You might have felt the fine sands of Boracay under your feet or seen the tearjerker beauty of Palawan but you are nonetheless left with perfect amazement after you visit this part of southern Philippines.
Located in Pangubatan, Samal Island, the travel from Davao City was indeed a long and bumpy ride to take. But let me tell you this: It is all worth it. After all, it was an unforgettable adventure when you ride the motorcycle (Habal-habal). Nonetheless, you can also opt for the easier way. Check the details below for more details.
What to expect?
Pristine waters
No, the sand is not consistently as fine as what you might have seen from other parts of the country but since this resort is lone in the district, expect no blot of any impurities on its waters. Swim towards the floating cottage few meters away from the beach. No, don't take the boat! Just wear the available gears for rent and see the corals and sea rocks beneath as the school of fishes keep you in good company as you flutter your feet.
Best Staff
Filipinos may be known for the warmest hospitality they offer to guests. But here, you are not just a visitor. You will definitely feel that you are a part of the family during your stay. More than the sweet smiles that will welcome you at the gate, it is the sincere friendliness which compliments the peaceful place that will make you want to stay forever.
Peacefulness
If you're looking for a party venue, sorry folks, they don't allow it here. Yes they sell liquor but they won't allow you to turn the radio on and dance the night away. They maintain the noiselessness in the area which makes it even more attractive for those who really want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city life. So for the most serene getaway you will ever experience, let the cadence of the waves sing you a lullaby as you watch the burning bonfire in front of the beach or simply stare at the clear skies at night.
Tips!
Turtle Hatchlings
Contact the resort or visit their Facebook Page to know when the turtle eggs will hatch. It was such an incredible event to witness which happens once in a blue moon.
Lemon Chicken
Try this and make sure you have 1-3 people with you to share it with. It's the best food to comfort you after the long ride in the mountains.
Vanishing Lagoon
Walk towards the 'Mushroom Island' and check out a lagoon which you can only see when the tide is low.
How to get to Island Garden Resort:
Rough Ride Adventure
From Davao City, take the Island City Express at Magsaysay Park (Route 6 jeep from the Davao city proper) going to Samal Island. Get off to Kaputian proper and ride a motorcycle (habal-habal) to the resort for P50.00 each.
Alternately, if you want to explore the island city center (Hagimit Falls, Maxima Aqua, Fernandez Resort, etc.), you can get off in Peñaplata proper and take the habal-habal for P200-P250 per motorcycle. You can also get off to Babak proper if you want to visit the Monfort Bat Cave and take the habal-habal. Just negotiate with the rider. It is not supposed to be more than P300.
I highly suggest you choose a heavy duty motorcycle because the way to Pangubatan is steep and when you're lucky, slippery.
Other public transport options:
You can have a shuttle service arranged at P3,000 per 24 hours from Davao to the resort and vice versa. The rate includes the rental of the car with the fuel and the driver free. However, the guest will have to pay for the barge fee and the passenger's fees to and from the resort.
A motor launch is also available from Sta. Ana Wharf to Kaputian wharf. This is around P60.00 and travel time of about an hour or so. Just take note that the boat will have to wait for more passengers before it takes off.
Davao Watertaxi
If you have the budget, you can ask for a quotation from Davao Watertaxi. You can have them pick you up from Davao City and drop you to any point of Samal shores.
Rates:
(As of September 2013)
Dormitory
P350.00
Tree House
P950.00
Cottage
P1,181.60
Airconditioned Room with Bathroom
P3,042.00
Table with umbrella
P150.00
Snorkeling Gear Rental
P100.00
Life Vest Rental
P25.00
Boat Rental
P200.00
Food
P100-P300
These rates are subject to change without prior notice. You may call their booking office at Tel. No. (082) 284-0168 or Globe Mobile No. 0906-2206448. You can also make your online booking through Agoda.
Where on Earth is Island Garden Resort?
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Check out other places near Island Garden Resort!
Hagimit Falls
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