Just a little more than an hour from the bustling city of Davao is a quiet resort that's perfect for spending quiet time alone or with a loved one.
Wanting to spend the first week of 2018 at a beach, I packed a few stuff and went to Sta. Ana Wharf to board a ferry to Kaputian, Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS), and since it was a weekday, I waited until 1:30pm for it to fill up. [Fare at P60 per person]
An hour of smooth travel after, it docked at Kaputian Wharf where I rode a habal (motor) for 30 minutes to go to Island Garden Resort in Pangubatan - a peaceful getaway, it says. [Habal fare: P150, this price is good for 2 passengers so it's cheaper if you're with someone]
There, a pleasant surprise greeted me.
What can you ask for when your getaway has two tree houses, pleasant staff and the place all by myself! Compared to the other islands in Kaputian where people flock, this resort is not developed yet as evident by it's rocky sea bed so be cautious when you decide to swim during high tide. Other than that the rocks, no complaints.
You can also walk along the coastline and talk to a friendly community of local fishermen and their families. If you're lucky, you could buy newly-caught fish during sunset and have it cooked at the resort.
Food and beverage at the resort, as expected, can be a little more expensive but they were worth it. Try their ginisang ampalaya.
There are signs at the resort encouraging its patrons to keep the place as quiet as possible.
Price of accommodation ranges from P1,200 - P1,500 per night, 2 pax per room.
Price of food: P130 - P300
(Photos taken from my mobile phone)