Dumaguete Hotels, Hostels and Resorts
Besides the transient tourists on their way to nearby islands, there are also domestic tourists who flock to Dumaguete to join annual festivals and university events. Thus, it is important to time your visit and book your accommodation in advance. Whatever your budget is, the city offers a decent array of accommodation.
Budget
La Fusiòn Garden Resort (40 Mango Avenue) offers a chance to go camping right in the heart of the bustling city with their tent accommodation at only PHP275 to PHP500 with free breakfast and access to resort facilities. They also have mixed dorm at PHP420 as well as private rooms for about PHP1025 to PHP2,200.
There's a lot to love at this resort and we felt like we got more than we paid for. The garden was relaxing and the common areas as well as the shared kitchen were great for meeting for new people. The heater in the shower worked so it was great after a long day. Staff are all nice and friendly. Location wise, it was a bit hard to find on your own but tricycle drivers know where it is.
Another budget accommodation is The Flying Fish Hostel at 32 Hibbard Avenue. First off, it was a bit of a let-down that there was no hot shower. Other than this first world gripe though, we loved everything else about it. It has this industrial chic vibe going on with the exposed beams and brick walls. Rooms are clean, bed is comfortable, and pillows were fluffy. The staff were also super accommodating. It's a new hotel so everything is fresh and clean however some drivers are unfamiliar with it yet so make sure to write down the complete address. They have dormitory room with rates starting at around PHP600 while a double room with private bathroom costs approximately PHP1600 per night.
Mid-Range
In this category, we liked Hotel Nicanor (San Jose Street) for its central location. It is near the boulevard, port, restaurants, and other landmarks in the city. The WiFi works and the free water station on each floor is also a welcome addition. However, there were no security boxes and they don't give out free toiletries. For it's price though, it is still hard to beat. Single room starts at PHP1250 per night.
For its price, Golden Gate Suites (Dr. V. Locsin Street ) is really good value for money too. Matrimonial room can be had at only PHP1200 and a suite room is available for only PHP2900. Its location is also very convenient, it is near downtown area and there's even a 7-11 downstairs. Very comfortable bed and everything is well maintained. WiFi was quite strong too. The only downside was that there was no safe in the room but we hardly ever leave valuables behind anyway so it was no biggie.
Top End
Hotel Essencia (39 Real St.) is one of the fancier accommodation in the city. Located close to Rizal street, it is near the famous boulevard with plenty of restaurants around and a supermarket just a stone's throw away. All in all, it is a really nice hotel with great facilities and superb staff. We also loved that there was a water station so we didn't have to spend extra on mineral water. Our room was spacious and clean and conducive for a good rest after a long day. Breakfast variety was a bit on the limited side but it wasn't too bad. Deluxe Twin Room would set you back around PHP1900 while Deluxe Family Room that can accommodate up to 3 people is available for PHP2700. An optional breakfast can be added for only PHP200.
Another relatively posh stay in Dumaguete is with Manhattan Suites Inn (South Road Calindagan). You can book their family room for about PHP2500 while a family suite costs around PHP3000. Conveniently located right next to a shopping mall with the bus terminal just a few minutes away. Staff were really attentive and polite too. Our room was clean and cosy although we could hear people from the hallway so it was annoying at times. Other than this, it was a good stay for a few nights.
