Our Davao Oriental excursion won't be complete without a short stop over at Pusan Point. It was said that this was where the first sun rise of the new millennium in the Philippines was witnessed. So it was a must that we visit the place before heading home.









There was no problem traveling to Pusan Point as the road was cemented and there was a signage where you would take a turn from the main highway. Just keep driving on the cemented road and by the end of the road you would see the Pusan Point building and a lighthouse.














I found nothing really special at the place but what attracted me the most was the view of the vast Pacific Ocean. The facility had aged but it was adequately maintained. The bathroom was clean. However, I found the science museum pretty small for my liking but I think kids would enjoy it either way.










I enjoyed watching the view of the ocean kissing the rocky cliffs. I also loved the cool sea breeze that was so refreshing. Sitting under the shade and listening to the ocean waves was a nice break from the long drive.

Entrance Fee - P50

It's the day after my birthday and no time was wasted as the husband and I drove up to the nearby municipality of Caraga, Davao Oriental and visited Bango Beach. The drive was pleasant and smooth as the road to Caraga was cemented and there was no fear of getting lost since we only needed to traverse the main highway. Once we reached the Poblacion, there was a visible signage of Bango Beach on the road side. Be mindful though that once you leave the main highway, the road leading to the beach was rocky and a little steep but the resort wasn't far from the main highway.







When we arrived at the resort we were greeted by the caretaker and we're asked to pay for the entrance fee.Then we drove further inside to the parking area. There were enough parking spaces for vehicles and lots of shade trees all around the area as well. At the parking area I was already able to see glimpses of the ocean ahead and it made me so excited.
 



When I finally walked into the resort I immediately noticed the serene and scenic beauty of the vast pacific ocean. The view was very calming and relaxing. Looking at the open ocean ahead gave me a sense of peacefulness and oneness with nature. I guess that was just the effects of the open sea before me.





The place was impressively clean and well maintained. I loved that there were so many trees all around the entire resort that gave natural shade especially during noon. It was such a relief to be sat down under the shade as the heat of the 12:00 noon sun was very unbearable. The resort has a long powdery shoreline and the rock formations and the coves on each end added so much drama to the entire ambiance of the resort. Just basking in the beauty of the entire beach resort had me salivating. I wanted to take a swim but sadly we had limited time.





Since we were pressed for time, we were not able to check their facilities and roam the entire resort from each end. We were only able to appreciate the beauty of the beach, take lots of pictures, and enjoy the cool sea breeze while swaying on the rubber swing sets.




This place deserved a whole day of our attention, an overnight stay even, which we planned to do the next time we drove back to Caraga.


Rates and Fees:
Day Tour - P10 Adults; P5 Kids
Overnight - P15 Adults; P10 Kids
Non Aircon Room for 6 - P1500
Aircon Room for 2 - P1500

For more than half the day spent on travelling from Davao City to the different beautiful attractions in Cateel and Baganga, the husband and I decided it was time to head back to barangay San Victor where the jump off point for San Victor Island is located.

Our original plan was to spend the night at Bango Beach in Caraga but we realized we were so pressed for time that we had to chose between going to San Victor Island or not. So in the end, we decided to spend the night at San Victor Island and visit Bango Beach the next day.


We arrived at the jump off point for San Victor Island at around 2:00 PM and thankfully it was low tide. The waves had also somehow mellowed down but not entirely calm. (Tip: if the water is not calm, make sure you change into your swimming clothes as there is a huge possibility you'll get wet when boarding the boat.)

There is no specific boat trip schedule going to the island as the boats are readily available for guests. However, one must bear in mind that the weather condition and the waves will determine if it is okay to travel. The boat trip will take around 10 - 15 minutes.







The island is small, just about 3 hectares in size. I have not done it, but I think it is possible to roam the entire island in less than an hour when it is low tide (if I can come back, I might try and do just that).

What I loved most about this island is it's peaceful vibe. There are not so many guests during our stay so we almost had the entire island to ourselves. I am also in awe with the island's simple beauty. It doesn't scream commercialism which is what I prefer. Since the island was not crowded, I'm able to rest and relax which is mainly the reason why I took on that birthday vacation.




Another thing that I appreciated about the place is that it isn't very expensive which is one of the things I look for in beach resorts that I go to. Also, the staffs in the resort are courteous and hospitable.

I also appreciated the lush greens surrounding the island because they provide shade and cool breeze. It's also pleasant for the eyes.




Just a reminder, don't expect five star quality accommodations and services in this resort. As I said, the resort is simple and laid back. Amenities are basic and they do not have a real restaurant. Just make do with what the place offers. If you're looking for extravagance then this place is not for you. Rest assured, though, that this place won't disappoint if what you look for is rest and relaxation. You can commune with nature in this place. There's so much room for you to move, swim, and stroll.






Rates and Fees:
Day Tour - P100 inclusive of boat transfers
Overnight - P300 inclusive of boat transfers and free use of tents (need to book in advance if using tents)
Open Cottages - ranges from P250 - P300
Aircon Room for 2 with bathroom - P1500 inclusive of boat transfers
Aircon Room for 8 - P3000 inclusive of boat transfers
Cooking fee - starts at P50
Electric Kettle rental - P50
Utensils rental (max of 20 pax) - P100
Fish for sale inclusive of cooking (2 dishes) - P450 per kilo