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Davao

Philippines · Coast · PHP · 7.073100, 125.612800
Family friendly 7.7/10 · Rank 252 of 2 709
Best season: December-May

Best for

Davao is an ideal place for nature, beach and exotic fruit lovers. It is recommended for couples, families and active travellers. Suitable for those who want to see the untouched nature of Mindanao. Least suitable for those seeking vibrant nightlife.

Best season

December-May

Daily budget
$57.00 (≈ 4 783 ₽ · ≈ 3 192 PHP)
For 7 days
$399.00 (≈ 33 484 ₽ · ≈ 22 344 PHP)
Davao is the third-largest city in the Philippines and the safest metropolis in the country, located on the southern island of Mindanao. It is called the "durian capital", and its main attractions are the Philippine Eagle Center and Mount Apo, the country's highest peak. The city offers a combination of modern amenities, rich nature, and colourful regional culture.
Summer
33.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

Davao residents are friendly and hospitable people, known for their calm character. The city is considered one of the safest in the Philippines. The atmosphere in the city is calm and relaxed.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Beautiful beaches on Samal Island
  • Fresh seafood and durian
  • Fewer tourists than in Cebu
  • Affordable prices
  • Rich nature and mountains
  • Calm atmosphere
  • Safe city

Cons

  • Remoteness from other islands
  • Limited nightlife
  • Infrastructure is poorly developed
  • Hot and humid all year round
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
27.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
32.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
26.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
30.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
June-October
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Kaputian Beach / Pearl Farm
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
Yes
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Davao is a safe city. Beaches on Samal Island are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are corals and jellyfish.

Sea urchins — details

  • Various sea urchin species inhabit the coastal waters of Davao, including Davao Gulf: Echinometra mathaei (rock-boring sea urchin), Echinothrix calamaris (hatpin urchin), Diadema setosum (long-spined sea urchin, local name «tuyom»), Prionocidaris verticillata (rough spine urchin)
  • A study conducted in Punta Dumalag, Matina Aplaya, Davao, revealed the distribution of sea urchins in the intertidal zone. Diadema setosum stings are painful, special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are found near the Samal islands. Snorkelling is recommended.

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during the rainy season.

Sharks — details

  • Various shark species inhabit the waters of Davao Gulf and adjacent areas, including whitetip reef shark (Triaenodon obesus), blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) and hammerhead sharks (Sphyrna spp.)
  • Sharks generally do not pose a serious danger to swimmers, but divers should exercise caution. Shark sightings have been recorded at depths of 20 to 30 metres in the Davao area
Attractions

Samal Island

An island with white beaches, resorts and diving. 20 minutes by ferry from Davao.

People's Park

A city park with gardens, ponds and sculptures. A popular walking spot.

Davao Museum

A museum with a collection of artefacts from the indigenous peoples of Mindanao.

Roxas Night Market

A night market with street food, seafood and fruit. The heart of gastronomic life.

Mount Apo

The highest mountain in the Philippines (2,954 m). A popular trekking spot.

Orchid Farm

A botanical garden with a collection of orchids and tropical plants.

Best areas

Davao Centre

The heart of the city with museums, parks and restaurants. The best area for tourists.

Mati Area

A coastal area with beaches and resorts. 3 hours away.

Bukidnon Area

A mountain area with a cool climate and plantations. 2 hours away.

Must-try food

Durian

The king of fruits, eaten fresh or used in desserts, ice cream and coffee.

Kinilaw

Fresh fish marinated in vinegar with onions and chilli.

Sinugba

Grilled meat or fish with sauce.

Tuna

Fresh tuna served grilled or as sashimi.

Pancit

Noodles with vegetables and meat.

Where to go next

Samal Island

Beaches and resorts. 20 minutes by ferry.

Mount Apo

The highest mountain in the Philippines. 3 hours away.

Bukidnon

A mountain area with plantations and waterfalls. 2 hours away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
moderate
Getting there
Nearest airports
Международный аэропорт имени Франсиско Бангоя (DVO).
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Visa
Visa requirements
visa-free (30-59 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-May
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 672 PHP
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 2 240 PHP
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 3 920 PHP
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 6 720 PHP
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽ · ≈ 5 600 PHP
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 2 800 PHP
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 224 PHP
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 672 PHP
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 168 PHP
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 140 PHP
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.60
≈ 50 ₽ · ≈ 34 PHP
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 392 PHP
Burger
Average price for a burger
$3.50
≈ 294 ₽ · ≈ 196 PHP
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 140 PHP
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 168 PHP
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.40
≈ 34 ₽ · ≈ 22 PHP
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 140 PHP
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 2 240 PHP
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 672 PHP
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 1 400 PHP
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 3 920 PHP
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 960 PHP
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 448 PHP
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Frequently asked questions
Davao: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-May. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Davao: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Davao: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +30.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Davao: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Davao: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on June-October. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Davao: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, white sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: Kaputian Beach / Pearl Farm. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Davao: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
Davao: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: corals, jellyfish. Davao is a safe city. Beaches on Samal Island are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are corals and jellyfish.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Davao: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $57.00 (≈ 4 783 ₽ · ≈ 3 192 PHP) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Davao: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $12.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $40.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $70.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $120.00 per night, an apartment — $50.00 per night, a villa — $100.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Davao: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $4.00, dinner at a restaurant — $12.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.60. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Davao: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $8.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.40, a short taxi ride — $2.50, car rental — $40.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Davao: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Samal Island — An island with white beaches, resorts and diving. 20 minutes by ferry from Davao.; People's Park — A city park with gardens, ponds and sculptures. A popular walking spot.; Davao Museum — A museum with a collection of artefacts from the indigenous peoples of Mindanao.; Roxas Night Market — A night market with street food, seafood and fruit. The heart of gastronomic life.; Mount Apo — The highest mountain in the Philippines (2,954 m). A popular trekking spot.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Davao: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Durian — The king of fruits, eaten fresh or used in desserts, ice cream and coffee.; Kinilaw — Fresh fish marinated in vinegar with onions and chilli.; Sinugba — Grilled meat or fish with sauce.; Tuna — Fresh tuna served grilled or as sashimi.; Pancit — Noodles with vegetables and meat.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Davao: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Davao Centre — The heart of the city with museums, parks and restaurants. The best area for tourists.; Mati Area — A coastal area with beaches and resorts. 3 hours away.; Bukidnon Area — A mountain area with a cool climate and plantations. 2 hours away.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Davao: is a visa required?
Visa: visa-free (30-59 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Davao: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Международный аэропорт имени Франсиско Бангоя (code DVO). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $8.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Davao: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — PHP. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $57.00 (≈ 4 783 ₽ · ≈ 3 192 PHP). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Davao: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Davao: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as moderate. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Davao: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Samal Island — Beaches and resorts. 20 minutes by ferry.; Mount Apo — The highest mountain in the Philippines. 3 hours away.; Bukidnon — A mountain area with plantations and waterfalls. 2 hours away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.7/10
Overall rank: 252 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 152

Best season

December-May

Useful information

Currency: PHP
Coordinates: 7.073100, 125.612800