The Most Visited Attractions in Mati City, Davao Oriental
Mati, the only city in the province of Davao Oriental in the Southern Philippines, has an area of 682 square kilometers (263.32 square miles). It is estimated to have a population of 141,141 people, based on the 2015 Census. This city is part of the Second District of Davao Oriental and Davao Region.
The origin of the name “Mati” is derived from the Mandaya word “Maa-ti”, which refers to the town’s creek that dries up quickly after heavy rain. Mati became a municipality in 1907. On June 19, 2007, after almost 104 years since its establishment, Mati was granted the status of a municipality and then finally became a city through Republic Act 9408.
The land area of the region is 79,109 hectares and its population is 147,547 (2020). There are 26 barangays, and their main products are coconut, coffee, corn, mango, and marine products. The dialects spoken are Mandaya, Cebuano, Boholano, and Kalagan, with most people able to understand and speak English and Tagalog. The most widely used mode of transport is the tricycle.
Mati boasts stunning scenery and several luxurious resorts. The Provincial Capitol building and park are situated on a hill, which offers an astonishing view of Pujada Bay. Other locations to get a bird’s eye view of the city are the Mati Tourism Complex and Badas Viewdeck.
If you are trying to plan the perfect itinerary for your visit to the City of Mati, you should consult this travel guide to find out the best sights and activities the city has to offer.
TOP 8 MOST VISITED TOURIST DESTINATIONS IN MATI
- Dahican Beach
Mati is renowned as a beach location, with people from all over the world coming to experience its fabulous shores. Dahican is one of the most visited beaches in Mati, with its two-kilometer stretch of pristine white sand. This beach has become a paradise for both surfers and skimboarders. Pujada Bay teems with an extensive array of aquatic species and is considered to be among the most bountiful bays in Southeast Asia. Hence, local citizens take it upon themselves to protect marine life, including lobsters, sea cows (locally known as Dugong), dolphins, hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and various kinds of turtles. Recently, Dahican has become a popular spot for skimboarding, surfing, and frisbee-related sports, with many young people getting involved in tournaments and competitions.
Known as the “Surfing Mecca” of the Davao Region, Dahican Beach is a dream for surfers and skimboarders alike. Its waves, reaching up to 10 feet, are strong enough to provide a thrilling experience without putting people in harm’s way. The colder winter months, from September to June, offer the best conditions for surfing and skimming, while the monsoon months can bring unpredictable currents. Nevertheless, Dahican Beach is still the ideal spot for skimboarding.
2. Sleeping Dinosaur Island
Travelers journeying to the City of Mati in Davao Oriental are treated to one of Mindanao’s most picturesque and longest white coastlines. Winding along 8 kilometers of well-paved roads, visitors can take in the view as they travel that snake up and down the cliff overlooking the sea. On the route to Mati, travelers can spot Badas Point, Barangay Dawan where a Sleeping Dinosaur Island lies. This 579-hectare island is shaped just like a plesiosaur, lying on its belly in the sea.
The plesiosaur is an ancient marine dinosaur that lived during the Early Jurassic and late Triassic periods. It had a long neck, large head, broad body, and four paddle-shaped limbs. The smallest plesiosaur was about 2 meters (6.5 feet) long, while the largest could reach up to 15 meters. It was one of the biggest marine predators of all time, and is believed to have been the inspiration for the “Loch Ness Monster” of Scotland, known affectionately as “Nessie”. Despite its fame, there is no evidence of the creature’s existence and it is now considered a modern-day myth. The plesiosaur is typically depicted with a long neck, large head, broad body, and four paddle-shaped limbs.
3. Subangan Museum
Subangan, the provincial museum, was opened in January 2014 and boasts interactive, cutting-edge exhibits. Its most spectacular feature is a 53-foot long sperm whale skeleton, the largest on display in the nation. Additionally, the museum showcases exhibits about Mount Hamiguitan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as Davao Oriental’s history.
This museum provides a comprehensive look into the history and culture of Mati, Davao Oriental. Visitors will be able to explore the diverse cultural heritage and natural history of the city through its exhibits, which serve as a living testament to the growth and evolution of the people of Mati. There are also souvenirs available for purchase that represent the culture of the area.
To fully understand the heart and history of Mati, Davao Oriental, take a deeper look into Subangan Davao Oriental Provincial Museum. Make sure to contact Ms. Lyrna Padohinog or Ms. Amy Ponce for more information, or visit the museum website at davaooriental.gov.ph.
4. Waniban Island
Waniban Island is situated in Barangay Tamisan, Mati, Davao Oriental in the Philippines.
When you take a boat ride to the paradise island of Waniban in Mati, Davao Oriental, you will be presented with a marvelous view of a land formation resembling a sleeping dinosaur. Fishermen can use this temporary shelter to take refuge from tumultuous sea waters. The shore of the island is graced with pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters that reflect like a mirror. To the left, you will find a rocky terrain with natural pools where the sea water is moved in and out by powerful waves.
Waniban Island, nestled in Pujada Bay, is a four-hectare paradise that offers a unique and beautiful experience. Though it may not be as famous as other Islands in Camiguin or Mindoro, it offers a sense of ownership, allowing visitors to take leisurely strolls around the Island and enjoy its pristine natural beauty. In a single hour, you can explore the entire Island, taking in its clear blue waters and white sandy beaches. The Island is an ideal place for bonding with friends or colleagues, providing a much more enjoyable experience than more expensive and crowded destinations.
This secluded getaway offers a tranquil respite from the noise and stress of city life. A 30-minute stroll will take you around the whole of the Island, with white sandy beaches, swaying palms, and inviting nipa huts to rest in. A resident caretaker ensures the area is well-maintained, making it an ideal spot to relax and unwind.
5. Pujada Island
Pujada Island is a stunning paradise with 156 hectares of white-sand beaches surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, shimmering lakes and rivers, and an awe-inspiring azure sky. It has remained relatively untouched, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil getaway. It’s no wonder this is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Philippines, or even the world.
The local authorities have attempted to capitalize on the area in recent years, but they have managed to keep it looking beautiful by employing responsible and sustainable tourism practices. Visitor numbers are kept to a minimum to avoid disruption to the stunning natural environment and its abundant marine wildlife.
You can experience the seclusion you desire in Pujada Island. There are private resorts you can stay in, but you can also bring a tent and camp in the many areas of the island free of charge. Pujada Island is known for its marine life, including various species of sharks, Philippine dugongs, whale sharks, and hawkbill and green sea turtles.
6. Mindanao Saga Flying Club
MSFC (Mindanao SAGA Flying Club), established at the Mati National Airport in Barangay Dahican, offers trial flights and flying lessons for ultralight aircraft. It has become the major attraction of Mati, providing an affordable and thrilling way to view the beautiful landscape. The Quicksilver Sport 2S is the top choice for visitors, as the open cockpit grants an unrestricted sight of the surroundings and a great sense of freedom.
The Mindanao Saga Flying Club invites all levels of pilots to join in the fun. Whether you’re just starting out in the world of aviation or are an experienced flier, the club offers a variety of courses that cater to your needs. If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, they also offer recreational flights and introductory flights for tourists and local residents. For a truly unique experience, you can even have one of the club’s expert pilots take you up in the sky and show you a few tricks. You can choose to take a thrilling ride with breathtaking views or you can challenge yourself and try taking control of the plane while airborne.
In 2012, the Ultralight Club of Mati was set up at Imelda Romualdez Airport. The club was made available for members to join in 2013, and currently consists of 13 Ultralight planes. Six of these aircraft feature an open-type design, allowing for a clear view of the skyline while in flight, while the remaining seven are closed-type planes, also known as Lightsports.
A group of friends initially sparked the concept of establishing a flying facility in the vicinity when they tested out their large motorbikes at the abandoned airport that had been constructed in 1972 but was mainly used as an area for drying crops such as corn and other produce.
For just P1,600, one can take an ultralight plane ride for 15 minutes and witness the breathtaking views of Mati, including its beaches, mountains, and islands, the seemingly endless Pacific Ocean, and the Sleeping Dinosaur mountain, a reminder of the Mesozoic era. The P1,800 lightsports flight will provide an even more unforgettable experience. Soaring up to 500 feet in the air, you can enjoy a god-like perspective while observing the activities of humans and other creatures below.
7. Blue Bless Beach Resort
Blue Bless Beach Resort is one of the newly popular beaches in Mati City, Davao Oriental. It is situated on a cliff with a stunning view of Pujada Island, making it the ideal spot for a getaway filled with fun and excitement.
The accommodation provided consists of:
· Air-conditioned rooms equipped with LED cable TV, mini-fridge, bathroom, balcony and terrace.
· Floats that can hold up to 20 people.
· Halls with sound system and projector, perfect for special occasions like weddings, birthdays, seminars or workshops, with a capacity of up to 200 guests.
· The area has a 24-hour convenience store, Big Boss’ Mini Mart, to cater to your needs.
· A restobar and disco floor where you can have a drink, dance, hang out, and have fun.
· If you’re into singing, there are plenty of karaoke bars in the vicinity.
· If you prefer to be active, you can make use of the billiard halls, volleyball court, kayaks, and the inviting waters for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba-diving.
· Moreover, the resort has its own ferry boat offers a great way to explore the different islands and beaches.
8. Masao View Resort and Spa
Situated in the eastern part of Mati, Davao Oriental, Masao beach is a wonderful place to relax and leave behind the hustle and bustle of the city. It is 18 km away from Mati Poblacion in Sitio Dita, Barangay Bobon and overlooks Pujada Bay. Its powdery white sand and crystal-clear blue waters make it a perfect spot for summer gatherings and family reunions. The area is full of beauty and is made even more pleasant by the railings that surround it, creating an even more ambiance.
It is advisable to bring your own food and water since there is no corkage fee. In addition, there is no wide range of food selection. You can also stay in the native cottages near the shore and enjoy the breathtaking view of the vast blue sea. A 15-minute boat ride will take you to the nearby islands of Waniban, where you can find its famous white sand beaches and mangroves, as well as witness dolphins playing in the water. The rate for the overnight stay in the cottages is 350PHP while visiting and swimming are only charged 20PHP.
Are you planning a trip to the City of Mati?
If so, then this list of the most popular attractions in the city should be a great help to you. From cultural sites to national parks, you will find something that you will love. Some attractions might require an entrance fee, but the amazing experience and stunning views are definitely worth it. Have you been to any of these places before? Let us know in the comments below.