Jump to: About | History | What to See | What to Do | How to Get There | Where to Stay | Local Delicacies | Travel Tips
About
Davao Occidental is the 81st and youngest province of the Philippines, situated in the Davao Region of southern Mindanao. Bordered by Davao del Sur to the north, the Davao Gulf to the east, and the Celebes Sea to the south and west, this rugged coastal province serves as the country’s southernmost geographical frontier. Its capital, Malita, acts as the primary administrative and commercial center for the province.
Comprising five municipalities—Santa Maria, Malita, Don Marcelino, Jose Abad Santos, and the island municipality of Sarangani—Davao Occidental features a dramatic landscape of rolling mountain ranges, untouched coastal coves, and pristine offshore volcanic islands. Far removed from mainstream commercialized tourism, it offers intrepid travelers authentic eco-adventures, rich indigenous cultural encounters, and uncrowded natural sanctuaries.
History
Long before modern geopolitical boundaries were established, the lands of Davao Occidental were home to diverse indigenous groups, predominantly the Tagakaulo, B'laan, Manobo, and Sangir tribes. The coastal areas and southern islands served as vital maritime navigation hubs for trade between southern Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and North Sulawesi in Indonesia.
During the American colonial era and subsequent post-war period, the territory was governed under the undivided Province of Davao and later Davao del Sur. Recognizing the need for improved local public service delivery and regional development across these remote coastal and mountainous districts, Republic Act No. 10360 was enacted in 2012. Following a ratifying plebiscite on October 28, 2013, Davao Occidental officially carved its place as an independent province.
What to See
Davao Occidental is packed with extraordinary island landforms, geothermal hot springs, and scenic coastal lookouts. Here are five top attractions to include in your trip:
1. Balut Island & Mt. Balut Volcano
A striking volcanic island in Sarangani municipality dominated by a forested stratovolcano peak, surrounded by clear coastal waters and coral reefs.
2. Sabang Hot Springs (Sarangani)
A natural coastal geothermal spring on Balut Island where warm, mineral-rich thermal water bubbles up right along the shoreline.
3. Olanivan Island
A tiny, picturesque coral islet featuring an iconic circular lighthouse, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and crushed organ-pipe coral beaches with a pinkish tint.
4. Mount Kiyawa (Malita)
A popular highland trekking destination in Malita offering panoramic viewpoints of rolling hills, pine trees, and the Davao Gulf coastline.
5. Kioto Mountains & Coastal Cliffs (Don Marcelino)
A scenic mountain range along the highway in Don Marcelino featuring lush rainforest canopies and dramatic sea-view overlooks.
What to Do
From mountain trekking to off-grid island hopping, Davao Occidental offers diverse outdoor activities for adventurous souls. Here are five things to do:
1. Go Island Hopping across the Sarangani Islets
Charter an outrigger boat to explore the hidden coves, blue lagoons, and white sand beaches of Balut, Sarangani, and Olanivan islands.
2. Trek and Camp at Mount Kiyawa
Hike up the established trails of Mt. Kiyawa in Malita to enjoy mountain breezes, morning sea-of-clouds sightings, and sunset views.
3. Soak in Sabang Thermal Pools
Rejuvenate your body after long boat journeys by taking a warm therapeutic bath in the natural geothermal spring pools of Sabang.
4. Snorkel at Cawa-Cawa Steep Reef
Dive into the clear waters around Balut Island's marine preserves to admire thriving drop-off coral walls and rich marine life.
5. Experience Indigenous Cultural Encounters in Malita
Visit local heritage centers and upland communities to learn about the traditional weaving, music, and customs of the Tagakaulo and B'laan tribes.
How to Get There
Davao Occidental is accessible via overland highways from Davao City or sea routes connecting southern Mindanao ports:
- Via Public Bus or Van from Davao City (Mainland Towns):
- Head to the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT) in Ecoland, Davao City.
- Board a direct Metro Shuttle or Bachelor Express bus bound for Malita, Don Marcelino, or Jose Abad Santos (travel time to Malita is approximately 3 to 4 hours via Digos).
- Via Passenger Ferry to Balut / Sarangani Islands:
- To reach the island municipality of Sarangani, take an overnight passenger ferry (such as MV Frederick) departing from General Santos City Port / Puting Bato Wharf directly to Mabila Port on Balut Island.
- Alternatively, board scheduled outrigger passenger boats from Balangonan Port / Margus Port in Glan, Sarangani Province crossing into Mabila Port.
Where to Book Your Flight
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Where to Stay
Accommodations across Davao Occidental are rustic, cozy, and community-centered, providing a genuine local welcome:
1. South Pines Inn
South Pines Inn offers comfortable and affordable accommodations for travelers exploring Davao Occidental. Guests can enjoy clean rooms, friendly service, and convenient access to local attractions and commercial establishments. Book South Pines Inn here and get a discounted price of 1,284 pesos per night.
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2. Elpise Inn Hostel
Elpise Inn Hostel in Alabel features budget-friendly rooms ideal for backpackers and leisure travelers. Its convenient location and welcoming ambiance make it a reliable stopover for visitors exploring the region. Book Elpise Inn Hostel here for as low as 1,107 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Hotels.com
Klook.com3. RedDoorz near Gaisano
RedDoorz near Gaisano GenSan offers modern and practical accommodations with essential amenities. Guests appreciate its accessibility to shopping centers, restaurants, and transportation hubs. Book RedDoorz near Gaisano here and get a discounted price of 722 pesos per night.
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4. Paradiso Beach
Paradiso Beach provides a relaxing beachfront escape with scenic coastal views and a peaceful atmosphere. It is an excellent choice for visitors seeking a tranquil retreat close to nature. Book Paradiso Beach here while the price is discounted per night.
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5. RSG Microhotel
RSG Microhotel GenSan provides stylish rooms with modern comforts at an affordable price. Its convenient location makes it a great option for travelers looking to explore General Santos City and nearby destinations. Book RSG Microhotel here and get a promo price of 754 pesos per night.
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Please note that rates are subject to change without prior notice. Always confirm prices directly with the booking platform or hotel.
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Local Delicacies
Savor authentic agricultural products and coastal culinary favorites unique to Davao Occidental:
- Adlai Rice Specialties: Malita is famous for cultivating ancient Adlai grain—a nutritious, low-glycemic, gluten-free rice alternative prepared in various local dishes.
- Daral (Tausug Crepe): A popular regional sweet snack consisting of a soft rolled crepe filled with sweetened grated coconut meat.
- Fresh Farmed Bangus (Milkfish): Malita's local milkfish is locally renowned for its tender, sweet flesh and lack of muddy odor, perfect for Paksiw or charcoal grilling.
- Kape de Netibo: Rich, aromatically roasted native coffee grown by upland farmers across the mountain ranges of the province.
Travel Tips
- Bring Sufficient Cash: ATM facilities are limited to main commercial centers like Malita; carry enough local currency for inland transit and island tours.
- Prepare Power Banks: Off-grid island destinations like Balut Island run on scheduled generator electricity; pack high-capacity power banks.
- Plan Around Sea Weather: The sea channels around Sarangani Islands can get rough; plan island trips during dry, calm months (March to May).
- Respect Indigenous Heritage: Always seek permission and show cultural courtesy when visiting upland tribal communities and natural sacred sites.
- Pack Waterproof Dry Bags: Protect your cameras and phones during outrigger boat transfers across coastal waters.
Final Thoughts
Davao Occidental stands as an untouched sanctuary waiting to be discovered by real adventurers. From standing atop Mount Kiyawa overlooking the Davao Gulf to sailing past the volcanic coves of Balut Island, this young province offers a refreshing escape into nature and culture. Pack your bags, charge your camera gear, and embark on a frontier journey through Davao Occidental with Sirang Lente!
Nearby Attractions
Extend your trip across Southern Mindanao with these excellent neighboring destinations:
- Digos City & Mount Apo Trails (Davao del Sur): Explore highland cold springs, strawberry farms, and mountain trails north of Santa Maria.
- Gumasa Beach (Glan, Sarangani Province): A famous white sand beach destination located west across the provincial border.
- General Santos City (Tuna Capital): Discover fish port markets and rich culinary scenes prior to taking boat trips down south.
- Davao City Urban Escapes: Explore cultural parks, fruit markets, and heritage sanctuaries just 3 hours north via highway.
As someone who has visited all provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines Provinces Travel Guide here.
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