The Island Garden City of Samal or IGaCoS is a coastal paradise with a group of islands strategically situated at the heart of Davao Gulf. It is geographically separated from mainland Mindanao. It lies only 900 meters east of Davao City and 10 kilometers West of Comval Province. This is a city with resources potential of becoming an integral tourist destination and economic player in the country.
There are two main Islands in IGacoS, Samal island and Talicud which is situated at the southern point. Other smaller islands namely Malipano , Big Ligid and Little Ligid are also part of the city. It is also 10-15 minutes ride from Davao City via motor boat or ferry boat.
For more of IGaCoS, click here!
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO:
ISLAND HOPPING
Go for an Island hopping and take a closer look of the few commercial resorts and a number of private beaches spread its coastline of sugary-white sands.
Few of other activities to do while in IGaCoS:
- Swimming with Giant Clams at Tridacna Sanctuary known as Taclobo Sanctuary at Barangay Adecor.
- Scuba Diving/Snorkeling in Talicud Island.
- Spelunking in Balete and Magongawong caves.
- Mountain Climbing and stay overnight at its summit known as Puting Bato
WHERE TO STAY AND DINE:
PARADISE ISLAND PARK AND BEACH RESORT
Located just fifteen minutes away from Davao City, Paradise Island is very near, that visitors only need to pay P10.00. Yes, for as low as ten pesos, you will be able to enjoy paradise just a few minutes away from the city. This is operated by the management of the resort from 5:00 AM up to 5:00 PM. After 5:00 PM, those who wish to go to Samal Island may ride the Ferry Boat which serves the public 24/7.
WHAT TO EAT AND TRY:
SHRIMP GAMBAS
Gambas is a Spanish dish made with prawns. Shrimp Gambas Recipe often uses medium to large sized shrimps, most Restaurants don’t use jumbo or colossal prawns because of price reasons, but the Shrimp Gambas of Paradise Island is one of the bests I’ve tasted.
KINILAW
Kinilaw (which derived from the Visayan word “hilaw” which means “raw”) is a raw seafood dish native to the Philippines, similar to ceviche of Latin America and Caribbean.
MUST TRY:
DURIAN SHAKE
Don’t leave the island without tasting its Durian Shake. If there’s one thing you must do when in Davao City, it’s trying out the famous durian, which the city is known for. There are lot of must-try durian-infused desserts in Davao, and Durian Shake is one of my favorite.
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Contact Paradise Island and Beach Resort at
For the directions on how to get to Island City of Samal, click here!
