Chema’s by the Sea
With so many Samal Island resorts to choose from, it is often difficult to decide where to stay. I had that problem last year, and the budget I was under contributed to the decision. While I did not stay overnight at Chema’s By the Sea, I did have the opportunity to meet the owner and subsequently tour the resort, including the rooms. I have to admit that I was VERY impressed with Chema’s and personally find it to be kind of a hidden gem.
I did take advantage of a day trip, to relax on the beach and to dip into the pool. Chema’s feels almost like a private resort, you certainly wouldn’t be fighting any crowds here. I think much of that feel is by design. Chema’s does not make it easy to set reservations, as there is no online system. You’ll need to call in to do that. From my understanding they limit the number of guests, but I do not know what that limit is set at. I suppose it depends whether it is one party or more.
I had previously understood that there were open cottages at Chema’s but what I gathered from the owner is that they are converting all of those, and will only offer the enclosed cottages from now on. I failed to take any photos of the inside of the cottages I toured, but they were VERY nice, clean and updated. I would certainly be happy to stay at any of them.
The resort includes a great white sand beach, a real nice swimming pool, the cottages, a bar/restaurant area, and there was a larger meeting type room, too. There was also a changing room/comfort room, that allowed you to clean up before and after swimming.
The staff was attentive, but a little slow. It was apparent that that they have duties and were not used to a lot of guests to wait on. It was not a problem, as there was nothing to rush about while staying there. As is the case almost everywhere in the Philipinnes, they did not have several items on the menu, but they did go out and get me a fresh buko that was cheap and welcome on a typically hot day.
I got to Chema’s via the amazingly rough Circumferential Road but I think your best bet would be to take the boat that goes there directly from the Waterfront Insular.
I plan on visiting Chema’s By the Sea again in the future with the hope of staying overnight for at least a couple of days. It is a very cozy, romantic setting. I would not hesitate to recommend it to someone looking for a special place to spend some time with a special one.
Contact Numbers:
+63 (917) 814-0814
+63 (82) 303-0523
+63 917 702-5832
Last eight photos courtesy of macky
Ha ha… what did I tell you? Chema’s is a wonderful place! I’m glad you liked it, Randy. Previously, I think you had come to the conclusion that it should be avoided.
You were definitely correct. It is very nice, and I like the feeling of having it all to yourself, or at least not sharing with many others.
I am not sure I had concluded that I needed to avoid it previously. I was just unsure, as I had heard mixed reviews and I was only going to spend a very short time on Samal that trip. Nothing like checking it out for yourself to know.
I’ll listen to you in the future, Bob
Ha ha, just giving you a hard time, Randy!
Wala’y problema. Salamat for you and Feyma telling me of Chema’s in the first place.
I have about 3 pictures of the cottage interiors. Not pro quality, but feel free to use them if you want.
Thanks, Macky. Send them my way and I’ll edit the post with them. As you can see, my photos are pro quality either.
I appreciate the offer.
They’re in my facebook album. I’ll message you a link there.
Thanks again, Macky. Got them on here now with a few others that seemed appropriate.
You had quite the party there. Obviously Chema’s can accommodate a large group if need be. Looks like everyone enjoyed themselves.
That was a great report on Chema’s and will defiantly check it out this April which is our next trip to Samal. (Were from Seattle area) My wife is originally from Penaplata. Looking fwd to a good stay.
Hi Brian – glad it was of use to you. I hope you enjoy your trip and let me know what you think of Chema’s.
Lucky you going in April. Would love to make it back there soon, too.
I have a blog about this resort too… this resort is one of the best in Davao. Fairly priced and not too crowded.. world class too.. and great service.. love the infinity pool…
http://noehs-ark.blogspot.com/2011/08/beach-2010-photo-diary.html