samal island hopping tours

Samal Island Hopping: Guide to a Fantastic Samal Experience

by Wanderful Philippines | Attractions , Blog , Davao

Samal Island Hopping  is one of the best ways to enjoy and explore Samal Island which is just a close proximity to Davao City, Philippines.

Samal Island, officially known as Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) is geographically part of Davao del Norte. It is situated in Davao Gulf and so close to Davao City.

This island paradise is known for its lovely, clear waters. It has also abundant coral reefs and marine life.

There are numerous beach resorts on the island. From the most affordable ones, mid-range, to the luxurious ones, you can experience them all on the island.

Want to explore Samal Island? Book your tour via Klook here .

Joiners vs Group Tours

Generally, there are two types of day tour island hopping in Samal Island –  joiners  tour and  group  tour.

Joiners tour are for those solo, couple, family, friends and you will be joining with other tourists as well.

On the other hand, group tours are usually for large groups like company tours, family tours wherein the number of attendees is enough for the capacity of the boat that ranges from 30-70 seaters and they charter the whole boat.

See also : Kembali Coast Samal Island

SAMAL ISLAND HOPPING BEST BUDGET

For joiners tour, fee often ranges from Php1,000 – 2,000+ and it includes the boat, tour guide and lunch. This is the Samal Island hopping with lunch buffet. You need to book it in advance.

For the group tour, fee usually depends on the number of people who will join the island hopping and the food that will be served while on tour.

There are several Samal Island tour packages being offered. It is best to contact them directly so that you would know what are being covered on the fees on your particular tour.

Most tours includes lunch and the usual food consist of grilled fish, seafoods, fruits and lechon or roasted pig.

If you have special meal requirement like you don’t eat pork, better inform in advance and contact the tour operator so that they can attend to your special meal requirement.

For this particular island hopping that we are joining, it is a group tour and it includes breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks.

SAMAL ISLAND HOPPING ITINERARY

When we had our island hopping, this is our itinerary.

We jumped off at Sta. Ana Wharf in Davao City. This wharf is located just beside Magsaysay Park.

If you are bringing car with you, Sta. Ana Wharf provides parking space for a fee of only 20 pesos.

From Sta. Ana wharf, our boat headed right away to Talicud Island for our first stop.

1st Stop – Coral Garden

Coral Garden is perfect for diving and snorkeling. You will be treated to a beautiful, bountiful marine life if you snorkel into the seabed in this area.

That is the reason this spot is called Coral Garden. However, I personally have not taken a picture of the coral garden because my camera would not do justice to its beauty.

2nd Stop – Dayang Beach

Dayang Beach is a lovely resort in Talicud Island. Island Hopping tours usually stop at this resort.

It has a large sandy area where group can do activities like games if they are having it part of their program.

You can also do swimming in this area as it has clear, clean waters that it is perfect for you to soak yourself on their beach.

3rd Stop – Angel’s Cove

Angel’s Cove is another snorkeling spot in Samal Island.

You will get to see lovely and colorful fishes and the rich marine life in this area.

4th Stop – Sabang Cliff Dive

If you are the adventurous type and you know how to swim, then take a dive at Sabang Cliff.

There are 3 spots where you can dive from the cliff. The first level is approximately 14 feet, the second level is 21 feet and the highest around 40 feet.

Please note that you should dive with the right position as to not get hurt.

Some of my friends who made the dive and made the wrong landing in the water, got their body aching.

5th Stop – Sand Bar

Another stop of the island hopping is the Samal sandbar. It is a lovely sandbar that you can get into if the water is low tide.

So, depending on time, your boat may take this stop or not.

6th Stop – Wishing Island

Our last stop was the Wishing Island. It is a small island where you can climb into and have your wish.

There is also a statue of Mama Mary where you can say a prayer.

The surrounding vista of this Wishing Island is just amazing and awesome.

Sight Seeing at Pearl Farm and Malipano Island

Another highlight of this tour is the sightseeing of the popular Pearl Farm Resort and Malipano Island.

This is a luxurious resort that offers one of the best services in Samal Island.

You will get to see the lovely Stilt houses called Samal houses that are built on seawater. You will also get a view of their pavillion and that distinct white sand in the resort.

Getting around Malipano Island gives you a glimpse of the lovely villas by the sea at this lovely island.

Food is one of the most important factors that contribute to a fun and memorable island hopping experience.

As mentioned, part of the tour package, we were served with a hearty breakfast. There is a provision for hot water and coffee to help ourselves if we wanted coffee while on board in the morning.

We were also served with bread and egg, biko with sliced mango, and puto.

Lunch consist of delectable, Filipino favorites. Lechon was served together with tuna panga, kinilaw, guso salad, grilled chicken, seafood boil and shells.

Afternoon snacking consist of cassava cake, ube cake and other sweets.

Best Time for Samal Island Hopping

The best time to go island hopping in Samal Island is during the summer months in the Philippines. That is from March to June when there is not much rain on the island.

Samal island Hopping is so fun and memorable. It gives you lots of places to explore in just one go.

It a great getaway for the friends and family.

The staff are also approachable and accommodating.

This tour is so worth it.

>Book your Samal Island tour using Klook here .

would like to book

Hello Arlene, you can book with tour operators directly. Thanks.

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Samal Island, Davao (2024 Complete Travel Guide)

I never knew Davao had access to probably one of the best beaches in the Philippines. I only found out recently that Samal Island was accessible from the city. It’s just 30 minutes away by boat. So if you’re ever feeling stressed at work in Davao, just ride a boat and let the beach take all your worries away.

Sounds good to be true? Nah. It’s real and true.

If I were to compare it to another beach in the Philippines, it would be Kalanggaman Island (sorry, I haven’t been to Boracay yet sooooo). Both islands had fine, white sand and the waters surrounding them are clear and turquoise blue in color.

It’s paradise, I tell you.

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About Samal Island

The Island Garden City of Samal, also known as IGaCoS, is a part of the Metropolitan Davao area. It’s for everyone wanting a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

This island is quite blessed with abundant marine life, white sand beaches, flourishing flora and fauna, and spectacular rock formations. Apart from that, it is also home to the well-known Pearl Farm Beach Resort, which according to its name was once a pearl farm.

Packed with adventure and inland treasures, Samal Island is where travelers can go for an island hopping, snorkeling, diving, and beach bumming activities. This is one of the must-visit places if you’re going to Davao anytime soon.

Currency:  $1 USD = 52.26 PHP

How To Get Around:  The best way to explore Samal island is by riding a habal-habal or renting a motorbike. You can also rent a mutlicab (a smaller version of a jeepney).

ATMS: There are a few ATMS on the island. However, I’d recommend you to bring some cash in case the ATMs aren’t working. For foreign cards, there’s a withdrawal fee of around P150 per transaction.

Festivals: 

• Kabasan Festival –  (28th day of May) “Kalabasan” in local terms means “seashells”. Kalabasan Festival is an annual celebration of the abundance of marine life. This is a week long event which showcases the culture, native products and local talents in the island.
• Igacos Festival- (1st to 7th day of March) Icagos Festival is a week long event which celebrates the Island Garden of Samal’s founding anniversay. You can find here sand sculpture competitions, mountain biking tours, fluvial parades, boat races and a lot more.

Best Months To Go: The best times to go is during the dry season from January to May. The rain is minimal and the waves are calmer. August is also one of the best months to visit since its the fruit season. You can buy mangosteen, marang, durian, rambutan for a very cheap price.

Where to Eat:  There are a lot of  karinderias that offer home-made Filipino dishes for only P60 to P100 per meal. Most meals consist of meat, vegetable, and seafood.

How To Get There

Let’s start the adventure.

• Fly from Manila or Clark to Davao City. Time of travel is around 2 hours. You also have the option to fly from  Zamboanga, Cagayan de Oro, Bacolod, Iloilo, or Singapore. You can book your tickets on Cebu Pacific, PAL Express, and Philippine Airlines. For international flights, direct flights are offered by Singapore Airlines and Silk Air.
• Upon arrival at Davao International Airport, you’ll need to ride 2 jeepneys or a taxi to get to the pier. This is where you’ll need to ride a boat going to Samal Island.
• At Sta. Ana Wharf, ride the Palboros boat to get to Kaputian, Samal for around P60 (for a one-way ride). The boat ride is around 45 minutes long.
• Another way to get to Samal Island is via Sasa Wharf. Here, you will have to ride the bus which will go onboard the vessel ship going to Samal Island. The ferry ride only lasts 5 minutes!

Travel Tip: Check schedules and availability of buses, ferries, taxis or flights to book online with 12Go Asia.

Diving and Snorkeling

The coral gardens and marine life surrounding Samal Island is superb! You can see here lots of fishes, corals, starfishes, giant clams and a whole lot more! Here are the best places to snorkel and dive in Samal:

• Giant Clam Sanctuary
• Coral Garden Marine Park
• Angel’s Cove
• Aundanao Fish Sanctuary

The Carabao Dive Center in Davao City offers diving activities at the Coral Garden. An intro dive costs around P850 with your own dive master and equipment included in the payment.

• Location: F. Hermanos Bldg., Sta. Ana Pier, Monteverde St., Davao City
• Contact: (0928) 504 7642
• Email: [email protected]

Samal is one of the cheapest places to dive in the Philippines. Intro Dives are at P850 pesos and Open Water Certification starts at P12,500.

On the other hand, snorkeling with giant clams will set you back around P1,900 per person (for a group of five).

Island Hopping

Talicud Island, Malipano Island, and Ligid Island are only some of the islands near Samal that you can explore with a boat. You can also request your boatmen to go to the best snorkeling spots, so you’re hitting two birds with one stone while you’re at it.

Book a Samal and Talicud Island Tour on Klook Here

You can also book a Samal island hopping tour here.

Watch the Sunset

The Philippines offers some of the best places and beaches to watch the sunset. Samal island is one of those. It’s one of the most magical moments at the end of the day to spend with your loved ones. So don’t miss this.

Dip in a Kawa Hot Bath

Detoxify when you take a dip in a kawa hot bath at Samal Mango Haven for only P299 for 30 minutes. The chirping birds and rustling leaves as you soak is definitely the best way to destress and relax in Samal. Aside from the kawa hot bath in Samal Mango Haven, you van also enjoy a body massage or venture into the Japanese caves. Oh and don’t forget to stay for their lunch buffet.

• Location: Samal Mango Haven, Babak, Island Garden City of Samal
• Contact: (0945) 107 8474
• Facebook: facebook.com/SamalMangoHaven

Maxima Aquafun

Banana boats, snorkeling, diving, jet skis, and super slides going straight to the ocean are just some of the exciting things that Maxima Aquafun offers. The entrance fee is only P300 per head. To get here, you’ll have to ride a boat at 9:00 AM at Sta. Ana Wharf, then head back at 4:00 PM for only P150 per person (round trip tickets).

Hagimit Falls

Despite not being among the most popular waterfalls in the Philippines, Hagimit Falls is a beauty to behold on its own. The small and gentle cascades you’ll find provide a serene place to rejuvenate.

Fee: P60 per head (includes environmental fee)

You also have the option to rent cottages (P350) or tables (P200). If you prefer to camp, pitch your tent and stay for the night.

Mount Puting Bato

If you prefer to hike, there’s Mount Puting Bato on Samal island. It’s great for beginners and those training to climb Mt Apo, the tallest mountain in the Philippines. Standing at only 1,755 feet above sea level, you’ll get the best panoramic views of the island and the neighboring islands at the summit.

Monfort Bat Sanctuary

Recognized by Guinness as the largest colony of Geoffrey’s Rousette Fruit Bats, Monfort Bat sanctuary. In 2016, the bat population here was at 1.6million. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can witness such beautiful creatures in personal. You can choose to join the Bat Emergence Night Tour to watch the bats emerge from the cave. Entrance fees only cost P100.

• Location: Sitio Dunggas, Brgy. Tambo, Babak District
• Contact: (0917) 705 4295
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.monfortbatsanctuary.org

Sinkhole rappelling

Sinkhole rappelling is only open upon request at the local tourism office . Make sure you book in advance. Bet Depression is one of the best and most interesting destinations in Samal with its hectare wide depression and 500 hundred ft depth. Enjoy your rappelling adventure and be rewarded with a magnificent brook inside a cave at its deepest parts. Beware though. There’s no cleared path going back up, so you’ll have to deal with a grueling hike.

The Baga Cave on Talicud island is one of the best places to go spelunking. The surrounding local folklore about this cave will make you want to explore its depths and chambers. Its name was derived from the Filipino word for “lungs” because the champers are shaped like capillaries. The trek inside will last you around 4 hours however, you can decide how long you want to stay here.

Check Out Talicud Island

If you’re staying in Samal island, the Talicud island is a paradise found at the back of Samal. The stunning beach and fine sand in Talicud island will make you wish you never leave. The diverse marine life is great for snorkeling, too. Entrance fee for day trips is at P75 while camping is at P50 to P150. For larger groups, you can opt to rent a cottage for only P400 to P1,800.

You also have the option to book a tour at Isla Reta Beach Resort for only P100. To get here, you’ll have to ride a habal-habal or van to Kaputian beach. From here, you can rent a boat going to Talicud Island for only P30.

Visit Vanishing Island

The Salipaan Shoal only shows up during the low tide. For this reason, it was called the “vanishing island”. It’s worth a visit if you’re going to Samal Island. Its crystal clear waters are great for snorkeling, too. Rent a boat for only P250 to P300 to get here. This usually includes lunch and a 3-hour stay on the island.

Blue Bird View Deck

Just pay P10 to get access to the view deck and witness the stunning view of Samal Island, Wishing island, Taklobo Giant Clam Sanctuary, and South Malipano.

Where To Stay

La vida orchard samal bed and breakfast.

• BOOK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED RATES:  Booking.com
• You can also check  HotelsCombined  to compare rates

Free WiFi, airconditioned rooms and private bathroom, what more can you ask for? La Vida Orchard Samal Bed and Breakfast is one of the most hospitable bed and breakfast on the island.

Hof Gorei Beach Resort Davao

• BOOK HERE FOR DISCOUNTED RATES:  Booking.com  |  Agoda
• You can also check  HotelsCombined  to compare rates

Expect air-conditioned rooms with balcony, terrace, minibar, TV and a private bathroom when you book a room at Hof Gorei Beach Resort Davao. There’s also an outdoor pool and tropical gardens around the property.

Kalipay sa Baybay

Kalipay sa Baybay has clean, white sands and clear blue waters. With accommodating staffs, this resort is one of the best places to relax.

Chema’s by the Sea

Chema’s by the Sea provides standalone cottages and an outdoor swimming pool. Free WiFi is also available. Each cottage is fully air-conditioned and has a refrigerator, TV, toiletries, and private balconies.

Beach Room Studio

• Book via Airbnb

This is the perfect getaway for discerning guests, enjoying spectacular views with a large infinity pool overlooking Davao City and the Gulf, to find solitude and to completely relax to make your stay truly unforgettable.

Lankenua Lodgings

Featuring a swimming pool, a garden and a bar and views of the sea, Lankenua Lodgings is set in Samal and offers homestay accommodation with free WiFi.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort

Amidst the lush greenery and white sand, Pearl Farm Beach Resort has 2 outdoor swimming pools, bar, and a restaurant. Each room was designed with local and traditional materials.

Airbnb Davao

Aside from hotels and resorts, you can also opt to stay at an Airbnb .

Get your P2,200 ($44) Airbnb discount here!

Responsible Travel Tips

When traveling to one place, make sure you practice responsible tourism. Here are some tips to do so.

1. Respect the environment

Don’t litter. Please hold onto your trash until you find a garbage can. Don’t bring home the sand or any seashell. Leave them where they belong. Missing seashells can have potential detrimental environmental impacts.

Related:  16 Eco-Friendly Travel Products for the Earth-Loving You

2. Avoid single-use plastic

Bring your eco bag and refuse single-use plastic.

3. Shop local

Keep the traditional crafts alive and support local artisans. Buy from them. And try not to haggle, P20 may seem small to you but it can mean a lot to them.

4. Always ask permission

Be sure to ask for permission first when taking photos or videos, especially when it comes to children

What to Pack for Samal Island

• Eco-friendly Reusable Water Bottle
• Light Rain Jacket (especially from June to November) 
• T-shirts, a Nice top, and a Long-sleeved Shirt
• Power Adapter
• Universal Waterproof Phone Case
• Packing Cubes
• Microfiber Towel
• Travel Insurance
• Sneakers, Hiking Shoes (if you’re planning to hike) and Some Flats
• Reusable Straw and Reusable Bag (no to single-use plastic!)

Related Article:  The Only Travel Packing List You’ll Ever Need (Trust Me)

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Budget Travel Guides, Travel Tips, Reviews, Sample Itineraries

Samal Island Hopping – An Exhilarating Weekend Getaway

After more than two years of “outdoors hiatus,” I am glad that I have finally made a comeback (apologies for the “comeback;” that’s just for the lack of a more appropriate word). But yes, right! Now that strict restrictions and lockdowns are over, you will see me hitting the trail and getting sun-kissed again more often. That is, of course, if the pandemic situation further improves.

Last weekend, I was on a fun island-hopping tour, circumnavigating  Talicud Island in Samal, Davao del Norte, passing by some famous resorts, including Pearl Farm and Malipano Island. It was made possible by our generous friends at Way Philippines. That captivating end-of-summer activity was part of their Samal Island Hopping packages: a tour that gives guests a taste of what island hopping should be – fun, an opportunity to enjoy nature, a taste of delectable cuisine, and more!

So, here’s how we had our series of island hopping activities:

The call time was 7 AM, but I got there way before that to ensure everything was good and that I could find our ferry way ahead of schedule. Ours was third in a row, so we, the guests, had to go on board through other boats – expected when watercrafts crowd the port already. While waiting for the other guests, we signed a manifesto for the headcount. We had breakfast (included in the package) not long after that.

And we were off to go

At around 8 AM, we were off to go! The travel from Sta. Ana Wharf to our first destination lasted about an hour (give or take ) so while on our way, our tour guide gave the customary orientation detailing our activities and some reminders on the dos and don’ts. After that, we had ample time for ourselves. It gave us more than enough time to do personal stuff, including taking photos, and prepare for the day’s activity.

First stop: The Coral Garden

The Coral Garden – an area in the waters of Talicud Island that expands several hundred hectares – was our first destination. Endowed with such beauty, I enjoyed the place so much that I realized the 30 minutes allotted to us just passed by so quickly. Crystal clear waters and different coral reefs – and plenty of living organisms that dwell along with them – were irresistible. Yes, a great experience despite a not-so-vibrant color – the weather was still a bit gloomy from the rain that had just stopped.

Second stop: Dayang Beach Resort & Babu Santa

Dayang Beach Resort is a private beach that tour operators also include in their stops for island hopping in Samal. The place offers a stretch of white sandy beachline where tourists can enjoy swimming and other fun activities under the sun. It also has rental cottages for those staying overnight.

Our boat docked at Dayang Beach Resort with ease because of its shallow beachline waters. Our guide gave us 45 minutes to enjoy the beach. And just like at the Coral Garden, I enjoyed it so much as, apart from swimming, I had the opportunity to tour around the area, including Babu Santa – the adjacent beach resort. I had enough time to take some landscape photos – and drink some fresh coconut juice too!

Third stop: Sabang Cliff

Unlike Dayang Beach Resort and Babu Santa, where you can enjoy getting sun-kissed on their wide beachline, at the Sabang Cliff, you can see natural sea walls that go vertically up, forming a deep ravine covered by lush greenery. Carvings from the splashes of waves, line patterns, and layers of limestones are highly noticeable on these walls, providing a foot trail that allows people to go up to a platform for cliff jumping and diving.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by meanttogo (@meanttogo)

I did not go for a jump (nothing to prove; I did a 40-foot jump during my Kawasan Canyoneering already). But I enjoyed swimming in the crystal blue-green waters in the area. We lingered a bit longer at Sabang Cliff as this was also the place of our buffet lunch (also included in the package). We had sumptuous lunch – lots of seafood, fruits, desserts, and soup. That’s the perk of having a cook onboard!

Fourth (and last stop): Giant clam sanctuary

We were supposed to go to Angel’s Cove for our fourth destination, but our tour guide said that we might be more inclined to choose the Giant Clam Sanctuary instead. Guests were unanimous in opting for the latter for some compelling reasons. For one, we had not seen giant clams yet, and two, if we had chosen Angel’s Cove, we would do the same activity as we did at the Coral Garden – snorkeling and swimming. We had to choose one given the time constraint.

Visiting the Giant Clam Sanctuary was not part of the tour package, so we had to pay 200 pesos for the entrance fee, a snorkel mask, and a guide. Was it worth it? Definitely! It was my first time to see meter-sized clams – not just one but a lot of them! You can see six varieties of giant clams in the sanctuary. My only regret was that not being able to capture underwater photos/footage at the sanctuary as my action cam malfunctioned suddenly. But other than that, it was a great experience!

We stayed a bit more at the Giant Clam Sanctuary that we no longer had enough time to visit the Wishing Island – our supposed last stop before heading back to Sta. Ana Port.

Time constraints opted us to end the tour after enjoying the Giant Clam Sanctuary. Gracefully exhausted by the energy-draining activities – yes, it was all worth it. 🙂

We were back at the port before sunset, just in time for us to see big waves started splashing onto the port’s sea walls

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5D4N Davao to Samal Island Itinerary: Tourist Spots & Island Hopping

Day 1: Flight to Davao City & Sightseeing Tour

San pedro cathedral, museo dabawenyo.

• People’s Park

Lon Wah Temple

Davao crocodile park, roxas night market, day 2: davao malagos garden, philippine eagle & eden nature park tour, malagos garden resort, philippine eagle center, eden nature park.

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Day 3: Samal Island Hopping Tour

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How far is Samal Island from Davao City?

Ferry schedule to samal island from davao, vanishing island, talikud island, coral garden marine park, wishing island, pearl farm beach resort, malipano island, maxima aquafun resort, day 4: samal island kaputian beach & land tour & travel back to davao city.

• Kaputian Beach

Sabang Cliff

Bluebird view deck, giant clam sanctuary, hagimit falls, monfort bat sanctuary, samal mariculture park, mt. puting bato, spelunking at baga cave, day 5: departure.

Davao City , the most populous city in Mindanao, is one of the best tourist destinations in the Philippines . The city has a perfect blend of natural and man-made Davao tourist spots , which includes nature parks, endangered animal conservation facilities, outdoor experiences, beaches and water activities in Samal Island , top-notch Davao hotels , restaurants, and the famed Kadayawan Festival , a colorful thanksgiving for the city and highlighting its 11 tribes. 

• Seda Abreeza Davao tour package
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Since Mindanao is home to the majority of the Filipino Muslim population in the Philippines, Davao is one of the best halal destinations in the Philippines. Another reason why Davao tour packages are popular is because of their diverse attractions — one can go sightseeing in Davao City with an island-hopping side trip on Samal Island on the same trip.

See our popular Philippines Vacation Packages

Relaxing 4-day beachfront mithi resort bohol package from manila, 3-day boracay luxury package at 5-star crimson resort with flights from manila & airport transfers, 4-day luxury boracay package at 5-star crimson resort with airfare from manila.

Because Davao has its own Philippine airport , the Francis Bangoy Airport ( Davao Airport ), it has become accessible from the main cities in the Philippines and countries including Hongkong, Singapore, Indonesia, and Taiwan. Before taking a trip to Davao City, it's best to have a handy itinerary for a convenient and hassle-free vacation in the Philippines .

• Find flights to the Philippines
• Find a flight to Manila
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If you want to know the best places to go in Davao City and Samal Island after fulfilling the Philippine travel requirements , Take note of the Davao tourist spots in this itinerary to learn about the best activities and sights included in a 5D4N tour that you should not miss.

See our popular Davao Vacation Packages

Exciting 4-day davao city & nature budget tour package with hotel, breakfast & transfers, 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.

From Manila , you will need to board a plane to Davao International Airport and then ride a transfer to hotels in Davao City . For this day, you can explore some Davao tourist spots you can book on a travel booking website like Guide to the Philippines, dine at restaurants, or enjoy your hotel’s amenities. 

Some of the tourist attractions you can visit include:

See our popular Davao Tours and Activities

Private davao city nature & culture tour b | philippine eagle center, malagos garden resort & more, davao samal island hopping tour | coral garden, diaz island, nonoy starfish, pearl farm, davao samal island land tour | bluebird view deck, kaputian beach park, vanishing island.

San Pedro Cathedral, Davao City's oldest cathedral, is one of the most important historical sites in the city. It was named after Davao's patron saint, San Pedro. It is bordered on the front by San Pedro Street, the city's oldest street.

The Museo Dabawenyo houses a collection of Davao-related artifacts, artworks, antiques, and more preserved items. It also has a comprehensive gallery of Moro People artifacts like armors, chairs, crowns, and lamps, as well as traditional Filipino apparel, money, musical notes, and clothing.

See our popular Museum Tours

Cebu city & lapu-lapu city top heritage attractions tour with transfers, baguio museum and arts tour with lunch & transfers, aklan calawag mountain resort & tibiao museum tour with lunch & transfers, people’s park.

Davao People's Park is one of the country's most pristine and green parks. One of its main features is the Durian Dome, which is also one of Davao's most photographed monuments. Table picnics are available for children at the People's Park, but most people eat on the fields or in the ponds with large sculptures.

The Lon Wah Buddhist Temple is notable for its marble and golden wood sculptures of Buddha on its walls. As of the moment, it is Mindanao's largest Buddhist temple and promotes religious and cultural tourism in the Philippines .

The Roxas Avenue Night Market lets visitors sample the many cuisines available in Davao City. Grilled fresh fish, vegetables, meat, and other foods are sold at the many vendors at this well-known night market. Take note that the clothing and accessory shops open after the food booths close.

See our popular Food Tours

Coffee farm tour at amadeo cavite near manila & tagaytay with live brewing & tasting sampler, manila binondo & intramuros full-day tour with guide & transfers, bohol loboc river cruise lunch with private transfers from panglao.

The next part of your Davao itinerary is a nature park tour. You can visit the following beautiful places in Davao City :

The 12-hectare Malagos Garden Resort is a farm resort with accommodations. restaurants, swimming pools, and other resort attractions. Two of its main highlights are the Chocolate Museum, which gives a detailed look into the production process for the renowned tree to bar chocolates in the Philippines , and the Butterfly Farm, where a variety of butterflies can be observed.

While at Malagos Garden Resort, you can appreciate gorgeous orchids like waling-waling, check out bee breeding, go horseback riding, try a kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) ride, and play billiards, table tennis, badminton, and volleyball. 

See our popular Adventure and Nature Parks

Scenic 2-day treasure mountain rizal camping package with daranak falls side trip & transfers, rizal treasure mountain day pass with breakfast, obstacle course, giant seesaw & bosay falls trek, breathtaking 2-day treasure mountain rizal camping package with breakfast.

Davao's Eden Nature Park and Resort provides a tranquil setting that is ideal for a retreat. Some of the fun recreational activities here include sky cycling and sky biking. It hosts an amphitheater, a popular location for special events. It also hosts a Tinubdan, a place built to show the home architectures, landscapes, and lifestyles of people of the past, particularly the livelihoods of the Lumads who are said to have lived in the area.

Jack’s Ridge

Jack’s Ridge is the place to go if you want to see a stunning panoramic view of Davao. Aside from the breathtaking views, there are two restaurants here promoting Philippines food culture : Karlo's Gourmet, which provides coffee and a variety of baked goods, and Taklobo, which serves Filipino cuisine in an open-air eating area with a spectacular view of the city. It's the perfect last stop for your dinner after your Davao tour.

Afterward, you will travel back to your Davao City hotel. Rest up and wake up early the next day for your ferry trip to Samal Island. 

• Samal Davao island-hopping tour
• Samal Island tour

From Davao City, you can travel to Samal Island by ferry and do a Samal Island tour often booked in a Philippine travel agency like Guide to the Philippines. 

See our popular Island Hopping Tours

Boracay island hopping shared tour with lunch & snorkeling package, boracay island hopping package private tour with lunch, snorkeling gear & kawa hot bath, palawan coron malcapuya, banana & bulog dos islands shared tour with lunch & transfers, how to go to samal island from davao .

The main jump-off point to Samal Island is Davao City. Once you arrive at Davao Airport, you can either ride 2 jeepneys bound to the ferry terminal at Sta. Ana Wharf, or ride a RORO transport going to Sasa Wharf.

Samal Island is only 2KM away from Davao City via a ferry ride, which will take around 10 to 15 minutes of travel time.

Ferry boat rides bound to Samal Island run from 5 AM to 11 PM.

Once you arrive in Samal Island, you can visit some of the best beaches in the Philippines , snorkeling spots, and other attractions. 

The Vanishing Island is a short stretch of white sand a few meters away from the shore of Tambo, Babak in Samal. The island got its name due to it only being visible during low tide and may be seen from afar by the appearance of dwellings floating slightly above the ocean.

See our popular Samal Island Tours

Coral Garden Marine Park is a must-see for an unforgettable snorkeling excursion in Davao. Located in Talikud Island, this scuba diving-friendly marine park will leave you in awe of the underwater life, which is teeming with various corals, seagrasses, fish, and other marine beauties.

Wishing Island in Samal is a stunning tourist spot with aquamarine waters. The island bordered by mangroves got its name from the fact that it is thought to be the home of magical beings by the locals.

Pearl Farm Beach Resort is a well-known Philippines beach resort and is one of the top farm resorts in the Philippines . If you want to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet, this lovely resort provides a calm beach environment.

You will find yourself returning again and again for its luxury accommodations, swimming pool, healthy cuisine restaurant, bar, and other facilities. Take note that you can do a day tour if you’re not staying here.

See our popular Philippine Luxury Vacation Packages

Amazing 4-day movenpick boracay 5-star resort package with airfare from manila or clark & transfers, upscale 4-day discovery coron (club paradise palawan) private island resort package with airfare.

Maxima AquaFun Resort is the ideal option for families and big groups wanting a water getaway in Samal Island. It has a 40-meter super slide that will take you from the top of a hill to the 120-foot sea. There's also the water blob, which functions similarly to a trampoline, and the canopy walk, which involves crossing a hanging bridge and rappelling down. They also provide traditional water sports such as banana boat rides, kayaking, snorkeling, jet-skiing, and diving.

You will stay for a night at a Samal Island resort and explore more tourist attractions for the next day. 

After breakfast, you will continue your Samal Island tour by visiting other prime tourist spots within the area. This includes the following attractions: 

Kaputian Beach 

Kaputian Beach, located in the southwest and facing the northern point of Talikud Island, is Samal's most popular beach. At its entrance gate lies the remnants of the beautifully preserved Dugong or manatee, to remind its guests how plentiful the waters of this island are. 

Sabang Cliff is a must-visit for the adrenaline-chasing crowd. This 30-feet rocky-edged cliff beckons daring souls to dive into the blue waters of Davao Gulf. This is the place to go if you like marine life and thrills and is also an ideal place for those who want to go scuba diving and cliff jumping.

See our popular Beach Tours

The Blue Bird Viewing Deck, which faces Davao City, provides a breezy and calm atmosphere to its guests. It is a great gathering spot for travelers as there are cottages where you may eat lunch while taking in the scenery. This observatory in Samal overlooks the Pearl Farm Beach Resort.

The Giant Clam Sanctuary is a marine sanctuary with more than 3,000 enormous clams that stretches over the 14-hectare sea of Barangay Acedor in Samal. As of the moment, Davao del Norte State College is presently safeguarding the Giant Clam Sanctuary.

See our popular Philippine Scuba Diving Packages & Courses

Boracay island scuba diving with instructor & equipment, boracay introductory scuba diving with divemaster, gear & underwater photos, boracay discover scuba diving with gears & padi instructor.

Samal Mariculture Park is a massive 244-hectare aquatic facility located past the Pearl Farm Resort and along Samal's shore. It includes floating fish cages where various fish species such as milkfish, grouper, kingfish, and others can thrive. This environmentally friendly park is praised throughout Asia for providing a source of income for island residents and educating visitors about the fishing industry.

If you have more time to explore Samal Island, some other tourist spots in Mindanao you can visit include:

Mt. Puting Bato is one of the adventure-packed tourist destinations in Samal Island. This mountain with a height of 1,345 MASL is a great destination for hikers who want to experience what it's like to reach a mountain that is conveniently accessible, as its summit is reached by two types of trails.

See our popular Hiking Tours

2-day adventure to buscalan kalinga tattoo village of apo whang-od from manila with homestay & meals.

Baga Cave is a long and deep cave located on Talicud Island. The cave is a popular location for travelers visiting the island for its stalactites, stalagmites, and unique rock formation.

After your Samal Island tour, you can ride the ferry back to Davao and check-in at your hotel. 

Plan Your Davao City & Samal Island Trip Now!

• Manila to Davao flights
• Cebu to Davao flights
• Zamboanga to Davao flights
• Bacolod to Davao flights
• Bohol to Davao flights
• Cagayan de Oro to Davao flights

Now is the best time to visit the Philippines . Find more information about Davao City and Samal Island by checking out our Davao travel guide . Make sure to prepare your accommodation by checking out either budget hotels or 5-star hotels in the Philippines , then arrange your tours by booking the best Philippine tour packages , family tour packages , all-inclusive family vacation packages , or vacation packages for couples , and finally, decide whether you’ll rent a car in Davao or find other modes of transportation.

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ULTIMATE SAMAL ISLAND DIY TRAVEL GUIDE 2024 (Budget + Itinerary)

While the Philippines is renowned for its islands featuring long stretches of bone-white sand beaches fringed with towering coconut trees, it is still quite a surprise to be captivated by the same scene in a different one. This was precisely how I felt about Samal Island. I honestly thought it would be just another island but it wasn’t. For some inexplicable reason, it exudes a unique captivating charm and atmosphere that sets it apart from the others I’ve visited in the past making our experience truly distinctive. If you also wish to explore the island garden city and a true gem in Davao region, here’s an ultimate Samal Island DIY travel guide to help you with!

About Samal Island

The Island Garden City of Samal island is nestled at Davao gulf, just right across Davao City. Though seemingly a stone-throw away from Davao city, Davao del Sur, Samal island, also referred to as IGaCoS is part of Davao del Norte province. It is a home to numerous beach resorts, stretch of stunning shores, pristine waters, thousands of giant clams locally known as taklobo , caves and sink holes with millions of fruit bats, pearl farms and countless snorkeling and dive sites. These natural treasures made Samal island among the top destinations in Mindanao region especially those who are paying the capital city of the whole region a visit. Cebuano is the language widely spoken by the locals but they could converse fluently in Tagalog or English making it an ideal destination even for foreigners and tourists.

Best Time to Visit Samal Island

The best time to visit Samal Island of course is during the dry season in the Philippines – around March to May . This, however, is a peak season so expect that tourists would flock the island especially on weekends. The ‘Amihan’ season ( September to November ) in the country is also quite ideal as it is an off-peak season, it gets sunny at times and less humid but weather has a tendency to be hit or miss.

Places to Visit

Below are the top places to visit in the Island Garden City of Samal in Davao del Norte:

• Monfort Bat Cave
• Kaputian Beach
• Bluebird Overlooking (C. Formoso Inland Resort)
• Sabang Cliff Diving
• New City Hall of Samal
• Giant Balete Tree
• Giant Clam (Taklobo) Sanctuary
• Wishing Island
• Malipano Island
• Pearl Farm Resort
• Starfish Sandbar
• Diaz Island
• Babu Santa Beach Resort
• Dayang Beach Resort
• Isla Reta Beach Resort
• Angels Cove

To know more about what to look forward in these places, read: Top Places to Visit in Samal Island, Davao del Norte 2023 .

Where to Stay in Samal Island

There are several hotel and beach resorts in Samal island ranging from the budget-friendly ones to upscale located by the beach or in the islands. Below is a categorized hotels and resorts that this Samal Island DIY travel guide lists down for you:

Upscale Beach-front Hotel and Resorts

• Pearl Farm Beach Resort – Check rates, availability and book here
• Kembali Vista Villa – Check rates, availability and book here
• Discovery Samal
• Club Samal Resorts
• Seashell Island Beach Resort
• Casas Con Vistas Resort

Upscale Non-Beach front Hotel and Resorts

• Oceano Con Vista Highland – Check rates, availability and book here
• Virtuquest Samal Resort & Spa – Check rates, availability and book here

Mid-range Beach Front Accommodations

• Hof Gorei Beach Resort Davao – Check rates, availability and book here
• Swissfinity Beach Resort – Check rates, availability and book here
• Camp Holiday Resort

Economy Beach Front Hotels and Resorts

• Hayahay Beach Resort – Samal Island 
• Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort
• Camp Holiday Resort (located just outside Sasa Wharf)
• Kaputian Beach Resort

Mid-range Non-Beach Front Accommodations

• Aundanao Oasis Beach – Check rates, availability and book here

Budget-Friendly Non-Beach front Hostels and Accommodation

• RiCres Hometel – Check rates, availability and book here
• La Vida Hostel – Check rates, availability and book here
• RedDoorz @ AltaVista Beach Resort Samal – Check rates, availability and book here
• Jardin De Ysabelle – Check rates, availability and book here

Getting to and Around Samal Island

How to Get There

The nearest airport to the Island Garden City of Samal is the Davao International Airport. Hence, if you intend to visit it, book a flight directly to this airport from anywhere in the Philippines. Cebu Pacific Air , Air Asia and Philippine Airlines have several trips daily from Clark and Manila to Davao City most especially if you’re coming from Luzon.

On the other hand, if you’re coming from Visayas region, you may opt to fly from Bacolod-Silay International Airport in Negros Occidental , Mactan International Airport in Cebu and Panglao International Airport in Bohol . For travelers coming from Mindanao, you may either take a flight from Siargao , Zamboanga and Cagayan de Oro or take a bus from any point to Davao City.

From Davao City

There are at least two wharfs from Davao city where you can disembark from when traveling to Samal. Fortunately, these wharfs are accessible from anywhere in the city especially from Davao International Airport locally known as Francisco Bangoy International Airport . Though all of these wharfs would take you to the island, it is a must to note whether you’d like to spend your days by the beach or where your hotel or resort accommodation is located for a hassle-free trip. These different wharfs in Davao city have their respective wharfs in the island.

From the airport, take a metered taxi to Sasa Wharf. The trip would take more or less 10 to 15 minutes depending on the traffic. Fare ranges from Php 100.00 to Php 120.00. Then, take the barge from Sasa Wharf to Kinawitnon Wharf in Babak District . Fare is at Php 20.00 . The sea travel takes more or less 10 to 15 minutes, too. The barges traveling from Sasa to Kinawitnon is available 24 hours .

Sta. Ana Wharf

Catch a metered taxi from the airport to Sta. Ana Wharf, or opt for two jeepney transfers from the airport to Agdao, where the wharf is situated. The trip takes 45 minutes depending on the traffic. Finally, take a passenger boat to Kaputian district or a barge barge to Talicud Island for another 45 minutes to one hour.

From Davao City by Bus

You may take a bus at Agdao or Sasa just outside the wharf to Samal island. The fare includes the ferry fee and it’s a much cheaper option most especially if you are checking in somewhere in Kaputian or Penaplata.

Getting Around Samal Island

• Tricycle or bao-bao . fare starts at Php 16.00 . If you wish to go on a land tour, you can rent one for a whole day for only Php 1,200.00 to Php 1,500.00 .
• Self-drive motorcycle . You may go around the island on a self-drive motorcycle that you may rent around Babak district. Rate starts at Php 500.00 for 24 hours excluding the gas . Make sure that you have your driver’s license with you and that you’ll wear helmet when driving.
• Habal-habal . among the cheapest ways to get around and are available around the island.
• Bus . Bachelor buses coming from Davao city go from Babak district to Kaputian or Penaplata. Basic fare is at Php 20.00 . If you wish to go to Kaputian, fare is at Php 80.00 .
• Boat . Apart from the stunning shorelines of Samal island itself, you may also opt to explore its nearby islands like Wishing, Vanishing, Diaz and Talicud. To do so, you need to charter a tourist boat. Rates start at Php 2,500.00 for a small boat for 5 persons for island hopping excluding Talicud island. This rate excludes docking (Php 500.00), environmental/ entrance (Php 50.00 to Php 100.00) and tour guide fees (Php 500.00).

Samal Island Sample Itinerary

This Samal Island DIY Travel Guide suggests a flexible itinerary that you may follow:

Day 1: Inland Samal Island Tour

8:30 AM – ETD from Davao International Airport 8:45 AM – ETA in Sasa Wharf 9:00 AM – ETD for Samal Island 9:15 AM – ETA in Samal Island 9:30 AM – Leave stuff at the lobby of the booked accommodation 10:30 AM – Start Samal Island inland tour Places to visit:

• Vanishing Island
• Hagimit Falls ( still currently closed )

5:00 PM – End of tour/ Check in/ Freshen up 7:00 PM – Dinner 9:00 PM – Lights off

Day 2: Samal Island Hopping Tour

6:30 AM – Rise and shine 7:00 AM – Breakfast 8:00 AM – Depart for Kaputian Beach if Talicud Island will be included or Brgy. Adicor for Samal islands and islets only 9:00 AM – Start of Samal Island Hopping Tour Islands to visit:

• Giant Clam Sanctuary
• Malipano Island (Pearl Farm Resort Viewing)
• Starfish sandbar
• Coral Garden

If Talicud Island will be included:

• Babu Santa Beach
• Dayang Beach
• Angel’s Cove and Coral Garden

5:00 PM – Back to Kaputian Beach/ Brgy. Adicor 6:00 PM – Back to accommodation/ wash up/ pack up 7:00 PM – Head back to Kinawitnon Wharf in Babak district 7:30 PM – Depart for Davao City 8:30 PM – Dinner at Roxas Night Market

Note : For a day trip in Samal Island, you may just choose between the Day 1 and Day 2 in the suggested itinerary. While some would squeeze in both the inland and island tours, this would only leave you rushed; hence, unable to appreciate the beauty of Samal island.

Samal Island Sample Budget

Taxi from Davao International Airport to Sasa Wharf – Php 120.00/ 3 = Php 40.00 Barge from Sasa to Kinawitnon Wharf (Babak District) – Php 20.00 Samal Island Ecological fee – Php 50.00/ head Tricycle from Kinawitnon wharf to accommodation (Around Villarica district) – Php 100.00/ 3 = Php 33.00 Tricycle rental for inland tour – Php 1,200.00/3 – Php 400.00 Monfort Bat Cave Entrance Fee – Php 120.00/ head Vanishing Island boat – Php 400.00/ 3 = Php 133.33 Entrance fee to Bluebird View deck – Php 20.00 / head Kaputian Beach Resort entrance fee – Php 50.00 Food – Php 300.00 Accommodation – Php 2,500.00/3 = Php 1,999.66

DAY 1 EXPENSES TOTAL: Php 2,149.66

[Option 1] Day 2: Samal Island Hopping Tour with Talicud Island

Tricycle to Kaputian Beach – Php 700.00/ 3 = 233.33 Boat rental for island hopping with Talicud island – Php 5,500.00/ 3 = Php 1,833.33 Giant Clams (Taklobo) Entrance fee – Php 200.00 Wishing Island entrance fee – Php 100.00 Babu Santa entrance fee – Php 50.00 Isla Reta Entrance Fee – Php 100.00 Food – Php 300.00 Accommodation – Php 833.33 Tricycle to Kinawitnon Wharf – Php 100.00 /3 = Php 33.33 Barge from Kinawitnon to Sasa wharf = Php 20.00 Taxi from Sasa Wharf to Davao City – Php 230.00/ 3 = Php 76.66

DAY 2 EXPENSES TOTAL: Php 3,649.32

[Option 1] 2 Days 1 Night Samal Island total expenses: Php 5,928.98

[Option 2] Day 2: Samal Island Hopping Tour without Talicud Island

Tricycle to Adicor – Php 500.00/ 3 = Php 166.66 Boat rental for island hopping – Php 2,500.00/ 3 = Php 833.33 Boat entry fee – Php 500.00/ boat/ 3 = Php Php 166.66 Tour guide fee – Php 500.00/ 3 = Php 166.66 Giant Clams (Taklobo) Entrance fee – Php 200.00 Wishing Island entrance fee – Php 100.00 Food – Php 300.00 Accommodation – Php 833.33 Tricycle to Kinawitnon Wharf – Php 100.00 /3 = Php 33.33 Barge from Kinawitnon to Sasa wharf = Php 20.00 Taxi from Sasa Wharf to Davao City – Php 230.00/ 3 = Php 76.66

DAY 2 EXPENSES TOTAL: Php 2,745.97

[Option 2] 2 Days 1 Night Samal Island total expenses: Php 4,895.63

Important Budget Notes:

• Expenses could be lesser if you will be in big groups
• If you wish to save more or spend less, travel to Samal island on a weekend and join organized island hopping tours. Such tours are not available on weekdays unless you are in a big group. However, take note that the time for each island will be limited and beaches are way more crowded.

Samal Island Practical Travel Tips

• Samal is a very DIY traveler-friendly place even for just a small group of travelers. However, see to it that you’ll compare the rates first (i.e. tricycle, bao-bao or boat) as they have a tendency to vary (worse, jack up) the price.
• You can arrange inland tours with your accommodation’s management or with tricycle drivers just outside the wharfs.
• If you’re traveling solo and you’d like to go on an island-hopping tour but wouldn’t want to splurge, might as well schedule your visit to Samal island during weekends as there are several island-hopping tours during these days. The only downside is that the beaches or islands are a bit crowded.
• If you’re doing DIY for the island hopping tour, make sure that you’ll buy your food first at the market before you go to the boat docking area. There are no restaurants on the islands that you’ll visit.
• This Samal Island DIY Travel guide suggests that you if you have the luxury of time, spend a night or two not just in Samal but also in Talicud island, too.
• If you would also want to visit Talicud island as part of the island-hopping tour, it is best to rent the boat from Kaputian beach.
• Bring reef-friendly sunscreen, dry bags, action camera and snorkeling gear during your island hopping tour.
• There are lots of restaurants and eateries around Babak, Villarica, Penaplata and Kaputian district. However, they usually close at around 8:00 in the evening.
• Banks are situated at Babak distrct. Landbank, BDO and Banco A (BPI) are available.
• Big establishments accept G-cash and card payment. Nevertheless, see to it that you’ll still have enough cash with you especially when traveling around.
• Strictly NO DIVING (especially with fins) in Giant Clams (Taklobo) Sanctuary.

Samal Island DIY Travel Guide, In a Nutshell

This Samal Island DIY Travel Guide rather suggests that you experience IGaCos fully. It has so much to offer that a day wouldn’t suffice to witness its exquisite charm.

Despite the surge of tourists frequently visiting Samal island, we saw with our own eyes how Dabawenyos have been taking a good care out of it as most areas remained unspoiled. We felt like the ecological and entrance fees that we paid were really worth it. However, this doesn’t mean that just because they are taking a good care of it doesn’t absolve the visitors from exercising responsible tourism.

Other places to visit in Mindanao:

• Camiguin Island Travel Guide 2023 (Budget + Itinerary)
• Your Ultimate DIY Travel Guide to Siargao Island 2023
• Top 11 Places to Visit in SOCCSKSARGEN (Mindanao)
• La Palmera Mountain Ridge: A Captivating Gem of Sultan Kudarat
• Lake Sebu Lotus Garden: Paddling through the T’boli Culture
• Seven Seas Waterpark and Resort Travel Guide
• Mabua Pebble Beach, Surigao Del Norte Travel Guide

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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Samal Island Hopping - 1-day Tour

What You'll Experience

There’s definitely a reason why Davao is known as the “Crown Jewel of Mindanao.” Go past the impressive urban attractions and you’ll unravel the most exquisite island destinations the province has to offer. This stunning 1-day island hopping getaway will take you to Samal Mariculture, Coral Garden, Kaputian Beach, Pearl Farm, and more. At the end of the tour, your local tour guide will bring you to Isla Reta Beach Resort where you can spend the rest of the day swimming in the ocean and enjoying a deliciously prepared picnic lunch by the shore.

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