Davao Oriental Hotels

Davao Oriental is a natural paradise ready to be explored. Hikers will love the scenic trails, while beachgoers will enjoy its sparkling clear waters. Much of the province’s countryside is still untouched by development. This makes it a wonderful place to get away from the busy city life and experience many natural wonders.

At A Glance

Visiting Davao Oriental is a great way to distress and be one with nature. Here, tourists can find white sand beaches, waterfalls, and mountain trails. The beautiful coasts and unspoiled islands also provide great photo opportunities for all sorts of travelers.

The province is also part of a new tourism development initiative. This means that more attractions and much-improved facilities are on their way. If you want to see these for yourself, then head right over to Davao Oriental for your next vacation.

How to Go

By plane

If you’re coming from Manila, flying to Davao Oriental is your best option. Many airlines offer flights to Davao International Airport, which services the entire Davao region. Upon landing, you can take a 2-hour bus ride to the border town of San Isidro. Alternatively, you can take a 4-hour bus ride to Mati, the provincial capital.

Getting Around

Jeeps and tricycles are the common modes of transportation in Davao Oriental. To access more remote areas, you can take locally modified motorcycle taxis called habal-habals. Meanwhile, you can take the bus if you’re traveling to other municipalities within the province.

Tourist Attractions

If you’re looking to experience the province’s best beaches, then the municipalities of Cateel, Baganga, and Mati are great places to start. They are also home to a varied array of affordable resorts and other accommodation options.

But if you’re looking to get a taste of the province’s storied history and rich culture, then you can visit the Subangan Museum. It’s located in the city of Mati and hosts iconic artifacts of Davao’s history. Here, you’ll see how the province evolved from a small coastal settlement to the growing tourist spot it is today. The museum’s prized possession is the skeletal remains of a 20-ton whale that drifted to the region’s shore years ago.

If you want to unwind, then the Balite Hot Spring in Baganga is a must-see. This is a tropical hot spring resort that features natural pools for you to relax in. If you feel a need to take a break from a day of touring the area, then it’s the perfect way to unwind. You can even enjoy a soothing massage to ease your tired muscles.

Top Things to Do

If you’re up for some sight-seeing, try visiting the Mt. Hamiguitan wildlife preserve. This was recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park. This mountain is located between the municipalities of San Isidro, Governor Generoso and the City of Mati. It’s also a sanctuary to a total of 1,380 species, 341 of which are unique to the country – Including the iconic Philippine Eagle.

Another place for you to visit is the Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park, which features cascading waterfalls that are more than 1,110 feet. It’s also regarded as one of the highest waterfalls in the country. And if you’re up for some surfing, then head over to Dahican Beach in Mati. This place is a popular hang-out spot for both professionals and newbies alike. You might even spot some sea turtles, dugongs and dolphins if you’re lucky.

Where to Eat

Davao Oriental has some excellent places to eat by the beachside. Among them is the Ciangi Restaurant in Mati, an open-air dining area in front of the city’s famous park and bay walk. Its bestsellers include coffee and cakes in generous servings and modest prices.

Also in Mati is the La-Ne's Kan-Anan Restaurant, which is also near the coast. Grilled barbecues like the baby back ribs are some of their specialties. This is a good place to start your day if you’re in the mood for meats and fish for breakfast and lunch.

Nightlife

Bars and pubs are the main hangouts for tourists who want to have fun at night. Affordable beers and dishes like sisig are specialties in places like Pugad Resto Bar. While joints like Baywalk Grill and Roll 'N Roast have a selection of grilled meats and delicious seafood.

Where to Stay

There are several resorts near the beaches and coastlines for tourists to stay in. One of these is Edar's Place, located in Cateel. The hotel offers basic accommodations, air-conditioned rooms, and a WiFi connection. The place is reachable by either a van from Davao City, a rickshaw or a bus.

Another frequented island resort is the Blue Bless in Mati, located by the beach. It and features cottages floating over the waterline, making it convenient for diving and swimming. Its accommodations also include a resto bar and a pool.

Travel Tips

• Pack accordingly for swimming and hiking. Davao Oriental features a mix of beaches, islands, and mountains. Decide on which activities you want to engage in and prepare your gear as you see fit.

• Bring pillows to get comfortable during long rides. Some of the places you’ll visit are located in different cities and municipalities. This means you might need to go through long bus rides to get around. So bring something to pass the time while in transit.

• Try the local seafood dishes.  Davao Oriental has their own unique seafood recipes for you to try. Some of their dishes are marinated in vinegar and spiced to give a strong taste, while others are served with coconut milk. It’s a must-try for adventurous foodies.