Hi there! I know on my last post (and way outdated), I talked about exploring Davao City. Im sorry I was a bit busy with work and my visa application so updating my blog can be a little out-of-mind to start with. Anyway...
A couple of years ago, my bitches and I planned to visit Canibad in Samal. Yes, for those who are Samal-fanatics, Canibad in Brgy. Aundanao is one of the farthest resorts to visit, especially those who are not fond of long rides to get to a special resort. However, we were intrigued with the different reviews from different people about how wonderful the resort is so we promised we will pay them a visit sometime.
Recently, I got my very own Nikon D5100 which was one of my ultimate wishes for the year. I told myself I wont visit Canibad without bringing a lovely camera with me (although I know it doesn’t really make a difference lol). I thought it is a nice idea to share well taken pictures from there. So, are you ready to hear my bits of story of roaming around Canibad? Here it is!
To start with, I must say that the road to Canibad is a little rough and it is definitely for individuals who have the real sense of adventure. Unless you have a car with you for rugged trips, you will do just fine. However, for those who are usual explorer like us, it can be a little bumpy.
Canibad - How to Get There
Since it is far, we decided to have an overnight stay. We gathered at 11am and went to Sasa Wharf for a 15-min ride at the barge. Upon arriving in Babak, we took a motorcycle that will take us to Canibad for 125PHP each. It took us 30 minutes to get to the resort and it was one of the longest 30-minute ride of my life. I am used to bumpy rides since I live in the province but it was a bit different because it was raining the moment we were on our way. Roads are quite slippery and steep so for first timers, it can be scary. Hence, one good tip: always make sure your driver is a good one. We heard that the week before, one lady unfortunately died on her way to Canibad because of a terrible vehicular accident. (I am not trying to discourage you, swear!)
Luckily, our driver was an expert and have been driving for years. We were just lucky we got there safely. And, the sight was somehow worth it! Tip for keeps: Ask your driver’s phone number so you can contact them once you decide to go home. Yes, there are a lot of drivers who would offer you a ride home but it is better safe than sorry. If your first road experience of going there was good, it is worthy getting their service once again on your way home.
Canibad - The Accommodation and Rates
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| Canibad - Secret Paradise Resort |
Canibad isn’t a single resort. I must say it has a series of resort for a wide variety of choice. Since the Secret Paradise Resort was the first one on the way, it was there where our driver dropped us. We had to take a hundred steps down to reach the real resort. Upon getting at the ‘reception’, we were greeted by Kuya, the manager. Im sorry but I didnt get the chance to know his name. He charges Php50 each for overnight stay and the rate for the closed cottages is also another story. Since there were five of us, he offered us the bigger cottage, which makes sense by the way, for 1500PHP a night (originally 1800 but we love to haggle).
Another tip: Make sure you have enough food with you. Needless to say, prices in their store (yes, they have one), are 100% more than the regular price. For instance, we had them cook rice for us and costs 75 pesos per kilo plus 40 pesos of charge. The list just goes on and on since we had them prepare our breakfast the next morning.
Canibad Adventure - How to Have Fun
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| Canibad Shore |
I am pretty much a fan of swimming and worshiping the sun so I literally had fun just jamming with the water. We went to swim at around 3pm when the tide is a little high. Believe me, you are going to love high tides there than low tides. At the end of the shore, you can find a cliff and beautifully-manicured huge rocks. I have read some reviews of people who have tried cliff diving in there and it must be fun for those who are not afraid of heights.
We went there and were welcomed by an old woman who didn’t really welcome us but only to let us know that we need to pay 10 pesos each if we want to swim and take pictures in her area. We were okay with it, in fact, we paid her a little more. Surely we had fun taking pictures. Just taking pictures with the spectacular view during the dusk. Swimming went on until 8pm.
Canibad Adventure Day Two
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| Morning Beach |
I have mentioned above that we had the management cook our breakfast for us so our raging tummies are solved. We just didn’t have fun swimming. Because of the low tide, the water is way too far from the shore and is something you wouldn’t want to hang out with. It is way too deep for a novice swimmer like me.
So, what I enjoyed most on day 2 is taking lots of pictures. I love taking photos of nature and landscape as it is reflected by the sun so the images were good enough to show. We strolled around despite the scorching heat of the sun (I just love the heat!). Take endless pictures. Eat and play cards under the shade of the trees. Totally one of the most relaxing weekend!
At 2:00PM, we decided to go home. Our motorcycle drivers were there to get us and give us a ride to Babak once again. We were the last group to leave the Secret Paradise Resort and I somehow embraced the tranquility of the place, especially when you get to own the silence. I love it!
My Conclusion
Since I have been to Talicud Island (Isla Reta, Dayang and Babu Santa resort), I would say that Canibad is an admiration at first sight but a temporary one. Yes, I love the place but the risky ride (especially during rainy season) can be pretty much a downside. You will love the place if you are to compare it to other resorts in Samal. However, the ride going there can somehow eat your vibrancy and excitement away because of the 30-minute motorcycle ride.
As I have said, Canibad getaway is definitely for those who have real sense of adventure. However, you might still want to check it out. I have heard from a Facebook page that they may offer a bangka ride heading to Canibad so the secret paradise may not be a secret soon. If they are to offer a water transportation going to Canibad, I might consider coming back. :) Until then, Isla Reta and Dayang remains on top of my list of favorite resorts in Davao.
So, have you been to Canibad before? How was your experience? I would love to hear from you! By the way, enjoy some photos!
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| Cliff at Canibad |
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| Morning view Canibad |
Xoxo,
Ann
