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For many Davaoeños, Mati as a weekend getaway isn’t exactly new. It’s the go-to weekend escape when you crave washing machine waves, a surfing break, or a quick seaside getaway. But on a recent trip with Park Inn by Radisson Davao, I discovered that Mati is so much more than just the beach. With Park Inn’s Mati Magic partnership alongside Adelina Hotel & Suites and Dahican Beach Resort & Spa (DBRS), I got to see a side of Mati that blended history, food, adventure, and luxury.

Day 1: City Comforts and Cultural Discoveries

Our group met at Park Inn Davao early in the morning and made the three-hour scenic drive to Mati. Of course, we couldn’t resist stopping at the iconic Sleeping Dinosaur Viewpoint for photos. Even if you’ve seen it before, it never loses its charm.

By lunchtime, we checked into Adelina Hotel & Suites, a five-storey boutique hotel that blends heritage-inspired interiors with modern comforts. After a hearty lunch, we headed out for a city tour.

First stop: the Subangan Museum, where we learned that “Subangan” means sunrise—fitting, since the earliest sunrise in the Philippines can be seen from Davao Oriental’s Pusan Point. The highlight? “Davor,” a 53-foot sperm whale skeleton and the biggest in the Philippines. It was easily one of the most fascinating parts of the trip.

From there, we drove to Don Paco Rocamora Golf & Country Club for snacks and sunset. We also explored the nearby Mati Aero Tourism Park, home to the Mindanao Saga Flying Club and Secdea Aviation. Did you know you can ride one of their ultralight planes for around ₱4,000? Definitely one for the adventure bucket list.

Back at Adelina, we had dinner at Maganahay Resto Bar, which serves local specialties with a modern twist. My favorite? Their award-winning Smoked Squido with Dumang Coconut Sauce, which won the Kulinarya Oriental Fusion Cuisine Competition 2024. The night ended on a high note with an Open Mic Night, which was so much fun.

Day 2: Dahican Beach Bliss

The next morning, we drove 30 minutes to Dahican Beach Resort & Spa (DBRS), and the vibe instantly shifted to tropical luxury. With its infinity pool, beachfront villas, and sophisticated design, it honestly felt like a scene out of White Lotus.

We got to explore their two villas: the Dahican Premium Suite, and the Dahican Suite. Both villas are cozy and luxurious in their own way. The premium suite features one King-sized bed while the Dahican Suite features one double and one queen sized bed, perfect for families or groups. While each villa is already good for two, both villas have a maximum capacity of 5, with an additional charge of ₱1,500/head.

At DBRS, you can spend the day swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, or simply unwinding at their Da Lounge. They also offer spa and dermatology treatments, with room packages that include sauna sessions or facials, perfect for wellness seekers.

Lunch at Da Resto was a highlight, featuring a massive boodle fight feast capped with halo-halo served in a coconut. It was tropical, indulgent, and very Filipino.

Before heading home, we made a quick stop for Seaside Empanada—because no trip to Mati is complete without it—and even scored some thrifted finds at a nearby ukay-ukay.

Where to Stay in Mati

• Adelina Hotel & Suites: Perfect for those who want a central base in Mati City, with quick access to cultural attractions and nightlife.
• Dahican Beach Resort & Spa: Ideal for travelers who want beachfront luxury, wellness amenities, and water adventures.

Let’s Mati?

This trip showed me that Mati is a complete package: history, adventure, culture, food, and luxury all rolled into one. Thanks to Park Inn’s Mati Magic collaboration with Adelina and DBRS, it’s easier than ever to explore Mati in comfort and style.

So if you’re planning your next getaway, don’t just think of Mati as a surfing stop. Think of it as a full experience waiting to happen.