Twenty minutes from Davao City, you will arrive at the so called beach of Davao – Samal island. The Island Garden City of Samal is actually a 4th class city in the province of Davao del Norte. It’s city center is located at Peñaplata where you could find shops, restaurants and other things you might be needing on your stay.
Commuting to the island is really easy and with boat transfers that run for 24 hours, you wouldn’t have a problem if ever your flight got delayed and/or you decided to do your errands very late within Davao City.
If you are planning to visit the island, here is a simple commute guide you can used especially if it would be your first time in this place.
How to go to Samal Island (Peñaplata)
From DAVAO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (estimate 45min-1hr travel time)
- From the Airport take a taxi (costs around P100/USD 2) to Davao-Samal Ferry Wharf.
- From the terminal you can take the Island Express busses (P50/USD1) that crosses the sea via ferry boat. This bus will go straight to Peñaplata Central Warehaus Terminal in Samal.
- If the bus is not yet available at the Ferry Terminal you may cross the island via Ferryboat for only P10 per pax.
- From Samal Ferry Terminal, you can ride habal-habal or tricycle (Php 50-100 per head).
From DAVAO CITY (Estimate 1hr to 1hr and 30min travel time)
- Go to Bangoy Bus terminal located at F. Bangoy street (in front of UM Technical School).
- From the terminal, you can take the Island Express bus ride that would cost P50/person.
- The bus will cross the island via ferry boat and will go straight to Peñaplata Central Warehaus Terminal
- Last bus trip is at 7pm and if you missed it, you can take the ferry by yourself after.
Traveling BY CAR/OWN TRANSPORT
- From Km.11 Sasa Ferry Terminal in Davao City, take the ferry ride to Samal Island.
- This cost P200 one-way.
- When you arrive at FERRY TERMINAL in SAMAL, you will see Phoenix gas station at the exit road. Turn right and head straight along Circumferencial Road.
- When you reach an intersection via Babak-Samal-Kaputian Road, turn right.
- You will find Central Wearhouse at the left side.
Also Read: The Fascinating D’Bone Collector Museum
If you are planning to do a tay tour in the Island, getting a habal-habal ride and/or renting a tricycle when you arrive at the Samal Ferry Terminal would be okay, especially if you already know where you are going. The whole island is really easy to navigate but it is suggested to stay for two to three days to have a really relaxing stay at the Samal Island.
