The first time I visited Mati City, I felt like I had stepped into a hidden paradise. Tucked away in Davao Oriental, this coastal gem is home to some of the most breathtaking Mati City tourist spots that perfectly balance adventure and relaxation. From long stretches of white-sand beaches to stunning coastal views, lush green mountains, and eco-tourism sites untouched by time, Mati instantly captivates anyone who visits. What I love most is the variety of experiences—you can surf the waves at Dahican Beach, fly high with the Mindanao Saga Flying Club, or dive into the clear waters of Pujada Bay. Beyond the thrill, Mati offers the warmth of its culture and the simple joy of slowing down by the sea. Whether you’re into surfing, flying, diving, or just unwinding, Mati City tourist spots have something for everyone, and here are the must-visit destinations I personally recommend.
Subangan Museum – A Journey Through Mati’s History
Photo Credit:wikipedia
W6VX+M92, City of Mati, Davao Oriental
DAILY:9 AM–6 PM
Whenever I visit a new city, I like to start with its story—and in Mati, the best place for that is the Subangan Museum. The moment I stepped inside, I felt like I was diving into the cultural heart of Davao Oriental.
What Makes It Special
- I got to see the preserved skeleton of a sperm whale, one of the biggest in the Philippines.
- Learning about the Mandaya tribe gave me a deeper appreciation for Mati’s roots.
- The interactive exhibits made me realize how rich Mati’s biodiversity truly is.
When to Go
I recommend going in the morning or early afternoon when the museum is quieter.
Traveler’s Tip
It’s a great stop for families, students, or anyone like me who wants to understand Mati beyond its beaches.
Dahican Beach – Surf, Sand, and Sea Turtles
Photo Credit:The Mermaid Travels
The first time I set foot on Dahican Beach, I immediately understood why it’s the most famous Mati City tourist spot. With its 7 kilometers of soft white sand and rolling waves, it felt like paradise.
Why I Love It
- This is where I met the legendary Amihan Boys, a local surf and skimboarding community.
- I was amazed to learn that sea turtles actually nest here—it makes the beach feel more special.
- The whole place has a lively but relaxed vibe that makes you lose track of time.
Perfect Time for a Trip
I love coming during sunrise or sunset—the colors over the horizon are absolutely magical.
Activities to Enjoy
- I tried skimboarding with the locals (and fell a few times, but it was fun!).
- Swimming in the clear blue waters was refreshing.
- A stroll along the shore at sunset made me feel completely at peace.
Helpful Reminder
Always respect the turtle nesting areas. I realized protecting them helps keep Dahican beautiful for years to come.
Mindanao Saga Flying Club – A Sky Adventure
Photo Credit:Mindanao SAGA flying club
Mati Airport Complex, City of Mati, 8200 Davao Oriental
Mon – Sat:5:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Sun: 5:30 – 9 AM
Flying in an ultralight plane with the Mindanao Saga Flying Club is one of the most unforgettable things I’ve ever done in Mati. Imagine soaring above Dahican Beach and Pujada Bay—it felt like pure freedom.
Top Reasons to Go
- Seeing Dahican Beach and the Sleeping Dinosaur from the sky was breathtaking.
- Ultralight flying is rare in Mindanao, so I couldn’t miss the chance.
- Even as a first-timer, I felt safe with the skilled pilots guiding me.
When to Go
Early morning is the best—clear skies and calm winds make the flight even better.
Traveler’s Tip
Bring a GoPro or secure your phone. Trust me, you’ll want to capture every second of this adventure.
Pujada Island – A Tropical Escape
Photo Credit: Pujada Island
When I arrived at Pujada Island, it felt like stepping into a postcard. Powdery sand, turquoise waters, and peaceful surroundings made it the perfect tropical escape.
What Makes It Special
- The calm, glass-like waters were perfect for swimming.
- I enjoyed a picnic by the shore while taking in the view.
- Snorkeling gave me a peek at colorful marine life beneath the waves.
Best Time to Visit
I suggest visiting in the morning or early afternoon—the water is clearest then.
Did You Know?
Pujada Bay, where this island is found, is recognized as one of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World. That made my visit feel even more memorable.
Amihan sa Dahican – A Surfer’s Haven
Photo Credit:Weebly
Every time I come to Dahican, I always stop by Amihan sa Dahican. It’s more than just a surf camp—it’s a community that made me feel like part of the family.
Why It Stands Out
- I got to learn skimboarding directly from the Amihan Boys.
- The raw, unpolished charm of the camp felt so authentic.
- What inspired me most was how they combine surfing with protecting sea turtles.
Best Season to Visit
I recommend visiting between October and March—the Amihan season brings stronger waves that are perfect for surfing.
Traveler’s Tip
If you’re new like me, don’t worry. The Amihan Boys are patient and always ready to help beginners ride their first wave.
Mayo Bay Park & Beach Resort – Family-Friendly Fun
Photo Credit:Mayo Bay Park and Beach Resort
X8WG+6W8, Surigao – Davao Coastal Rd, City of Mati, Davao Oriental
When I needed a quieter beach day, I went to Mayo Bay Park & Beach Resort. Compared to Dahican, it was more peaceful and perfect for slowing down.
What Makes It Special
- I loved how safe it was for families with kids.
- The cottages were affordable but comfortable.
- It gave me a calmer alternative to the busy crowd at Dahican.
When to Go
Weekdays are the best if you want to enjoy the peaceful side of Mayo Bay.
Traveler’s Tip
I brought some food and had a picnic by the shore—it made the whole experience even better.
Ocean BX Freediving – Dive Into Adventure
Photo Credit:Ocean-BX-Freediving
Ocean BX Freediving, Dahican-Bobon Rd, Bangunay, City of Mati, 8200 Davao Oriental
DAILY: 7 AM – 4 PM
Trying freediving at Ocean BX was one of the boldest things I’ve done in Mati. At first, I was nervous, but once I learned the techniques, I felt at home underwater.
Activities to Enjoy
- I explored Mati’s marine life up close with expert guides.
- Learning how to control my breathing was both challenging and rewarding.
- The silence beneath the water gave me a sense of calm I didn’t expect.
Perfect Time for a Trip
I recommend going early in the morning—the water is calm and visibility is the best.
Did You Know?
Freediving isn’t just about diving deep—it’s about focus, relaxation, and connecting with the ocean.
Waniban Island – A Hidden Sandbar Paradise
Photo Credit:Blogger.com
The first time I set foot on Waniban Island, I couldn’t believe how quiet and untouched it was. It felt like having my own private island.
What Makes It Special
- Seclusion—I barely saw any crowds.
- The water was perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- It’s one of the best places I’ve been for simply sunbathing and relaxing.
Best Time to Visit
Go in the morning or around midday, when the sun lights up the crystal-clear waters.
Traveler’s Tip
There are no facilities here, so I packed my own food and drinks. That way, I could stay longer and enjoy the calm.
Dahican Surf Resort – Stay Right by the Waves
Photo Credit:tripadvisor
W7GJ+865, City of Mati, 5300 Davao Oriental
DAILY: 6 AM – 10 PM
When I wanted to wake up to the sound of waves, I stayed at Dahican Surf Resort. Being right on the beachfront made the experience unforgettable.
Why I Love It
- My cottage was just a few steps away from the sand.
- Surfing and skimboarding were right at my doorstep.
- The friendly, laid-back vibe made it feel like home.
When to Go
I recommend staying during summer or Amihan season if you want to ride the waves.
Traveler’s Tip
Book early! This resort is popular and fills up fast, especially on weekends.
Lane’s Kalapyahan Beach Resort – A Local Favorite
Photo Credit:La-ne’s Kalapyahan
W7CJ+J9Q, Martinez Ave, City of Mati, Davao Oriental
I could see why locals love Lane’s Kalapyahan Beach Resort—it’s simple, affordable, and welcoming. It felt like the kind of place you go to with friends for a stress-free weekend.
What Makes It Special
- The cottages were cozy but budget-friendly.
- The beach access made swimming super convenient.
- It was a fun spot for beach games and bonding.
Best Time to Visit
I enjoyed the lively crowd on weekends, but weekdays were much quieter.
Did You Know?
Many locals prefer Lane’s over bigger resorts because of its warm, down-to-earth atmosphere.
Resurreccion Beach Resort – A Classic Mati Getaway
Photo Credit: Resurreccion beach resort
V7FQ+4XX, Sitio Dita, Barangay Cogon, City of Mati, Davao Oriental
Resurreccion Beach Resort gave me that classic, no-frills beach experience I sometimes crave. It was simple, spacious, and just right for unwinding.
What Makes It Special
- It’s a long-time favorite among locals.
- The wide shoreline was perfect for swimming and games.
- It was budget-friendly, making it great for group trips.
When to Go
Weekdays were quieter, but weekends brought a fun, energetic vibe.
Traveler’s Tip
This place is best with groups—I brought family and friends and we had a whole day of beach fun.
Masao View Resort and Spa – Relax in Style
Photo Credit:MASAO View Resort and Spa
Barangay, Sitio Masao, City of Mati, 8200 Davao Oriental
To end my trip in comfort, I stayed at Masao View Resort and Spa. It was the perfect mix of luxury and nature.
What Makes It Special
- The infinity pool overlooked the stunning Masao Bay.
- Their spa services helped me recharge after all the adventures.
- The rooms were cozy, perfect for couples or families like mine.
Perfect Time for a Trip
Late afternoon was ideal—I swam in the pool, then watched the sun set over the bay.
Did You Know?
Masao View is one of the top spots in Mati for romantic getaways, and I could definitely see why.
FAQs About Mati City Tourist Spots
How do I get to Mati City?
From Davao City, ride a van or bus from Ecoland Terminal. The trip takes 4–5 hours, with a scenic coastal route along the way.
What’s the best time to visit Mati?
March–May is perfect for beaches, while October–March (Amihan season) is great for surfing.
Is Mati safe for tourists?
Yes! Mati is safe, peaceful, and locals are friendly and welcoming.
Are there budget-friendly places to stay?
Absolutely. From homestays to mid-range resorts, Mati has plenty of affordable options.
Final Thoughts – Why Mati Should Be on Your Travel List
Every trip to Mati City tourist spots leaves me with new memories. From world-class surfing at Dahican Beach to peaceful escapes like Waniban Island, each destination has its own charm. But what truly makes Mati unforgettable isn’t just the beaches or the adventures—it’s the people, the culture, and the laid-back lifestyle that make you feel at home the moment you arrive.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker chasing the waves, a nature lover exploring underwater wonders, or someone craving peace by the shore, Mati tourist attractions have it all. For me, it’s the kind of place that always calls me back, no matter how many times I visit.So if you’re looking for your next getaway, don’t just dream about it—pack your bags, book that trip, and experience Mati City tourist spots for yourself. Trust me, once you set foot here, you’ll want to return again and again.
