Pearl Farm Beach Resort

Built along the lush western coast of Samal Island, the Pearl Farm Beach Resort wows at first sight. As you approach the property on the boat from Davao, charming bungalows with thatched roofs start appearing in the distance amid the thick jungle, creating a deep sense of relaxation even before you set foot on the resort. The property sprawls along the coast, spanning two lovely beaches flanked by traditional southern Filipino structures and two beautiful pools, both with sea views. The resort is divided into two areas: one on Samal Island and another more exclusive section on Malipano Islet. Most rooms are on Samal, while the smaller Malipano is home to seven multi-room villas and a private beach. Both sections are connected via regular free boat shuttles.  

Though the property is family-friendly and does get a good share of kids during peak season, the vibe is generally quiet and serene, drawing many honeymooners and couples. The Pearl Farm is also a popular wedding venue. Rates here are some of the highest on Samal Island, but few other resorts offer this level of luxury and relaxation. Families seeking something cheaper may prefer the Bluejaz Beach Resort & Waterpark, which features plenty of kid-friendly amenities and simple rooms with outdoor spaces. For something a tad more charming, consider Chema’s by the Sea Resort, featuring an infinity pool and a small beach with drink and food service.

The resort is located on the western coast of Samal, a big island that’s a 45-minute boat ride from mainland Davao. There isn’t much in the immediate vicinity of the hotel save for a couple of local businesses, a school, and a number of sandy beaches, but guests rarely leave the property, and most stay around the pools or on the beaches. The resort offers free boat transfers to Davao a couple of times per day, but guests arriving or departing outside of those set times can book a spot on the regular boat shuttle for a fee. The nearest airport is in Davao, about a 15-minute drive from the drop-off point on mainland Davao. 

The hotel has 70 rooms, including 63 bungalows on Samal Island and seven three- and four-bedroom villas on Malipano Islet, located a five-minute free boat ride away. Traditional Filipino decor predominates here, with natural local materials such as dark hardwood and thick bamboo canes, and a soothing neutral palette with pops of red and ochre. Samal Suites have a rather unique decor style, with tons of ornamental elements inspired by the local culture, including framed pieces of traditional fabrics and accent walls with geometric patterns. Malipano Villas are the largest and most exclusive of all units, offering large open lounges, pitched wooden roofs, and beautiful sophisticated decor that draws heavily on local ornaments such as carved-wood round tables and straw lamps. 

Hilltop Rooms and Mandaya Houses are located in the jungle, a little bit away from the beach, while the rest are built on stilts directly on the water and offer panoramic ocean views. All, however, have at least a small outdoor space with patio furniture, and views range from pleasant and relaxing to stunning. In-room amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and safes. Electric kettles are provided in all rooms, and higher-category units are outfitted with espresso machines. Bathrooms are clean and appealing, featuring off-white tiles throughout, either shower/tub combos or rainfall showers, and a range of toiletries. 

One of the hotel’s top highlights is its location, which offers direct access to three beautiful beaches. Two are located on the resort area of Samal Island, while the other one is on Malipano Islet, across a narrow strait. There are also two pools, including an infinity-edge one with sea views, and a freeform pool tucked away in the jungle. Both have separate kiddy areas, as well as loungers and umbrellas. Maranao is the hotel’s main restaurant, serving up local and international cuisine for all three main meals in a large open pavilion made of wood and bamboo. Housed in an impressive two-story building on the edge of the water, Parolas Beach Tapas Bar is the place to go for a drink and a small bite during the day. 

The spa offers a good array of treatments and salon services, while the gym features decent cardio and strength-training machines in a small space with pretty views. There is also a wide range of on-site activities, from water sports to tennis and basketball and outdoor movie nights. The kids’ club offers indoor and outdoor activities for children of all ages. The hotel also features five meeting rooms, including a large ballroom for up to 150 guests and outdoor areas for weddings.