Kalinawan’s Rocky Retreat
Text and photos by Jojie Alcantara

Situated on the opposite side of Island Garden City of Samal in Barangay Aundanao, embraced by the Davao Gulf and overlooking Mount Diwalwal just across the sea, Kalinawan was named for its perfectly clear, calm waters at dawn. The amiable couple Mylene and Vip Jacob, who love nature and diving, had a vision for the once rough piece of land with uneven terrain and high cliff which they impulsively bought on a whim, but didn’t know what to do with in the beginning.

The dream turned into reality, as friends from the Edge Outdoors led by mountaineer Rey Sumagaysay, got excited about the rock wall they can develop and offer to outdoor extreme sports enthusiasts. Kalinawan’s 80-foot high and 100-foot wide limestone cliff provides a beautiful backdrop against the aquamarine sea, and at the same time sets a challenge on strength and endurance as you conquer the sheer drop off with your physical stamina.

A paradise uncovered, the simple resort has facilities for a day’s event or retreat. Recently, a wacky wedding was held where the bride crossed the canopy walk, and rushed through the zip line in her bridal wear. A day’s team building was also held by Globe Philippines as they offered an “Amazing Race” type of adventure for their valued clients. Promoted as an extreme adventure destination by Sports Unlimited (a TV show hosted by Dyan Castillejo and Mark Nelson), Kalinawan is a resort which offers full packed adventure activities from ziplining, kayaking, rapelling, trekking, scuba diving, snorkelling, as well as mountain biking and 4x4 offroad pursuit.

The stunning underwater vista of Aundanao in Samal offers a treasure trove of immeasurable species of fish, turtles and on the surface, a family of dolphins cavorting by on a lucky day. View the tempting cool aquamarine sea from the Gazebo, while the kids (if you’re thinking of bringing) can relax and participate in hand painting on shells, wooden paddles, and empty bottles to bring home as souvenirs.

While I was there at work (I was photographer and at the same time host to the awarding ceremony of the Globe event), I still got my down time resting on a hammock and exploring the islands as if I was on my own. Amidst the squeals and cheers of frenzied activities, I got to quietly chat with the owners over coffee and delicious merienda, and capture a rainbow in the horizon which happens almost every afternoon after a drizzle. The ambience of rhythmic waves crashing into shore was so relaxing it’s a temptation not to stay overnight, pitch a tent in the open and watch fireflies light up the cool evening.

To get to Kalinawan, you can take a 2-hour boat ride from the Sta. Ana Port. The resort can arrange for your boat transfer. If you prefer a road trip, take the Davao-Samal Ferry Boat at Sasa. A 45 minute adventure drive will take you 11 kilometers to Penaplata from Babak, and another 11 kilometers to Aundanao. After a right turn at Aundanao Elementary School and straight, you will pass by the scenic and popular Canibad and Spring Water before arriving at Kalinawan.

Another option is for Kalinawan Resort to provide a car for pickup and transfer from Davao International Airport (Php 3,200 for round-trip service). If you are really made of tough hide and adventurous in spirit, the final option is to go mountain biking or experiencing the habal-haba (local vehicle transport via motorbike) through 22 kilometers of adrenaline rush from Babak to Kalinawan’s winding road with a cliff view of coastal areas in an exhilarating joyride.

Visit the resort’s website at www.kalinawan.com or make arrangements through landline: (082) 298-5298; (082) 286-2844 or mobile 09177007325.

* * * *