Sweet serenity at Isla Reta

CEBU, Philippines - Many vacationers from the city seek the not-so-common escapes. Often, they go for the less frequented and affordable beach destinations. One such place is Isla Reta Resort at Talikud Island, Samal, Davao del Norte. “Talikud” is a Visayan word meaning “backside.” The island is located in the southwest of the main Samal Island.

Before heading to Talikud Island, visitors may like to take a stroll around Davao City to make the trip like “hitting two birds with one stone.” Davao City, considered to be the world’s largest city in terms of land area, has a lot to offer to its visitors. Not to mention that it is also one of the safest cities in the country.

The easiest way to Isla Reta is taking a 45-minute outrigger boat at Sta. Ana Wharf in Davao City and traversing through Davao Gulf all the way to Isla Reta Wharf. The short sea trip offers a good view of the majestic Mt. Apo.

As the boat draws near, the white sandy beach beckons; many have to contain the urge of jumping off the boat from a close distance and swimming their way to the beaming beach. The clear waters is abundant in marine life.

 Isla Reta is named after the Reta family that owns a huge portion of the land area of the island. The resort is listed among the top 45 beaches in Mindanao and the top 100 in the Philippines. The Tripadvisor website also lists it as one of the best destinations in Mindanao.

The resort does not advertise. But those in search of a different getaway find it – and see for themselves a paradise only few people have yet discovered. Many a tourist who originally plans to go to the big Samal Island but instead finds himself in Isla Reta is glad he does. The place exudes transcendent tranquility.

The Talisay trees along the resort’s stretch of white beach serve as nature’s umbrella from the bright island sun. With only a minimal entrance fee, the use of a table, chairs and cottages on the beach is for free. For those who wish to stay overnight, Isla Reta has rooms available – but the tent or hammock on the beach is a better option, in order to enjoy the fresh sea breeze. Guests may bring their own food, if they like (but a corkage fee is imposed on alcoholic beverages brought in). The resort actually has a restaurant that serves local meals.

The island is rich in flora and fauna and marine life. The Reta family spearheads in the effort to preserve the island’s resources, especially its “dugong” sanctuary. And, the local people seems to value what they have.

On their way back, visitors may want to have the famous durian at Davao City for “pasalubong” to people at home.

A day or two at Isla Reta might be too short to relish in the sheer serenity of the place. But the peaceful experience is sure to linger on in every visitor, long after the trip.