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Where to Stay in Davao

Where to Stay in Davao

Davao Davao Region, Philippines Travel Guide

Accommodation Types in Davao

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Ideal for budget-conscious travelers and solo adventurers. Hostels in Davao City feature dormitory beds and sometimes private rooms, providing opportunities for socializing with other travelers.

  • Cheap Accommodations/Guesthouses

    These properties feature clean, simple rooms with private bathrooms, often at very affordable rates, a practical choice for travelers prioritizing savings.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    They feature comfortable accommodations with modern amenities, often air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and sometimes a pool or gym.

  • Luxury Hotels

    For travelers seeking premium services and facilities, these hotels feature high-end amenities, exquisite dining options, and spa services.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

  • Resorts

    Predominantly found on Samal Island, these resorts feature beachfront access, swimming pools, water sports facilities, and comprehensive fun activities.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller hotels with distinct local designs, themes, or personalized service, they feature a more intimate and unique lodging experience.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments or houses available for short-term rent through platforms like Vrbo, providing a home-away-from-home experience with kitchens and additional room.

  • Camping and Glamping

    Camping is permitted in specified zones within natural parks (Mount Apo trekking base camps). Some eco-resorts might feature "glamping" experiences.

Neighborhood Guide for Davao

Davao City's different neighborhoods feature different ambiances and access to attractions.

Poblacion District City Center

Character & Pros
  • Bustling, historical, plus retail heart.
  • Close proximity to historical attractions, shopping, dining, and public transport.
  • Many budget and mid-range hotels.
Cons
  • Can be noisy and congested.
  • Some areas might feel less modern.
  • Standard precautions against petty crime.

Bajada / Lanang

Character & Pros
  • Modern, upscale commercial and residential area.
  • Luxury hotels (e.g., DusitD2 Davao), large malls (SM Lanang Premier, Abreeza Mall).
  • Closer to Davao International Airport.
Cons
  • Further from historical city center.
  • Higher prices for accommodation and services.
  • Requires taxi or Grab for older attractions.

Samal Island

Character & Pros
  • Relaxed island life, beautiful beaches, clear waters.
  • Direct access to natural attractions, water activities.
  • Ideal for relaxation and immersing in nature.
Cons
  • Requires ferry travel from Davao City.
  • Urban conveniences are with limited access.
  • Nightlife is limited to resort offerings.

Safety Considerations and Ambiance

Safety:

Davao City is a reputation for safety. Exercise standard precautions against petty crime in crowded areas. All listed areas are generally safe for tourists.

Ambiance:

Poblacion is lively and urban; Bajada/Lanang is quieter and modern; Ecoland is residential; Samal Island is peaceful with natural sounds.

Booking Strategies for Accommodation

Effective booking strategies secure the best accommodations and prices for your Davao trip.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (December-May) & Festival Periods (Kadayawan in August): Book several months in advance as popular properties fill quickly.
  • Shoulder/Low Season: Booking a few weeks ahead typically suffices, though last-minute deals sometimes appear.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International Platforms: Booking.com and Agoda are widely used and reliable for Davao.
  • Specific Chains: Consider IHG Hotels for their brand appropriateties.
  • Vacation Rentals: For unique stays, Vrbo features apartment and house rentals.
  • Budget Stays: Hostelworld focuses on budget accommodations.

Policies and Fluctuations

Booking DEPOSIT & Cancellation policies:
  • Policies vary by property and platform.
  • Check requirements and cancellation terms before confirming.
  • Understand refundable, non-refundable, or free cancellation options.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations:
  • Prices are highest during high season (Dec-May) and Kadayawan (August).
  • Prices are lowest during the rainy season (Jun-Nov), excluding festivals.

Negotiation Customs

Walk-in Rates:

Negotiating walk-in rates is less common for established hotels. Smaller guesthouses or hostels might feature slight discounts, especially during low season. Always ask politely.

Trusted House Sitters:

For unique long-term stays, explore TrustedHousesitters for house/pet sitting exchanges, a way to experience a destination like a local.

Direct Bookings:

Some hotels feature direct booking systems on their online sites, which occasionally offer exclusive deals not available elsewhere.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some recommended accommodations catering to different budget levels and travel needs in Davao City and Samal Island.

Budget & Mid-range Picks

Budget Stays

Clean, basic, and modern rooms at budget-friendly prices.

  • Go Hotels Lanang (near SM Lanang Premier)
  • RedDoorz (multiple locations)
  • My Hotel Davao (city center)
Mid-range Comfort

Comfortable rooms with modern amenities and good service.

  • Park Inn by Radisson Davao (connected to SM Lanang Premier)
  • Seda Abreeza (adjacent to Abreeza Mall)
  • Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao (resort-like ambiance)

Luxury & Family Stays

Luxury Indulgence

Premium hotels with luxurious rooms, fine dining, and excellent service.

  • DusitD2 Davao (modern Lanang area)
Family-Friendly Choices

Properties with multiple pools, activities, and larger rooms.

  • Pearl Farm Beach Resort (Samal Island)
  • Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao (expansive grounds)
  • Hotels with Larger Rooms or Suites (e.g., Seda Abreeza or DusitD2 Davao)

Solo & Long-Stay Options

  • Solo Traveler Picks

    Hostels in Poblacion District feature social opportunities. Budget Guesthouses feature private rooms at reasonable prices.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Serviced apartments or vacation rentals on platforms like Airbnb feature kitchen facilities and more living space for stays of a week or more.

  • Unique Long-Term Stays

    For long-term stays, TrustedHousesitters connects travelers with house and pet sitting opportunities globally.

Cultural & Historical Properties

  • Waterfront Insular Hotel Davao

    Originally built in the 1960s, this hotel is a historical landmark in Davao, including a glimpse into the city's past while providing modern comforts.

Booking Advice

Read Reviews

Read recent reviews to get a current understanding of the property's condition, service quality, and local environment.

Consider Your Priorities

Determine if proximity to attractions, amenities, or budget align with your travel goals when making your choice.

Luxury Hotel Options

DusitD2 Davao

A premium hotel offering luxurious rooms, fine dining, a stylish pool, plus outstanding service, located in the modern Lanang area.

Marco Polo Davao

A well-regarded five-star hotel known for its central location, expansive facilities, plus caliber service.

Seda Abreeza

While often mid-range, its executive suites and service level approach luxury, adjacent to Abreeza Mall.