A Short Trip to Kaputian, Samal Island

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If you are in Davao, always include Samal Island in your destinations as there are so many things to do and enjoy in this island which is just off the coast of Davao City,   Samal Island is an hour away by a large "baroto" or local canoe.  First, I took a cab from Royal Travel Hotel for Sta. Ana wharf which cost me P60 only.  Now, that was the fastest way to get to Sta. Ana wharf from downtown.  You can also go to Sta. Ana wharf by any jeep that goes to Magsaysay Park.  At Magsaysay Park, you will see lots of fruit stalls selling durian, mangosteen and marang and other local delicacies.  It will only cost you P8.00.  In Sta. Ana wharf, you can ride a big bangka going to and from Kaputian Wharf.   This is the schedule of the large bangkas that can accommodate over 50 people for only P60.  If you want to stay longer in the Island, go at around 8 am so that you can get your money's worth.

Palbros 7 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Shirley 2 p.m.
Grace 5 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Hoff Gorei 9 a.m. and 4 p.m .




Excited people welcome visitors and islanders back to Kaputian, Samal, one of the major stops in IGACOS.  The nearest resort to the wharf is Kaputian Beach Resort.  The entrance for the day tour is really cheap.  The sand feels cool to the soles so walking barefoot is not a problem.    Facilities need some improvement though, like their changing rooms.  But nothing that can't be resolved through resourcefulness.  The beach was moderately busy.  Some guests were playing volleyball and kids were the ones mostly in the water under the watch and care of an adult.   It was siesta time and the sun was really, really displaying its might.  Everyone was hiding under the trees or inside their cottages.  



 There are other high-end resorts and accommodations in the entire island.  Despite the many resorts and accommodations, Samal is still unexploited and remains green with a hint of wildness.  I noticed that the main road is well-paved, but dirt paths are still common.   And "habal-habal" is a major form of transportation.  If you don't want to stay in the island overnight,  you can take the bus going to Penaplata from Kaputian at 3 or in order to catch the last RORO bus ride going to Davao which is at 7 pm.  I did not take this route though as I wanted to see another resort before going back to the City and that is Maxima Aqua Fun.

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