DiscoverMalita
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Malita.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Malita
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Malita
- Holidays to Malita offer a great opportunity to explore a charming town in the province of Davao Occidental, often overshadowed by its busier neighbours.
- That being said, this charming place is full of secret gems that give daring travellers unique experiences.
- Malita has many lesser-known sites that are sure to make your trip unforgettable. These include beautiful natural landscapes and a rich cultural history.
- The Malita River is one of the most beautiful places in Malita. People can take a relaxing boat ride and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
- The river, surrounded by lush greenery, is a quiet place to escape the noise and chaos of the city.
- Nature lovers will love the nearby Mount Iglit-Baco National Park, which is a great place to go climbing and watch animals.
- This park has a lot of different plants and animals, which makes it a great place for ecotourism fans.
- Please don't miss the opportunity to visit the Malita Cultural Centre and experience the local arts and crafts scene.
- The centre often hosts shows featuring the work of local artists and craftspeople, giving tourists a taste of the area's lively culture.
- The Malita Public Market is also a must-see for anyone who wants to experience the local way of life.
- You can find fresh fruits and vegetables, tasty local treats, and handmade goods showcasing the creative skills of Malita’s residents here.
- Capital: Malita is the capital of Davao Occidental Province.
- International airport: The nearest major airport is Francisco Bangoy International Airport (DVO) in Davao City, approximately 4–5 hours away by land.
- Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP)
- Time zone: UTC+8 (Philippine Standard Time)
- Driving side: Right-hand side
- Main electricity: 220 volts, 60 Hz
- Official languages: Filipino and English; Cebuano is widely spoken locally.
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic, with other Christian denominations present.
Reason 02
Highlights
- Holidays to Malita offer diverse experiences. The pristine seas of adjacent beaches are ideal for kayaking and snorkelling.
- Malita Beach is a peaceful place for sunbathing, swimming, and watching the sunset.
- Mountain biking and walking in the hills let visitors explore the region’s magnificent vistas.
- Malita offers many cultural immersions. Attend a T’nalak weaving session to learn about indigenous culture and make art.
- Engaging with local artists benefits the community by revealing their craft. The annual Malita Festival features colourful parades, traditional dances, and local cuisine, allowing tourists to rejoice with the people and experience the town’s dynamic spirit.
- For families, Malita has attractions for all ages. Picnic spots, playgrounds, and nature paths make the Malita Eco-Park a great family day out.
- Kids can learn while parents relax in the wonderful surroundings. Make your Malita culinary experience unforgettable by exploring family-friendly eateries that serve delicious Filipino food.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- The best time to visit Malita depends on the weather and local events. This hidden gem is best explored in the dry months, November to May.
- The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Beach trips and hikes are great when the sun shines.
- Cultural experiences can be had at the April Malita Festival. The town’s legacy is celebrated via music, dancing, and crafts at this lively event. Participants can engage with the community and enjoy a joyful, exciting atmosphere at the event.
- The rainy season from June to October can be peaceful with fewer tourists. The rich scenery and vivid flora make this season perfect for peace seekers. Take an umbrella and enjoy the refreshing rain that replenishes the earth!
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Beach Hopping
- Beautiful scenery with powdery white sands and thick coconut trees that hide many treasures just ready to be found.
- Some of the country's most beautiful beaches are located along the coasts of Davao Occidental.
- Unlike the country’s more well-known beaches, most of the province’s beaches are undeveloped and in places that only locals know about.
- But as more people visit Davao Occidental, these natural beauties are slowly coming to the public’s attention.
Chasing Waterfalls
- Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the area are in the woods of Davao Occidental’s barangays.
- Kepiya Falls in Don Marcelino is a waterfall worth learning about and visiting.
- One of nature’s most beautiful sights, Kepiya Falls, rises 20 feet high and has a lovely catch area below.
- Like the other waterfalls in Davao Occidental, Kepiya Falls is surrounded by a thick forest, providing a serene setting for relaxation.
Maliteño Museum
- The Maliteño Museum, formerly known as the Malita Museo, is a historical and cultural site in Davao Occidental.
- The museum features items and artefacts that showcase the diverse ways of life of the different indigenous groups in the province.
Mount Kiyawa
- The well-known small peak of Mount Kiyawa is in Sta. Maria. The peak is approximately 420 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, towns, and seas.
- It is possible to see Mount Apo and the towns of Malita, Malalag, Sulop, and Padada from the top of the mountain.
- On top of the mountain, you can see a shrine to St. Nicholas. The shrine was built to honour St. Nicholas, and every Lenten Season, people go there to pray.
- At the base of the mountain, near the town hall, is the only place where walkers can start their journey to the top of the mountain.
Olanivan Island
- Olanivan Island is easily identifiable because it is shaped like a circle. From the island, people can see Balut Island and Sarangani Island for a long time.
- When people get the chance, they can even tour the island’s lighthouse and get a great view of the water and the islands nearby.
Balut Island
- Balut Island, also known as Malulong Island, boasts a rugged yet stunning beach vibe that thrills adventure seekers.
- Backpackers and solo travellers seeking a break from the crowds often look for remote spots.
- On Balut Island, you can swim, snorkel, and do other fun beach activities that make visiting the island more fun.
- The island hop to Tuke Maklang Beach, Paras Beach, Olanivan Island, and Sabang Hot Spring are some of the other things that can be done.
Balut Volcano
- Aside from beaches and islands, people can also hike to the top of Balut Island, which is the tallest of Saranggani’s three islands.
- As people walk along the trail, they will see native plants, such as pitcher plants, and enjoy stunning views of Indonesia’s Balut Island and the Marore Islands.
Little Boracay
- The famous Little Boracay Beach Resort is in the small barangay of Sto. Niño, right on the water.
- This is where you'll find the secret, pristine white sand beaches. There aren’t as many restaurants and bars at the resort as there are at other popular beaches in the Philippines, so guests can really enjoy nature while they’re there.
- Nothing to do or see. There are only palm trees, a white sand beach, and a calm sea.
Reason 05
Discover More
Sleeping Dragon Island
- Many people know Davao Oriental for its Sleeping Dinosaur Island. But Davao Occidental also has a Sleeping Dragon Island.
- Found in Sta. Maria, the island is named after the mythical creature because it looks like a dragon.
- When viewed from a certain angle, the mountains can resemble the body of a dragon, with some of its parts extending into the blue waters of the sea.
Sabang Hot Spring
- Along the northern coast of Balut Island, an hour from Olanivan Island and only 30 minutes from the town centre, is the famous Sabang Hot Spring.
- The pools’ clear water can reach a temperature as high as 80°C. The pools aren’t good for swimming, but the hot spring is a nice spot to soak and rest.
Bolae Cove
- Bolae Cove is a calm cove in Saranggani. It has a beach and is backed by a thick forest of coconut trees that defends it from strong winds.
- The beach’s calm, clear water is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, or simply watching the sunrise over the horizon.
Tuke Nonsul
- There is a lot of life and colour in the reefs at Tuke Nonsul, making it a great place for snorkelers to visit.
- Island Close doesn’t have a sandy beach, but the rock formations make for a great spelunking adventure.
Captain’s Lake
- Captain’s Lake is a small resort with a beautiful artificial lake surrounded by a coconut farm.
- Locals use it as a quick getaway spot for fun activities like swimming and fishing.
- For lunch, guests can either fish or order food from the restaurant.
- You can rent karaoke machines and houses with stunning views of the sea.
- A small beach area is located near the lodge, accessible to guests.
Lapuan Cold Spring
- Lapuan Cold Springs is a quiet and peaceful place in Barangay Lapuan where many people go to take a much-needed break.
- Tourists are unaware of the cold springs because they are well-hidden by the lush vegetation of Don Marcelino.
- This is great for travellers who like to avoid other tourists.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- Visit Malita during the holidays to see its rich history and colourful culture. Local heritage is preserved and shown in the Malita Cultural Centre. T’nalak weaving, a T’boli speciality, can be taught to visitors.
- Attending cultural centre workshops provides hands-on experience while supporting local artists. This cultural immersion enhances Malita’s heritage and craft stories.
- The Malita Church, a colonial masterpiece, is another important attraction. With its elaborate design and stunning stained glass windows, the church shows the community’s spiritual life.
- Visitors can explore the church and its surrounds to learn about Malita’s history and culture. Talking to locals can also reveal the town’s history and culture.
- The Malita Museum has artefacts and exhibits about the town’s development. From indigenous roots to Spanish colonisation, Malita’s history is here.
- The museum provides a wealth of knowledge for history aficionados and curious travellers. The exhibitions can help you understand local culture and people’s resilience.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- No holiday to Malita is complete without trying the local cuisine. The town has many Filipino restaurants, making it a foodie paradise. Visit the Malita Public Market to taste local cuisine. Fresh produce, spices, and regional munchies are available here. Try Filipino favourites like kinilaw (ceviche) and adobo (marinated beef).
- Many Malita restaurants offer sit-down dining in a cosy setting with a varied cuisine. Many restaurants use fresh, local ingredients to provide tasty meals. You’ll discover grilled seafood, substantial soups, and vegetarian options to quench your hunger. Ask locals for their favourite restaurants—they typically know the best hidden gems.
- Consider taking a Filipino cooking lesson as you explore the food scene. This interactive experience lets you savour the flavours and is excellent for families and groups. You’ll appreciate Malita’s rich culinary traditions after your holiday.
Fun
- Travelling with family? Holidays to Malita offer a range of exciting and interesting activities for all ages.
- Malita Eco-Park is popular with families. Families may enjoy a day outside at this large park with picnic spaces, playgrounds, and nature paths. Children can learn while playing in nature, allowing parents to rest.
- Events throughout the year provide extra family entertainment at the park.
- The Malita Cultural Centre is another great family destination. Local cultural classes and craft activities are available for families.
- Children can learn traditional crafts from local artisans, while parents can appreciate their creativity and talents.
- This hands-on experience entertains and educates the family about Malita’s background.
- Malita Beach is ideal for family beach days. Sunbathing, sandcastle-building, and swimming are all safe in the calm seas.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the sun and time together. With so many family-friendly alternatives, Malita promises a wonderful experience for everyone.
Fashion
- Holidays to Malita offer a beautiful blend of local crafts, fresh fruit, and unique souvenirs that showcase the area's character. Your shopping excursion should begin in Malita Public Market.
- Discover colourful fruits, veggies, and local delights at these vendors. People may chat with pleasant merchants and learn about Filipino cuisine’s ingredients.
- Local artisan businesses in town are worth visiting for handcrafted products. These businesses showcase Malita’s artists’ stunning woodwork and intricate weaving.
- Buying these things helps the local economy and gives you unique souvenirs.
- Malita has several small shops and businesses that provide apparel, accessories, and home furnishings for a more contemporary shopping experience.
- These shops often sell local designers’ goods, letting you take a piece of Malita home. Whether you’re buying for yourself or a present, Malita has it all.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- Holidays to Malita have beautiful scenery and outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.
- Hikers and animal watchers should explore Mount Iglit-Baco National Park. This vast park has routes for beginners and experts in varied environments.
- Look for indigenous birds and flora as you walk through the beautiful forest. The cold mountain air and stunning vistas make this a unique outdoor experience.
- Sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking on Malita Beach offer a more laid-back outdoor experience.
- Family-friendly beach activities and swimming are safe in the calm seas. Sunsets make the beach a beautiful photo location.
- Bring a camera to capture the sunset’s vivid colours bouncing off the sea, creating a magnificent environment suitable for memories.
- Malita Eco-Park, another outdoor gem, offers activities for all ages. Walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds make the park ideal for family outings.
- The peaceful setting lets kids explore nature while parents rest. Environmental education activities at the park let visitors enjoy nature while learning.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Year-round festivals showcase Malita’s rich cultural history and community spirit.
- The annual April Malita Festival is the biggest event. This boisterous celebration showcases the town’s vivid culture with colourful parades, traditional dances, and local foods.
- Visitor participation in the events allows visitors to engage with the community and experience local life. The celebration is effervescent with laughter, music, and local spirit.
- Smaller events and cultural presentations provide tourists with a taste of local customs throughout the year.
- These festivals generally include art exhibits, culinary fairs, and craft markets with traditional cuisine and homemade products.
- Participating in these festivals allows visitors to experience Malita’s culture firsthand and meet friendly residents who are eager to share their experiences. Check local calendars to avoid missing any intriguing events during your stay.
- A local fiesta or church celebration might reveal the community’s spiritual vitality to religious seekers.
- Residents bond over music, dancing, and community meals during these events.
- These activities can enrich your holiday experience by connecting you with the traditions of Malita’s people and celebrating their history.