Pacific Ocean — and feel your spirit soar.

The ride via a 2-seater ultralight aircraft takes about 20 minutes. From up above, you’ll not only feel the thrill of flying but also appreciate the landmarks in Mati City, including the Sleeping Dinosaur, Dahican Beach, Pujada Island, and Waniban Island.

Pro Tip : Check the weather condition before you visit, as ultralight aircraft flying is not allowed when it is windy.

One of the quintessential things to do in Mati City is visiting the Mati City Baywalk Park — a great spot for families and friends to relax, eat, and enjoy the views of Pujada Bay. The best time to come here is during sunset!

Along the baywalk, you’ll find a myriad of food stalls and restaurants, catering to all budgets. Don’t forget to try the famous empanada and lumpia at the Seaside Restaurant !

Not for the faint of heart, Tinikaran Peak offers a short but challenging hike to a summit filled with hundreds of bonsai trees. It’s a great day tour activity in Mati City for those who love the outdoors.

From the jump-off point, it takes an hour to reach the summit of Tinikaran Peak. The trail includes trekking, river crossing, and scrambling over rocks. Once at the summit, you can enjoy the surrounding lush forests and bonsai trees. As there is no shade at the summit, don’t forget to bring a hat and sunscreen!

After your climb, reward yourself by taking a swim at the river at the base of Tinikaran Peak and discover various flora, including the exotic pitcher plant, wild orchids, and more.

Tinikaran Peak is part of the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary , currently the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mindanao. It is one of the lesser-visited tourist spots in Mati City.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tisay Heart Cuña (@tee_sigh)

One of the most popular Mati City tourist spots especially among the locals, Pangyan Falls is a three-tiered waterfall offering a quick respite from the tropical heat.

The waterfall area is located half an hour away from the city proper, which makes it part of the standard Mati City tours. From the entrance, you need to trek for 10 minutes to reach the waterfalls. Afterwards, take a dip in the nearby man-made pools filled with natural hot spring water, sourced from vents of an underground volcanic activity.

There are small sari-sari stores in the area, but you can also bring your own food and drinks.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Department of Tourism - Davao Region (@dotdavao)

Immerse yourself with the culture of Mati City by attending the Sambuokan Festival, held every October. This festival is the founding anniversary of Mati City. Its name is derived from the local word “ buok ,” which means one, referring to how the festival celebrates the oneness or unity of the people of the city.

The festival hosts an array of activity, the highlight of which is the Street Dancing Competition.

The closest airport to Mati City is Francisco Bangoy International Airport (or Davao Airport) in Davao City.

Here’s how to get from Manila to Mati City:

• Fly to Davao City . Flights from Manila to Davao City takes 1.5 hours.
• Take a bus or van to Mati . Buses and vans bound to Mati City depart from various terminals in Davao City, including Ecoland Transport Terminal and Davao City Overland Transport Terminal . Travel time is 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Here are the best resorts and hotels in Mati City:

• Masao View Resort and Spa . Known for their waterfront cottages.
• Blue Bless Resort . One of the most popular beach resorts in Mati City, with pools, watersports activities, sky bike, and zipline.
• Prymm Beach House . An exclusive beach house in Pujada Bay.

Has this travel guide on the best Mati City tourist spots and activities been helpful to you? If you have questions or comments, let us know in the comment section below!

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Katherine Cortes is a long-time backpacker and a freelance writer/editor. She likes beaches, snorkeling trips, and relaxing staycations (preferably with bath tubs!).

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