Hotels in Dumaguete

Dumaguete: The City of Gentle People

Dumaguete, the capital of Negros Oriental province in the central Philippines, sits on the southeast coast of Negros Island, facing the Tanon Strait. Founded as a Spanish settlement in 1700, the city grew around Silliman University — established in 1901 and the oldest American-founded university in Asia — which gives Dumaguete a distinctly collegiate character rare among Philippine cities of its size (population roughly 140,000).

Visitors arrive primarily for two reasons: diving and island-hopping. The ferry pier at the foot of Rizal Boulevard connects to Apo Island, a marine sanctuary 30 km south where sea turtles congregate year-round at cleaning stations. The Bohol Sea reefs off nearby Dauin rank among the Philippines' premier muck-diving sites, drawing macro-photography specialists from across Southeast Asia. The boulevard itself, lined with cafés and food stalls, is the social spine of the city.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Dumaguete Airport (DGT) receives direct flights from Manila (roughly 1 hour 20 minutes) and Cebu (35 minutes).
• Getting around: Tricycles are the standard short-haul transport; negotiate fares before boarding.
• Apo Island ferries: Depart from Malatapay market, 30 km south — allow 90 minutes travel time from the city center.
• Best season: November through May for calmer seas and optimal dive visibility.