Planning a beach day or weekend getaway to Samal? Davaoeños understand the struggle of the long barge wait. What if we told you that you could skip the barge lines? Here are Samal resorts that offer direct boat transfers from Davao City, no need to bring a car or brave the traffic.
Looking for Samal Beaches You Can Reach Without the Barge?
If you’ve ever been stuck in the long lines at the Sasa or Dav-Sam Wharf just to get to Samal, you’ll know the struggle. But here’s a little reminder that there are several Samal resorts you can visit without taking the barge. These resorts have their own boats or jetty ports, giving you easy and scenic access to your next Samal getaway.
Samal Resorts with Direct Boat Access from Davao
Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort
Paradise Island Resort Samal Davao/ Facebook
Location: Caliclic, Babak District, Samal Island
Where to Ride the Boat: Private dock beside the Sasa Ferry Terminal, Davao City
Boat Fare: ₱15 per person (shared); ₱150 for a special trip
Day Tour Entrance Fee: ₱250–₱350 per person
Boat Schedule: Every 15–30 minutes from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Why Visit: Family-friendly, clean beachfront, and reliable boat service just minutes away from Davao City proper.
For more information, follow them on social media.
Chema’s By The Sea
Chemas By The Sea/Facebook
Location: Limao, Samal Island
Where to Ride the Boat: Lanang Beach Club (near Waterfront Insular Hotel)
Boat Fare: Included in the package for day tours and overnight stays; ₱1,000 for private trips
Day Tour Entrance Fee: ₱1,650 per adult (Monday–Thursday)
Boat Schedule:
From Davao: 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM
From Samal: 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:00 NN, 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM
Why Visit: Peaceful, semi-private resort with lush gardens and cozy charm.
For more information, follow them on social media.
Costa Marina Beach Resort
Costa Marina Resort/Facebook
Location: Brgy. Limao, Babak District, Samal
Where to Ride the Boat: Private dock beside the Sasa Ferry Terminal, Davao City
Boat Fare: ₱15 per person (shared); ₱100 for special trips
Day Tour Entrance Fee: ₱350 per person
Boat Schedule: Daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM; trips depart as boats fill up
Why Visit: Budget-friendly, laid-back vibe, and very accessible from Davao.
For more information, follow them on social media.
Discovery Samal
Discovery Samal Resort/ Facebook
Location: Limao, Samal Island
Where to Ride the Boat: Jetty beside Waterfront Insular Hotel
Boat Fare: Included for overnight guests; day tour rates may vary
Day Tour Entrance Fee: Rates vary depending on season; booking is required
Boat Schedule: Usually every 30 minutes from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Why Visit: A 5-star resort with luxury rooms, a private beach, and scenic amenities just a short boat ride away.
For more information, follow them on social media.
Club Samal Resort
Club Samal Resort/ Facebook
Location: Babak District, Samal (near Babak Wharf)
Where to Ride the Boat: Sasa Ferry Terminal via their private speedboat
Boat Fare: Usually included in packages
Day Tour Entrance Fee: ₱980 per person (includes lunch, resort access, and roundtrip transfer)
Boat Schedule: Must coordinate with the resort for exact times
Why Visit: Great for barkadas and small groups, this resort blends convenience and comfort without the wait.
For more information, follow them on social media.
Leticia By The Sea
Leticia By The Sea/Facebook
Location: Talicud Island, Samal
Where to Ride the Boat: Sta. Ana Wharf (near Magsaysay Park)
Boat Fare: Included in select packages
Day Tour Entrance Fee: ₱1,350 per person, minimum 10 guests
Boat Schedule: Private trips are arranged with the resort; pre-booking is required.
Why Visit: Perfect for groups seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience with pristine beaches.
For more information, follow them on social media.
Final Tips Before You Go
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Most resorts require advance reservations—make sure to book your slots, especially for day tours.
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Arrive early to avoid delays and make the most of your beach day.
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Pack light and bring cash for entrance fees or food, as some resorts have limited digital payment options.
Say Goodbye to the Barge
With these options, you can skip the wait and head straight to paradise, literally. So, whether you’re planning a spontaneous beach day or a weekend retreat, these Samal resorts make it easy to get there without the stress of lining up at the barge terminal. All it takes is a short boat ride from Davao City, and you’re off to clear waters, fresh air, and island vibes.
Did we miss any beach resorts? Let us know in the comments!
Bookmark this list for your next island day trip!
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