Talikud Island Beach Resort Guide: How to Get to Isla Reta
White sand, clear water and camping under the stars, a short boat ride from Davao City. Here is how to reach Isla Reta on Talikud Island and what to pack.
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Isla Reta is a simple, laid-back Talikud Island beach resort known for fine white sand, clear water and overnight camping, just off the coast of Samal and a short boat ride from Davao City. The usual route is a public boat from Santa Ana Wharf in downtown Davao, or a trip via Samal Island. Here is how to get there, what to bring and what to expect.
Where Is Talikud Island?
Talikud is a smaller island southwest of Samal Island in the Davao Gulf. It is part of the Island Garden City of Samal and is quieter and less developed than Samal itself. People come for its beaches, snorkelling and the feeling of being far away while staying close to the city.
Isla Reta sits on Talikud's coast and is best known as a budget-friendly day trip and camping spot. Facilities are basic, which is part of the charm. For other options on the island and on Samal, see our list of resorts in Davao and Samal.
Quick Facts
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Location | Talikud Island, Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte |
| Main jump-off | Santa Ana Wharf, Davao City |
| Alternative route | Via Samal Island |
| Best for | Day trips, camping, swimming, snorkelling |
| Facilities | Basic cottages, tent spaces, simple toilets and showers |
| Best time | Dry, calm mornings; avoid rough weather |
Facilities and rates change, so contact the resort or check its official social media pages before going.
How to Get to Isla Reta from Davao City
Option 1: Boat from Santa Ana Wharf
This is the most common route for travellers already in the city.
- Get to Santa Ana Wharf. It is in the downtown area near the old port district. Take a taxi or ride-hailing car, or a jeepney heading to the Santa Ana area.
- Take a public boat to Talikud. Motorised outrigger boats (pump boats) carry passengers and cargo to Talikud. Ask at the wharf for the trip that stops closest to Isla Reta. Departures are typically in the morning, and schedules depend on demand and weather.
- Ride to the resort. Depending on where the boat lands, you may walk or take a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi) to Isla Reta.
The boat ride usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the boat and the sea. Return trips are usually limited in the afternoon, so confirm the last boat back.
Option 2: Via Samal Island
If you are already on Samal, or want to combine both islands:
- Cross to Samal. From Davao City, take the ferry or barge from the Sasa area to a landing point on Samal. Our guide explains how to reach Samal Island.
- Find a boat landing. Ask a habal-habal or tricycle driver to bring you to a landing with trips to Talikud.
- Cross to Talikud. Small boats cross the channel, and some can be hired privately to bring you directly to the resort.
Option 3: Private Boat Hire
For groups, hiring a private boat from Davao City or Samal offers more flexibility, especially for a day trip that includes snorkelling stops. Rates depend on boat size, distance and negotiation.
What About the Davao Water Taxi?
Searches for a "Davao water taxi" usually mean the small boats crossing to Samal or Talikud. These are informal passenger boats rather than a city-run water taxi service with fixed routes. Services can change, so ask at the wharf or your accommodation for current options.
Approximate Costs
| Item | Approximate cost range |
|---|---|
| Taxi from downtown or airport to Santa Ana Wharf | PHP 150 to 400 |
| Public boat to Talikud, one way | PHP 50 to 150 per person |
| Habal-habal ride on the island | PHP 50 to 150 |
| Entrance or day-use fee | PHP 50 to 200 per person |
| Tent pitching or tent rental | PHP 200 to 800 per night |
| Cottage rental | PHP 500 to 2,500 |
These are rough estimates only. Isla Reta beach resort rates, boat fares and fees change, so confirm directly before your trip. Use our trip budget calculator to estimate your total.
What to Bring
Facilities are basic, so pack as if you are camping.
- Cash in small bills. There are no ATMs nearby.
- Food and drinking water, or buy simple meals if available.
- Tent and sleeping mat if you plan to camp and are not renting.
- Flashlight or headlamp and a power bank. Electricity may be limited.
- Snorkel and mask for the reef.
- Reef-safe sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
- Insect repellent for the evening.
- Trash bag to take your rubbish back with you.
- Dry bag to protect phones and documents on the boat.
Camping Tips at Isla Reta
- Arrive early to choose a shaded tent spot.
- Check the tide and do not pitch too close to the waterline.
- Respect quiet hours if the resort has them.
- Leave no trace. Small islands struggle with waste, so take everything back.
- Check the weather. Avoid going during storms or strong winds. See the Davao weather forecast.
Is This Talikud Island Beach Resort Worth It?
If you want a five-star resort, look elsewhere. But if you love simple beach days, clear water and sleeping to the sound of waves without leaving the Davao area, Talikud is a gem. For a more luxurious stay nearby, see our guide to the Pearl Farm resort on Samal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Isla Reta Beach Resort?
The easiest route is a public boat from Santa Ana Wharf in Davao City to Talikud Island, then a short walk or habal-habal ride to the resort. You can also go via Samal Island.
How long is the boat ride to Talikud Island?
From Santa Ana Wharf, the boat ride usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the boat and sea conditions.
Can you camp at Isla Reta?
Yes, Isla Reta is known for camping. You can usually bring your own tent or rent one, but confirm availability and rates with the resort first.
Is there electricity on Talikud Island?
Electricity can be limited at simple beach resorts. Bring a power bank and a flashlight, and charge your devices before you leave the city.
