Dumaguete, Philippines

🌊 Dumaguete Travel Guide | Dive into the City of Gentle People

A Serene Gateway to Negros Oriental’s Natural Wonders

Dumaguete, often called the “City of Gentle People,” is the capital of Negros Oriental in the Central Visayas. With its relaxed atmosphere, seaside promenade, historical landmarks, and proximity to marine biodiversity hotspots like Apo Island and Manjuyod Sandbar, Dumaguete is a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. It’s also a major university town, giving the city a youthful, cultured energy.

📍 Where is Dumaguete?

Located in Negros Oriental, Central Visayas
Faces the Tañon Strait, just across from Cebu
Serves as a transport and tourism hub for southern Negros

✈️ How to Get There

By Air: Fly to Dumaguete-Sibulan Airport (DGT) from Manila or Cebu (daily flights)
By Ferry: Regular ferries from Cebu, Bohol (Tagbilaran), Siquijor, and Dapitan
By Land & Sea: From Bacolod or Iloilo via bus and RoRo combination

🌟 Top Things to Do in and around Dumaguete

🐠 Apo Island Snorkeling or Diving

World-renowned marine sanctuary
Swim with sea turtles, vibrant corals, and reef fish
Day trips via boat from Malatapay Port (Zamboanguita, 40 mins from Dumaguete)

🌴 Visit Manjuyod Sandbar

Known as the “Maldives of the Philippines”
Long stretch of pristine white sand visible at low tide
Boat tours include dolphin watching and floating cottages

⛪ Stroll the Dumaguete Boulevard

The city’s famous seaside promenade
Great for sunrise jogs, sunset views, and eating tempura or balut
Lined with cafes, street food, and music at night

🏛️ Explore Silliman University

One of Asia’s oldest American-founded universities (est. 1901)
Tour the Silliman Anthropological Museum for local heritage insights

🌄 Casaroro Falls

Located in Valencia, 20–30 minutes from Dumaguete
A 100-foot waterfall accessed via a scenic hike and 350+ steps
Ideal for adventure seekers and photographers

♨️ Relax in Red Rock Hot Spring

Natural geothermal pool in the mountains of Valencia
Perfect post-hike recovery spot

🍽️ What to Eat in Dumaguete

🍤 Tempura (street style) – Dumaguete’s version of fish balls/shrimp balls, especially along the boulevard
🍜 Silvanas & Sans Rival – Famous buttery frozen cookies and layered cakes from Sans Rival Cakes & Pastries
🐷 Lechon Belly & Inasal – Local-style roasted meat and grilled chicken
🥘 Budbud Kabog – A native delicacy made from millet and coconut, wrapped in banana leaves

🏨 Where to Stay

🛌 Hotel Essencia – Comfortable and central
🧳 Sierra Hotel – Mid-range stay near Silliman University
🌿 Atmosphere Resorts (Dauin) – Luxury eco-resort and diving hub
🛖 Kookoo's Nest (Antulang) – Off-grid beachfront hideaway

📅 Best Time to Visit

Dry season: November to May
Ideal for diving/snorkeling: March to June
Avoid: Typhoon season (late August to early October)

🛍️ Souvenirs to Take Home

🥠 Silvanas and Sans Rival boxes
🎨 Local crafts and accessories from Sidlakang Negros Village
☕ Mount Talinis coffee or locally grown cacao

💡 Travel Tips

Dumaguete is safe and walkable, especially around the university and boulevard
Use tricycles for short rides — standard fare in city proper is ₱10–15
Book Apo Island tours in advance during peak season (April–June)

📸 Top Photo Spots

Apo Island marine sanctuary (underwater and drone)
Dumaguete boulevard at sunset
Silliman Hall’s colonial facade
Casaroro Falls hidden in the jungle