Living in Davao, there's plenty to see and do...

Davao perfectly blends safety, nature, culture, and convenience, making life here rich and fulfilling for both locals and overseas residents alike. Read on to see 30 suggestions, with many more to also discover...

6/17/20253 min read

Must Does, Living in Davao...

Visit Samal Island – A short ferry ride reveals pristine beaches, luxury resorts, waterfalls (Hagimit), and bat-cave tours at dusk.
Celebrate the Kadayawan Festival – Experience vibrant street dances (Indak-Indak sa Kadalanan) and rich indigenous culture each August.
Explore Eden Nature Park – Escape to the mountains for zip‑lining, sky‑cycling, horseback riding, flower gardens, and cool climate.
See the Philippine Eagle Center – Support conservation efforts while snapping photos of the critically endangered Philippine Eagle.
Relax at Malagos Garden Resort – Butterfly sanctuary, bird shows, chocolate museum, orchid garden, petting zoo, and cacao spa.
Amble through People’s Park – A well‑maintained 4 ha urban oasis with sculptures, fountains, playgrounds, and the iconic Durian Dome.
Dine at Jack’s Ridge – Hillside restaurants offer panoramic city views and WWII history.
Indulge in Durian and Kinilaw – Taste Davao’s famed king of fruits and the iconic ceviche-like fish dish at local markets.
Shop & snack at Roxas Night Market – Evening foodie heaven with grilled treats, street fashion, and local trinkets.
Trek Mount Apo – Conquer the Philippines’ highest peak, camp by Lake Venado, and experience breathtaking biodiversity .

Cultural & Light Adventure

Visit Museo Dabawenyo & Folk Art Museum – Dive into Davao’s history and indigenous culture.
Check out Davao Chinatown – Explore Chinese-Filipino shops, eateries, and fresh markets.
Butterfly House Experience – A peaceful sanctuary perfect for nature-lovers and photographers.
Take traditional dance or craft workshops – Engage with locals through cultural classes at Davao Oriental Cultural Center.
Try civet (kape) coffee – Enjoy the world-famous civet brew at Mt Apo Café.
Catch a meal at local cafes – Enjoy Bajada's seafood kinilaw, Luz Kinilaw, or cozy up at Abreeza’s Starbucks/Bo’s.
Hop on Grab/Taxis for city exploration – Easy, affordable rides make getting around stress-free .
Join expat groups and networking events – Build community by meeting other foreign residents.
Attend fiestas and local fiestas – Beyond major festivals, barrio fiestas offer food, dance, and local color .
Go wildlife birding & photography – Snap exotic birds at Eagle Center and Malagos for hobbyists.

Day Trips & Personal Development

Horseback riding & zip‑lining at Eden – Adventure in a mountain resort setting .
Kayak or snorkel Samal’s coves – Discover hidden islets and coral reefs .
Day trip to Aliwagwag Falls or Dahican Beach – Explore gorgeous waterfalls or pristine surf beaches nearby.
Volunteer with conservation efforts – Support local eagle, chocolate, or cultural initiatives and give back .
Join cooking classes or culinary school – Learn Filipino cuisine at the Davao branch of CACS .
Explore local malls & nightlife – Relax at Abreeza, SM, Guisano or check out bars in Poblacion.
Cycle through city bike lanes – Jog or bike along riverside paths or resort trails.
Shop at organic farms and weekend markets – Buy fresh produce at Malagos and local farmer fairs .
Visit Japanese Tunnel and Mintal Shrine – Discover heritage sites from Davao’s Japanese immigrant history.
Learn Cebuano or Tagalog – Cultural immersion through language boosts local integration .

Summary:

Davao perfectly blends safety, nature, culture, and convenience, making life here rich and fulfilling for overseas residents. From beach escapes and mountain treks to cultural festivals and food adventures—you’ll find endless opportunities to feel at home and explore deeper.