Dumaguete
City of Gentle People
Overview
Dumaguete is a charming university city known as the gateway to incredible diving at Apo Island, swimming with whale sharks in Oslob, and the stunning twin lakes of Balinsasayao. Its tree-lined boulevard, affordable living, and friendly locals make it a favorite among expats and travelers.
Dumaguete, officially the City of Dumaguete, is a component city and capital of the province of Negros Oriental, Philippines. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 142,171 people. It is the most populous city and the smallest city by land area in Negros Oriental, as well as one of the two regional centers in Negros Island Region.
Read more on WikipediaDumaguete is the capital city and main port of Negros Oriental, the province that occupies the south-eastern part of Negros Island, in the Philippines. It is sometimes called the "City of Gentle People".
Top Attractions
Apo Island
World-famous marine sanctuary with turtles
Rizal Boulevard
Scenic waterfront promenade perfect for sunset
Twin Lakes (Balinsasayao)
Pristine crater lakes in a nature reserve
Casaroro Falls
Stunning 30-meter waterfall in the mountains
Silliman University
Historic campus with Anthropology Museum
Manjuyod Sandbar
Stunning white sandbar appearing at low tide
Pulangbato Falls
Red-rock waterfall with swimming area
Forest Camp
Nature resort with hiking and hot springs
Things to Do
Apo Island Diving
Dive with sea turtles and vibrant coral
Apo Island Snorkeling
Day trip with turtle encounters
Twin Lakes Tour
Kayak and explore the crater lakes
Casaroro Falls Trek
Hike through jungle to the waterfall
Manjuyod Sandbar
Full day to the "Maldives of the Philippines"
Boulevard Food Crawl
Try local tempura, silogs, and shakes
Dolphin Watching (Bais)
Morning tour to see dolphins
Photo Gallery
Klook Philippines
Discover and book amazing experiences across the Philippines. Best price guaranteed!
Explore DealsGetting There
- Direct flights from Manila (Cebu Pacific, PAL)
- Fly to Cebu + ferry to Dumaguete (4 hours)
- Ferry from various Visayan ports
Local Food
Silvanas
Frozen buttercream sandwich - Dumaguete's famous pasalubong
Tempura
Deep-fried delicacies at Rizal Boulevard
Sans Rival Cakes
Local bakery chain with delicious cakes
Fresh Seafood
Grilled catch at Hayahay restaurant
Where to Stay
Rizal Boulevard
₱1,000-4,000/nightWalking distance to restaurants and sunset views
Dauin
₱1,500-6,000/nightBeach town, closer to Apo Island diving
City Center
₱600-2,000/nightBudget options near university and malls
Valencia
₱1,000-3,500/nightMountain area, near waterfalls
Weather Forecast
Travel Tips
- •Stay in Dauin if diving is your priority - closer to Apo Island
- •Walk the boulevard at sunset - it's magical
- •Buy silvanas at Sans Rival as pasalubong
- •Combine with Siquijor (30-min ferry) for island hopping
- •Tricycles are everywhere - ₱10-50 within city
- •Visit Twin Lakes early morning for misty, peaceful views
- •Book Apo Island tours in advance during peak season
Best Time to Visit
March-May best for diving visibility