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Love tuna? Well, you’re in luck as Davao is popular for their tuna dishes. It’s only fitting, then, that Marina Tuna Seafood Restaurant boasts a menu where they offer tuna cooked 10 different ways. To say they are the experts of tuna is an understatement. Step outside of your comfort zone and try some parts of the fish that you normally wouldn’t find in a western restaurant such as the crispy tail, eye soup, grilled jaw, and more. If you aren’t super adventurous when it comes to eating, no worries. Marina Tuna makes some impressive grilled tuna belly and to die for tuna sashimi. Oh, and they have beer!

Filipino food isn’t all just sisig and lechon. Each island offers their own spin. While you’re on Davao, go to some local restaurants to try dishes like Sinuagbang Bihod (grilled tuna fish roe), Inato (grilled chicken with Davao spices), Pasayan (deep-fried shrimp), or Imbaw (clam soup). Go to restaurants such as Bistro Selera, Ahfat Sea Foods Plaza, Filipino Comfort Food (FCF), or stop by a local street stall for cheap eats to find the most authentic foodie experience possible.

Let loose and be silly at Davao Zorb Park. If you’ve never heard of a Zorb before, it’s basically one humongous plastic ball that you climb inside to be tossed around. Experience a day of weightlessness with two Zorbing activities at this park. The first activity is where you climb inside the Zorb and it is then pushed down a giant hill, which sends you flying and rolling inside. The second activity is where you take the floating Zorb on water as you try to walk around and bump into your friends. You’ll be laughing all day.

Don’t be afraid to get messy at this eat-with-your-hands seafood spot in Davao. Put on some plastic gloves, a bib, and get ready to dig in like a seaside caveman. You can order a seafood boil with tuna belly, muscles, clams, shrimp, crab and more, tossed in a big plastic bag with incredible sauces and hunks of corn on the cob. The feast is then dumped on a big pan in front of your table to share. With such close proximity to the waters, it would be a shame to pass up a seafood feast in the Philippines. It’s a fun and delicious experience!

World War II has left its imprint on different islands in different ways- including Davao. Come to the Philippine-Japanese Historical Museum where you’ll learn how Davao served as an island of retreat for the Japanese during the war and how some 20,000 Japanese remained on the island after the war to work on abaca plantations. In this museum, you’ll witness how the Japanese lived via replicas of their living quarters from the time spent living on the plantation. You’ll see bunk beds, camera, trinkets, and more. You’ll also see relics from the war such as weapons and clothing. This museum offers unique Japanese perspective of war times that you don’t often see.

There is a relatively underrated volcanic island at the southern tip of Davao Oriental that should be explored if you’ve got the chance. Balut Island is home to a super interesting mixture of cultures including Muslims, Bilaans, and Sangils, who are native to Indonesia. Most of the locals here are farmers who export coconuts to surrounding areas. The mix of cultures means that you can find an international display of restaurants here. While you’re on the island, you can take a dip in the Sabung Hot Spring overlooking the sea, stroll the undisturbed white sand beach, watch for Pygmy Sperm Whales in the water, and check out the ruins of Fort Villa from WWI.

This outdoor park is more than just a place to sit on a park bench and watch the day go by. Famous for it’s long row of fruit stands featuring mostly Durian, Magsaysay Park is a wonderful place to work on your haggling skills. Stop in the Fishcado, an open-air seafood restaurant who serves dishes with fresh seafood collected from the local market. Davao is famous for tuna and swordfish dishes so be on the lookout! As the sun sets, more and more food stalls and snack carts will start rolling in, creating an unofficial night market where you can sample plenty of small treats!

Cool off from the heat at BlueJaz Water Park, a place that is great for both kids and adults. On land, there are two long, winding water slides that spit you out into a cool pool. You can go down these slides as many times as you’d like. There is also a water slide built on stilts about 100 meters from the shore which gives you a nice view of the scenery before you fly into the sea. Enjoy the beach where you can lounge or sign up for some water activities such as jet skiing or banana boat riding. Tip: Avoid the weekends and holidays when the waterpark gets crowded.

Curving brick paths surrounded by lush green trees, grass, and flowers is only the beginning of your experience at Davao Butterfly House! A protected refuge for butterflies, plants, flowers, as well as exotic animal and insect species like scorpions, birds, fish and more- this place is not to be skipped during your visit to Davao! Butterflies are the most active during the morning while it’s not too hot. This is the best time to see them mating, dating, and dancing! Photographers will love this place!

Just like it sounds, this Davao museum is a comprehensive collection of skeletal bones from animals of all kinds, including the skeleton of a 41-foot Sperm Whale. There are over 200 preserved skeletal remains that represent species from every walk of life and every environment you could imagine. The museum was opened in 2012 by an American missionary with a fascination for more than just the religious world beyond. The collection keeps growing year after year- you never know what will turn up next!

In the District of Tril in Davao City, you’ll find Eden Nature Park cozily tucked at the foot of Mount Talomo. Across 80 hectares, you’ll have a chance to explore a wildlife sanctuary full of exotic birds, plants, flowers, and insects. 95% manmade, this nature park has some jaw-dropping scenery including 100,000 tall forest trees and 100,000 pine trees. It smells so fresh! If you’re feet are too tired, hop aboard a 45-minute shuttle tour of the park which ensures that you see the very best that this park has to offer.

“King of Philippine Peaks”, as it’s called, Mount Apo is one of South East Asia’s highest mountains and it’s right here in Davao. The mountain’s peak reaches an elevation of 10,311 feet which is 3,144 meters above sea level. Towards the top, there is a 500-meter wide crater lake created by volcanic activity. The mountain is home to rubber plantations, a 150-meter tall waterfall called Tudaya Falls, along with wild boar and deer. During the moths of March, April, and October, experienced climbers can climb the summit during a two-day hike organized by various tour groups around the area.

Coffee freaks will be excited to try a weird and wild coffee brew called Civet Coffee. A civet is a cat-like wild animal native to the Philippines who helps out with the harvesting process by eating sweet coffee cherries and then pooping out the beans. Apparently, this organic process gives the beans a deep flavor that is out of this world delicious and has no bitter taste. Trying buying Civet Coffee in the United States and you’ll pay a fortune for these beans, but the closer you go to the source, the less expensive it gets. Mt. Apo has a shop and café where you can buy a cup of Civet Coffee or a bag to take home for cheap!

Live like a local by perusing this Filipino night market that is widely popular with native Davao residents. Roxas Avenue has stall after stall of fresh and cooked seafood, meats, veggies, and more for you to pick and choose. Sit down for a flavorful soup or take some grilled pork on a stick to go. Located between Aldevenco shopping center and the ADD University, you could easily do some sightseeing and shopping during the day and then stop by the night market after you’ve worked up an appetite.

If culturally-inspired artwork and vintage maps are your thing, the Davao Museum is for you. This two-story building located inside Insular Village in Lanang is quite bigger than Museo Dabawenyo so dedicate at least an hour to touring this amazing space. Focusing on cultural minorities within the Philippines, you’ll get a glimpse into their cultures with a large collection of artwork and memorabilia. You’ll find rare maps of Mindanao, centuries-old artifacts, modern paintings, and hand-carved artifacts that all tell a story. This museum is a bit more upscale and is to be respected with no photography and your best behavior!

What used to be the city court, Museo Dabawenyo now stands to represent the rich history of the people of Davao. The aim is to teach people about the diverse cultural heritage on this island via beautiful artwork, historic photos, and informational monuments. Within the Museo Dabawenyo, there is the Indigenous People’s Gallery with replicas of stilt houses, musical instruments, and weapons, the Moro People’s Gallery full of antiques such as crowns, armors, chairs, and lamps, the Contemporary Gallery where you can see traditional Filipino clothing, and the Memorabilia Gallery that is home to Filipino bills, clothes, musical notes, and more. Admission is free!

Every dollar that comes through the Philippine Eagle Center is put towards Eagle conservation and education. This incredible center dedicates time and efforts toward protecting endangered eagle species while opening up an interesting platform for the public. During your visit, you will watch eagles feeding on raw meat as they cut into it with their sharp claws and beak, watch eagles soar around the property with huge wingspans, and take some up-close and personal photos! There are also huge snakes, monkeys, and an assortment of endangered plant species to see.

Set your inner child free at Maxima Aquafun Resort on Samal Island, just a quick boat ride away from Davao city. For PhP 300, adults can enjoy a 40-meter super slide that spits you out into the sea, and a water blob that catapults your into the air. This resort also offers water activities such as banana boat rides, snorkeling, jet skiing, and kayaking.  Dry off on the canopy walk with a suspended bridge that you can rappel down. It will be an adrenaline-filled day!

The entrance fee for Isla Reta Beach Resort will grant you a day pass that includes the use of the pavilion, picnic tables, Volley Ball court, open function hall, and an outdoor grill. Take a quick pump boat from Davao city along with your picnic goods and enjoy a day on this beautiful little island grilling and relaxing with friends. The scenery offers that classic Philippines combination of white sand and turquoise water, but instead of coconut trees, you have big billowy trees that provide some much-needed shade. If you choose to stay overnight, you can rent a tent and bedding or stay in one of the accommodation choices including dorms.

People’s Park is a nice place to come where you can breath in some fresh air, stretch your legs without, be one with nature, and ponder the meaning behind some interesting art. Created by then mayor President Duerte in 2007, this park is 4 acres of sprawling tropical rainforest, ponds, waterfalls, shady trees, and even some wild eagles. Sit in the park and feed the pigeons, exercise with a run around the colorfully paved paths, or even take a public Zumba class with literally hundreds of locals (every Sunday at 6am).

Gather 10 of your favorite people and plan the most incredible overnight stay on your very own private island off the coast of Davao! Island Buenavista is a small, pristine island with white sand beaches, clear water, full staff, comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, and water activities, if you please. For just PhP 105,000, your crew gets all of that to themselves! The island is yours, which means complete privacy and total security with no day trips from random tourists. This is your chance to live like a celebrity!

I bet you didn’t expect to find such a huge China Town in Davao. The Mindanao China Town is a collection of Chinese restaurants, shops, business, and malls spread out over 44 Hectares. Many of the businesses here are actually run by Chinese Filipinos who hold on strong to their Chinese roots. You’ll enter China town under a traditional bright red Chinese archway with a shingled roof and be transported to a different universe- or at least it feels that way. Visit the Long Hua Temple that is home to Kung Fu monks or the Mindanao Taoist Temple with beautiful Chinese architecture. Stop in some malls where you can buy electronics and makeup. And of course, eat everything!

Take a day trip to Kopiat Island off the coast of Davao. This desolate little island is home to heaps of wildlife and beautiful nature. You can go with tour group, which transports you via an exhilarating speedboat ride from the mainland. You’ll set foot ashore within a half an hour. These tours include a visit to the Lubi (coconut) plantation, some incredible food, coffee and desert. And you will of course have time to frolic on the beach as well. If you’d like a more carefree day, hire a private boat from Davao and have them take you on a 1-2 hour tour where you can come ashore and explore the white sand beaches lined with overhanging coconut trees.

The most beautiful beach on the mainland is hands down Dahican Beach where 7 kilometers of gorgeous sand and turquoise water awaits. Rent a lounge chair for a day or bring your towel so soak up the sun for as long as you’d like. If you’d like a more adventurous beach experience, there are shacks along the beach renting boogie boards and surfboards perfect for catching some waves. Some of the resorts here offer activities such as island hopping tours that leave from Dahican Beach. Bring a tent and you can pitch it on the beach overnight for a small fee. Fall asleep to the sounds of waves crashing, wake up to fresh morning air then go take a bath in the sea!

If you want full eagle-eye views of the city, you’ll want to make your way to Jack’s Ridge. In addition to marvelous views, there are two restaurants to choose from when you make your way up here: Karlo’s Gourmet which serves coffee and baked treats, and Taklobo where you can sit in an open-air dining area sharing big portions of beautifully plated Filipino food. If you decide to stay the night, there are cottages, a pool, and lovely views for sunrise. There is also quite a bit of history on Jack’s Ridge as this land was previously used as the headquarters for retreating Japanese forces during World War II. You can read all about it at the Jack’s Ridge monument. Just goes to show that you’re never too far from a history lesson in the Philippines.

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Davao city is the Crocodile Park, which is home to thousands of crocodiles. Yes, thousands! They’ve got both freshwater and saltwater crocs that are bred and born on site. You can visit the incubator room where you’ll see hundreds of crocodile eggs growing baby crocs! Beyond the crocodiles, you’ll also have the chance to see monkeys, snakes, birds, and other reptiles. The Crocodile Park offers educational tours, lectures, and offers public awareness of wildlife conservation efforts. All around, a great place.

There is something in Davao city that you won’t experience often in other areas of the Philippines, and that is a local experience. As Davao isn’t the #1 rated tourist spot in the Philippines, you won’t bump into as many resorts, western restaurants, or high-priced tours, but what you will get is real Filipino food, experiences, prices, and interactions. Go to a museum and learn about the city’s cultural heritage, walk down a market to taste dishes from family recipes, or walk through acres of wildlife sanctuaries to create lifelong memories. If you start getting that craving for white sand, Davao is only a boat ride away from some of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines where you can enjoy spectacular beaches with plenty of water activities for a day or two. Let’s explore the best things to do in Davao:

Puerto Galera is a popular little beach town on Mindoro where you’ll find the best of both worlds. For you busy bodies, this vacation destination has lots of food, entertainment, and activities. There is both incredible western food and super cheap Filipino eats. You’ll also find a golf course, karaoke spot, and plenty of tour kiosks selling day trips. It’s a popular spot for both western’s and locals where a comfortable medium is met. For the wildlife lovers, you’ll be pleased to learn that the nature here is spectacular. There is a sublime white sand beach, hidden waterfall via a forest trail, and marine life waiting to be explored.

What’s better than a bar next to the water? A bar on the water, of course! This floating houseboat has been converted into a vacationer’s dream bar! To get there, hop on a small dingy for free. The driver will sail you to alcohol heaven where you can sit with a reclined chair looking out onto the water while the waves gently rocks the boat side to side. You’ll enjoy a colorful view of the mainland with brightly painted houses nestled into the greenery. Happy Hour is from 3-5pm where you can take advantage of drink specials such as buckets, beers, and cocktails.

Snugly set between Luzon and Palawan is Mindoro, the backpacker/hiker/diver/beach bum/foodies’ dream island! Most of the action for travelers you’ll find in on the northeastern tip of the island where there is fantastic diving, chilled-out beach bars, and a variety of upscale and laid back accommodation. Move inland and you’ll find Mt. Halcon and Mt. Baco- destinations for avid hikers. Mindoro’s economy has always thrived on the trade of produce. With heavy agricultural roots, you’ll find that this island is rich in mangos, coconuts, bananas, citrus, and plenty more fruits and veggies that contribute to some fantastic local cuisine. Fun Fact: Mindoro is home to the rare Mindoro Dwarf Buffalo. Ask a local where to see them! From Manila, you can fly to Mindoro’s airport in Puerto Galera, or take a bus/boat transfer straight from Manila which takes just a couple hours. For a real local experience, take a Jeepney down some bumpy back roads while you’re packed like sardines with local

With a name like that, how can you not be curious? Just to clarify what you may be thinking, they actually do serve much more than ketchup and ketchup-friendly foods at this Baguio restaurant. In fact, many of the dishes here are straight-up gourmet. This Asian Fusion gem of a restaurant cooks up sensational dishes like Kiniing Chicken that has been smoked, seasoned, and plated in a rich ginger broth. There are Instagram-worthy desserts and fresh drinks that will bring pure nostalgia to your tongue.

Most popular for its giant swan boats that your can take out on the lake and paddle around, Burnham Park is a great place to spend a leisurely day with your family or sweetheart. There are rose-bush lined jogging trails, cozy park benches overlooking the water, food stalls selling traditional Filipino dishes, hawkers selling souvenirs and knickknacks that you certainly don’t need but are fun to look at. Come and enjoy the acres upon acres of shady pine forests and manmade lake that tourists and locals can’t get enough of.

Everyone can get on board with the concept of burying negative energy and unproductive thoughts. That is exactly what is happening at the Cemetery of Negativism in Baguio. To set the scene, the first headstone that you’ll read says, “Negativism is man’s greatest self imposed infliction, his most limiting factor, his heaviest burden.” So, what else is there to do with all of this burdening negativity? Put it in the ground so that it can never escape. Have a wander around the gravestones of negative thoughts, each monument accompanied by a childlike animal cartoon. Some thoughts are funny and some hit too close to home. There’s nothing like it.

Traditional crafts and skills like weaving and woodcarving have been preserved at the Ifugao Woodcarvers’ Village. Here, locals carry on long standing traditions and talents with roots that span back decades. Buy some souvenirs and at the same time, you’ll be supporting a dying industry and fading art form. You can find small trinkets such as woven baskets and staple pieces like checker-printed coffee tables. You’ll also be pleased to learn that the price tags on these items are a fraction of the price you would pay for similar items in nearby Manilla.

Nestled into the hilly mountains of Baguio is an unsuspecting art village. At a glance, you only notice traditional huts with grass roofs scattered on different levels of elevation throughout the forest. But once entering, you’ll discover that each hut is actually a contemporary art gallery. You get nature and art in one place. The grounds are lovely to explore. You’ll find a Koi Pond, forest trails, and exquisite views of the town from Tam-Awan Village. There is a guide on site who can tell you more about the huts and the art pieces they house.

Wander on over to the Baguio Athletic Bowl and see what sporting event is on. The field, track, and stadium serve as Baguio’s central hub for all things athletic including soccer games, track and field events, and festival celebrations. Built in 1945, the athletic bowl certainly needed a makeover to improve its dilapidating conditions. From 2014 to 2016, it underwent a full transformation and is now a sparkling piece of art. Stop by on the weekends for the best chance to become a local spectator.

What once served as an evacuation center during the Japanese occupation throughout World War II, now serves as the most popular tourist destination in Baguio City. This Roman Catholic Church stands as the pride and joy of Baguio City as it is absolutely stunning with unique features that you won’t find on other churches in the country. You’ll notice the light pink rose towers with stained glass windows that sparkle in the sunlight. Topped with rusty red tile roofs, you can see this cathedral from all areas of the city- but it is certainly most beautiful up close.

It’s no surprise that the City of Pines has an outstanding Botanical Garden. This garden is much more than flowers and fauna, however. It is said to be a spiritual center where the spirits of the native Igorot people dwell. You’ll see native hut replicas of the local Igorot people paying tribute to their cultural legacy all around. These huts, of course, are surrounded by bright flowers and luscious plants that encourage the development of a diverse wildlife including beautiful butterflies and a range of bird species. So, keep an eye out.

Step outside of the realm of Red Horse beer and into the gourmet world of craft beer. It’s not every day that you find a craft brewery in Asia, so when you do- you’ve got to try it out immediately. Baguio Craft Brewery is Baguio’s first brewery and is doing impressive things with 16 rotating craft beers on tap! If you want to try a homerun, their signature beer called Lagud is a strawberry craft beer that will knock your socks off. Like champions, Baguio Craft Brewery has the ultimate menu of beer-friendly appetizers including Buffalo wings, fish tacos, and Moroccan spicy shrimp. It doesn’t get any better than this!

Take a dip in hot springs and cold spring pools situated in the rolling emerald mountains of Baguio City. Up high where the air is fresh and the scenery is stunning, you can spend your day in pure relaxation. And when you’re feeling energized, that is a big water slide that spits you out into a cool pool. There is a restaurant on site that offers yummy Filipino dishes for a great price with a beautiful ambiance. Pro Tip: Don’t come on the weekends unless you want to be bumping into others during your dip.

Many remember Emilio F. Aguinald as the youngest president of the Philippines and the monumental leader who guided the Philippines into the constitutional republic of Asia. Emilio F. Aguinald led his country during the Philippine Revolution against the Spaniards, again in the Spanish-American war, and once more during the Philippine-American War. You can learn more about this revolutionary leader and see some personal artifacts belonging to the late president at the Emilio F. Aguinald Museum in Baguio City. Museum hours are Wednesday – Sunday from 10am to noon and then again from 1pm to 4pm.

Need your shoes repaired? Want to buy some fresh produce? In the market for a handmade broom? Care to try Purple Yam Jam? All of that and more can be done at Baguio City Market. Of course, “the more” is referring to eating. This market is the epicenter of fresh local fare from the region. Sit down at one of the many stalls to try locally caught fish, freshly picked strawberries, and a wide variety of the Philippine staple, Longanisa which is seasoned sausage. There are even vegan versions of Longanisa available!

At 2,926 meters above sea level, Mt. Pulag stands as Luzon’s highest peak! But that isn’t its only impressive feature: above Mt. Pulag, visitors can catch glimpses of the Milky Way Galaxy at dawn. Not only that, but it is also famous for a gathering of clouds around its peaks which has been dubbed “the sea of clouds”. All of this paired with its incredible natural scenery has make Mt. Pulag National Park an international destination for nature lovers, hikers, and galaxy geeks alike. There are four trails up the mountain, some of which require a permit from the DENR. Plan a quick stop by their office a few days a head of your hike.

It’s a great idea to pair this attraction with the Bridal Veil Falls, as they are both located along Kennon Road. This 40-foot tall Lion’s head was a team effort by a variety of representatives in Baguio City. The idea to carve a giant lion’s head into the mountain was thought up by members of the Lion’s Club circa 1960-1970. These members then contracted a group of engineers and miners to stabilize and prep the limestone mountain where the monument was to be carved. Finally, a Filipino woodcarver by the name of Anselmo Bayang Day-ag brought this idea to life. In person, the size of this undertaking is quite spectacular and makes a nice addition to a fun day of sightseeing.

While you can’t access the falls like the olden days, visiting Bridal Veil Falls just for the view is absolutely worth it. Hire a private driver to take you on the scenic journey along Kennon Road where you’ll come to a lookout that shows the veins of the river leading up to the waterfall. This makes for fabulous photos and a peaceful mini-retreat. There is also a hanging bridge nearby that only the bravest of the brave manage to cross as it looks rather flimsy but has actually proven to be quite secure.

How to get there: Ride a jeepney located at the back of Center Mall. You can either ride a jeepney bound to Buyagan or Pico La Trinidad. Fare is at Php. 14.00 How to get to Center Mall? From Session Road/Harisson Road, ride a Trancoville Jeep or Aurora Hill jeep. It will pass Center Mall for just 8.50 pesos.Baguio City may be considered “highly urbanized” but this is one of the most natural cities on the island of Luzon. While the economy in Baguio City is booming, the urban developers have used a light hand when building, rebuilding, and planning the ubran layout. You’ll find historic buildings beautifully preserved right next to new buildings that ease the transition into modernity. All of which are tucked within green parks and rolling hills. It’s a scenic and practical use of space that clearly honors its history, roots, environment, and culture. Also known as “The City of Pines”, Baguio City is situated in the Luzon tropical pine forest’s eco-region, which is the perfect cli

How to get there: Ride a jeepney located at the back of Center Mall. You can either ride a jeepney bound to Buyagan or Pico La Trinidad. Fare is at Php. 14.00 How to get to Center Mall? From Session Road/Harisson Road, ride a Trancoville Jeep or Aurora Hill jeep. It will pass Center Mall for just 8.50 pesos.

How to get there: Located at Harisson road Baguio City, in front of Melvin Jones. Night Market starts at 9PM onwards. Things to do:  ➡ Ukay-ukay shopping! ➡ Streetfood fest!

How to get there: From Tam-awan Village, you can hire a taxi to get you to the museum. Fare is around Php. 100. Another option is to go back to Baguio City market and ride a jeepney bound to Asin road (terminal is across the terminal for jeepney bound to Quezon hill) for Php 11.00 Place: It is a place where arts, crafts, and collections of Benedicto Cabrera (BenCab) are displayed. The museum preserves the culture of the indigenous people of Cordillera Administrative Region. 

How to get there: Ride a jeepney bound to Quezon Hill located at Baguio City market (back of Abanao Square) and just in front of Dane’s Bakeshop. The fare is Php. 8.50 Place: Tam-awan Village has become a venue for art exhibits and workshops envisioned to foster a deeper understanding, respect, and pride in the cultural heritage of the Cordillera people.