I’ve always said that we are very lucky to live very close to Samal Island where eternal summer actually exists. The rest of the Philippines was anticipating landfall of Tropical Storm Amang but we were blessed with clear skies and bright sunshine on the weekend of Pope Francis’ visit. We spent that weekend having fun in the sun Villa Amparo Garden Resort on Samal Island and it was a weekend well spent.
How to Get There
From Davao City, take the ferry from the Sasa Wharf to cross the Davao Gulf to Samal Island. The ferry ride costs P10 per way and takes less than 15 minutes. Make sure you sign the passenger manifest before boarding the ferry.
Once on Samal Island, hire one of the tricycles to take you to Villa Amparo Garden Beach Resort. It will save you time haggling charter prices though if you contact a driver ahead of time. I recommend contacting Kuya Will, our trusted tricycle driver through his cell: 0933-206-4931. He will take you to the resort and pick you up at a designated date/time for P250 per way. The ride from the wharf to the resort is around 20 minutes. If you’re coming in a car, toll fee for the ferry ride across is P400 per way.
Resort Amenities
Villa Amparo Garden Beach Resort is an exquisite resort located in Camudmud, Samal Island. True to its name, the resort has a garden setting, with verdant foliage all over the property. It’s a perfect place for people looking for a weekend of serenity and being one with nature. The resort has plenty of shaded places perfect for a little sunbathing or even just reading.
Accommodations
Villa Amparo Garden Beach Resort has different types of accommodations to fit every budget and preference. For the budget traveler, they have the Native Huts– non-air-conditioned huts that can accommodate up to 4 people. We stayed at one of the Native Houses–stand-along units with air-conditioning and private toilet and bath. There are also Basement Rooms under the Native Houses, Deluxe Rooms and the Penthouse which look out to fantastic views of the water and the gardens below.
The Beach
Villa Amparo Garden Beach Resort does not offer a sandy beach. This part of Samal Island is not sandy but the water is equally, if not more, clear. The resort’s waters resembles that of an aquarium: very clear and clean, with plenty of fishes swimming around. I was able to relax while watching my 3-year-old daughter in the water knowing it is not deep and no rocks will hurt her tiny feet. If you prefer deeper waters, you can head to the area close to Little Samal.
Overall Impressions
I would recommend Villa Amparo Garden Beach Resort for families and other groups who would like a peaceful place to escape to. The place is far enough from the city to provide the much-needed break from the hustle and bustle but not too far to cause inconvenience should you need to get back to reality. Besides, the resort has all the modern comforts you might possibly need while on vacation including WiFi access upon request.
The staff at the resort also goes out of their way to make sure that you have all you need during your stay. They are very smiling and ensures that you are well-informed about the goings-on in the resort. Even the owner (who was there for the weekend) made it a point to speak to guests.
I could not say much about the food at Villa Amparo Garden Beach Resort. They’re tasty but not exactly something to rave about. The food service though is very commendable. Food is always served fresh and well-prepared and our server always had a smile on his face. Guests may dine anywhere in the resort; just inform your server of your preferred spot for your meal.
I hope this Villa Amparo Beach Resort review was helpful. It is a highly recommended resort for people coming to Samal Island. Happy travels!
Video Review: Villa Amparo Beach Resort – Davao Hotel Reviews
Philippine Traveler’s Rating:
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Have you been to Villa Amparo Beach Resort? What did you think? Comment below and let us know!
