2019 • 02 • 21

Starfish Island is one of the destinations you can visit while island hopping in Samal. It’s not really an island but an area on the southwest portion of Talikud Island which has numerous starfish; hence the name. It has fine white sand, clear waters, and swaying coconut trees. Snorkeling is the ideal activity while here as there are many different colored starfish and corals.

How to Get There

Nearest Airport: Francisco Bangoy International Airport, also known as Davao International Airport (Davao del Norte)

By Air

1. Major airlines such as Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly regularly from Manila to Davao City, your jump-off point to Samal.
2. Once in the city, board a jeep bound for Sasa Wharf, which costs around P10 to P15, depending on where you come from. The ideal places to ride the jeep are Abreeza and SM near Davao Ecoland. A taxi may cost up to P150.
3. There are regular ferries going to and from Samal Island. The fare is around P10 and takes only a few minutes; you also have to pay a fee of P5.
4. After arriving at the ferry terminal on Samal Island, there will be a lot of habal-habal drivers waiting for passengers. You can hire a motorcycle with a driver to go to your accommodation on the island, prices may vary depending on the distance.

 

---

Entrance Fee and Other Charges

Starfish Island is part of the island-hopping activity near Samal and Talikud Islands.

• Island Hopping Rate: P1000/person (as quoted by some agencies in Davao City)
  Ask the operator if Starfish Island is part of the itinerary; this includes food, drinks, and snorkel.
• Boat Rental Rate: P1800 (as quoted by Red Parrot Inn); this includes snorkel and vest; food not included.

There are also big boats for rent for up to P20,000 with a capacity of 15-20 people.

---

Don’t Miss

• The beach has fine white sand and clear waters, ideal for snorkeling. The area has several corals in different colors and shapes and (of course) starfish.
• You can also wade in the waters, relax, and take several photos as the surroundings are beautiful and idyllic.

---

Don’t Forget

• There are local ATMs on Samal Island, but bring enough money for your trip as these may be out of the way or out of cash.
• Bring your own food and drinks because they may not be included in the boat rental fee. Leave no trace behind.
• Depending on the tide, you may have to walk on ankle-high (or higher) water.
• Bring a dry bag, plastics, or Ziplocs to keep your things and gadgets dry.
• Bring a power bank and/or extra batteries to keep your devices charged.

---

If You Have More Time and Budget

• After relaxing and swimming in Kaputian Beach, explore the other attractions of Samal Island such as the Bat Sanctuary, Hagimit Falls, Maxima Aquafun Resort, Canibad Beach, and others.
• You can also rent a boat for island hopping in one of the resorts on the island.
• After Samal Island, you can visit the attractions in Davao City such as the Japanese Tunnels, People’s Park, Eden Nature Park, and the Philippine Eagle Center.

Related topic: Talikud Island Important Tips

---

Where to Stay

Here are the highly recommended resorts on the Island Garden City of Samal by Agoda users, in no particular order.

• Pearl Farm Beach Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Paradise Island Park & Beach Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Island Garden Resort in Pangubatan. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY
• Hof Gorei Beach Resort. ✅ CHECK RATES & AVAILABILITY

For more options, search here: Samal Resorts