Know Where Else to Go and What to Eat in Davao City, Philippines

A famous urban coastal of Mindanao Island, Davao continues to strive in the investment firms and tourism industry. This metropolitan center in Mindanao continues to attract tourists and solid Philippine vacationers because of its marvelous destination spots and its haven of endemic animals including the Philippine Eagle.

Davao is considered to be the safest city in the Philippines, and the fifth in the world. The governance in this city is quite above from other capitals and provinces because of the “strict” local ordinances being observed in the city.

We have already discussed the best places to visit in Davao. This article will feature more of what Davao can offer in an infographic brought to you by Choose Philippines.

Where Else to Go

1. Samal Island

Samal Island is just minutes away from Sta. Ana Port in Davao City and is accessible via motorboats. Samal Island hosts differently themed resorts that all share the same fine white sand and cobalt blue sea. The famous Pearl Farm is in Samal Island.

2. Talicud Island

Talicud Island is still a part of Samal Island. From Sta. Ana Port, it will take roughly up to one hour of sea travel via motorboat. Talicud Island offers powdery sand and crisp sea water with majestic marine biota. One of the favorite and frequented resorts in Talicud Island is the Isla Reta.

3. Calinan District

If you want to see the ever-bold, robust feathers, and keen eye of the Philippine Eagle, go to Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) in Calinan District. Entrance fee in PEC is affordable and is worth every peso for the view of the majestic feathered vertebrate. Adults are charged a nominal fee of Php50 ($1), while youths that are 18 years old and below are charged Php30.

4. Eden Nature Park

Vacationers who want to relax and spend time with themselves or with the family and friends go to Eden Nature Park to pamper with the towering trees and hills clothed in green grasses. Eden Nature Park offers solitude and serenity to calm your mind from the busy 9 to 5 of the metro. Eden Nature Park displays bountiful of flowers in different colors.

5. People’s Park

In the heart of the hectic urban locale of Davao City, is the People’s Park that serves as the oasis for the Davaoeños. People’s Park is a hub ideal for strolling, meeting new people, or spend time with friends. Surrounds the park are some street food stalls to keep your tummy satisfied. Early in the morning and in the twilight, many fitness buffs takes a job and run around the park.

6. Jack’s Ridge

If you want to have a panoramic view of the urban landscape and the majestic landscape of Davao, visit Jack’s Ridge. You will not only be awed with the beautiful backdrop but will also be satisfied with their gastronomic menu of Filipino cuisines including some of the special fares of Davao City.

7. Zip City

Do you believe you can fly? Do you think that you can touch the sky? Well, flying could be anybody’s daydream. If you want that fantasy to come true, you can try to strike a post while in the air while in the zip line. The Zip City in Davao offers the longest zip line in Asia. From the hilltop, you will be harnessed and pushed to the air. You will have a spectacular view of the green fields beneath you! Truly a perfect place for diversion and recreation.

8. Diversion Road

• Outland Adventure

Take your zipline experience into a more thrilling and breathtaking way by taking The Xcelerator zip with extreme speed. 200 meters above the ground, you will slope to the dual cable zipline in extreme velocity making the experience bolder and electrifying. The zip ride rate is Php500 ($10) per person.

• Davao Crocodile Park Complex

Meet the crocs in Davao Crocodile Park Complex along the Diversion Road in Ma-a, Davao City. Take a selfie with the smiling crocs showing their sharp teeth. You can also taste the exotic meal in the facility – dishes made from Crocodile such as Sisig, and other meals that are made from the meat of Ostrich.

9. Davao River

The third largest river basin in the Southern region of Philippines, and the largest of its kind in Davao, Davao River is not just another river catchment but is a perfect body of water for the intrepid travelers. White water rafting adventure can be enjoyed in the vast river deceptively hiding its terrains with robust water splash.

Where to Eat

We have featured the 10 best cafes in Davao in our recent articles. If you want a heavy meal rather than light knickknacks, consider visiting these three restaurants that just might satisfy your cravings.

1. Marina Tuna

Want to taste Tuna in various flavors and different strain? Visit the Marina Tuna in Sasa, Davao City. The restaurant cooks Tuna in 10 different ways, each having their distinctive flavor and spices. They also serve other seafood for wider options.

• Address: KM 8, Barrio Pampanga, Sasa, Davao, Davao del Sur 6000
• Contact: 082-233-2666

2. Tiny Kitchen

Tiny Kitchen with a large scale of delectable sweets and snacks; after all, it is never a “tiny” kitchen! They have a broad range of cakes and sweets to add a little bit of sweetness to your diet. Aside from that, they have an array of good food that will excite your tummy! Taste a little bit of Spain by trying their Paella Valenciana!

• Address: F. Torres St., Poblacion District, Davao, Davao del Sur
• Contact: 082-305-9232

3. Dencia’s Restaurant

Taste the different Philippine hors d’oeuvres with a smack of authentic Filipino flavors! Try the famous Goto (rice porridge) with Tokwa’t Baboy (Tofu and Pork pieces). Eat Lumpia (Filipino spring roll), and Pancit! Feed the gastronome inside you and never stop until you have your burp!

What to Buy for Pasalubong and Where to Buy them?

Pasalubong (homecoming treat) has always been a part of Philippine travel. In fact, a trip is never complete without halting in Pasalubong centers. Here are some of the products and fruits native in Davao that you can purchase for pasalubong:

• Durian

The smelliest custardy fruit, Durian is widely available in Davao City. You can buy Durian at an affordable price especially in the seasons when Durian tree fruits abundantly. But be warned, others find the smell of Durian to be very offensive. In fact, in some countries, bringing a Durian is prohibited.

• Pomelo

Pomelo, or locally known as Suha, is also a popular fruit in Davao City. Fruit stands and public markets sell Suha at affordable prices. You can even purchase it cheaper than its actual cost if you are good at bargaining.

• Mangosteen

The nutritive purple mangosteen is abundant in the province of Davao. It is only available in selected seasons of the year, so better buy a lot of it especially in its fruiting season, typically starts from July until October.

Davao has a lot to offer that we can only reach or achieve if we go beyond of what we only know. Explore Davao and allow yourself to be amused with its gems and precious spots.

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