"Samal - Island Garden Paradise" Top 5 Page for this destination Samal Island by bike_packer

Samal Island Travel Guide: 66 reviews and 204 photos

WELCOME to SAMAL Island Garden Paradise

Samal is just a 20-minute boat ride from Davao (Sasa Wharf). It is less than 800m at the narrowest portion of the strait. The roro charges P300 for cars/vans << easy and more convenient way to explore the island.

The island boasts of coves and long stretches of white sand beach of clear and pristine water. Add to that the natural attractions Samal has to offer - waterfalls, caves and lush forrests. And yes, experience the wonderful underwater world in the numerous snorkeling/dive spots around the island and its islets. No wonder it is called "The Island Garden of Samal". The best thing is that the island is out of the typhoon belt - an all-year round destination.

More than 30 resorts dot the islands. Whatever is your budget range, you'll find your place.

MTBike Playground for Davaoenos

The web-like roads and trails that connect the villages in the island is a dream-to-ride for MTBikers. Influx of MTBike riders on weekends is a common activity. MTBike >>> the better and easier way to explore the island.

Other Things To Do in Samal Island: (not only for the adventurous)

- Mountain Climbing - trekking and camping at Mt. Puting Bato, the highest peak of the island and towering barely 400m ASL would entice even the newbies to easily conquer this. A good 360? view of the island and the sea is just awesome. Check out the waterfalls along the way.
- Spelunking - the islands has more than 50 caves. Explore nature?s underground beauty. Be it rock formations, underground waterfalls or rivers.
- Scuba Diving and Snorkeling - Talikud Island is the place. Awesome coral formations where colorful tropical fishes playfully swirling around

Exotic Seafood

Taklobo

Taste what the locals eat.

Pros and Cons

Pros:Beaches, Waterfalls, Coral Dive Spots, Cheap Seafood
In a nutshell:Water and Mountain Adventure in Paradise Island

Last visit to Samal Island: Oct 2005
Intro Updated Jun 1, 2006
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Reviews (9)

Cultured Sea Clam - Exotic Food. Local Customs (2)

The fishing village at San Jose (near the Pearl Farm) is a group of stilt houses. The locals has underwater farms, about... more travel advice

Hagimit Falls - great as a Bike Stop - Samal Island

A Cold Splash at Hagimit Falls. Things to Do (2)

Actually, we made this as a Rest Stop 3/4 done with our MTBike trail ride of Samal. A splash into the cold fresh water... more travel advice

ADECOR Mini Beach Resort Entrance - Samal Island

ADECOR Mini-Beach Resort Things to Do (2)

Recommended for low-budget backpackers or day-tour-only visitors. There's a small fishing village within the vicinity... more travel advice

Grilled Fish For Lunch (Incidentally) Off The Beaten Path (1)

While MTBiking with my friends around Samal, incidentally when the call of our grumbling stomachs set in, we were at... more travel advice

Transportation (2)
See All Island City Express Bus
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Travelogues (1)

Written Sep 28, 2006

8 photos

MountainBiking in Samal

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Comments (6)

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smarney17 Jun 14, 2007 at 12:18 PM

Hey, Thanks for the pics. I was there in '85/'86. I think they didn't even have electricity on Samal then. It is truly a beautiful place to see!! Stay away from the tuba! Hope to come back again soon!! Smarney17
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Helga67 Sep 27, 2006 at 3:03 AM

This island looks like a great place for mountain biking.
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Phalaenopsis03 Feb 2, 2006 at 8:28 PM

Another set of cool tip and pix Boyet. Nakakaingit yun "exotic pulutan" mo!
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shikokuzen Feb 1, 2006 at 2:18 AM

Hey Boyet!!! Hagimit Falls is soooo inviting........if i rode a bike i would want to find this falls.....i can't imagine anywhere so peaceful...tell me it truly is....bob
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willy_wonka Jan 10, 2006 at 11:15 PM

im always having fun boyet! hehe. i love the photo you took of the girl smiling, its a great pic! cheers!
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Jim_Eliason Nov 25, 2005 at 6:57 AM

Save some Taklobo for me, its looks good! Welcome to VT!