Dumaguete is your gateway to all that Negros Oriental has to offer. The city has a laidback vibe and beautiful countryside awaits once you leave the city center. Its accessibility from Manila, with regular direct flights, makes it a favored option for beach-lovers and those that want to explore its vibrant underwater ecosystems.
Also known as the ‘City of Gentle People’, Dumaguete is a good jump-off point or home base to explore beaches, go scuba-diving, visit nearby Siquijor, or venture out to southern Cebu. It also has its own share of attractions. If you’re traveling to this part of the country, here are some of the things to do and places to visit.
WHAT'S IN THIS GUIDE?
Rizal Boulevard
The boulevard is a popular hangout destination for both locals and tourists. You can take leisurely strolls here after a day of excursions. You get beautiful views of the sea and a laidback atmosphere. You can also go on a food trip here as the boulevard has many food stalls and nearby restaurants to satisfy your hunger.
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Silliman University
This American-established school is more than a century old and is one of the premier universities not just in the province, but in the whole country. It is also one of Dumaguete’s famous landmarks. Be sure to drop by the much-lauded Anthropology Museum during your visit. The entrance fee for locals is P30, and P50 for foreigners from Monday to Friday. The fees increase during weekends and holidays, P60 for locals, P100 for foreigners.
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Belfry Tower
This tower is one of the oldest structures in the country. In the days of your, locals rely on the tower to send warning signals during possible pirate raids. It also beckoned residents to attend mass. Later on, it was used as a watchtower in World War II. History buffs should not miss a visit here.
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Apo Island
After exploring the city’s attractions, the next thing to do is to sail to Apo Island. The island retains its ruggedness and is one of the country’s protected landscapes and seascapes. Tourists make their way here to discover and explore its diverse and vibrant underwater wonders. Scuba-diving is a popular activity here, but you don’t need to. Snorkeling is enough to get a chance to swim with turtles, different fish, and see beautiful corals.
Fees on the island:
- P100 – environmental fee
- P300 – guide fee
- P100 – mask rental
- P100 – life vest rental
To get to Apo Island, you’ll need to board a southbound bus or jeep bound for Zamboanguita. The driver will drop you off in Malatapay. The fare is about P60. You’d have to walk to reach the port. From the port, you can charter a boat for approximately P2000-P3000. You pay extra for an overnight stay. There are public boats that travel to the island for P300, but these only leave when there are enough passengers.
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Manjuyod Sandbar
This stunning sandbar is a must-visit when you’re in Dumaguete. It has fine, white sand surrounded by clear, turquoise waters. Beach bum, work on your tan, and wade in the waters to cool off. The best time to go is early in the morning during low tide. Once the water rises, the cottages will look like their floating.
To reach the sandbar, go to Ceres Bus Terminal. Board a bus bound for Bais then alight at Brgy. Calindagan. Fare is around P55. After alighting, get on a tricycle and head to either Capiñahan or Canibol Wharf. From there you can rent a boat for P3500 to P5000 depending on the size of your group.
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Casaroro Falls
Casaroro is a must-see, but it’ll take time and effort to reach. You’ll have to pass through rough and rugged tracks before you get to see the beautiful cascade. It takes around 20 minutes by motorbike and another 45 minutes on foot to see the waterfall. From the market in Dumaguete, board a jeep bound for Valencia for P24. Once at the terminal, hire a motorcycle taxi for P200. There’s an entrance fee of P10.
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Lake Balinsasayao
The lake got its name from the many swiftlets that call it home. Locally called ‘balinsasayaw‘, these birds are native to the area and have lived there for a long time. The lake, meanwhile, is surrounded by century-old Almaciga trees and has emerald-tinged waters. You can go swimming, boating or trekking during your visit. The lake is also a great place to simply relax and enjoy nature.
To get to Lake Balinsasayao from Dumaguete, get on a jeep bound for Amlan and alight at La-laan, San Jose’s junction. Fare is around P15. Here, you can hire a motorcycle taxi for around P400 for the two-way ride.
Fees:
- P25 entrance fee
- P350 paddle boat rental for up to 6 persons
- P25 parking for motorcycle
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Where to Stay in Dumaguete
The city center is an ideal base to see its attractions or go on day trips. If you’re looking for accommodations, check out the hotels and guesthouses near the boulevard and public market. These are areas where public transport comes and goes regularly. You can get to stations easily for your onward destination. There are plenty of dining options in this area as well. Apo Island, meanwhile, has basic lodgings for those who want a quieter atmosphere. The town of Dauin, about half an hour from Dumaguete, also has a few resorts.
Here are some of the top-rated hotels in Dumaguete according to Agoda users, in no particular order.
- Acqua Dive Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Villa del Mare. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- Sea Dream Resorts. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
- White Chocolate Hills Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
For more options, search here: Dumaguete Hotels
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