I’ve always believed that everyone has a place where they can truly breathe again. For some, it’s the mountains—the scent of pine trees and the quiet hum of nature. But for me, it has always been the beach. There’s something magical about the sound of waves, the touch of warm sand, and the soft glow of the sunset that instantly clears my mind.

I’m more of a beach person than a mountain person, and every time I need to unwind, I always find myself craving the sea breeze more than the mountain air. The beach, for me, is not just a destination—it’s a kind of therapy, a reset button that brings balance back to my busy life as a mom and wife.

The Struggle of Reaching Paradise

Living in Davao City, our go-to getaway has always been Samal Island, famous for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters. But lately, getting there has become quite a challenge. With the growing number of tourists and locals escaping the city on weekends, the traffic at the wharf has become overwhelming.

What used to be a quick trip has turned into a long wait—sometimes 2 to 5 hours just to board the barge, even though the actual ride to Samal takes only about 10 minutes. As a mom traveling with a toddler, those long hours in line can be exhausting and stressful.

We still love Samal, but my husband and I started looking for alternatives—somewhere we could easily escape to without the hassle. That’s when we discovered a hidden gem that changed the way we unwind.

Discovering Costa Marina Beach Resort

A friend told us about Costa Marina Beach Resort, and it instantly became our new favorite beach destination. What makes it special isn’t just its natural beauty—it’s how convenient and family-friendly it is.

Unlike the usual Samal Island route, Costa Marina has its own private port, which means no long queues or crowded barges. The boat ride from Sasa, Davao City to the resort takes only five minutes—just enough time to enjoy the sea breeze and get excited for the day ahead.

The best part? The fare is incredibly affordable—₱20 per person, or if you want privacy, you can rent the entire boat for ₱300. For families like ours who travel with a toddler, this convenience makes a huge difference. No long waits, no stressful crowds—just smooth sailing toward relaxation.

Why Costa Marina Feels Like Home

The first time we set foot on Costa Marina’s shores, I knew it was a place we’d keep coming back to. The shoreline is shaded by tall, beautiful trees, making it perfect for families who want to enjoy the beach without worrying about too much sun exposure.

The entrance fee is ₱300, which already includes the use of tables and chairs lined along the shore. It’s simple, cozy, and exactly what we need—a place where our little boy can play on the sand while we sit back, unwind, and take in the view.

What I also appreciate is how organized the resort is. Bringing outside food isn’t allowed, but they make up for it with their in-house restaurant, which serves a variety of Filipino and seafood dishes. From grilled favorites to refreshing cold drinks, everything is freshly prepared, and the flavors never disappoint.

Their menu is family-friendly, too—plenty of options even for toddlers who prefer milder flavors. And as we eat, we get to enjoy the view of the open sea—a priceless backdrop that makes every meal feel like a special occasion.

A Quiet Place to Watch the Sun Go Down

As the day slows down, Costa Marina reveals its best feature—the sunset view. The sky transforms into a painting of gold, pink, and orange hues reflecting off the calm waves. It’s a quiet, almost sacred moment that never fails to make me pause and breathe deeply.

There’s something about watching the sunset at the beach that grounds you. It reminds me that no matter how busy or chaotic life gets, there’s always beauty waiting at the end of the day. For me, that’s what peace of mind truly feels like.

My son loves chasing the waves during this time, his laughter echoing across the shore. My husband and I usually sit together, sipping our cold drinks, just watching him play. It’s simple, it’s calm—and it’s everything I need to feel thankful.

Final Thoughts: Finding Stillness in the Simple Moments

In a world that constantly rushes, Costa Marina Beach Resort has become our little refuge—a place where time slows down and hearts reconnect. It’s where we can unwind without stress, enjoy good food, and make lasting memories as a family.

You don’t need to travel far to find peace. Sometimes, it’s just a short five-minute boat ride away, waiting with open skies, calm waters, and the soft rhythm of waves that whisper, “slow down.”

For me, that’s what true unwinding means—finding stillness in simplicity. And every time I leave Costa Marina, watching the sunset fade behind me, I carry that calm wherever I go.