Things to see and do Samal Island

Extent of black sand surrounded by centuries-old trees.

Its waters are turquoise blue and the corals nearby are a shelter for a large number of fish.

It has a white sandy beach, turquoise waters and colorful corals.

At the limit of Maputi and Puntalinao. Its area is less than 1 ha. There are lots of shells on the coral beach, making it an ideal place for picnics and swimming.

We leave Samal Island and drive three hours from Davao, between Mati and Governor Generoso, to one of the most extreme points in the Philippines. San Agustin Cape (also known as Parola) and its lighthouse offer 360-degree panoramic views of the Celebes Sea and the Gulf of Davao. The lighthouse keepers will be delighted to tell you all about its history. You can watch fishermen at work on their bancas, contemplating the immensity of nature and its beauty amplified as the sun sets.

Ideal places for scuba diving and snorkeling. You can meet whales, dolphins and sirenians.

Private island located in Pujada Bay. It is ideal for diving, since sharks, sirenians, dolphins and many other fish species can be seen.

Ideal for lovers of deep dives where you can observe large predators of the seas. However, a good dive level is required due to violent currents sometimes present. Also, think of a divemaster that knows the place well.

Samal boasts an interesting natural environment, so it's no surprise that island hopping is one of the main activities here.

Talikud Island. Adjacent to Samal Island, Talikud Island is one of the most popular in the area. A number of resorts have set up here, and you can also enjoy its long white sandy beach during the day. Its seabed is popular with snorkeling enthusiasts, as it is home to a coral garden covering several hectares. You can also camp on the beach.

Ligid Islands. These are two islets off the coast of Samal, the smaller of four hectares being home to the Buenavista resort. While both are superb islets, it's the seabed that attracts dive enthusiasts, with its abundance of big fish and coral.

Kaputian Beach. The waters are turquoise, the sand is white and the nearby coral is home to a large number of fish. Kaputian Beach is also renowned as a pleasant spot for camping and spending the night under the stars.

Sabang Cliff. A change from the usual white sandy beaches, here you'll find rocky cliffs of varying heights, perfect for jumping into the turquoise water.

Monfort Bat Sanctuary. This cave is home to hundreds and hundreds of bats. As the visit takes place during the day, there's no risk - they're asleep. But to see them all huddled together, clinging to the rock face, is a unique and impressive sight.

Disappearing Island is about 45 minutes by boat from Samal. As its name suggests, this islet disappears and appears with the tides. It's best to go there at low tide, to have the opportunity to tread its immaculate sand while enjoying the pretty beaches that surround it. A number of traditional houses on stilts are available to spend a night a little out of time, to the rhythm of the tides. The area is also ideal for snorkeling.