Nestled among the trees and touched by clear waters, this haven of bliss and comfort appeases the mind, body, and spirit through nature’s magnificent beauty.
If there’s a resort that lives up to Samal Island’s moniker as “Garden City,” it has to be none other than that charming haven called Chema’s By the Sea. Tucked in an exclusive cove in the western shores of Samal Island and washed by the blue waters of the Davao Gulf, this resort is hidden in a garden of towering trees, tropical flowering shrubs, greenery, and neat, well-trimmed lawns.
Indeed, a walk in the spacious grounds is like taking a stroll in your own private garden where the leaves and vines block memories of the bustling urban city. Here, the air is sweet and light—bringing only the soothing flow of the waves, and an occasional call from the birds above. In a corner sits an oversized bust of Buddha, and another wall has a colorful bas relief of the deity giving the resort a decidedly Balinese air.
Nestled among the trees are the resort’s accommodation that blends seamlessly with the natural environment. The stand-alone 9 cottages, 5 cabanas and a suite are crowned with thatched roofs and open to views of garden and sea.
Designed as cozy sanctums for those in search of a close interface with nature, the rooms feature open glass doors, exclusive terraces, and a beautiful landscape that brings a sense of the lush outdoors in. The wooden decorative details, and the diaphanous curtains and cloth ceiling features make the rooms a totally homey and cozy escape. Making the stay at Chema’s By The Sea an experience in indulgence are the private butlers trained to provide attentive and warm service.
Outside, the garden opens into a convergence of sea, sand, sky, and foliage to offer a relaxing sanctuary where one is bound to forget all cares. The daybeds along the shore give the perfect excuse to laze and lounge as the fine, white sand cushions the feet and toes. From the beach, one gets a panoramic view of the Davao metropolis and the majestic Mt. Apo basking across the stunning waters of the gulf.
One of the resort’s main attractions is the saltwater pool that sets the invitation for a calm dip and leisurely swim. Shaped like an undersized lagoon, the pool is located amid tropical greenery while the towering trees provide a natural screen against the sun.
Chema’s new, redesigned food and beverage outlets are also open for an exquisite culinary experience. Guests can savor a vast array of dishes featuring Samal’s local cuisine along with international gourmet choices at Garden House. The combination of traditional delights with well-curated global flavors make for a savory spread, all bursting with intense flavors and alluring aroma.
At Chema’s Beach Bar, every sip is a whole sensory experience. With glistening views of the beach, the whiff of fresh garden breeze, a relaxing lounge, and the pervading presence of nature, a cocktail in hand is the cherry on top. Refreshing cocktail creations featuring Davao’s fresh produce take the spotlight in this leisurely bar. Local herbs and seasonal fruits infused with fine spirits may be enjoyed as a midday pick-me-upper, or as a late afternoon potion while watching the sun slip behind the horizon.
At Chema’s, the natural setting makes celebrations to mark special milestones more meaningful. Be it a dreamy gathering in the lush gardens surrounded by willowy trees, or a serene ceremony in the pristine white-sand beach, the backdrop of nature at its most luxuriant make events in this enchanting resort more memorable.
The resort is open for intimate events and celebrations such as weddings, debuts, birthday celebrations, or any social event. Celebrators can opt to book the whole island garden resort for family and friends, surrounded by breathtaking views and refreshing atmosphere.
With Davao’s sunny weather, any time of the year is an excellent time to visit Chema’s By The Sea. For travelers outside Davao, Chema’s can be reached by plane and boat. From Davao International Airport, guests will have to take a 15-minute car ride to the seaport. The resort’s boat will then take them to Chema’s By The Sea on a 10-minute ride across the stunning Davao Gulf.
Guests looking to take a quick escape can opt to visit the resort for a day trip. Daily tours are available from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, inclusive of boat transfers, beach hut use, boodle fight or family-style lunch, and use of the resort’s beach, pool, and day beds.
“Spending days at Chema’s By The Sea is just heartwarming. We’ve seen and experienced the serenity of each staff’s place and their passion for delivering the best at every moment of encounter. It is truly a captivating experience in a beautiful resort. For us, it’s all about setting the direction and building the essence of the resort through the people that make up this resort,” says DHC COO and Discovery World Corporation President Jose Parreno.
With a landscape of magnificent beauty, accommodations that spell pampering luxury, and service that’s friendly and efficient, Chema’s By The Sea is a destination waiting to be experienced and enjoyed.
Poseidon Holdings Corp., which owns Chema’s By The Sea, partnered with Discovery Hospitality Corporation (DHC) for the group’s allied services, contracting them for pre-opening requirements. DHC owns and operates a diverse collection of properties and through this program, it shares its expertise and thought-leadership on several key aspects of hotel and resort operation and management.