Once known as the largest city in the world, Davao City has now slipped to second place — and that’s still quite a global badge of honor, too.
Consider: In the Asean growth corridor called the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asian Growth Area), the Philippine point of entry is not Manila but Davao City.
It is the home of the monkey-eating Philippine Eagle, whose wing span is a mind-boggling stretch.
Here, you can climb the highest peak in the Philippines, Mt. Apo. Along the way are unbelievably generous harvests of tropical fruits, foremost of which is the durian, from the Malay, meaning, “the thorny fruit.”
We haven’t even mentioned the beaches. And the mouthwatering seafood. Plus the sizzling nightlife.
What’s more, Davao City throbs with its world-class multicultural diversity.
Beach Regulations
To ensure the preservation of Davao City, we are strictly enforcing these regulations:
NO LITTERING
NO SMOKING
NO DRINKING
OF ALCOHOL
NO ILLEGAL DRUGS
NO EXCESSIVELY
LOUD MUSIC
NO PETS
NO FIRE DANCING
NO BUILDING OF COMMERCIAL SANDCASTLES
NO STRUCTURES
AND FURNITURE
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Fun Things To Do
Protect our shorelines
Spare some time to make a difference. Help protect Boracay Island's shoreline by planting a mangrove seedling. Head to Barangay . Manoc-Manoc, a 15-minute tricycle ride from White Beach, and support the island's reforestation project. It will truly make you proud!
Become a mermaid
Walk along the shore and you might run into men and women in colorful tails. Yes, in Boracay Island, your mermaid dreams can come to life as the island offers mermaid swimming lessons. Or you can just pose with one for a crazy profile picture.
Go cliff diving
Cliff diving is just 30 minutes away via boat from White Beach. Take the plunge in Buruanga, known as a free-fall and cannon paradise. A day trip package around 55 USD includes a round-trip ride, full use of amenities, and eat-and-drink-all-you-can at Ariel's Point.
Fly like a kite
Imagine a child running and pulling a kite across the sky. Now imagine yourself as that kite. Parasailing is aa breathtaking activity that gives you a different view of Boracay. It's definitely one of the best island highs. Even better - you can share the experience with up to two other people.
Save time for a massage
After a day full of activities, relax your body and have a massage. Depending on your budget, affordable to high-end and award-winning spas winning spas are available around the island. Licensed massage therapists will surely satisfy to soothe your soul.
Top 5 Festivals
Naliyagan Festival
Dive into the indigenous heritage of
Agusan del Sur with this cultural festival!
Watch as people celebrate Naliyagan
with ancient rituals, an agri-industrial
trade fair, an "Agri-lympics," and a great
street dance competition to top it off.
WHEN: June 12-17
WHERE: Agusan del Su
Bonok-Bonok Festival
This festival celebrates culture, religion
and the indigenous Mamanwa tribes
of Suriago. Here, you'll see a multitude
of colorsas street dancers in costumes
fill the roads to display the tribal culture
of road moving. That means road parties
are up ahead!
WHEN: September 9
WHERE: Surigao City
Balangay Festival
Before there was even a Philippines,
Butuan. Transients settled in
Butuan on boats they called Balangay/
Balanghai boats. This festival celebrates
this event with ten groups in costumes of
the social ensembles of that time as they
parade and perform through the city.
WHEN: May
WHERE: Butuan City
Kahimunan Festival
Much like the Sinulog Festival of Cebu,
the Kahimunan Festival also gives
honor to the city's patron saint, Santo
Niño. This festivity is usually celebrated
with the usual costumed dancers
performing on the streets of the city
with a dance competition as well..
WHEN: First Sunday ofJanuary
WHERE: Butuan City
Kaliguan Festival
Similar to the Padigosan Festival of Digos
City, Davao, the Kaliguan Festival also
pays tribute to Saint John the Baptist.
The difference would be in how it is
celebrated. The Kaliguan Festival is known
for their Perlas ng Kaliguan Pageant along
with other shoreline activities.
WHEN: Last week of Junbe
WHERE: Cagwait, Surigao del Sur
things to know
How to get there
Davao City is served by Francisco Bangoy International Airport, with regular flights from Manila, Cebu, Clark, and other major hubs. The airport also receives select international flights. From the terminal, travelers can easily reach the city center via taxis, Grab, or private transfers.
How to get around
Getting around Davao is convenient thanks to its well‑organized transport options. Taxis, Grab, jeepneys, and modern PUVs operate throughout the city. For day trips to nature parks or Samal Island, travelers often book private vans or join guided tours.
Where to stay
Davao offers a wide range of accommodations, from business hotels in the city center to boutique stays near Matina, Lanang, and Bajada. Travelers heading to Samal Island can choose from beachfront resorts and quiet retreats just a short ferry ride away.
Internet
Internet connectivity in Davao City is reliable, with most hotels, cafés, malls, and restaurants offering free Wi‑Fi. Mobile data from Globe, Smart, and DITO is strong in urban areas, making it easy to navigate, book tours, or stay connected during your trip.
Language
The primary languages spoken in Davao are Cebuano (Bisaya) and Filipino, with English widely used in business, tourism, and transportation. Visitors will find communication easy throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Currency
The official currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). ATMs, banks, and money changers are widely available across the city. Major hotels, malls, and restaurants accept credit and debit cards, though smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash.
Timezone
Davao City follows Philippine Standard Time (PST), which is UTC+8. The Philippines does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent year‑round.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What makes Davao City a standout destination in Mindanao?
Davao City is known for its balance of urban comfort and natural attractions, offering everything from modern shopping centers and cultural sites to lush parks, mountain views, and wildlife encounters. It’s home to Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak, and the Philippine Eagle Center, making it a top choice for nature lovers and families.
How do travelers usually get to Davao City?
Most visitors arrive via Francisco Bangoy International Airport (Davao International Airport), which offers frequent flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major Philippine cities, as well as select international routes. The airport is just a short drive from the city center, with taxis and ride‑hailing services readily available.
What activities and attractions are popular in Davao City?
Davao City offers a wide range of experiences, including visits to the Philippine Eagle Center, Eden Nature Park, Roxas Night Market, and People’s Park. Travelers also enjoy day trips to Samal Island, known for its beaches and resorts, as well as hiking opportunities around Mount Apo.
Is Davao City a safe and beginner‑friendly destination?
Yes. Davao City is known for being one of the safest and most organized cities in the Philippines. It has a strong tourism infrastructure, reliable transportation, and a welcoming local culture, making it ideal for first‑time visitors, families, and solo travelers.
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