Samal: A stunning tropical island escape like no other

One of the 7641 islands of the Philippines is presented in this article….

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Just a stone’s throw from Davao City, Samal Island awaits vacationers – a true jewel of the Philippines and a dream destination for those seeking relaxation and tropical beauty. Here, adventure seekers will find everything their heart desires: powdery white sandy beaches gently sloping into crystal-clear turquoise waters, fringed by majestic coconut palms.

Who will love Samal?

Whether you’re a water lover or a hiker, Samal is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, as the underwater world is fascinating and teeming with life. Explore vibrant coral reefs or discover hidden caves like the Monfort Bat Sanctuary, home to millions of bats. Whether you’re looking to be pampered at a luxurious resort, seek adventure, or simply unwind, Samal has something for everyone.

A stately island: The coastline is impressive. The total coastline of the Island Garden City of Samal (including the smaller islands) is estimated at approximately 116 kilometers.

Forest cover: Samal is known for its lush, green landscape. An exact percentage of forest cover is difficult to determine, as it varies depending on the definition (primary forest, secondary forest, cultivated land). However, there are significant forested and mountainous areas in the interior of the island characterized by tropical vegetation. A large portion of the island is used for agriculture or forested.

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The island exudes a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood, the warm hospitality of the locals, and breathtaking sunsets that bathe the sky in spectacular colors. Samal is the perfect place to escape from everyday life and create unforgettable memories in an idyllic island paradise.

Example of a nice beach resort:

There are many small beach resorts on the island, some offering luxury, others more basic amenities. One of them, the Alorro Crystal Beach Resort, described in more detail here, offers an affordable and peaceful escape from everyday life. Known for its pristine beach with crystal-clear waters, it’s the ideal place to relax and swim.

The resort is characterized by its lively and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for guests who want a glimpse into everyday Filipino life and seek beautiful nature. Families and friends live here, vividly and visibly, as they actively participate on the beach or in front of the resort rooms…

Here, travelers can unwind, explore the spectacular underwater world while snorkeling, or simply enjoy the picturesque views. The accommodations are simple yet comfortable, offering an authentic island experience. An idyllic retreat for anyone who wants to discover true island life on Samal.

How much does the fun cost?

Accommodation costs at the Alorro Resort on Samal vary depending on the room category. Basic rooms range from PHP 800 to PHP 2,000 per night, while larger rooms or the Ancestral House cost around PHP 5,000 per night. The entrance fee is an additional PHP 150 per person. One euro is approximately PHP 64.

Alorro Crystal Beach Resort

How to get from Davao City to Samal Island?

From Davao City Airport (DVO) it is only a short journey to Samal Island:

From the airport to Sasa Wharf (port): Take a taxi or Grab (a ride-hailing app similar to Uber) from Davao Airport to the Sasa Ferry Terminal (Sasa Wharf). The ride takes approximately 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Ferry/Boat ride to Samal Island:

Passenger Ferries (Barges): At Sasa Wharf, you can take a car ferry that also carries passengers. These run very frequently (often every 15-30 minutes) and the crossing takes only about 10-15 minutes to Babak Wharf or Peñaplata Wharf on Samal Island. The fare is very low (a few pesos).

Resort boats: Many of the larger resorts on Samal Island offer their own pick-up service from Sasa Wharf or another wharf in Davao City. Please inquire with your chosen resort about this service.

Private boats: There are also smaller private boats that you can rent if you want to get to a specific point on Samal faster and more directly.

Who has visited Samal and the Alorro Crystal Beach Resort?