Melo Villareal
15 Beautiful Tourist Spots in Davao You Should Not Miss
Davao is not only the hometown of our current Philippine President but is also home to an array of exciting attractions, from beaches and parks to interesting food establishments. It is located in the southeastern corner of the country’s southernmost island and is only a 2-hour flight time if you’re traveling from Manila.
Aside from being the largest city in the county, it is also hailed as of the cities with the cleanest air in the Philippines, based on a 2018 survey of the Switzerland-based IQ AirVisual and Greenpeace.
If you’re visiting Davao soon, we’ve listed our top 15 things to do in Davao to make your visit a memorable one.
Visit the Davao Crocodile Park & Zoo
This attraction, which opened in 2005 at Gadi Road in Talomo District, is one of Davao’s most visited attractions and tourist spots. The farm is home to saltwater and freshwater crocodiles, snakes, birds, lizards, ostrich, orangutans, and tigers. Not to mention, the crocodile farm is now the home of ‘Pangil,’ an 18-feet saltwater croc that is currently the biggest in captivity in the country.
Guests can also feed the kois, but before that, you must make a wish before feeding for good fortune.
Discover Davao’s China Town
Taste some Chinese food at the largest Chinatown in the Philippines based on the land area. Launched in 2009, Its arc is made with Chinese symbolic figures, symbolizing unity among Filipinos and Chinese in Davao City.
Here in Davao’s China Town, shopping centers sell electronics and groceries. There are also restaurants and banks within the vicinity, so expect lots of people here, especially on weekends.
Eden Nature Park
Its nature meets adventure here at Eden Nature Park, located in Toril Davao City. Some of the recreational activities you can enjoy here include hiking, horseback riding, sky-wheeling, sky cycling, fishing, and skydiving. You can also check out the Bamboo Maze to see how good you are with your navigating skills.
The property also has balcony rooms where guests can relax during their stay. Another exciting feature of the park is its amphitheater, where special occasions like masses, wedding ceremonies, and small concerts are held.
Experience Beaches on Samal Island
Another gem to check out in Davao is the stunning Samal Island surrounded by white sand beaches and tropical grandeur. There are also top-rated resorts on the island to check out, including Pearl Farm Davao, Babu Santa Beach Resort, and Island Garden Resort in Pangubatan, to name a few. Bring out your cameras and enjoy the fine sand here in Samal. To go here, head over to Sasa Wharf, where the boats are docked before you head to the island.
Stay at one of Davao’s Premier Hotels.
Make your vacation worthwhile by staying at one of Davao’s premier hotels, from Marco Polo Davao, dusitD2, Seda Abreeza, and Park Inn by Radisson Davao, to name a few. Make sure to check out those that match your budget and those near popular attractions so you can save money from commuting.
Visit any Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimps branch
If you’re starving from roaming around the city, then the buckets of shrimp and crabs would not disappoint you here at the Blue Posts Boiling Crabs and Shrimp’s first-ever branch, with an interior inspired by the look and feel of a fisherman’s wharf. It is also known for its “messy finger-licking” dining style. The best to try would be their freshly caught crabs, where you can choose from different flavors and spices, whether regular, mild, or spicy hot. There are also sides to choose from, corn cobs, boiled potatoes, and chowder.
Branches in Davao City
- JP Laurel Ave., Davao City
- Lanang Business Park, Davao City
- SM City Davao Annex
Take a picture of the Durian Monument at the Davao Airport
Another notable you can check out is the impressive Durian Monument located outside the Davao International Airport. It represents the tri-people of Davao, the Lumads, the Muslims, and the Settlers, making this a perfect backdrop for every visitor wanting to take pictures before and after leaving Davao.
Eat at MarinaTuna Seafood Restaurant
Now operating for 16 years, Marina Tuna remains a one-of-kind dining establishment in Davao. It is known in the city for its 10-way tuna, meaning it is cooked in 10 ways. You can see many aquariums inside, where the owner said they always ensure it’s a fresh catch. This one is definitely not to miss out on! It’s affordable and worth the money.
Eat Durian!
While the smell may be overwhelming for some, Durian is undoubtedly the best-tasting fruit out there. As a matter of fact, many restaurants in the city are offering various Durian-infused desserts like ice cream and shake. You can try one at Marina Tina Restaurant!
Learn more about history at Museo Dabawenyo
Here at Museo Dabawenyo, you’ll learn about the rich culture and heritage of the Dabawenyos. Inside are various artworks, historic photos, and informational monuments. If you are aware of GMA’s Amaya, this museum houses some replicas of the weapons and traditional wear of the indigenous people. Other memorabilia to check out include antiques, clothes, musical notes, and more.
Try some Black Paella at Belito’s Vineyard
Tucked in a cozy street at Palm Drive in Bajada lies an al-fresco restaurant offering savory Paella Negra and other Spanish dishes. It is owned by Richie Ferrazzini, and the restaurant’s name is said to be after his Abuelo or grandfather. The place is surrounded by wooden tables and chairs and is mostly visited by locals at night time. Durian ice cream is also available! You won’t regret tasting one!
Dine at the White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge
If you want to end your Davao adventure with a romantic lunch or dinner, then head over to the White House Fusion Cuisine and Wine Lounge for some slab of steak and good ‘ol wine. It’s located at Northpoint, Bajada in Davao City, just minutes away from the airport. Once, what was once an ancestral house was transformed into a relaxing 2-story dining establishment, oozing with old glamour and a romantic atmosphere. It also has a garden outside, where most weddings are special occasions are held.
Experience Kadayawan Festival
The Kadayawan Festival is the biggest in Mindanao. Its name derives from the friendly greeting “Madayaw,” from the Dabawenyo word meaning good, valuable, superior, or beautiful. The festival is a celebration of life, a thanksgiving for the gifts of nature, the wealth of culture, the bounties of harvest, and the serenity of living. It is held every third week of August.
Shop at Aldevinco Shopping Center
Located right in front of Marco Polo Hotel Davao, Aldevinco is the perfect place to buy local handicrafts, Mindanao textiles, batik, weavings, carvings, and jewelry. Don’t forget to bargain and compare prices from various stalls before purchasing an item. There are also money changers available inside the shopping center.
Visit the Philippine Eagle Center
The Philippine Eagle Center (PEC) is an 8.4-hectare area located at the foothills of Mt. Apo in Malagos, Baguio District, Davao City, and situated within the Malagos Watershed. The Philippine Eagle Center primarily operates as a conservation breeding facility for the critically endangered Philippine Eagle and other birds of prey.
Davao City Travel and Tour Packages
Searching for the best Davao City hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our complete list of cheap hotels and resorts via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Davao City? Please follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.
Also read:
- Subangan Museum In Mati City: A Place Of Discovery
- The Davao Museum: Davao’s Little Cultural Gem
- Davao City Travel Guide for First-time Travelers
- Ultimate List of the Best Hotels in Davao City
