SAMAL ISLAND: Beaches and Beyond

Samal Island, officially known as Island Garden City of Samal, in Davao del Norte, is just 2 kilometers away from Davao City. Samal consists of mainland Samal, Talikud Island and other islets. Samal is one destination Davao City tourists are after of.

Samal Island is known for its white beaches, giant clam sanctuary and other marine attractions. However, there is so much more about Samal. A daytour in the island is truly worth the long travel. Here are the 4 things I did in just a day in Samal Island.




1. VISIT MONFORT BAT COLONY 

Monfort Bat Colony is a privately owned attraction. It is said to be 1,000 foot long cave holding the world's record as the biggest bat colony. The fruit bats are the greatest pollinators of Davo's durian. Entrance fee of 100 is required to see the bats close and personal. 

 

The sanctuary has 4 compartments:

a. NURSERY, where hatchlings are taken care of by their adult.

b. TRAINING GROUND, where youngsters learn to fly and eventually explore the outside world.  









 



c. BREEDING STATION, you know what I mean.





 

 






d. RETIREMENT VILLAGE, where the elderly dwell until they retire for eternity.

OTHER SNAPS

 

 2. REV UP TO MT. PUTING BATO

This is my foremost reason why I decided to visit Samal. Mt. Puting Bato, the highest peak in Samal Island stands 1,345 feet above sea level. This is located in Brgy. Guilon. Puting Bato means "white rock" which is a prominent feature of the mountain. The summit can be reached through 2-3 hours hike. 

3. COOL DOWN AT HAGIMIT FALLS

Hagimit Falls is composed of clustered water cascades with 15 feet as the highest. Others even insist not to call it falls. Every drop off point has its own pool. Other amenities include open cottages and closed cottages.
Getting close to the falls require 300 meter hike through concrete stairway.

 

4. END THE DAY AT THE BEACH

For seawater lovers, you have countless beaches to chose from. You may resort to well-developed amenities or the barely untouched sand. If you have ample time, pay a visit Talikud Island.  

HEY! I never came here to be a PAPARAZZI!!!"

HOW TO GET THERE:

1. From Sta. Ana Wharf (beside Magsaysay Park) motorboats travel to Kaputian and Talikud Island. Last Trip is 4:30 PM.

2. From Sasa Wharf, ferryboat and barge travel to Babak Wharf, Samal. Now travels 24 hours.

3. Via Island City Express Bus from R. Castillo and Cabaguio St. (satellite terminal), the bus will be transported by a ferryboat from Sasa Wharf to Brgy. Caliclic, Babak District.

Fees:

Individual - P10.00

Van- P200 (with free 4 passengers)

For commuters, you may hire tricycle or habal-habal at the wharf straight to your desired destination with prescribed rates.