Formerly known as Southern Mindanao, the Region of Davao is one of the administrative regions in the Mindanao islands of the Philippines. Located in the southeastern part of Mindanao, Davao is home to five provinces: Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao de Oro, Davao Oriental, and Davao Occidental, with Davao City as the regional center.
If you plan to take a vacation around the Davao region, one of your considerations is the Davao del Norte province, monikered the Banana Capital of the Philippines.
Tourism
Tourism is a vital part of the Davao Region’s economy. Davao del Norte in particular, is a province that houses many tourist attractions like the white sandy beaches on Samal Island. Located in the Garden City of Samal is also an islet called the Vanishing Island as it literally vanishes during high tide and resurfaces during low tide. The Vanishing Island and Samal in Davao del Norte are frequented by a lot of local and international tourists.
There is also a spread of other interesting island, an abundance of mountain ranges, falls, blue water beaches, resort, and generally, the most majestic views. These include the Kaputian beach, Dahican beach, Hagimit falls, Aliwagwag falls, Puting Bato, Monfort Bat Cave , Davao crocodile park. Samal is also called the island garden city due to its diverse flora.
For those looking at a more immersive cultural trip, Davao Region’s sundry of ethnic groups with their distinct music, art, and food, will be a pleasurable part of anyone’s travel itinerary.
Let’s look at some of the best and interesting attractions in a number of key cities in Davao del Norte province that’s worth considering in your next trip.
Tagum City, Davao del Norte | Philippines
Tagum City is the nerve center of the province of Davao del Norte. While essentially a part of Metropolitan Davao, Tagum is an entirely separate entity with its own identity and special features.
Tagum City has been given many names, and one of the known monikers is “the Palm City of the Philippines”. It is also named the City of Parks, City of Golden Opportunities, and Music Capital of Mindanao and the South.
Monikered “THE PALM CITY OF THE PHILIPPINES.” Its main highway has been dubbed “The Royal Entrance” for its notable California-like vibe that commands visitors’ attention.
You’ll know you’ve entered Tagum City once you see the palm-fringed National Highway. The towering Royal palms that line up the main highway will remind anyone of Los Angeles in the U.S. There are walls of mangrove trees along the highway which add to the green “feel” of the city.
Blest with fertile soil, Tagum City’s many agricultural domains include bananas, palm oil, and other tropical fruits. It is the largest city in the Davao del Norte province, with a constinuously growing economy. It is known for its high productivity in agriculture and sustainable farming practices.
In addition to its agricultural growth, Tagum City has seen a significant urban expansion in recent years. It’s the location of numerous businesses, shops, schools, medical facilities, and other conveniences. Tagum has seen a rapid growth in the last few years with a lot of national brands from different industries investing in the city, some of which are car companies, retail and shopping, and real estate.
The city is also home to several annual festivals and celebrations, in fact, one of its nicknames is “The City of Festivals” and aptly so because it holds and hosts at least 15 festivals throughout the year. Most notable of them is the Musikahan sa Tagum,which is participated by international musicians and honors local musicians – highlighting their works.
Tagum City is an exciting metropolis that attracts business and leisure tourists with its blend of metropolitan conveniences and rural appeal.
For those looking at the Davao Region, in particular, Tagum City as their forever place, it is worth noting that Tagum has been hailed one of the topmost livable cities in the Philippines and in fact was among the finalist in the most child-friendly city in the country – a credit they share with the city of Laoag and Talisay in Cebu.
If you’re looking for places to visit near Tagum City, Davao del Norte, there are several attractions and destinations worth exploring in the surrounding area. Here are some of the best attractions.
Banana Beach
One of the most popular tourist spots in Tagum City is Banana Beach, situated in Hijo Resorts Davao. It is within a vast banana plantation and is also surrounded by mangroves and coconut trees.
The area has a forest reserve that serves as a shelter for animals like macaques and wild boars.
In this resort, you can stay in a nipa hut-styled “casitas.” The interior of the air-conditioned rooms and its modern amenities, is the perfect blend of modern and traditional styles. Relax on the beach, swim, or engage in water activities like kayaking and snorkeling.
Tagum City Freedom Park
Tagum City Hall and Freedom Park, located in the city center, are popular tourist destinations due to their huge public plazas and historical significance. This spacious public park is a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
It features landscaped gardens, a playground, an amphitheater, and a water fountain show in the evenings.
World’s Largest Rosary
The world’s largest rosary is another tourist attraction in the Davao region, with its 85.5-meter-long rosary and beads carved from Magcono trees. The linked beads lead towards the Risen Christ statue.
The rosary isn’t the only thing worth visiting in Davao del Norte as it is located in the Christ the King Cathedral, the biggest cathedral in Mindanao. Its architectural design is the perfect mix of traditional and modern.
For spiritual people, this is a must-see attraction. According to the local government the world’s largest rosary and the cathedral both symbolize the locals’ spirituality and sense of community.
Samal City
Samal Island, located within the Davao Gulf, is officially called the Island Garden City of Samal due to its close proximity to Davao City, one of the largest cities in the Philippines. It is a famous tourist destination for local Davaoeños and international tourists alike.
This component city of Davao del Norte is known for being the largest resort city in a single province within the Philippines because it houses more than 30 resorts.
Let’s dive into some of the resorts and tourist attractions that can be found on Samal Island, many of which do not require any entry fee.
Hagimit Falls
Located in the nearby Island Garden City of Samal, Hagimit Falls is a natural gem with cascading waterfalls and clear pools surrounded by lush greenery.
It’s a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
Monfort Bat Cave
Located in the nearby town of Babak, Samal Island, the Monfort Bat Cave is home to millions of fruit bats. It holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest single colony of Geoffrey’s Rousette fruit bats.
Tours are done during the day, where you can see hundreds of these nocturnal fruit bats hanging from the ceiling of the cave, sleeping. Guided tours are available, allowing visitors to witness this unique natural phenomenon in Davao del Norte.
Pearl Farm Beach Resort
One of the famous beaches in Davao del Norte is in the Island Garden City of Samal. The Pearl farm beach resort is a luxury hotel offering high-class amenities and a series of activities that you can enjoy with your family and friends.
They also have cafes around the area serving great coffee using beans from Davao del Norte, and other drinks – paired with scrumptious pastries.
Here are some water sports activities you could do in this well-known resort: jetskiing, banana boating, kayaking, snorkeling, etc.
Panabo City
TADECO Farm
The Tagum Agricultural Development Company, TADECO, in Panabo City, Davao del Norte, is a vast plantation that primarily grows bananas. They not only grow bananas but also export cavendish bananas to different countries like Korea and Hongkong.
This is the reason why Panabo City is known as the banana capital of the Philippines.
They offer guided tours where you can learn about the banana industry, witness the farming processes, and enjoy the beautiful countryside scenery.
Mangrove Forest Boardwalk
This boardwalk is a 585-meter walkway that is enveloped in a mangrove forest in Brgy. JP Laurel, Panabo City. It is known to be the second-largest forest reserve in the Davao region.
Enjoy the peacefulness and the fresh air that this tourist spot provides.
Other Tourist Spots Near Davao del Norte
New Corella Twin Falls
Just a short distance from Tagum City, the New Corella Twin Falls in New Corella municipality is a scenic spot to visit. The twin waterfalls offer a refreshing experience, and the area is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
Malagos Garden Resort
Located in Calinan, Davao City, Malagos Garden Resort is a nature sanctuary known for its vast collection of flora and fauna. The resort features gardens, a butterfly sanctuary, bird watching areas, and a chocolate museum where you can learn about the local cacao industry.
Mount Apo
As the highest peak in the Philippines, Mount Apo offers a majestic view and challenging hiking trails. It’s a great destination for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. However, please note that climbing Mount Apo requires proper planning and permits.
These are just a few of the many attractions in Davao del Norte. Each destination offers its own unique experience, whether it’s natural beauty, adventure, or cultural exploration.
Remember to plan your visit accordingly and check for any travel advisories or restrictions before setting out. Always check the current accessibility and operating hours of these attractions, as they may vary due to ongoing developments or unforeseen circumstances.
Camella Tagum in Davao del Norte
Camella has established a solid reputation and track record, making it a top choice for Filipinos in need of a high-quality home.
Because of Camella’s dedication to creating thoughtfully designed communities and excellent service, they have established themselves as a trusted brand in the real estate market.
For over four decades, Camella has been building homes in strategic locations across the Philippines, close to major transportation hubs and amenities like schools, malls, and hospitals.
Camella neighborhoods are typically located in close proximity to major thoroughfares and transportation centers.
Come home to Camella Tagum after a day of fun-filled activities with your family.
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