Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
Picture this: you’re standing on a cliff, overlooking crystal-clear turquoise waters that seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon. The warm tropical breeze kisses your skin, and below you, floating cottages bob gently on the waves. This isn’t some far-flung exotic destination that’ll drain your savings account—this is Blue Bless Beach Resort in Mati City, Davao Oriental, and it’s about to become your new favorite escape.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit countless beach resorts across the Philippines, but there’s something genuinely special about Blue Bless that keeps drawing people back. Maybe it’s the way the sunrise paints the sky in impossible shades of pink and orange, or perhaps it’s the feeling of complete tranquility you get when you’re floating in those calm waters. Whatever it is, I’m here to share with you exactly why Blue Bless Beach Resort deserves a spot at the very top of your travel bucket list.
Let me walk you through the ten compelling reasons why this hidden gem in Southern Mindanao should be your next tropical getaway.
What Makes Blue Bless Beach Resort Stand Out?
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s talk about what sets Blue Bless apart from the hundreds of other beach resorts scattered across the Philippine archipelago. Located in Sitio Pitugo, Barangay Bobon, this resort has earned its reputation as one of Mati City’s premier destinations—and trust me, that reputation is well-deserved.
Unlike typical beach resorts that seem to follow the same tired formula, Blue Bless offers a unique cliffside experience that combines accessibility with exclusivity. You’re not just getting another strip of white sand (though the beaches nearby are spectacular). You’re getting an entire experience that caters to families, couples, adventure seekers, and anyone who just needs to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life.
Reason #1 – Pristine Beaches That Define Paradise at Blue Bless
The Signature Blue Waters Experience
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
When people talk about Blue Bless Beach Resort, the first thing they rave about is the water. And I mean, can you blame them? The resort sits perched above some of the clearest, most inviting waters you’ll ever see in the Philippines. That crystal-blue color isn’t just a trick of the light or some Instagram filter—it’s the real deal.
The water here has this remarkable clarity that lets you see straight down to the sandy bottom, even when you’re standing in chest-deep water. During high tide, you can swim directly from your floating cottage into warm, calm seas that feel more like a heated pool than the open ocean. It’s absolutely magical, especially at night when the moonlight dances across the gentle waves.
Swimming and Water Activities You’ll Love
What makes the beaches at Blue Bless truly special is their versatility. During low tide, the water becomes ankle-deep near the shore—perfect for young children or anyone who’s not a confident swimmer. But venture just a couple of yards out, and you’ll find yourself in chest-deep water that’s ideal for a proper swim.
The calm nature of the waters here makes it an excellent spot for snorkeling. You’ll spot colorful fish darting between rocks and coral formations, and if you’re lucky, you might even encounter some of the local marine life that calls these waters home. The resort’s location provides natural protection from strong currents, which means you can enjoy water activities without worrying about safety.
Why Blue Bless Beaches Beat Other Resorts
Here’s what really impressed me about Blue Bless: while Mati City is famous for its white sand beaches and massive waves perfect for skimboarding, Blue Bless offers something completely different. Instead of fighting crowds on popular beaches, you get your own little slice of paradise perched on a cliff. The views from above are absolutely breathtaking, and the combination of clifftop amenities with beach access gives you the best of both worlds.
Reason #2 – Luxurious Accommodations You Won’t Want to Leave
Room Options at Blue Bless Beach Resort
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Let’s talk accommodations, because this is where Blue Bless Beach Resort really shines. They’ve thought through every type of traveler and created room options that suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic retreat or a large family planning a reunion, there’s something here for you.
The air-conditioned rooms come equipped with modern amenities that you’d expect from a quality resort: LED cable TVs for those rare moments when you’re not outside enjoying the view, mini-fridges to keep your drinks cold, private bathrooms, and most importantly—balconies and terraces where you can sip your morning coffee while watching the sunrise over the ocean.
Room rates are surprisingly reasonable considering what you’re getting. Couples can find comfortable accommodations ranging from ₱1,500 to ₱2,300 per night, and here’s the kicker—that includes free use of the big cottages. For larger groups of five to ten people, you’re looking at ₱3,500 to ₱5,000 per night, still with free cottage access. And if you want to go all out? Suite rooms range from ₱3,500 to ₱8,000, with some packages including a massive cottage that can accommodate up to 30 people.
The Famous Floating Cottages
Now, let’s talk about what makes Blue Bless truly unique: those Instagram-worthy floating cottages. These cozy structures literally float on the water and can accommodate up to 20 people, making them perfect for family gatherings or group celebrations. Imagine spending your afternoon lounging in a cottage that gently rocks with the waves, with nothing but clear blue water surrounding you.
The cottages aren’t just for show, either. They provide genuine shade and comfort during the day, and when night falls, they become the perfect spot for intimate conversations under the stars. Many guests who book rooms get free access to these cottages, which is an incredible value add that most resorts don’t offer.
Beachfront vs. Clifftop: Choosing Your View
One of the unique aspects of staying at Blue Bless Beach Resort is deciding between beachfront rooms and clifftop accommodations. The beachfront rooms give you direct access to the water—literally just walk down the stairs and you’re swimming. Meanwhile, the clifftop rooms offer panoramic views that’ll take your breath away. Both options have their merits, and honestly, you can’t go wrong with either choice.
Reason #3 – World-Class Dining That Tantalizes Your Taste Buds
On-Site Restaurant and Local Flavors
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Food can make or break a resort experience, right? Well, Blue Bless gets it right with their on-site restaurant that serves up a delightful mix of local and international cuisines. The restaurant operates throughout the day, and they’ve even got 24-hour service on weekends and holidays—because sometimes you just need a midnight snack after a long swim.
The menu focuses heavily on fresh seafood, which makes perfect sense given the location. We’re talking grilled fish caught that morning, succulent prawns, and local specialties that showcase the best of Davao Oriental’s culinary traditions. The chefs here understand that tourists want to taste authentic Filipino food, not some watered-down version.
Dining with a View
What elevates the dining experience at Blue Bless Beach Resort is the setting. The main restaurant sits near the pool area, offering incredible ocean views while you eat. There’s also a restobar where you can grab drinks and light meals in a more casual atmosphere. Imagine sipping a cold San Miguel while watching the sun set over Pujada Island—it’s these simple moments that create lasting vacation memories.
The Convenience Store Advantage
Here’s a practical touch that I really appreciated: Blue Bless has a 24-hour convenience store called Big Boss’ Mini Mart right on the property. Forgot your sunscreen? Need some snacks for the kids? Want to grab drinks without paying resort markup prices? It’s all there. This might seem like a small detail, but having access to essentials without leaving the resort grounds is incredibly convenient.
Reason #4 – Unbeatable Water Activities and Adventure
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Snorkeling and Swimming Adventures
The waters around Blue Bless are ideal for snorkeling and swimming. The clarity of the water means you’ll have excellent visibility, and the calm conditions make it safe even for beginners. The resort’s location provides natural protection from strong waves, so you can focus on enjoying yourself rather than fighting the current.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For those who prefer staying above water, the resort offers kayaking opportunities that let you explore the coastline at your own pace. Paddling along the cliff face, you’ll discover hidden corners and get unique perspectives of the resort that you can’t see from land. It’s peaceful, it’s meditative, and it’s one of those activities that looks great in photos but feels even better in person.
Island Hopping to Waniban Island
One of the standout experiences at Blue Bless Beach Resort is their island hopping service. The resort operates its own ferry boat that can take you to nearby islands, including Waniban Island. This gives you the flexibility to explore beyond the resort without having to arrange separate tour operators or deal with the hassle of finding reliable transportation.
Island hopping in this area reveals some of the most pristine beaches you’ll ever see. The waters are even clearer out there, and you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your own private paradise. It’s these kinds of excursions that transform a simple beach vacation into an actual adventure.
Reason #5 – Relaxation Facilities That Rejuvenate Your Soul
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The Swimming Pools Experience
While the natural ocean waters are the main attraction, Blue Bless also features swimming pools that offer a different kind of relaxation. The pools are perfect for those times when you want to swim but prefer the convenience and consistency of a pool environment. They’re well-maintained, spacious, and surrounded by lounging areas where you can soak up the tropical sun.
What’s interesting is that the resort has multiple pools catering to different types of guests. There’s even an exclusive pool area for certain room types, giving you that premium resort experience. Pool entrance fees are reasonable—₱100 for adults and ₱50 for children—though guests staying in rooms often get discounted rates.
Spaces for Peace and Quiet
Beyond the pools and beach, Blue Bless Beach Resort has created numerous spaces where you can simply… exist. There are quiet corners with hammocks, shaded areas perfect for reading a book, and spots along the cliff where you can sit and contemplate life while watching fishing boats dot the horizon. Sometimes the best part of a vacation is doing absolutely nothing, and this resort understands that philosophy perfectly.
Sunset Watching Spots
The sunset views from Blue Bless deserve their own section, honestly. As the day winds down, the western sky transforms into an artist’s canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. Find yourself a comfortable spot—maybe one of those floating cottages, or perhaps a lounge chair by the pool—and just watch nature’s most reliable show. It’s the kind of experience that makes you realize how much beauty we miss in our daily routines.
Reason #6 – Family-Friendly Features Everyone Will Love
Safe Environment for Children
Traveling with kids? Blue Bless has got you covered. The resort creates a safe, welcoming environment where children can play freely without parents constantly worrying. The shallow waters during low tide are perfect for young ones to splash around, and the pools offer controlled environments for swimming practice.
Several reviews from families mention seeing baby crabs scurrying along the beach—which turned into an unexpected educational experience for their kids. The resort also has playground areas where children can burn off energy, including slides that kids apparently love (based on multiple enthusiastic reviews from young visitors).
Group Accommodations and Activities
Large families often struggle to find resorts that can accommodate everyone comfortably without breaking into multiple rooms. The bigger accommodations at Blue Bless Beach Resort, which can sleep five to ten people, solve this problem elegantly. Plus, with those enormous cottages that fit up to 30 people, you can plan family reunions where everyone actually stays together.
The resort offers activities that bring families together: beach volleyball, swimming competitions, or simply gathering in a cottage to share meals and stories. These shared experiences create the kinds of memories that kids will talk about for years.
Entertainment for All Ages
Beyond the water activities, Blue Bless provides entertainment options that cater to different age groups. There are billiard tables for teens and adults, beach games for the active folks, and the restobar with its disco floor for those who want to let loose after the kids go to bed. Weekends bring open discos on Friday and Saturday nights, adding an element of excitement to evening entertainment.
Reason #7 – Romantic Atmosphere Perfect for Couples
Honeymoon-Worthy Settings
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway that won’t cost as much as a European vacation, Blue Bless Beach Resort delivers big time. The combination of stunning sunsets, private cottage moments, and the soothing sound of waves creates an atmosphere that’s tailor-made for couples.
The beachfront rooms are particularly popular with honeymooners and couples celebrating anniversaries. Imagine waking up to the sound of gentle waves, stepping onto your private balcony to watch the sunrise, and having direct access to the beach below. It’s the kind of setting that makes you fall in love all over again—both with your partner and with life itself.
Private Moments in Floating Cottages
Those floating cottages I mentioned earlier? They’re incredibly romantic. Rent one for an afternoon, bring some food and drinks, and you’ve created your own private retreat away from other guests. The gentle rocking motion, the 360-degree water views, and the sense of isolation (while still being safe and accessible) make these cottages the perfect spot for intimate conversations and quality time together.
Sunset Dinners and Evening Romance
The resort’s restaurant can arrange special dining experiences for couples, and even if you’re just grabbing a regular meal, the oceanfront setting automatically adds romance to any dinner. Many couples mention the magic of dining al fresco with the sea breeze, tiki torches lighting the area, and the stars beginning to emerge overhead.
Reason #8 – Exceptional Service That Goes Above and Beyond
The Blue Bless Hospitality Philosophy
Here’s something you can’t fake: genuine hospitality. Multiple guests have praised the staff at Blue Bless Beach Resort for their attentiveness and friendly demeanor. The team here seems to genuinely care about ensuring guests have positive experiences, which makes a huge difference when you’re trying to relax on vacation.
Staff members are known for being helpful with everything from arranging transportation to recommending local attractions. They’re attentive without being intrusive—that perfect balance that good hospitality requires. When you need something, they’re there. When you want privacy, they respect that too.
Security and Safety Measures
One aspect that doesn’t always get highlighted but matters tremendously is safety. Recent guests have specifically commended the resort’s focus on security. There’s visible security personnel on-site, the property is well-lit at night, and staff members are trained to ensure guest safety. This attention to security creates peace of mind, especially for families with children or solo travelers.
Real Guest Experiences
While not every review is glowing (no resort is perfect), many visitors describe their stays at Blue Bless as memorable and satisfying. One guest mentioned staying in what they called the “Darling Suite” and being blown away by the view and accommodations. Families consistently note that their children had amazing experiences, from playing in the pools to discovering marine life on the beach.
The resort seems particularly good at handling groups and special events, with several positive mentions of staff helping coordinate birthday celebrations, family reunions, and other gatherings.
Reason #9 – Convenient Location and Easy Accessibility
How to Get to Blue Bless Beach Resort
Getting to Blue Bless is more straightforward than you might think. From Davao City, you can take a bus or van to Mati City, which takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. It’s a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of Davao Oriental, with mountain views and glimpses of coastal life.
Once you reach Mati City proper, the resort is about 12 kilometers away—roughly 30 minutes by hired motorcycle (locally called habal-habal) or multi-cab. While it’s not directly in the city center, this distance actually works in your favor by providing that sense of escape while still maintaining accessibility to urban conveniences.
Nearby Attractions Worth Exploring
The location of Blue Bless Beach Resort gives you access to some of Davao Oriental’s most famous attractions. The Sleeping Dinosaur (also called Sleeping Dragon), a natural rock formation that resembles a sleeping dinosaur, is a must-see photo opportunity nearby. It’s become iconic in the region, and most visitors make sure to stop there either coming or going from the resort.
You’re also within reasonable distance of other Mati attractions like the Subangan Museum, Dahican Beach (famous for skimboarding), and various local markets where you can experience authentic Filipino culture. The resort can help arrange day trips to these locations, making it easy to balance beach relaxation with cultural exploration.
Transportation Options
While the resort doesn’t offer direct shuttle service from Davao City (something to be aware of when planning), arranging transportation is relatively simple. Many guests coordinate with local drivers for both the journey to the resort and day trips during their stay. The staff can help connect you with reliable transportation services, or you can arrange everything through your accommodation booking.
Reason #10 – Unmatched Value for Your Tropical Vacation
Breaking Down the Costs
Let’s talk money, because this is where Blue Bless Beach Resort really impresses. The entrance fees are incredibly affordable: ₱50 for adults (12 years and above) and ₱30 for children (4-11 years old). For day tours, you’re looking at cottage rentals ranging from ₱300 for small cottages to ₱600 for larger ones.
Overnight stays remain budget-friendly with rooms starting at ₱1,500 and going up to ₱8,000 for premium suites with extensive cottage access. When you compare these rates to similar resorts in more touristy areas like Boracay or Palawan, you’re getting comparable (and in some cases, superior) experiences at a fraction of the cost.
What’s Included in Your Stay
The value proposition gets even better when you consider what’s included. Many room bookings come with free access to large cottages, which would normally cost extra at other resorts. You’re also getting access to multiple pools, the beach area, and resort grounds with various amenities.
The 24-hour convenience store means you’re not paying inflated resort prices for basics, and the reasonable restaurant prices keep your food costs manageable. Pool access for room guests comes at discounted rates (₱80 for adults, ₱30 for children) compared to day visitors.
Comparing Blue Bless to Other Mindanao Resorts
When I stack Blue Bless Beach Resort against other resorts in Mindanao, the value becomes even clearer. You’re getting unique features like cliff-perched accommodations and floating cottages that many more expensive resorts don’t offer. The location in Davao Oriental means you’re exploring a less commercialized area, which translates to more authentic experiences and better value for money.
Planning Your Stay at Blue Bless Beach Resort
Best Time to Visit Blue Bless
Timing your visit to Blue Bless can significantly impact your experience. The dry season, typically from November to May, offers the most consistent weather with plenty of sunshine and minimal rain. During these months, you’ll have the best conditions for swimming, island hopping, and outdoor activities.
That said, the resort operates year-round, and the rainy season has its own charm—fewer crowds, lush green surroundings, and lower rates. If you don’t mind occasional rain showers and want a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the off-peak months.
Weekends and holidays see higher visitor numbers, especially among domestic tourists from Davao City and surrounding areas. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, midweek visits are your best bet. The resort’s weekend operations also extend to 24-hour restaurant service and open disco nights, so there’s a trade-off between peace and entertainment options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Bless Beach Resort
Is Blue Bless Beach Resort All-Inclusive?
No, Blue Bless operates on a pay-as-you-go model rather than an all-inclusive system. You’ll pay separately for accommodations, meals, activities, and amenities. This actually works in many travelers’ favor because you’re only paying for what you actually use, and the prices are very reasonable across the board.
What’s Included in Your Room Rate?
Room rates typically include the accommodation itself with air conditioning, LED TV, mini-fridge, private bathroom, and balcony/terrace. Many room bookings also come with free access to large cottages (a significant value add). Pool access for room guests is available at discounted rates compared to day visitors.
Are There Activities for Non-Swimmers?
Absolutely! While the water activities are highlights, there’s plenty for non-swimmers. The resort has billiard tables, volleyball areas, function halls for events, the restobar with disco floor on weekends, KTV rooms, and plenty of scenic spots perfect for photography, reading, or simply relaxing. The clifftop location means you can enjoy incredible ocean views without ever getting wet.
Is WiFi Available Throughout the Resort?
This is one area where expectations should be managed. As with many Philippine beach resorts in more remote locations, WiFi availability can be limited or inconsistent. Some areas of the resort have better connectivity than others. If staying connected is crucial for your trip, consider this when planning. However, the limited connectivity can actually be a blessing—it encourages you to truly disconnect and be present in the moment.
What’s the Cancellation Policy?
Cancellation policies can vary depending on how you book and the type of reservation. When booking directly with the resort, it’s essential to clarify their cancellation terms. Generally, Philippine resorts are relatively flexible, especially outside peak season, but always confirm in writing. For peak holiday periods, expect stricter cancellation terms and potentially non-refundable deposits.
