Chema's by the Sea

If you want an energetic stay with vibrant nightlife and parties a stone's throw away, this place ... will be too quiet for you. 😂 Chema's is ten minutes away from Babak and the Samal ports by tricycle. It's serene. There aren't a lot of cottages, but with all the greenery and open space it never feels crowded. There is a freshwater pool and a saltwater pool, as well as a private chunk of beach with clear water. Through Waterfront Insular Davao, you can avail of transfers from Davao directly to Chema's, which has its own little picturesque jetty (didn't get pictures of the crabs fighting each other on the sides of the jetty). Just prepare for mosquitoes. Fortunately, they provide anti-mosquito coils and you can request for more. The rooms themselves are closed and air conditioned, with curtains over the sliding doors. Housekeeping is helpful. You may also encounter the occasional gecko. Other fauna include a few dogs by the front(?) gate, a couple of cats that hang around the restaurant, and at least one chicken. It's not the newest resort iirc. And since there's so much greenery, expect to dust off your beds a bit before sleeping. But it's nice for recharging/retreating. If you have a camera, be sure to bring it!

Not going back. We stayed here 1 night only with my family, 2adults, 1kid, 1senior. Our cottage were near the front desk. Let me tell you why we are not going back: 1. Waiting area for the boat transfer stank, I believe the area was for backdoor access meaning deliveries and garbage access. There was no decent seating, the chairs I believe were scraps from waterfront insular ballrooms. 2. Despite the schedule provided for boat transfers they were 30mins late. 3. My phone was soaked! Luckily I woke up in the middle of the night coz I noticed it got warmer, when I wanted to check my phone for the time it was soaking wet! Because of their air conditioner that leaked! My phone was place there because that was where the outlet was located, and I was charging it! 4. Food took to long. Since we already experienced it on our first day, we ensured we order ahead for our breakfast for next day and gave an earlier time of serving, but still it took forever. Those are my top reasons the rest are: It is not good for pwd or senior citizens because of steep and slippery stairs going to front desk and beach. Beach area was small. The aircon in the massage room was not working so we had to move to our room. Gave 2 stars for the smiles and apologies of the staff, the food despite late was yummy, and the beds in the room was comfortable. This is a 3star resort but their prices are more of 4-5stars. So set your expectations.

Nice escape from Davao City. Spacious room but hoping to have the toilet/shower area need to be maintained. Love the idea of eating outside our room/cabana with the huge day bed to lounge. There are cats and dogs that are very friendly to humans. You can request mosquito coils to drive away mosquitoes or insects. Food is good and as they serve to your room/cabana all utencils, sauces, pitcher of water and ice is provided. It did rain during our stay and it was difficult to go up and down the stairs. It would have been very romanimtic to stroll in the gardens at night if not for the rain. Not ideal for thosr with babies or senior folks that need assistance in walking - coz there are stairs. There are some areas that need maintnence like the fresh water pool area but overall still ok. The boat service also is great. They are polite and they call upon you to confirm your arrival and departure.