Kalinawan Resort

I was recently in Davao for vacation, and one of the highlights of my trip was a visit to Kalinawan Resort, one of the newest resorts in Samal Island that offers unique thrills for the adventurous beach bum. This resort is unique in more ways than one, but what sets it apart from your usual, run of the mill resort is that it channels the weekend warrior inside of you by offering activities such as zip-lining, rapelling, and rock-climbing that's sure to get the blood pumping in your veins. Sounds thrilling to you?
Imagine zip-lining from a tree where you rely on the force of gravity to take you downwards to the next point while crossing a patch of ocean with intimidating rocks jutting out from the water.


Picture in your mind rapelling or rock climbing (the difference between the 2 is that the goal for one is to go down, while the other takes you up) a natural rock cliff, with the sea as a backdrop as you make your descent...or ascent.

That's Kalinawan for you...the adventurous type's wet dream. Oh and by the way, there are no sandy beaches in this resort (apparently, sand is for sissies). No chlorinated pools either. In Kalinawan, you commune with nature. What mesmerizes me about this resort was that its geographical appearance would suggest that a resort could never be built there. Somehow, the owners managed to carve out a resort from a steep cliff, which took my breath away upon fully taking in the sights.


Their idea of a dip in the pool would be swimming in a barricaded segment of the ocean, which is pretty deep by the way, but offering you a view of a patch of coral should you want to go snorkeling. They also have a couple of kayaks should you want to channel your inner boatman, and request for a fish feeding session from the owners.


As of the moment, the resort can only accomodate 25 visitors at any given time, as construction is still being done on cottages. Overnight stays are not yet an option, as there are no private rooms available. At a price of P1,750.00 per person for a day trip, which already includes a buffet lunch and snack, its a steal considering the fact that you get to have a unique experience. Speaking of the food, I just have to give props to the food that they served us that day. Their version of kilawin is one of the best I've ever had. And the biko they served us was also memorable. The onwers were also accomodating and very gracious hosts. They also served as our cheerleaders as we conquered our fears to go rock-climbing and rapelling.

Getting to Kalinawan is relatively easy. In our case, we took the Davao-Samal ferry boat. Upon arriving in Samal Island, its less than an hours drive away to Kalinawan, or depending on your driving prowess, it could take less (We fortunately had a Formula 1 driver with us that day). Expect a bumpy ride though, as the paved road turns into a dirt road at the halfway point. When you go to Kalinawan Resort, leave all your fears and inhibitions behind and channel your sense of adventure and danger.

For more information visit their website at www.kalinawan.com