Dumaguete
Dumaguete
Dumaguete is a city located in Negros Oriental, Philippines. It is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, lush green landscapes and small-town charm.
The city is easy to explore by foot, so a great way to start your visit is to wander around the historical downtown district. Here you can find a variety of local shops and restaurants, as well as colourful street art and interesting architecture.
The nearby beaches are some of the best in the country. Further out of the city, you can find some amazing diving spots, where you can get up close and personal with sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine life.
If you're looking for an adventure, you can also explore nearby waterfalls, go kayaking, or take part in a variety of outdoor activities.
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Things to do in Dumaguete
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Turtle Paradise: Snorkeling Adventure at Apo Island See more information about Apo Island
Get ready for an unforgettable day trip to Apo Island, a small volcanic island that's home to some of the best snorkeling in the Philippines. As you cruise across the crystal-clear waters from Dumaguete, the anticipation builds for the underwater wonders that await. Once you arrive, you'll slip into the warm tropical sea and come face-to-face with graceful sea turtles gliding effortlessly through vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish.
The highlight is definitely swimming alongside these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. But there's more to explore on land too. After a tasty lunch of fresh local seafood, you can take a short hike up to a viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of the coastline and marine sanctuary below. Whether you want to spend your time snorkeling, relaxing on the white pebble beach, or exploring the island trails, this day trip offers the perfect mix of adventure and island vibes.
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Scuba Diving Adventure
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Apo Island and discover a vibrant underwater world. This small volcanic island is famous for its incredible marine biodiversity, making it a top spot for scuba enthusiasts. As you descend into the deep blue, you'll be greeted by colorful coral gardens teeming with life.
Explore the various dive sites around the island, each offering a unique experience. You might encounter schools of jack fish, reef sharks, and even the occasional sea snake. The coral-covered walls and drop-offs provide stunning backdrops for underwater photography. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, the friendly local dive shops can cater to your skill level and show you the best spots.
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Dolphin Spotting & Sandbar Adventure in Bais Bay
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure on the waters near Dumaguete! This tour begins with an exhilarating dolphin-watching experience in Bais Bay, where you can see wild dolphins leaping and playing in their natural environment. Watch closely for different species, including spinner and bottlenose dolphins, as they glide through the waves.
After the excitement of dolphin spotting, you'll head to the breathtaking Manjuyod Sandbar, a stretch of powdery white sand that appears like a hidden gem in the middle of the sea. Take a leisurely walk along the sandbar, cool off in the crystal-clear turquoise waters, or simply bask in the sun. It’s an idyllic spot for capturing Instagram-worthy photos.
The day concludes with a delicious seafood feast served right on the boat. Enjoy freshly grilled fish, plump shrimp, and other local delicacies for a meal that perfectly complements your incredible day on the water.
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Where to stay in Dumaguete
Best hotels in Dumaguete:
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Go Hotels Dumaguete (budget hotel)
Go Hotels Dumaguete is right in the heart of the city's busy business area, making it super handy for travelers. It's literally next door to Robinsons Place Dumaguete, so you can shop and grab a bite without any hassle. The rooms are pretty comfy, with nice beds, AC, and TVs to help you unwind after a day of exploring.
One of the best things about this place is the free WiFi - always a plus when you're on the road. The staff here are really friendly and helpful too, always ready to give you tips on what to see and do. If you're keen to check out some of Dumaguete's cool spots like Twin Lakes or Casaroro Falls, this hotel is a great starting point for your adventures.
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UNWND Boutique Hotel (luxury hotel)
UNWND Boutique Hotel is a charming retreat just outside Dumaguete city. The hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, perfect for relaxing after exploring the area.
The highlight is definitely the outdoor pool surrounded by lush gardens - it's great for cooling off on hot afternoons. There's also a restaurant on-site serving tasty Filipino and international dishes. The staff here are super friendly and always happy to help arrange tours or airport transfers.
While it's a bit removed from downtown, UNWND is close to the airport which is convenient. The peaceful location away from the bustle of the city center makes it ideal for unwinding. Overall, it's a comfortable home base for exploring Dumaguete and the surrounding region.
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Hotel Essencia (medium range hotel)
Hotel Essencia in Dumaguete is a great spot for travelers looking to explore the city. Located just a short walk from popular spots like Rizal Boulevard and Dumaguete Belfry, it's super convenient for sightseeing. The rooms are comfortable and have everything you need - air conditioning, TVs, mini-fridges, and nice bathrooms.
One of the best things about this hotel is the restaurant and bar on-site. You can grab tasty local dishes and seafood without having to venture far. The breakfast buffet gets good reviews too. If you want to relax after a day of exploring, they even have a spa.
The staff are friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with things like airport shuttles or local recommendations. While it's not a luxury resort, Hotel Essencia offers good value and a central location that makes it easy to experience the best of Dumaguete. For travelers wanting a solid home base in the city, it's definitely worth checking out.
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Atmosphere Resorts & Spa (resort)
Atmosphere Resorts & Spa in Dumaguete is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to unwind or seek out some adventure. Set in the peaceful area of Maayong Tubig, this 4-star resort has a lot going for it. The place is surrounded by beautiful gardens and features two great pools where you can cool off. If you're in need of some pampering, their spa and wellness center is just the ticket.
Families will love the roomy accommodations and the kids' playground. For the more active types, there's plenty to do - you can go snorkeling, diving, or hiking nearby. After a day of activities, the on-site restaurant is perfect for refueling, and the bar is ideal for a relaxing drink. They've also got practical stuff covered with free WiFi and airport shuttles, making your whole trip smoother.
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Best hostels in Dumaguete:
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Casa Arrieta Hostel (hostel)
Casa Arrieta Hostel in Dumaguete is a cool spot for travelers who want to chill out but still be close to the action. The place has a really laid-back feel, but with some modern touches that make it comfortable. There's an outdoor pool where you can cool off, and plenty of green space to hang out in.
The rooms are set up dormitory-style, but they're clean and roomy with comfy beds and private bathrooms. It's only about a 6-minute drive from the popular Mad Monkey Party Hostel, so it's easy to meet other travelers. The staff is super friendly, and they put on fun events like karaoke nights. If you're looking to explore Dumaguete, whether for a couple of days or a longer stay, Casa Arrieta is in a great spot to do it from.
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Mad Monkey Dumaguete (party hostel)
Mad Monkey Dumaguete is a cool spot for travelers looking to soak up some sun and meet new friends in the Philippines. It's super close to Escano Beach, so you can easily hit the sand whenever you want. The place has a laid-back vibe with a sweet pool area where you can chill out or mingle with other guests.
The dorms are pretty comfy, with curtains for privacy and your own bathroom. Plus, you get free breakfast to fuel up for your adventures. If you're in the mood for some fun, the hostel puts on activities like karaoke and beer pong in the evenings. It's a great way to break the ice and hang out with other travelers. The staff are really friendly too, always ready to help out or chat. And if you want to explore the town, it's not far from Silliman University and other local spots.