DiscoverDavao Oriental
Discover the natural beauty, culture and heritage of Davao Oriental.
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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Davao Oriental
Reason 01
A Sneak Peak into Davao Oriental
- Going on holidays to Davao Oriental is like finding a treasure chest full of hidden gems.
- This province is in the southeast of Mindanao. It boasts beautiful natural scenery and numerous cultural activities that many tourists miss.
- One place that everyone should visit is the beautiful Dahican Beach, renowned for its fine white sand and crystal-clear water.
- Not only is this beach beautiful to look at, but it’s also a great place for people who like to try new things, like surfing and skimboarding.
- It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy yourself, thanks to the calm waves and stunning scenery.
- The Davao Oriental Museum in Mati City is another secret gem. This museum is a cultural centre that showcases the area’s past and heritage.
- People can view various displays that showcase the crafts, customs, and interesting stories of the native people.
- It’s a great way to learn more about Davao Oriental’s history and immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Please don’t miss the opportunity to chat with the helpful staff; they’ll be delighted to share interesting stories about the exhibits.
- Daya Farm and Adventure is a unique event that combines farming and adventure in a fun and engaging way.
- Visitors can interact with nature at this farm through activities like picking fruit and taking farm tours.
- It’s a great place to escape the busy city life, thanks to its lush scenery and cool air.
- It’s a great place for families and groups of friends to gather for fun and engaging activities.
- Capital: Mati City (also the only city in the province)
- International airport: Davao International Airport (Francisco Bangoy International Airport – DVO), located in nearby Davao City, is the main gateway. Mati City has an airport, but it offers limited domestic flights.
- 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 and Mandaya are widely spoken locally
- Major religion: Predominantly Roman Catholic, with other Christian denominations and small groups of Indigenous faiths and Islam
Reason 02
Highlights
- Davao Oriental isn’t just beautiful scenery; it’s also a great place for people who love both action and culture.
- This province offers experiences that will get your heart racing or provide relaxing days at the beach for everyone.
- People who want to have fun can enjoy activities like surfing at Dahican Beach, where the waves are suitable for surfers of all skill levels.
- People from all over the world love to visit the beach because it’s a great place to relax in the sun and play volleyball.
- There are numerous cultural activities to enjoy in Davao Oriental, including attending traditional events and observing local customs.
- The province hosts numerous celebrations throughout the year. One of these is the Sigaboy Festival, which features lively street dancing and vibrant parades to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the local people.
- People from other countries can participate in these celebrations, which offer a great opportunity to get to know the locals and experience the warm Filipino culture.
- The peaceful beaches and nature parks are the perfect places to unwind and relax.
- On a sunny day, you can relax on Dahican Beach or hike through the nearby nature parks.
- The beautiful scenery on holiday to Davao Oriental is perfect for relaxing and taking in the natural world.
- This beautiful province offers a wealth of activities that every traveller can enjoy, creating experiences that will last a lifetime.
Reason 03
Seasons to Travel
- Timing your visit to the holidays in Davao Oriental can enhance your trip. This gorgeous province is best explored during the dry season, from November to May.
- These months are ideal for beachgoing and outdoor activities due to the bright weather.
- The dry season lets visitors enjoy the scenery and excursions without worrying about rain.
- To experience Davao Oriental’s diverse culture, arrange your trip around local festivals.
- Every January, the Kahimunan Festival celebrates local culture and heritage with colourful street dances and entertaining performances.
- Such events enhance your holiday experience and reveal local customs.
- Outdoor enthusiasts prefer the dry season, although June to October offer unique opportunities.
- This season brings lush landscapes to life, and rain reduces crowds at famous tourist locations.
- Travellers who survive the occasional rain may get a closer look at Davao Oriental’s natural splendour.
Reason 04
Worth A Visit
Dahican Beach
- In the Philippines, surfing has become increasingly popular, and surfers from this area love to visit Dahican, a long stretch of white sand beach facing Mayo Bay.
- When the waves are too big for surfing, skimming is the next best thing to do on this seven-kilometre beach.
- The resorts and restaurants along the shore are also great places to eat delicious seafood straight from the sea.
- Every year, the SummerFrolic Music Festival takes place in Dahican.
Aliwagwag Falls
- Local tourists think that Aliwagwag Falls’ many-tiered waterfalls are some of the best things to see in Davao Oriental.
- The Aliwagwag waterfall is a sight to see. It has over a thousand feet of falls, broken up into just over a hundred smaller falls.
- The sound of the water rushing is enough to charm (and scare) you. The government has made the area around the falls safe and named it the Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park.
- People can have picnics in some parts of the park. You can also walk along the hanging bridges that go along the sides of the waterfalls and swim in the cold freshwater pools.
Sleeping Dinosaur Island
- The Sleeping Dinosaur Island is an interesting landform that is hard to miss on the way to Mati City.
- Yes, you got it: it looks like an ancient animal with a long neck that fell asleep and turned into sand and stone in Pujada Bay.
- People like to hike on the island, and it’s even been used for dramatic photoshoots before weddings.
- The lookouts along the highway should still be beautiful for people who can’t make the trip down.
Cape San Agustin
- This stretch of pinkish-white sand beach is one of the best things to see in Davao Oriental.
- It is hidden away in a small town called Governor Generoso.
- The mysterious lights of Parola will take you back to the time when Spain ruled the area, and the Celebes Sea’s underwater scenery will make you wish you were Aquaman.
- “The Altar,” a huge rock creation that is always being hit by strong waves, is another must-see.
Reason 05
Discover More
Manay Beaches
- In this quiet town in Davao Oriental, you can find empty beaches with white sand and rocks, as well as huge coconut plantations and mango gardens.
- For beach lovers seeking to escape the crowds in Dahican, San Ignacio is emerging as a secret hideaway.
- On this rocky part of the province, surfing is not recommended, but the tiny beaches are great for relaxing in the sun, fishing, and taking plenty of Instagram-worthy pictures.
- If you’re hungry, all you have to do is ask the neighbourhood fishermen for their catch of the day.
- They might even offer to cook it for you if you’re lucky. Since there are so many resorts in the area, don’t expect much in the way of services.
Sigaboy Island
- The small island of Sigaboy is a great place to swim and stay on sandbars.
- Because this island is so small, an hour wouldn’t be enough time to see everything.
- You can lie out in the sun on the sandbar when the tide is low, and if you feel up to it, you can check out the amazing things that are beneath.
- Please note that there are no stores nearby, so it’s best to plan your lunch with your guide.
- If not, the only thing that could save you is a boat vender coming along with fresh seafood and drinks.
Lake Carolina
- If you’ve heard of the Enchanted River of Surigao, you’ll be glad to know that Davao Oriental has a magic river too.
- The water in Lake Carolina has an unusual shade of blue and green, which is not typically found in lakes.
- That’s okay, though, because it’s not really a lake but a bay full of sea life.
- You can expect to find someone in the area selling newly caught mud crabs.
- What do I say? Please make the most of it! In Davao Oriental, these treats cost significantly less than in most of the Davao Region.
Bonsai Forest
- Taking care of bonsai trees is an old skill. It takes time and skill to train and trim a great tree so that it doesn’t grow excessively, yet still thrives.
- There is a reason why Mt. Hamiguitan has developed a whole forest of bonsai plants without anyone’s help. A UNESCO World Heritage Site has been made of this place.
- Davao Oriental is gradually becoming a popular tourist destination in this part of the Philippines. It remains largely unspoiled by business.
- It is in a great spot, far enough away to keep crowds of tourists at bay, but close enough to draw people who want to go on an adventure.
Reason 06
Culture Traditions
- Davao Oriental is rich in history and culture, boasting numerous historical sites that reveal the area’s long and fascinating past.
- The Provincial Capitol of Davao Oriental is a famous landmark with a beautiful design that also serves as the centre of local government.
- People can examine the building’s design and learn about its significance to the province’s past.
- The nearby Mati City Hall embodies the town’s spirit and is often the site of celebrations and cultural events.
- Another important place to visit for people interested in the area’s history is the Davao Oriental Museum in Mati City.
- The museum features displays showcasing the native arts and crafts, as well as historical items that tell the story of Davao Oriental.
- Speaking with the experienced staff can enhance the experience, as they can share interesting stories about the exhibits and explain their cultural relevance.
- By visiting these historical and cultural places, tourists can get to know the locals better and learn more about what makes Davao Oriental special.
- People who visit the province will find that its rich history makes their trip more interesting, whether they are visiting museums or admiring old buildings.
Reason 07
Food Fun Fashion
Food
- Local cuisine and culture are inextricably linked in Davao Oriental. The province is renowned for its seafood, fruits, and traditional Filipino delicacies, which reflect its rich culture.
- Local markets offer fresh products and traditional foods, making them a must-visit destination for travellers.
- Both residents and visitors love kinilaw, a delicacy of fresh raw fish marinated in vinegar and spices.
- Dining at Davao Oriental lets you experience Filipino hospitality. Local restaurants celebrate regional flavours with authentic, traditional meals.
- Everyone can find something they like, from casual to premium restaurants. Explore the local street food scene for inexpensive, delectable snacks.
- Attending local festivals is another way to experience the culture of Davao Oriental.
- Kahimunan Festivals feature traditional music, dance and food vendors selling local specialities.
- Participating in these celebrations offers a unique glimpse into the province’s culture and people.
- The cultural richness of Davao Oriental will leave a lasting impression through its diverse food, vibrant festivals, and everyday interactions.
Fun
- Davao Oriental is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of nature-based activities.
- The province has various nature parks with unique landscapes and fauna. Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna.
- Adventurers can hike the park’s pathways to stunning views and lush woodlands.
- Hikers can test their skills on the many trails, while birdwatchers can see endemic species.
- Swimming, snorkelling, and diving are available on the coastline’s gorgeous beaches.
- Dahican Beach is renowned for its beauty and diverse range of water activities. Visitors can hire surfboards or paddleboards and enjoy the ocean wind.
- The beach’s calm waves are ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. After a day of excitement, relax on the smooth sands and watch the orange and pink sunset.
- Balay Ni Mayang Environment Park offers families and environment enthusiasts a peaceful escape.
- Picnic spots, playgrounds, and guided tours make it a great day out. Create entertaining and instructive environmental awareness and conservation activities for all ages.
- Holidays to Davao Oriental offer a range of unique outdoor adventures, from hiking through verdant paths to engaging in water sports.
Fashion
- Shopping in Davao Oriental is an adventure, with vibrant local markets and distinctive businesses offering a diverse range of products.
- Visit the Mati City Public Market to experience local culture. Discover fresh fruit, local crafts, and traditional treats here.
- Walking through the market, the bustling atmosphere and friendly vendors recreate the Filipino shopping experience. Puto (rice cakes) and bibingka (rice cakes baked in banana leaves) are local favourites.
- Local artists offer a wide range of wonderful products that reflect the region’s unique culture. These handmade textiles and beautiful wood carvings make great travel souvenirs.
- Visitors to Mati City can take a bit of Davao Oriental home from the many souvenir shops. Local markets often allow for haggling, so be sure to negotiate with merchants to get the best deals.
- Additionally, visiting local craft and art galleries can reveal the community’s creativity.
- Many shops display the work and culture of Davao Asian artists. Shopping in Davao Oriental is a great way to experience the local culture, whether you’re looking for fresh fruit, souvenirs, or handmade crafts.
Reason 08
Nature Safari
- Adrenaline addicts can enjoy many exhilarating activities in Davao Oriental. Surfers should try Dahican Beach.
- The beach attracts novices and pros due to its constant surf conditions.
- Everyone can join in the fun with local surf schools offering training and equipment rentals. Enjoy the sun on the beach after catching waves.
- Hiking in the area is thrilling for thrill-seekers. The Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary offers routes of varying difficulty, allowing hikers to choose their ideal trip.
- Explore the beautiful forests and rich wildlife or climb the summit for panoramic vistas. Hikers can take guided trips to learn about the area’s natural history and heritage.
- The clean waters of Davao Oriental are also great for diving. Coral reefs and rich marine life make neighbouring dive spots ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving.
- Exploring the region’s underwater delights is easy with the help of local dive shops’ guided tours and equipment rentals.
- Surfing, hiking, and diving on holidays to Davao Oriental offer adrenaline seekers infinite adventure.
Reason 09
Events Fiestas
- Davao Oriental’s festivities showcase its culture. Every January, Mati City hosts the Kahimunan Festival, a popular event.
- This vibrant event celebrates the province’s cultural diversity with street dances, traditional music, and local cuisine.
- Visitors can celebrate the region’s rich history and culture by witnessing performances. Attend the festival to meet locals and enjoy Filipino hospitality.
- The Sigaboy Festival in Governor Generoso is another important event. This event celebrates local culture and tradition with a procession, street dance, and competitions.
- The bright colours and happy atmosphere make events unique. These festivals let visitors interact with locals and learn about Davao Oriental’s culture.
- Smaller events and cultural activities allow visitors to enjoy the region’s rich traditions year-round.
- Festivals often feature food fairs, art exhibits, and craft markets, so be sure to check local calendars.
- Attending these activities with the locals not only enhances your trip but also helps you connect with Davao Oriental’s culture.