The earliest I could recall hearing about Pearl Farm dated back to the 1990s. It was during this time when most Filipinos who could afford to travel often chalked up resorts and hotels as main destinations: Dakak in Dapitan, Punta Baluarte in Batangas, Pearl Farm in Davao, and Puerto Azul in Cavite, just to name a few.
Where to stay in Samal Island: Pearl Farm Beach Resort
First opened to the public in 1992 by the Floirendo family (the family into which former Miss Universe Margie Moran married), Pearl Farm became a regular inclusion in the Mindanao itinerary of affluent travelers. Highlighted by its three-tiered Parola wharf and iconic stilt rooms and suites inspired by Muslim architecture, this Samal Island icon had outlived many of its resort counterparts from decades past.
During my first visit to Samal Island in 2009, my then-girlfriend and I entertained the thought of staying here. In the end, though, we followed our budget constraints and settled for a cheaper, smaller, but no less endearing Chemas by the Sea. However, my hope of someday staying at Pearl Farm Beach Resort never wavered.
That moment arrived when I traveled again to Davao City and Samal Island as part of a post-World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) familiarization trip with fellow members of the media, the Tourism Promotions Board of the Philippines (TPB), and WTTC summit participants.
View from the Samal House
The room assigned to me was the Samal House. Built on stilts facing the waters of the Davao Gulf, it was inspired by the houses of Samal tribes and decorated with vibrant color tones. The Samal House was modestly sized and furnished, but it had a relaxing balcony where I enjoyed a bit of downtime reading a book while feeling the cool breezes of the sea—not to mention also being spoiled by a fantastic view of the water.
A bigger version of the Samal House called the Samal Suites was situated on the other end of the resort. These two-storey suites were designed by famed Filipino architect Francisco Mañosa as a homage to the rich culture of Mindanao's many indigenous groups: the Yakans, T'bolis, Bagobos, Tausugs, Maguindanaons, and more.
Two-story bungalows called Mandaya Houses could be found a short distance from the Samal Houses. Hidden under the canopy of palm trees, each unit featured a private garden and balcony with views of the immaculate white sand beach and breathtaking sunset of Southern Mindanao.
Sunset Cruise & Poolside Feasts
Following an impressive buffet lunch at the Maranao Restaurant, a spacious open pavilion built from bamboo and other local materials, I hung out on the balcony of my room to read a book. In the afternoon, we were taken on a sunset cruise over the waters of the Davao Gulf and toward Malipano Island, still part of Pearl Farm, where a more upscale cluster of villas scattered in complete seclusion.
Wine and fresh fruit cuts were served as we waited for the sun to set in spectacular fashion.
We dined separately from the other Pearl Farm guests, on a table specially set up by the edge of the pool. While plates of delicious food were placed in front of us, the lovely atmosphere just served to heighten our appetites.
In addition to the delicious meal and lively conversation, the quick drinking session that lasted till midnight cemented the evening as an exceptional one.
The Art of Beach Bumming
It was a bit of a downer to be leaving the next day, but not before I spent the whole morning—after a filling breakfast—bumming around and taking a dip in the crystal-clear beach waters and the picturesque pool near the Parola.
From the fine locally inspired architecture to the great food, wonderful island vibe, and the overall charm of Pearl Farm Resort, I took a moment to express gratitude to my good karma for bringing me to this place that had long been etched in my mind as a must-experience resort. I say this despite being a backpacker at heart because yes, we all deserve some fancy-schmancy accommodations once in a while, and thanks to my work as a travel writer, this became a perk I cherish a lot.
Hotel Fact Box
Room & Suite Categories
Hilltop Room Thirty square meters | Set along the hillside above the coastline, offering sweeping views of the Davao Gulf and forest canopy. Features a king-size bed or twin beds with native-inspired interior design elements.Mandaya Room (Classic) Fifty-seven square meters | Located in the south wing surrounding a peaceful swimming pool layout. Showcases natural textures, handcrafted décor, and traditional Mandaya tribe dagmay textiles. Features a king bed and a flexible daybed.
Mandaya Room (Premier) Eighty-one square meters | A newly designed, highly expansive contemporary retreat in the south wing. Incorporates authentic dagmay weaves as a defining interior touch, equipped with double beds and a custom daybed. Includes exclusive access to a family lounge and private pool.
Samal House Thirty square meters | The signature Pearl Farm experience built on stilts directly above the sea. Modeled after traditional Samal tribe houses with warm timber finishes, native-crafted furnishings, and a cozy private balcony framed by uninterrupted ocean views. Perfect for couples.
Samal Suite Ninety square meters | Sprawling two-storey overwater suites designed by National Artist Francisco Mañosa. The master bedroom upstairs reveals panoramic gulf views, while the lower living area opens onto a private balcony with daybeds. Features an exclusive sea-level outdoor lounge directly beneath the suite.
Isla Malipano Villa Set on a completely private island sanctuary just across the water from the main resort. Features grand three-to-four bedroom layouts, expansive residential footprints, separate viewing decks, and personalized butler assistance.
Dining Restaurants & Lounges
Maranao Restaurant The property's central beachfront dining hub set under a grand, bamboo-thached open pavilion. Serves rich farm-to-table breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet spreads alongside regional international selections crafted from local organic farms and coastal waters.Parola & Tapas Bar An iconic oceanfront spot overlooking the infinity pool. Serves premium tapas, international light fare, and custom drinks during the resort's daily golden-hour Sunset Cocktail Hour (4:30 PM – 5:30 PM).
Mandaya Sports Bar & Coffee Shops Includes the beachside Mandaya Sports Bar, Cafe Marina, and the main Pearl Farm Coffee Shop for casual daytime refreshments and artisanal brews amidst garden settings.
