Best 5 White Sand Beach Resorts in Samal You Need to Visit

Photo Credit: Tripadvisor

Suppose you’re searching for paradise without flying halfway around the world. In that case, Samal Island delivers exactly what beach lovers crave—pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and that perfect escape just minutes from Davao City.

Why Sand Beach Resorts in Samal Stand Out

Location and Accessibility

Getting to beach resorts in Samal is surprisingly easy. The island is just a short 2-kilometer ferry ride from Davao City, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or extended vacations. You won’t waste precious vacation time traveling.

Natural Beauty

Samal Island is famous for its powdery white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. The waters here are so clear you can see your toes when standing knee-deep.

Variety of Options

Often hailed as the largest resort city in the Philippines, Samal Island is home to more than 30 resorts and over 1,000 rooms, ranging from luxury beachfront stays to cozy budget-friendly hideaways.

1. Pearl Farm Beach Resort – Ultimate Luxury Experience

Photo Credit: Tripadvisor

Why This Tops Our List

Located amid lush greenery and a white sand beach, this 5-star resort features 2 outdoor swimming pools, a restaurant, and a bar with a 360-degree view of the resort. Pearl Farm isn’t just another resort—it’s an experience.

What makes it special:

• Inspired by the stilted houses of the Samal people, the Samal Suite features spacious layouts adorned with bamboo patterns
• National Artist Ar. Bobby Manosa patterned the resort to reflect the traditional structures of the 6 Mindanaoan ethnic groups
• Private white sand beach exclusively for guests
• Infinity pool overlooking Davao Gulf

Accommodations

The air-conditioned rooms come with a flat-screen cable TV and a seating area, equipped with a mini-bar and an electric kettle. You’ll find 70 total accommodations, including suites, executive villas, and those iconic overwater cottages.

Dining and Activities

Daily buffet breakfast is served at the property. Maranao Restaurant serves both buffet and a la carte options. Water activities include kayaking, snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing.

The on-site restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and ocean views, making every meal memorable.

Rates and Booking

Expect to pay premium prices reflecting the luxury experience. The cheapest price recently booked was $341, while the most expensive was $365. Boat shuttle service is scheduled from Davao Marina Wharf to the resort at 10 AM and 2 PM, with return service at 8:30 AM and 1 PM.

2. Discovery Samal – Modern Luxury Meets Nature

Photo Credit: Agoda

Premium Facilities

Discovery Samal is the first and only Discovery Resort brand in Mindanao with the biggest resort convention facilities in Davao. This newcomer raised the bar for sand beach resorts in Samal.

Key features:

• 153 lush villas and suites, each bringing the most distinctive luxury of space
• Three outdoor pools with infinity features
• Multiple dining venues
• Full-service spa

Accommodations and Amenities

The One-Bedroom Suite features a comfortable king-sized bed with a separate living and dining room. Right outside the hotel towers is a massive pool with its infinity feature that seamlessly flows with the view of the Davao Gulf.

Activities Available

The resort offers a wide range of water sports, from kayaking and paddleboarding to jet skiing. Perfect for adventure seekers who want more than just lounging.

Service Excellence

Guests praise the helpful staff, attentive service, and world-class amenities. The resort’s attention to detail shows in every interaction.

3. Hof Gorei Beach Resort – Boutique Paradise with Butler Service

Photo Credit: Expedia

Unique Selling Point

Hof Gorei is set apart from other beach resorts as it promises to provide its guests a royal treatment with its impeccable Butler Service – a unique concept of consolidated services to give a personalized guest assistance.

This is the only resort in Samal offering complimentary butler service, making your stay effortlessly luxurious.

Accommodations

The resort features cozy bungalows surrounded by tropical gardens with an outdoor pool and stunning views of the Davao Gulf and Mount Apo. Each room is air-conditioned and includes a balcony or terrace, TV, mini-bar, private bathroom, and tea/coffee-making facilities.

Room options include:

• Beach Cabanas (oceanfront)
• Round Huts (hilltop views)
• Buddy Rooms (group accommodations)

Dining Experience

Meals can be served in your room balcony, by the beachfront, or at the poolside—whichever you prefer. The flexibility lets you create your perfect dining atmosphere.

Rates and Getting There

The cheapest price recently booked was $80, making it more accessible than luxury alternatives. The resort is accessible by land travel via the Samal Ferry Wharf in Brgy. Sasa, Davao City, is just 10 minutes from Davao International Airport.

4. Kaputian Beach Park Resort – Budget-Friendly Public Beach

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Government-Operated Advantage

This resort is operated by the local government of Samal, taking pride in its authentic white sand beach and crystal clear blue waters. Being government-run means lower costs without sacrificing beach quality.

What You Get

Accommodations on the beach include open-air nipa huts and air-conditioned cottages. You may also rent tents and camp here.

Amenities include:

• Swimming areas with lifeguards
• Picnic tables and native huts
• Souvenir shops
• Nearby restaurants

Entrance Fees

Tourists visiting for just the day need to pay an entrance fee of PhP50 and an environmental fee of PhP50. Those staying overnight need to pay a PhP200 entrance fee.

That’s incredibly affordable compared to private resorts.

Location Benefits

With its strategic area located just within the vicinity of Samal’s Poblacion, Kaputian District, this one will surely trim down unexpected expenses. You’re close to markets and eateries for added convenience.

5. Isla Reta Beach Resort – Rustic Island Escape

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Natural Beauty Preserved

Isla Reta Beach, located on the western side of Samal Island, is a hidden gem with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. This beach resort in Samal maintains its natural charm.

What to Expect

Isla Reta Beach Resort offers basic amenities and no air-conditioned rooms, but its stunning white sand beach is among the best in Samal. Don’t come expecting luxury—come for the raw, natural beach experience.

Perfect for:

• Snorkeling enthusiasts
• Budget travelers
• Nature lovers
• Camping adventures

Rates and Access

Entrance is Php100 for a day tour, Php200 for an overnight. You can rent a room for Php900 or a tent for Php100. The boat ride is Php80 one way, with the first trip at 6 am and the last return trip at 3 pm.

Dining Options

Food is Php180-300 good for 2, rice is cheap, only for Php15. You can also bring your own food to save even more.

Comparing the Best Beach Resorts in Samal

Essential Tips for Visiting

Getting to Samal Island

Samal Island does not have its own airport, so Davao City serves as the primary departure point. Francisco Bangoy International Airport is the nearest gateway. From there, take the ferry services to reach the island.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from December to May during the dry season when the weather is ideal for island hopping, snorkeling, and hiking.

What to Pack

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Waterproof phone case
• Snorkeling gear (or rent on-site)
• Cash (ATMs are limited)
• Light, breathable clothing
• Insect repellent

Transportation on the Island

You can get around by habal-habal (motorbike taxi), tricycle, or join tours with round-trip transfers.

Day Trip vs Overnight Stay

Day Trip Benefits

• Lower cost
• Sample multiple beaches
• No luggage hassles

Overnight Advantages

• Full beach experience
• Sunset and sunrise views
• Access to all resort amenities
• More relaxation time

I recommend overnight stays for sand beach resorts in Samal to truly unwind and experience everything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best white sand beach resort in Samal?

Pearl Farm Beach Resort offers the most luxurious experience with its 5-star accommodations and traditional Filipino architecture.

How much does it cost to stay at beach resorts in Samal?

Prices range from ₱50 entrance fees at public beaches to $300+ per night at luxury resorts.

Are there day tour packages?

Yes. Kaputian Beach Park and Isla Reta offer affordable day tour options with entrance fees under ₱200.

What activities can I do?

Swimming, snorkeling, diving, island hopping, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and simply relaxing on pristine white sand.

Is it safe to swim?

Yes. Most beach resorts in Samal have designated swimming areas with lifeguards on duty.

Do I need to book in advance?

For luxury resorts like Pearl Farm and Discovery Samal, booking is essential. Budget options accept walk-ins but may fill up on weekends.

Your Perfect Samal Beach Adventure Awaits

Sand beach resorts in Samal offer something for every traveler—from budget-conscious families to luxury seekers craving pampering. Pearl Farm delivers unmatched elegance, Discovery Samal brings modern sophistication, Hof Gorei provides personalized butler service, Kaputian Beach Park keeps things affordable, and Isla Reta preserves natural beauty.

The real magic? You’re just a quick ferry ride from paradise. No long flights, no exhausting transfers—just pure tropical bliss waiting to be discovered.

Which resort matches your style? Beach bum on a budget? Head to Kaputian or Isla Reta. Honeymoon splurge? Pearl Farm or Discovery Samal will make it unforgettable. Want that personal touch? Hof Gorei’s butler service has you covered.

Ready to explore more amazing destinations? Check out our other travel guides and discover hidden gems across the Philippines. Your next adventure is just one click away.